- Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was one of the key proponents in the early 20th century, Hindutva represents a complex fusion of Hindu cultural revivalism, political ideology, and social reform aimed at asserting and preserving India’s Hindu identity.
- At its core, Hindutva advocates for the primacy of Hindu or Indian culture and values in the public sphere, advocating for the integration of Hindu spiritual ethos with the governance and social fabric of the nation.
- In contemporary India, the rise of Hindutva has reshaped the political landscape, leading to electoral successes for the BJP and its allies on platforms emphasizing cultural nationalism and economic development.
In recent years, Hindutva has emerged as a defining force in Indian politics and society, sparking intense debates about nationalism, identity, and the future trajectory of the world’s largest democracy. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was one of the key proponents in the early 20th century, Hindutva represents a complex fusion of Hindu cultural revivalism, political ideology, and social reform aimed at asserting and preserving India’s Hindu identity.
Historical Roots and Evolution
The genesis of Hindutva can be traced back to India’s struggle for independence and the sociopolitical ferment of the early 20th century. Vinayak Savarkar, a nationalist thinker and activist, propagated Hindutva as a response to the challenges posed by British intellectual and cultural subversion efforts and the perceived threats to Indian integrity. In his seminal work “Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?” (1923), Savarkar articulated a vision of India as the homeland of Hindus, where Hindu culture and traditions form the bedrock of national identity.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), founded in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, played a pivotal role in promoting and institutionalizing Hindutva ideals. The RSS aimed to unify Hindus across caste and regional divides, fostering a sense of collective identity and cultural pride through grassroots activism and social service. Over time, the RSS and its affiliates, such as the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Swadeshi Jagaran Manch, have become influential proponents of Hindutva, shaping political discourse and policy initiatives in contemporary India.
Ideological Dimensions and Philosophical Underpinnings
At its core, Hindutva advocates for the primacy of Hindu or Indian culture and values in the public sphere, advocating for the integration of Hindu spiritual ethos with the governance and social fabric of the nation. Proponents argue that Hindutva represents a holistic worldview encompassing not just religious beliefs but also social ethics, cultural heritage, and national identity. This ideological framework positions Hinduism not merely as a religion but as a civilizational ethos that transcends religious boundaries to encompass a broader cultural unity.
Central to Hindutva ideology is the concept of ‘Hindu Rashtra’, which envisions India as the natural homeland and cultural repository of Hindus worldwide. This vision includes the assertion of Hindu cultural symbols, traditions, and historical narratives in public life, from educational curricula to public celebrations and national monuments. Advocates of Hindutva argue that this cultural assertiveness is essential for restoring and rejuvenating India’s civilizational heritage after centuries of foreign rule and colonial subjugation.
Contemporary Political Landscape and Policy Implications
In contemporary India, the rise of Hindutva has reshaped the political landscape, leading to electoral successes for the BJP and its allies on platforms emphasizing cultural nationalism and economic development. The BJP’s electoral victories, particularly under the leadership of figures like Narendra Modi, have been seen as a mandate for Hindutva-oriented policies and reforms. Key legislative actions, such as the abrogation of Article 370 granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir, the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), have been framed within the framework of fulfilling Hindutva aspirations. These measures are viewed by supporters as steps towards rectifying historical injustices, promoting national integration, and fostering a more uniform legal framework for personal laws across religious communities.
Socio-Cultural Impact and Civil Society Initiatives
Beyond its political dimensions, Hindutva has exerted a profound influence on Indian society’s cultural norms, public discourse, and educational institutions. Festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Durga Puja are celebrated with renewed vigour, serving as cultural touchstones that reinforce Hindu religious practices and traditions. The recent reopening of Nalanda University, where many people from all over the world came seeking knowledge, is also part of the nation-building project with knowledge given topmost priority and renaissance of Indian historical identity.
Organizations affiliated with Hindutva ideologies, such as the RSS and VHP, play significant roles in promoting social welfare initiatives, disaster relief efforts, and educational reforms across India. Their grassroots activism often focuses on community service, moral education, and nation-building initiatives aimed at fostering a sense of collective responsibility and social cohesion among Hindus.
Global Dimensions and Geopolitical Implications
Hindutva’s global impact extends India’s identity and foreign policy outlook. The concept of “Vasudev Kutumbakam” portrays India as a civilizational state, rooted in ancient cultural heritage and continuity. This cultural diplomacy aims to amplify India’s soft power and global influence by highlighting its diverse and pluralistic traditions. By presenting itself as a cradle of ancient wisdom and universal values, India seeks to foster international goodwill and cooperation. This approach not only showcases India’s richness but also promotes a worldview that embraces inclusivity and mutual respect among nations on the global stage.
Misrepresentation
Hindutva’s international image has been marred by unfair media portrayal and often skewed coverage, dragging it into controversies over religious freedom, minority rights, and communal violence within India. Critics argue that incidents of religious intolerance and violence perpetrated by radical Hindutva elements undermine India’s secular credentials and international standing as a pluralistic democracy.
The demonization of Hindutva is driven by political agendas and ideological biases among intellectuals and previous regimes. Hindutva’s resistance to mass conversions by churches, seen as threats, is labelled intolerant. Politicians exploit this narrative for vote banks, building wealth and dynasties by opposing Hindutva, revealing the intersection of politics, ideology, and public perception.
Challenges and Future Trajectory
As India navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape, the strength of Hindutva is its ability to reconcile diverse interpretations, address socio-economic challenges, and uphold democratic principles. The tension between religious appeasement and inclusive governance poses challenges to fostering social harmony and national unity amidst India’s diverse religious and ethnic tapestry. There are also signs of many organisations actively trying to undermine and defame it with international conferences such as dismantling Hindutva, which are made to impress upon the young minds and opinion makers with little or no knowledge about the present realities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hindutva may be regarded multifaceted outlook that reflects India’s quest for cultural development, national identity, and global recognition. As it’s consistent in this land in many other matters, Hindutva has been interpreted and discussed by many in diverse ways as the role of organisations such as RSS and VHP in it. For some, it might be political, for others a national project and a social and religious movement to many others. The freedom of interpretation can be left to the lens of the beholder, as long it’s in line with the history and cultural ethos of this land passed down from immemorial times by many sons and daughters born in the womb of this great mother.
(The author has an M.Sc. in Psychology and serves in NIMHANS. He writes regularly on politics, society, international affairs and technology. Views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of SamvadaWorld or its staff)
Aayush Pal 
Sindhuri Sai 
Parag Gilada