V. D. Savarkar - Political Science Coaching Centre

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (commonly known as Veer Savarkar) is often regarded as a key pioneer of Hindu nationalism. His ideas and writings laid the ideological foundation for what later became the Hindutva movement. Here is a brief overview of his role and contributions:

Savarkar’s Contributions to Hindu Nationalism:

Hindutva Ideology:
- In his seminal work, Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? (1923), Savarkar outlined the concept of Hindutva, which he distinguished from Hinduism as a religion. Hindutva, according to Savarkar, was more about cultural, national, and racial identity tied to the Indian subcontinent.
- He argued that India is the homeland (Pitribhumi) and holy land (Punyabhumi) of Hindus, thus forming the core of his nationalist vision.
Criticism of Congress and Secular Nationalism:
- Savarkar criticized the Indian National Congress for its emphasis on non-violence and secular nationalism. He advocated for a strong, militarized, and culturally unified Hindu nation.
Role in the Independence Movement:
- While Savarkar initially participated in the struggle against British rule and was imprisoned in the Andaman Cellular Jail, his later focus shifted to cultural nationalism rather than direct political action.
Formation of Organizations:
- Though not directly involved in its founding, his ideas significantly influenced organizations like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Hindu Mahasabha, which propagated Hindutva ideology.

Legacy:

Savarkar's ideas remain influential in contemporary Indian politics, especially within political movements and parties that align with Hindutva, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its affiliates. However, his ideology has also been subject to significant criticism for its exclusivist tendencies and its emphasis on religious and cultural identity over pluralism.