Meaning of Hindutva

The term Hindutva (popularized by V.D. Savarkar) describes cultural nationalism, where India is viewed as a nation unified by Hindu civilizational values rather than only by religion. In politics, it translates into identity-based mobilization, cultural symbolism, and nationhood narratives.

Contemporary Context of the Rise

1. Electoral Consolidation

• National elections since the mid-2010s have shown strong electoral support for parties articulating Hindutva themes.
• Hindutva has moved from the margins to the mainstream of national politics.

2. Strong Leadership & Organization

• Centralized leadership and disciplined cadre-based organizations have expanded outreach and message coherence.
• Grassroots networks, social media, and mass campaigns have amplified appeal.

3. Cultural Nationalism & Symbolism

• Emphasis on cultural pride, historical narratives, and national symbols.
• Public rituals, commemorations, and cultural projects reinforce identity.

4. Governance & Policy Framing

• Policies and laws are often framed in terms of national unity, cultural revival, and security.
• Governance is presented as decisive, development-oriented, and nation-first.

5. Media & Digital Mobilization

• Extensive use of digital platforms for messaging, counter-narratives, and rapid mobilization.
• Identity themes circulate widely through mainstream and social media.

Social Base & Support

• Support cuts across regions and classes, including urban middle classes and sections of the poor.
• Appeals combine development promises with identity affirmation.

Implications for Indian Democracy

Positive Arguments

✅ Greater political participation and mobilization
✅ Cultural self-assertion and national confidence
✅ Strong leadership and policy decisiveness

Critical Concerns

❌ Risk of majoritarianism
❌ Challenges to pluralism and secularism
❌ Polarization along identity lines

Hindutva and Federal Politics

• Coexists with strong regional parties; adaptation varies by state.
• Shapes centre–state dynamics through coalition choices, electoral strategies, and cultural narratives.

Conclusion

In the contemporary scenario, Hindutva politics has become a dominant and enduring feature of Indian political life—combining cultural nationalism, organizational strength, and electoral success. The central democratic challenge is to balance identity-based mobilization with constitutional values of secularism, pluralism, and equality, ensuring inclusive governance in a diverse society.

📌 UG Exam Tips

• Define Hindutva clearly
• Explain why it rose in the contemporary period
• Present both supportive arguments and critiques
• End with a balanced conclusion

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