About Vinayak
Damodar Savarkar
Early Life
Born in 1883 in Bhagur, Maharashtra, Savarkar grew up in a culturally vibrant and politically aware environment. His childhood was marked by curiosity, leadership, and an early passion for nationalist ideas that shaped his future revolutionary path.
Birth in Bhagur (Nashik)
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was born on 28 May 1883 in the small village of Bhagur near Nashik, a region known for its strong cultural and revolutionary heritage. The atmosphere of Bhagur played a crucial role in shaping his fearless and patriotic character from a young age.
Family Influence – Chandrashekhar, Ganesh ‘Babarao’, and Yamunabai
Savarkar grew up in a deeply patriotic family. His father Chandrashekhar fostered discipline and courage, while his elder brother Ganesh ‘Babarao’ inspired revolutionary thought. His mother Yamunabai nurtured him with stories of valor, shaping his early ideals of duty, bravery, and sacrifice for the nation.
Childhood Group "Mitra Mela"
As a young boy, Savarkar founded “Mitra Mela,” a group of brave and like-minded youth. This early organization promoted unity, discipline, and patriotism—laying the foundation for Savarkar’s future revolutionary activities and the formation of the more organized Abhinav Bharat.
Education & Ideological Formation:
Savarkar’s early education, paired with his exposure to nationalist literature and revolutionary thought during his time at Fergusson College and later in London, shaped his strong belief in political activism, nationalism, and social reform.
Fergusson College, Pune
At Fergusson College, Savarkar refined his intellect, leadership, and nationalist ideas, becoming one of the most dynamic student leaders of his time.
London: India House & Revolutionary Movement
During his stay in London, Savarkar emerged as a key figure at India House, inspiring and organizing revolutionary activities aimed at India’s freedom.
Influence of Giuseppe Mazzini & European Nationalism
Inspired by Giuseppe Mazzini’s revolutionary nationalism, Savarkar absorbed European political thought, shaping his vision of a modern, united, and self-reliant India.
Personal Life
A concise portrait of Savarkar’s private world — his marriage to Yamunabai (Mai), enduring ties with family and comrades, and a life governed by strict discipline and intellectual rigor.
Marriage to Yamunabai (Mai)
Married in 1901, Yamunabai — affectionately called Mai — provided steadfast support through Savarkar’s imprisonments and political struggles, safeguarding family and continuity during turbulent years.
Relationship with Family & Comrades
His home was an intellectual hub where family ties and revolutionary fellowship blended—Savarkar remained a pillar of inspiration even across long separations and incarceration.
Discipline, Fitness & Intellectual Rigor
Known for a regimented routine, Savarkar combined physical exercise with relentless self-study and writing—believing that individual discipline was integral to national renewal.
