In a poignant and deeply moving visit, Jay Patel, the actor who portrays Shyamji Krishna Varma in the film “Swatantra Veer Savarkar,” recently visited 65 Cromwell Avenue, India House in London. This historic site, brimming with revolutionary history and nationalistic fervor, left Patel profoundly emotional as he walked through its storied halls.
The Significance of India House and Shyamji Krishna Varma
Mark, , the current owner of India House, welcomed Patel warmly and acknowledged him to explore the historic premises. Each corner of the house, infused with the legacy of the freedom fighters, resonated with the spirit of the past. Patel was particularly touched when Marc gifted him a book on Shyamji Krishna Varma, written by Adam Yamey, a gesture that deepened the emotional connection to the place. “It was incredible to imagine Shyamji and other freedom fighters planning, cooking, sleeping, and strategizing within these walls. I was overwhelmed thinking about what these heroes did 120 years ago for our country’s freedom,” Patel shared.
Patel felt the energy of the discussions, dreams, and determinations of Varma, Savarkar, Dhingra, Madame Cama, Aiyar, Har Dayal, Bhai Parmanand, M.P.T. Acharya, S.R. Rana, and even M.K. Gandhi still resonating within the house.
India House, established in 1905 by Shyamji Krishna Varma, was a sanctuary and meeting place for Indian students and revolutionaries seeking freedom from British colonial rule. Varma’s vision extended beyond just a meeting place; he founded the Indian Home Rule Society and provided scholarships to promising Indian students, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who became key figures in the struggle for India’s independence. The house hosted luminaries like Savarkar, Madan Lal Dhingra, Madame Cama, V.V.S. Aiyar, Lala Har Dayal, Bhai Parmanand, M.P.T. Acharya, S.R. Rana, and M.K. Gandhi, who gathered to discuss strategies and fuel the fire of resistance against the British Raj.
Jay Patel’s Emotional Visit
Jay Patel’s recent visit to India House was not his first; he had previously visited in 1997. However, this time, as someone who delved deep into the life and legacy of Shyamji Krishna Varma for his role in “Swatantra Veer Savarkar,” the experience was profoundly different. Standing on the very steps where Varma and other revolutionaries once stood, Patel felt a powerful connection to the past.
“Visiting India House now, after portraying Shyamji Krishna Varma, is an indescribable feeling,” Patel shared. “I felt an overwhelming sense of power and emotion, imagining the courage and vision Varma had back in 1906. He started a revolution, provided scholarships, and lit the flame of independence that would eventually engulf the entire nation.”
Patel credited much of his deep understanding of Shyamji Krishna Varma’s journey to Padma Shri Vishnu Pandya’s book on the great leader. The detailed narrative provided him with invaluable insights into Varma’s life and struggles, which he incorporated into his portrayal.
Jay Patel: A Passionate Portrayal
Jay Patel, a dedicated actor known for his intense performances, has always been passionate about India’s rich history and its freedom fighters. His portrayal of Shyamji Krishna Varma in “Swatantra Veer Savarkar” has been lauded for its authenticity and depth. Visiting India House has given him a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices and visionary leadership of Varma and his contemporaries.
Beyond his acting career, Jay Patel is a successful businessman based in New York, known for his ventures in technology and finance. His commitment to preserving and promoting Indian history and culture is evident not only in his cinematic roles but also in his philanthropic efforts. Patel’s visit to India House underscores his dedication to honoring the legacy of India’s freedom fighters and ensuring that their stories continue to inspire future generations.
On March 30th, marking the death anniversary of Shyamji Krishna Varma, Patel flew from New York to Mandvi, Kutch, to visit Varma’s birthplace and pay tribute. This visit was another testament to his profound respect and admiration for the great leader.
A Profound Connection
As Patel concluded his visit, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of giants. “I am so glad to be back here. This visit has strengthened my resolve to continue sharing the stories of our freedom fighters and their unwavering quest for liberty.”
Jay Patel’s visit to India House is a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Shyamji Krishna Varma and the countless revolutionaries who fought for India’s freedom. It highlights the importance of remembering and honoring the past as we continue to strive for a better future.
