The Hindutva movement, distinct from the spiritual and philosophical aspects of Hinduism, has played a significant role in shaping modern India's political and cultural identity. Rooted in the early 20th century, Hindutva emerged as a response to colonial rule, religious conversions, and the perceived need to unify Hindus under a single cultural and national identity. Over the decades, several leaders have driven this movement forward, each contributing to its evolution in thought and action. Understanding these figures is key to understanding how the Hindutva movement developed from an ideological concept to a political force. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar: The Ideological Architect Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, popularly known as Veer Savarkar, is often regarded as the father of the Hindutva ideology. In 1923, he published a pamphlet titled Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? , where he defined Hindutva not as a religion, but as a cultural and national identity. He argued that a true Hindu was ...
Hindu Dharma Sangathan & Hindu Religious Unity Sangathan: Pillars of Spiritual Solidarity and Collective Strength
Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest and most diverse religions, encompasses a mosaic of traditions, philosophies, and practices. Yet, its very diversity can sometimes lead to fragmentation, with regional, sectarian, and cultural differences overshadowing shared spiritual roots. Enter organizations like Hindu Dharma Sangathan and Hindu Religious Unity Sangathan , which aim to bridge these divides by fostering religious cohesion, preserving sacred traditions, and uniting Hindus under a collective identity. This article delves into their missions, strategies, and the transformative impact they seek to create in an increasingly interconnected world. Hindu Dharma Sangathan: Guardians of Sacred Traditions The Hindu Dharma Sangathan (HDS) is a movement dedicated to preserving and propagating the core tenets of Hindu philosophy, rituals, and ethical values. Rooted in the Sanskrit term Dharma —which signifies duty, righteousness, and cosmic order—the Sangathan...