NANNA JAGANNATH SHANKARSETH
1. Context
The Maharashtra cabinet on Wednesday (March 13) decided to ask the Ministry of Railways to rename Mumbai Central station after Nana Jagannath Shankarseth. Mumbai Central, located in the heart of the city, is used by several important local and long-distance trains, including Rajdhani Expresses, daily
2.Who was Nana Jagannath Shankarseth?
- Nana Jagannath Shankarseth (February 10, 1803 - July 31, 1865), renowned for his role as a social reformer, educator, and philanthropist, is often credited as the key figure in shaping Mumbai (then Bombay), making significant contributions in both ideas and financial support across various sectors, thus laying a sturdy groundwork for the city's development.
- Hailing from a prosperous Brahmin family in Murbad, Thane district, Shankarseth assumed the responsibility of managing the family business at a young age following his father's demise in 1822. He drew profound inspiration from the esteemed merchant and philanthropist, Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy.
- Shankarseth's endeavors as a social reformer and community leader garnered him respect from both the Indian populace and the British authorities, culminating in his historic nomination as the first Indian member of the Legislative Council of Bombay
3.Shankarseth’s most significant contributions?
- Education: Shankarseth exhibited a profound dedication to advancing education in Bombay, generously contributing family-owned land for educational purposes. Echoing the sentiments of numerous social reformers of his era, he advocated for the pivotal role of education in the progress of Indians, extending his efforts towards the education of girls and women.
- Shankarseth established the Native School of Bombay, later renamed the Bombay Native Institution and subsequently the Board of Education.
- This institution eventually transformed into the esteemed Elphinstone College. An intriguing anecdote highlights Shankarseth's contribution to the inception of medical education in Bombay.
- Although the proposal for a medical college akin to those in Calcutta (Kolkata) and Madras (Chennai) was initiated by the late Governor of Bombay, Sir Robert Grant, before his demise, it was Shankarseth who suggested naming the medical college in Grant's honor. Thus, Grant Medical College in Mumbai stands as one of the oldest medical institutions in South Asia.
- Museum, Temples: Shankarseth emerged as a prominent benefactor in the promotion of Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Byculla, crafted by a renowned architect from London. The Bhawani Shankar Temple near Nana Chowk stands as Shankarseth's homage to his late mother, Bhawanibai Murkute. Additionally, he spearheaded the construction of a Ram temple
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Shankarseth’s contribution to the railways
The first train in India ran between Boribunder and Thane on April 16, 1853. The 34-km project undertaken by the Great Indian Peninsular Railway Company. The committee that gave the project impetus included Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy and Nana Shankarseth
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4. Jagannath Shankar Sheth - Social Reforms
- Jagannath Shankar Sheth was a pivotal figure in spearheading social reforms during his time. His contributions encompassed various aspects aimed at uplifting society. From advocating for education to championing the rights of marginalized communities, Shankar Sheth's efforts left a lasting impact on the social fabric of his era.
- One of his significant endeavors was in the field of education. Shankar Sheth recognized the transformative power of education and played a vital role in its growth and dissemination, particularly in Bombay. He generously donated family-owned land for the establishment of educational institutions, underscoring his commitment to providing access to learning for all segments of society. Moreover, he believed fervently in the education of girls and women, recognizing it as a cornerstone for societal progress.
- In addition to his contributions to education, Shankar Sheth was instrumental in advocating for the rights and welfare of marginalized communities. He worked tirelessly to promote social equality and justice, earning the goodwill of both Indians and the British authorities. His efforts in this regard helped bridge societal divides and fostered a more inclusive and equitable society.
- Overall, Jagannath Shankar Sheth's legacy as a social reformer remains indelible. Through his tireless advocacy and philanthropy, he not only laid the groundwork for a more enlightened and egalitarian society but also inspired future generations to continue the pursuit of social justice and reform
5.Way Forward
Besides taking the decision on renaming Mumbai Central, the Cabinet also cleared proposals to rename Cotton Green station as Kalachowki, Charni Road as Girgaum, Dockyard Road as Mazgaon, King’s Circle as Tirthankar Parshvanath, Currey Road as Lalbaug, Sandhurst Road as Dongri, and Marine Lines as Mumbadevi
Source: Indianexpress
