Tag: Savarkar


  • Introduction: Defining and Conceptualizing Hindutva in the Context of Identity

    Savarkar’s Coding of Hindutva Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was the first to use the term Hindutva (literally “Hindu-ness”, the “quality of being Hindu”) in a comprehensive manner in his book Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?, published in 1923. Savarkar (1999:72) defined Hindus as all inhabitants of the Indian subcontinent who met three criteria: These three elements—Rashtra…

  • An Introduction to Savarkar’s Economic Thought

    Economic Dimension of Hindutva, Part 1 The Economic Impact of British Colonial Rule on India: A Historical Perspective The nearly two centuries of British colonial rule in India left an indelible mark on the country’s economic, social, and political fabric. Beyond the visible changes in governance and administration, British rule profoundly reshaped India’s economic structures,…

  • Savarkar as a Social Reformer and the Reorganization of Indian Society

    Social-Reformist Dimension of Hindutva, Part 1 Vinayak Damodar Savarkar is often remembered for his role in the Indian independence movement and his formulation of the Hindutva ideology. However, a lesser-explored aspect of his life and work is his contribution as a social reformer and his vision for the reorganization of Indian society. Unlike Bhimrao Ramji…

  • Savarkar’s Definition of the Political

    Political Dimension of Hindutva, Part 1 Vinayak Damodar Savarkar dedicated much of his intellectual energy to defining what it truly means to be “political.” One of the most profound areas where he applied this understanding was in his classification of political prisoners. But what exactly did Savarkar mean by “political,” and how did he differentiate…

  • The Dominance of Western Political and Social Thought in Savarkar’s Philosophy and Worldview

    Savarkar’s Philosophy & Worldview, Part 2 Vinayak Damodar Savarkar derived his philosophy from a wide range of sources, both Indian and Western. While his deep engagement with ancient Hindu scriptures is well-documented, his philosophical orientation was significantly shaped by Western socio-political and philosophical thought. This influence played a crucial role in shaping his worldview, making…

  • Understanding Savarkar’s World of Thoughts: A First Introduction

    Savarkar’s Philosophy & Worldview, Part 1 To comprehend the intellectual foundation of Hindutva and its systematic framework, it is essential to explore Vinayak Damodar Savarkar’s philosophical underpinnings, his worldview, and his perception of humanity. These elements shaped the foundation of his political thought and actions, influencing his vision for India’s future. Savarkar was deeply influenced…