Understanding Hindutva in the Right Perspective
– Puran Chand Sharma
Why is the word ‘Hindu’ not found in Vedas, Ramayana, Mahabharata, or Puranas?
The term evolved slowly from the word SINDHU (Indus River). It is generally accepted by Historians that the word Hindu does not appear in the ancient Sanskrit scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Ramayana, Puranas. The term evolved slowly from the word, Sindhu (Indus River). Ancient Persians pronounced “S” as “H”and referred to the people beyond the Sindhu River as Hindus. Over the period of time, the land became known as Hindustan and its people as Hindus. Thus, “Hindu” was originally a geographical and cultural designation rather than the name of a specific religion. The people of this region came to be known as Hindus.
What is Sanatana Dharma or Sanatana Sanskriti?
The expression Sanatana Dharma means “Eternal Dharma” or “Eternal way of life”. Dharma here does not mean religion. It encompasses Truth, Duty, Compassion (karuna), Self- Discipline, Harmony with nature , Respect for all life and spiritual pursuits. Many spiritual masters have described Sanatana Dharma as a timeless framework for righteous living rather than a creed. Among the renowned figures who emphasized this view are Adi Shankracharya, Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, Mahatma Gandhi, Swami Dayananda Saraswati.
What is Hindutva according to prominent thinkers?
The term Hindutva became widely known through Vinayak Damodar Savarkar in his 1923 work ‘Hindutva: who is a Hindu?’ In Savarkar’s formulation, Hindutva is primarily presented as a cultural and civilizational identity rooted in the history, traditions and heritage of India. Other thinkers have emphasized different subjects:
– Swami Vivekanand stressed spiritual universalism and acceptance.
– Mahatma Gandhi emphasized truth, non-violence, and inter-faith harmony.
– Sri Aurobindo viewed India’s spiritual heritage as having a global mission.
– Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar emphasized cultural unity and national cohesion.
Thus, there is no single universally accepted definition of Hindutva; interpretations vary across scholars and organizations.
What makes Sanatana Culture Special?
Supporters often highlight the following characteristics:
SPIRITUAL PLURALISM: Truth is one, sages describe it in many ways (Ekam Sat Vipra bahuda Vadanti). Multiple paths to spiritual realization are accepted in Sanatan culture. We are not conservative but happily think with a positive mindset.
UNIVERSAL WELFARE: May all be happy (Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah); The world is one family (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam).
HARMONY WITH NATURE: Rivers, mountains, forests, and animals are revered in Sanatana Culture. Substantial emphasis is laid on maintaining ecological balance, ensuring that no harm is caused to nature.
Inner Transformation: Focus on self-mastery before social mastery. Yoga, meditation and self discipline.
KNOWLEDGE TRADITION: Development of philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, grammar and logic.
How can these ideals contribute to India becoming a Vishav Guru?
The phrase ‘Vishva Guru’ does not generally refer to political dominance but to moral, intellectual and spiritual leadership. Many thinkers believe India can contribute to the world through:
1. Yoga and Meditation which promote mental well being and inner balance.
2. Value based education; combining scientific excellence with ethics.
3. Inter Faith Harmony; Demonstrating coexistence among diverse traditions.
4. Sustainable Living; Balancing development with environmental responsibility.
5. Spiritual Humanism: Treating the entire humanity as one family.
6. Usefulness for the whole world: Some values associated with Sanatana thought have global relevance e.g. Respect for diversity, Peaceful co-existence, Environmental stewardship, Family and community responsibility, Pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement, Harmony between science and spirituality.
In an age marked by conflict, consumerism and ecological challenges, many scholars see these principles as worthy of broader consideration.
What special and meaningful role India can play of a peaceful and prosperous World?
India’s greatest contribution to the world may not come merely through economic or military strength, but through the ability to combine spiritual wisdom, democratic values, scientific and human welfare. If India aspires to become Vishva Guru, it must lead by example and not by assertion.
1. Lead through values, not dominance
India’s civilizational ethos have long emphasized Vashudhaiva Kutumbkam (The world is one family), Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah (May all be happy) and Respect for diversity and co-existence. In a world increasingly divided by conflicts, extremism and geopolitical rivalries, India can advocate dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful resolution of disputes.
2. Combine spirituality with modernity
India possesses a unique heritage of Yoga, Meditation, Ayurveda, Ethical and philosophical traditions. At the same time India is advancing in Technology, Space Research, Digital Innovation and Health care. A model that harmonizes material progress with inner well- being could offer valuable lessons globally.
3. Strengthen moral and character education
Great nations are built not only by infrastructure but by character. India can promote Integrity, Duty-consciousness, Compassion, Social responsibility, Respect for women and elders. It is notable that a morally grounded citizenry contributes to both national strength and global peace.
4. BECOME A GLOBAL BRIDGE BUILDER
India maintains relations with diverse regions and civilizations. It can, therefore, facilitate dialogue between rival nations, support multilateral cooperation and can promote cultural understanding across civilizations. Constructive Diplomacy often creates more lasting influence than coercion.
5. Champion sustainable development
Ancient Indian traditions emphasize harmony with nature. India is in a position to lead in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, water conservation and climate resilience. A development model that balances prosperity with environmental stewardship would benefit the entire world.
6. Invest in Knowledge and innovation
Historically India contributed significantly to mathematics, philosophy, medicine, and learning. To renew that legacy, India can strengthen research institutions , improve education quality, encourage scientific temper alongside ethical reflection, and share affordable innovations with developing nations.
7. Ensure Justice and social harmony at home
A Nation’s global credibility is strengthened when it addresses challenges within its own society. India’s progress depends on Equal opportunities, Social cohesion, Rule of law, Good governance, Reduction of poverty and inequality. A harmonious and prosperous India can serve as a powerful example to others.
Concluding thought
The world’s future requires not only wealth and technology but also wisdom, restraint, and compassion. India’s enduring message has often been that true progress combines MATERIAL ADVANCEMENT WITH MORAL RESPONSIBILITY AND SPIRITUAL INSIGHT. If India nurtures excellence in education, innovation, governance, environmental stewardship and human values, it can make a meaningful contribution towards a more peaceful, prosperous and cooperative world.
In nutshell, India can best serve humanity by demonstrating how economic progress, scientific achievement, cultural confidence and universal human values can coexist in harmony.
– (Author is President of Managing Committee, Ved Mandir, Amphalla, Jammu)
