Hindutva, a term often used in discussions about Indian politics and identity, has evolved significantly over the years. Originating in the early 20th century, it was initially envisioned as a movement to unify Hindus and promote their cultural identity. Today, in the 21st century, Hindutva is not only a political ideology but also a cultural and social framework that seeks to adapt to modern times while maintaining deep roots in ancient traditions. In this article, we will explore how Hindutva is navigating the complex relationship between tradition and modernity in contemporary India.
Understanding Hindutva: The Basics
Hindutva, which translates to “Hindu-ness,” was first articulated by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar in his 1923 pamphlet, Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?. The central idea of Hindutva is the belief that India is fundamentally a Hindu nation, with Hindu culture, values, and civilization at the core of its identity. Unlike Hinduism, which refers to the religious practices of Hindus, Hindutva focuses on the idea of a cultural and political unity among Hindus, transcending regional, linguistic, and sectarian differences.
Savarkar’s vision of Hindutva was based on the idea that India’s past, present, and future are inseparable from Hindu culture. The movement, however, also sought to differentiate itself from religious practices, making it more of a cultural and political identity. Over time, Hindutva has been embraced by various political groups, most notably the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Hindutva and Tradition: Preserving Cultural Roots
One of the primary goals of Hindutva in the 21st century is to preserve and promote traditional Hindu culture. In India’s rapidly changing society, where globalization, urbanization, and the influence of Western culture are strong, there is a growing concern among many that India’s traditional values are being lost. Hindutva seeks to reassert these values, emphasizing the importance of rituals, customs, festivals, and social practices that have been central to Hindu life for centuries.
For instance, festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Durga Puja are celebrated with increasing enthusiasm, and there is a renewed focus on practices like yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda, which are seen as part of India’s ancient spiritual heritage. Hindutva’s emphasis on these traditions can be viewed as a way of resisting cultural homogenization and asserting India’s distinct identity in the face of global trends.
Moreover, Hindutva’s advocacy for a return to traditional values is not limited to religious practices. It also extends to social issues, such as promoting family values, gender roles, and community bonding. For example, the idea of the joint family, which was once the norm in India, is often highlighted in Hindutva discourse as a symbol of social stability and cultural continuity.
Hindutva and Modernity: Adapting to Change
While Hindutva is deeply rooted in tradition, it also needs to engage with modern challenges. In the 21st century, India is a rapidly developing nation with a growing economy, a young and tech-savvy population, and an increasingly globalized outlook. Hindutva cannot afford to remain trapped in the past; it must also find ways to engage with the modern world and respond to new challenges.
One of the key ways in which Hindutva is adapting to modernity is through its relationship with technology and media. In recent years, social media has become a powerful tool for spreading Hindutva ideas. Figures associated with the RSS and BJP are active on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, where they communicate with the public and mobilize support. This digital engagement has allowed Hindutva to reach younger generations who may not be as connected to traditional forms of communication like newspapers or public rallies.
In addition to social media, Hindutva has also adapted to modern political dynamics. The BJP, the political party that has championed Hindutva in the last few decades, has been able to connect with a broad cross-section of Indian society, from urban professionals to rural farmers. The party has used modern political strategies, including data analytics and targeted campaigning, to win elections and consolidate power. This reflects Hindutva’s ability to blend traditional cultural values with the realities of modern electoral politics.
Furthermore, Hindutva’s view of the economy has evolved. While the movement has traditionally been seen as focusing on culture and identity, recent developments indicate a shift towards economic policies that appeal to India’s growing middle class. The emphasis is now on self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat), promoting local industries, and reviving traditional crafts, which are seen as integral to the country’s economic future. This modern approach to economics is not in conflict with Hindutva’s broader cultural agenda but rather complements it by tying economic progress to the revitalization of traditional values and practices.
Tension Between Tradition and Progress
Despite these adaptations, the fusion of tradition and modernity in Hindutva is not without its challenges. The tension between preserving traditional values and embracing modernity often leads to contradictions. For example, while Hindutva promotes the idea of a “strong” and “unified” India, it has also been critiqued for its exclusionary tendencies, particularly towards religious minorities like Muslims and Christians. Critics argue that this version of Hindu nationalism is at odds with India’s pluralistic and democratic values, which are also part of its modern identity.
Additionally, the ideal of a traditional Hindu society often includes patriarchal values, which can conflict with the progress made in terms of women’s rights and gender equality in modern India. While Hindutva seeks to promote family values and protect women’s honor, it has been criticized for not doing enough to address issues such as gender-based violence and the rights of women in contemporary society.
Another area of tension is the question of how to balance religious and secular identities in a modern democracy. India’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, and it envisions a secular state. However, critics argue that Hindutva’s focus on Hindu identity undermines the secular principles enshrined in the Constitution. The challenge, therefore, is to find a way to promote Hindu culture and values without alienating other communities and undermining the secular fabric of the nation.
Hindutva in the Global Context
In the 21st century, Hindutva has also gained international attention, especially with the Indian diaspora. As millions of Indians live and work abroad, the global spread of Hindutva ideas has become more prominent. In countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, Indian-origin communities have started to organize around issues of Hindu identity, culture, and politics, often with an emphasis on the teachings of Savarkar and other leaders of the Hindutva movement.
While the global diaspora has given Hindutva a new platform, it has also led to debates about its place in the wider world. In the context of global politics, where multiculturalism and secularism are often emphasized, Hindutva’s emphasis on a singular Hindu identity can appear exclusionary. The challenge for Hindutva on the global stage is to navigate these tensions and present itself as a positive force for cultural pride and national unity without alienating other communities.
Conclusion: Hindutva in the 21st Century
Hindutva in the 21st century is a dynamic and evolving ideology that seeks to bridge the gap between India’s ancient traditions and the demands of modernity. While it continues to champion the preservation of Hindu culture and values, it is also adapting to the realities of a rapidly changing world. The movement’s ability to engage with modern technology, politics, and economics while staying rooted in tradition is both its strength and its challenge.
As India continues to navigate its path towards economic growth, social change, and global influence, the future of Hindutva will depend on its ability to reconcile tradition with progress, and to foster unity while respecting India’s diversity. Whether Hindutva will succeed in bridging the gap between these two forces remains to be seen, but its influence on India’s political and cultural landscape is undeniable.
