Section Article

The topic of discussion is Hindu Nationalism and the significant contributions made by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.
Author(s): Nidhi Sharma

Abstract
Hindu nationalism is a socio-political philosophy that aims to establish Indian culture based on Hindu values and identity. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar played a crucial role in shaping the ideological basis of this movement. Savarkars conception of Hindutva (Hinduness) underscored the notion of India as a Hindu country firmly grounded in shared cultural historical and religious customs. Hindutva unlike Hinduism as a religious belief was suggested as a cohesive identity for those who saw India as their homeland and sacred place. Savarkars works including his influential publication Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? (1923) clearly expressed the fundamental elements of this nationalist ideology. He championed the establishment of a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu country) prioritizing cultural and civilizational cohesion above religious plurality. His views presented a counter to the secular and pluralistic framework advocated by the Indian National Congress during the independence struggle establishing Hindu nationalism as an alternative philosophy. Savarkar made a significant contribution by actively participating in the revolutionary movement against British colonial authority. He advocated for armed conflict as a method to attain independence. Despite his contentious reputation which includes allegations of complicity in Mahatma Gandhis murder Savarkar continues to be a prominent figure in discussions surrounding Hindu nationalism. His views have had a tremendous impact on current political parties and movements in India namely the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who use his vision to form their policies and rhetoric. To summarize Savarkars contributions to Hindu nationalism may be attributed to his formulation of the ideology of Hindutva his promotion of the idea of a Hindu country and his significant influence on the contemporary political environment of India. The ongoing discussion over his legacy reflects the intricate and conflicting aspects of Indias developing national identity.