Shyamji Krishna Verma | 31 Mar 2026

Source: PIB

The Prime Minister of India paid tribute to Shyamji Krishna Varma on his death anniversary (30th March), praising his role in inspiring the freedom movement.

• Early Life & Education: Born on 4th October 1857, in Mandvi, Kutch District (Gujarat). He was a scholar of Sanskrit and became the first non-Brahmin to be conferred the prestigious title of 'Pandit' by the Pandits of Kashi.
• Arya Samaj Connection: He was profoundly influenced by Swami Dayanand Saraswati and became the first President of the Bombay Arya Samaj in 1877.
• Professional Milestones: Served as the Diwan (Chief Minister) in the princely states of Ratlam, Ajmer, and Junagadh.
• Launch of 'The Indian Sociologist': In January 1905, he started an English monthly journal, "The Indian Sociologist" in London, which became a powerful ideological vehicle for anti-colonial propaganda and nationalist ideas.
  • Shyamji Krishna Varma was barred from practising law in London in 1905 for anti-colonial writings by the Inner Temple (one of the four historic Inns of Court in London, serving as a professional association and training body for barristers and judges), later reinstated posthumously in 2015.
• Formation of the Indian Home Rule Society: In February 1905, he inaugurated the Indian Home Rule Society in London. 
  • He was one of the earliest Indian political leaders to use the term "Swaraj" (Self-Rule) and demand complete independence from British despotism.
• Establishment of 'India House': To shelter Indian students facing racial discrimination in England, he founded 'India House' in London (1905). 
  • This hostel rapidly transformed into a vibrant hub for revolutionary activities, nurturing iconic freedom fighters like Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Madam Bhikaji Cama, and Virendranath Chattopadhyaya.
• Final Years:  In response to British criticism, Varma transitioned from England to Paris and subsequently settled in Geneva during World War I, where he remained until his death on 30th March 1930.
  • A memorial called Kranti Teerth dedicated to him was built and inaugurated in 2010 near Mandvi.