Category: Dimensions of Hindutva
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Political Dimension of Hindutva, Part 11 The idea of a “holy war,” known as Dharma Yuddha, against the enemies of Hindutva – particularly non-Hindu occupiers of the land – was a fundamental principle shaping Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar from his early youth. He derived this concept from the Bhagavad Gita, which speaks of the divine…
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Savarkar’s Struggle Against Untouchability, Part I Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar is often celebrated as one of India’s most fearless revolutionaries and intellectual architects of national liberation. Yet, beyond his political vision and militant struggle for independence, there lies another profound dimension of his legacy – his fight against untouchability. During his years of confinement in…
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Political Dimension of Hindutva, Part 10 Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar, a pivotal figure in the Indian independence movement and a proponent of Hindutva, offered a unique and controversial vision of democracy and governance for post-colonial India. His ideas, as encapsulated in his first draft constitution, reflect his belief in an India dominated by a unified…
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The caste system has long been a defining yet contentious element of Hindu society. Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar, a fierce nationalist and reformist, saw this system not just as a social hierarchy but as a significant barrier to Hindu unity and nation-building. His critique of caste-based social ostracism stemmed from his conviction that it weakened…
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Economic Dimension of Hindutva, Part 10; Savarkar’s Economic Principles (6/13) Economic stability and national prosperity depend on a balanced relationship between industry, labor, and capital. In a thriving economy, workers should fairly partake in the profits of the industry. However, in times of economic downturn, just as capital suffers losses, workers too must be prepared…
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Economic Dimension of Hindutva, Part 9; Savarkar’s Economic Principles (5/13) The balance between labor and capital has long been a subject of debate in economic and political thought. Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar, known for his nationalist and revolutionary ideas, also put forward an economic perspective that sought to harmonize the interests of labor and capital…
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Religious Tradition and Political Struggle Traditional Roots of the Festival Anant Chaturdashi, observed on the 14th day of the bright fortnight of Bhadrapada (August–September), is one of India’s important Hindu festivals. Traditionally dedicated to Lord Vishnu as the infinite (Anant) sustainer of the universe, it revolves around the tying of the sacred Anant Sutra –…
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Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar, a revolutionary thinker and social reformer, played a crucial role in challenging the rigid traditions of Hindu society. During his time in Ratnagiri, he maintained close contact with people from all sections of society and received widespread support—except from one particular group: the Hindu orthodox traditionalists. His relationship with them was…
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Economic Dimension of Hindutva, Part 8; Savarkar’s Economic Principles (4/13) The economic trajectory of a nation is often shaped by its government’s role in capital accumulation and investment direction. In colonial India, where capital largely remained in private hands, Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar saw an essential role for the state in fostering national industries. He…
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When we think of Ganesh Chaturthi (Ganeshotsava), the name of Bal Gangadhar (Lokmanya) Tilak often comes first. In the 1890s, Tilak had transformed a private household ritual into a public celebration — a powerful tool for awakening nationalist spirit and resisting colonial rule. But three decades later, in 1925, another revolutionary, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (Veer…