Economic Dimension of Hindutva, Part 6; Savarkar’s Economic Principles (2/13)
Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar was not just a political thinker and revolutionary; he was also a strong advocate for technological progress. At a time when Indian society was grappling with the impact of modernization, Savarkar made a passionate appeal to his compatriots to welcome the age of machines. Unlike Mahatma Gandhi, who expressed deep concerns about the uncritical mechanization of society, Savarkar viewed industrialization as an essential pathway to national prosperity and self-reliance.
Machines: A Blessing, Not a Curse
Savarkar rejected the idea that machines were an “evil” force responsible for unemployment, economic disparity, and social imbalance. Instead, he argued that technological advancements, if managed correctly, could lead to a more prosperous and efficient society. While acknowledging the importance of traditional artisanal skills, he insisted that India’s future should be built on industrial progress.
For Savarkar, the real issue was not the presence of machines but the way society structured itself around them. He believed that poverty, unemployment, and wealth inequality were not the direct results of mechanization but rather of flawed social systems. Therefore, instead of resisting industrialization, India needed to reform its economic structures to ensure that the benefits of modern technology were distributed fairly.
Industrialization as a Path to National Growth
Savarkar saw mechanization as a key driver of India’s transformation. He argued that increased production and productivity would ultimately compensate for any short-term job losses caused by automation. The ability to produce more goods at a faster rate would lead to a higher standard of living for all, lifting India out of economic stagnation.
He also believed that technological progress was not just about economic growth—it was about intellectual and cultural evolution. Science and industry, in his view, had the power to reshape the Indian mindset, making people more rational, progressive, and forward-thinking.
Defeating Communalism Through Technology
One of the most intriguing aspects of Savarkar’s argument was his belief that industrialization could help combat religious fanaticism and communal divisions. He saw scientific progress as a force that could break the chains of outdated traditions and superstitions, fostering a more united and modern Indian society. By embracing machines and scientific knowledge, India could shift its focus from religious conflicts to national development and global competitiveness.
Final Thoughts: A Call for Technological Modernization
Savarkar’s vision for India was clear: the nation needed to embrace technological modernization to secure its economic future and intellectual advancement. While he acknowledged the value of traditional skills, he firmly believed that industrialization was the key to India’s long-term success. By adopting modern machinery and scientific thinking, India could not only achieve economic self-sufficiency but also develop a progressive national consciousness that would help overcome internal divisions and external dependencies.
His call remains relevant today as India continues to balance tradition with technological progress. Savarkar’s message serves as a reminder that modernization, when guided by a clear vision, can be a powerful tool for national transformation.
Do you agree with Savarkar that machines are a blessing rather than a curse for society? Why or why not? How do you think India’s industrialization path would have differed if Savarkar’s vision had been followed more closely after independence? Was Savarkar’s approach to modernization more realistic than Gandhi’s emphasis on village industries? Share your insights in the comments below!
Sources:
DESHPANDE, Sudhakar. 1999. Savarkar. The Prophetic Voice. Dastane Ramchandra & Co.: Pune.
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PATWARDHAN, V. S. 1989. „Savarkar’s Economic Thinking“, in PHAKE, Sudhir/PURANDARE, B. M. and Bindumadhav JOSHI. (Eds.). 1989. Savarkar. Savarkar Darshan Pratishtnah (Trust): Bombai (Mumbai), 118-122.
PHADTARE, T. C. 1975. Social and Political Thought of Shri V.D. Savarkar. A Thesis submitted to the Marathwada University for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy. Unpublished: Aurangabad.
ROTHERMUND, Dietmar. 1985. Indiens wirtschaftliche Entwicklung. Von der Kolonialherrschaft bis zur Gegenwart. Schöningh (UTB): Paderborn.
ROTHERMUND, Dietmar. 1983. The Indian Economy under British Rule and other Essays. Manohar: New Delhi.
SAVARKAR, Vinayak Damodar .2007. Hindu Rashtra Darshan. Bharat Bhushan. Abhishek Publications: New Delhi.
SAVARKAR, Vinayak Damodar. 1945. Hindu Rashtravad. Being an Exposition of the Ideology & Immediate Programme of Hindu Rashtra as outlined by Swatantrayaveer V.D. Savarkar. Rohtas Printing Press: Rohtak. (Collected & Edited by Satya Parkash).
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