NCERT Row: R Madhavan questioned the absence of the Chola Empire in the textbooks, criticized the Mughal-centered course. Hindi film news
actor R Madhavan There is a strong concern on how Indian history is depicted in school textbooks, stating that the achievements of the major parts of the country, especially the southern states, are often ignored. They feel that the current story focuses on some dynasties, while underlining others like Cholas and Pandis. Their comments come at a time when NCERT Facing criticism for recent changes in school history books.
In a chat with News18 Showsha, he questioned why parts of Indian history get more attention than others. “I can have trouble to say this, but I still would say,” he started. “When I studied history in school, there were eight chapters on the Mughals, two on the Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro civilizations, four more freedom struggle on British rule, and only one chapter on southern states, Cholas, Pandya, Pallava and Cheras.”
A magnificent empire, barely mentioned
Madhavan expressed disappointment over the lack of focus on the Chola Empire in the school textbooks, despite the significant impact on history. He said that the Mughals and the British ruled for nearly 800 years, the Chola Empire lasted for 2,400 years and led the maritime journey, in which the trade route reached Rome. He said that his cultural and religious influence spread to Korea, yet this rich history has been condensed in only one chapter.
Mughal chapters removed
Madhavan’s comment comes at a time when NCERT has decided to remove all references Mughal Empire And Delhi Sultanate from Class 7 history textbooks. These subjects have been replaced with lessons on government schemes like Holy Geography, Maha Kumbh Mahotsav, and Make in India and Beti Bachao, Beti Padho. This decision has created a lot of stir, in which people are supporting and criticizing this step. Madhavan Using this moment to highlight that history is often shaped by some narratives – and how it affects how we see ourselves.
“Whose story is this? Who decided the syllabus? Tamil The oldest language in the world is, but no one knows about it. The scientific knowledge hidden in our culture is still being mocked, ”he said.
‘Kesari Chapter 2’ and fight to recover history
Madhavan defended his film, ‘Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jalianwala Bagh‘, Which has faced some criticism for creative options. He explained that some people may accuse the producers of taking freedom, trying to present a more full version of the film history. He said, “Do not blame us for bringing truth about history. The easiest way to discredit us is that we took freedom, what I said, I should not get back in trouble for it, because it is a fact,” they argued.
Calling Whitewashed History
He also strongly talked firmly against the way he depicted the British version of Indian history in negative lighting, especially when it came for events such as Jalianwala Bagh massacre. “General Dyer and his granddaughter said that we were a group of terrorists and robbers who were eligible to shoot. They stopped shooting because he ran out of bullets. How can you make history white to such an extent that you can create a false story?” He said.
