Hindu Nationalism

Definition

Hindu nationalism is a political ideology that seeks to define Indian culture in terms of Hindu values, often emphasizing the idea of India as a Hindu nation. This movement emerged in the late 19th century and gained prominence in the 20th century, especially during the struggle for independence from British colonial rule, influencing the identity and politics of contemporary India.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hindu nationalism gained momentum during India's struggle for independence, as it provided a counter-narrative to the secular and pluralistic visions promoted by leaders like Gandhi and Nehru.
2. The ideology emphasizes the cultural heritage of India, advocating for policies that promote Hindu traditions and values while sometimes marginalizing minority communities.
3. Hindu nationalists often invoke historical figures and events to legitimize their claims about India's past, portraying it as a civilization that should be restored to its 'rightful' place in history.
4. The rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 1990s marked a significant political shift towards Hindu nationalism, influencing policies that impact religious minorities and secular institutions.
5. Critics argue that Hindu nationalism undermines India's secular foundations and can lead to social division and communal violence, particularly against Muslims and other minority groups.

Review Questions

• How did Hindu nationalism emerge as a significant political force during India's struggle for independence?
  • Hindu nationalism emerged as a significant political force during India's struggle for independence primarily in response to British colonial rule and the perceived need to unify Hindus against external threats. Leaders associated with this ideology argued for a reassertion of Hindu identity as a means of fostering unity among Hindus. This was in contrast to the secular approach taken by leaders like Gandhi and Nehru, which sought to create an inclusive national identity encompassing all communities.
• In what ways has Hindu nationalism influenced modern Indian politics, particularly through the actions of the BJP?
  • Hindu nationalism has profoundly influenced modern Indian politics through the actions of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has embraced this ideology as part of its political platform. Since coming to power in the 1990s, the BJP has implemented policies that emphasize Hindu cultural values, such as promoting religious festivals and revising educational curricula to reflect Hindu perspectives. This shift has sparked debates about secularism in India and raised concerns regarding the treatment of religious minorities.
• Evaluate the impact of Hindu nationalism on India's secular principles and societal cohesion in contemporary times.
  • Hindu nationalism has significantly impacted India's secular principles and societal cohesion by challenging the foundational ideals established in the country's constitution. The growing emphasis on Hindu identity often marginalizes non-Hindu communities, leading to increased social tensions and incidents of communal violence. As public policy increasingly reflects Hindu nationalist ideals, it raises questions about India's ability to maintain its secular character and protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.

Related terms

Sangh Parivar: A network of Hindu nationalist organizations, including the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), that promote the ideology of Hindu nationalism and seek to foster a sense of unity among Hindus.

BJP: The Bharatiya Janata Party, a major political party in India that advocates for Hindu nationalism and has played a significant role in shaping modern Indian politics since the late 20th century.

Secularism: The principle of separating religion from political institutions, which has been a foundational aspect of India's constitution, often coming into conflict with Hindu nationalist ideologies.