Section Article

THE LEGACY OF SAVARKAR: CONFLICTING VIEWS AND CONTRADICTIONS
Author(s): Bhushan Kumar

Abstract
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (1883–1966) remains one of the most polarizing figures in modern Indian history evoking admiration criticism and scholarly debate. Post-2021 research has revisited Savarkar’s life writings political activism and philosophical contributions shedding new light on the complexities contradictions and enduring legacies of his thought. This paper examines the multifaceted legacy of Savarkar exploring both the acclaim he receives as a nationalist revolutionary and intellectual and the controversies surrounding his ideological positions particularly regarding Hindutva Hindu nationalism and his approach to social reform. By analyzing primary sources including Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? speeches personal letters and archival materials alongside post-2021 scholarly critiques this study investigates the tensions inherent in Savarkar’s philosophy and public persona. It also evaluates how his legacy has been interpreted contested and appropriated by diverse political cultural and academic communities in contemporary India. The research reveals that Savarkar’s contributions cannot be reduced to simplistic categorizations instead they reflect the interplay of historical context ideological conviction and strategic pragmatism. The findings suggest that understanding Savarkar’s legacy requires acknowledging both his intellectual achievements and the contentious aspects of his thought offering a nuanced perspective on his enduring relevance in debates on nationalism identity and socio-political ethics.