An intellectual underpinning, constructive leadership, and organized political mobilization served as the bedrock of India’s freedom movement. One such institution of immense political and historical importance is the Tilak School of Politics. A frequent inquiry is: Did Lala Lajpat Rai found the Tilak School of Politics? Lajpat Rai, the ‘Punjab Kesari’ as he is commonly known, served as the founder of this political institution.
Who Was Lala Lajpat Rai?
Lala Lajpat Rai is remembered as one of the leading figures of India’s independence and part of the iconic trio “Lal-Bal-Pal” along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal. He was well known for his passionate speeches and activism, alongside his dedication to social and political change. He not only spearheaded the political movement to build the National Image of India but also strategically set up institutions to train and equip future leaders. The Tilak School of Politics in Lahore is among such establishments.
When was the Tilak School of Politics Founded?
The Tilak School of Politics was founded in 1921, one year after the death of Bal Gangadhar Tilak in 1920. It was founded in Lahore (currently in Pakistan) by Lala Lajpat Rai in honor of his friend and fellow freedom fighter. The purpose of the institution was to train young Indians in the complex interactions of polity, governance, oration, and serving the nation.
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Goals and Vision
The vision of the Tilak School of Politics was based on Tilak’s ideology of aggressive nationalism, self-help, and socio-political empowerment of the populace. The focus on the selfless nationalism and patriotism of the youth was coupled with encouraging the cultivation of leadership abilities.
In order to prepare active citizens, the future politicians and social workers, the institution trained them on the indispensable tools of the discipline, to include: political science, history of India, economy of the nation, and communication. This initiative was aimed at changing the status quo in political activism in the society.
Servants of the People Society and Its Link
Also established by Lala Lajpat Rai in 1921, the Servants of the People Society had parallels with the Tilak School of Politics. Both schools centered on the philosophy of altruistic national service through visionary governance.The Society focused on social voluntary work while the Tilak School of Politics paid attention to political education.
Both of them implemented a framework to nurture aspiring young leaders keen on serving the country and contributing towards India’s freedom.
Tilak School of Politics in Marathi & MPSC Aspirants
The ideology of Tilak School of Politics continues to be relevant and resonant to aspiring civil servants. Numerous candidates sitting for the MPSC examinations learn about this school in modern Indian history and political science. In Marathi, the “टिळक स्कूल ऑफ पॉलिटिक्स” not only identifies this school with the name of Tilak, but marks pride in his legacy as a Maharashtrian freedom fighter.
Legacy and Relevance Today
The partition of Lahore didn’t allow for the original Tilak School of Politics to exist in India, but the ideals of leadership, service, and education continue to influence and shape the country’s political landscape. This school was not just a school. It was a movement that fueled the desire for political awareness and participation among the Indian populace.
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