Himachal Pradesh: Theog celebrates its unique claim to democracy preceding India's Independence

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], August 16 ANI): Theog, a picturesque valley town located nearly 30 kms from Shimla, commemorated its independence day today, August 16.
Theog, situated north of Shimla, holds a special place in history due to its early embrace of democratic governance. While the rest of India marks its independence on August 15th, Theog's celebrations occur a day later to honour its unique historical moment.
The centrepiece of Theog's commemoration is Suratram Prakash, who served as the Prime Minister of the Theog Princely State's first democratic government. Although most Indians recognize Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as the first Prime Minister of independent India, Suratram Prakash is celebrated locally for leading Theog's government before the country's official independence.
According to local historians and the family of Suratram Prakash, on August 14, 1947, Theog's then-ruler, Rana Karm Chand, ceded power to the people. This act was followed by the establishment of a council of ministers, with Suratram Prakash at the helm. This momentous occasion is remembered as a symbol of Theog's early adoption of democratic principles.
Rajinder Prakash, son of Suratram Prakash, recounted that his father was deeply involved in the Prajamandal movement, which fought for democratic rights in princely states. He stated, "The rights were given to people through the Prajamandal. Real democracy was introduced in Theog before India's independence."
The then newly formed cabinet of Theog included Lagan Dass as Defence Minister, Nand Ram as Agriculture Minister, Sita Ram as Education Minister, Dr Lachman Dass as Health Minister, Dila Ram as Revenue Minister, and Budhi Ram Verma as Home Minister.
Rajinder Prakash emphasized that the cabinet's formation and swearing was a significant event in Theog's history, celebrated annually on August 16th.
Despite his historical significance, Rajinder Prakash chose to focus on grassroots movements rather than mainstream politics, aligning himself with the Bhoodan movement and serving at a local temple.
The significance of Theog's unique claim to democratic history is being acknowledged by the Himachal Pradesh government. Dhaniram Shandil, the state's Health Minister, participated in the celebrations and assured that efforts would be made to include Theog's historical narrative in school curricula.
He stated, "Theog has a great history; the freedom started here before the freedom of India. It's a proud moment for the region, and we will work to incorporate this history into the school syllabus."
Local artists and youth also played a role in the celebrations. Folk artist Rajnish Sharma performed the Chholtu dance, a traditional dance honouring local deities, highlighting the fusion of cultural preservation with historical commemoration. He expressed, "Theog got freedom for the first time in India. We celebrate it as a festival and preserve our culture and folk traditions."
Local youth, represented by Himanshu Kharpotala, expressed pride in Theog's role in India's democratic history and emphasized the importance of remembering and promoting their unique heritage. He said, "We celebrate and promote our culture, and it's important to remember those who fought for our freedom."
Kuldeep Singh Rathore, MLA of Theog, also emphasized the significance of the region's history. He noted, "It's a proud moment to be the legislator of an area that attained freedom before the rest of the country. We are working to ensure this history is included in the school syllabus so that future generations are aware of this remarkable chapter."
As Theog's celebration of its pre-independence democratic government continues, the region remains a testament to the rich and diverse history of India's struggle for freedom and democracy. (ANI)