Hindutva – the most misunderstood word

Hindutva, a Sanskrit term often translated as “Hindu-ness” or “Hinduism” is one of the most misunderstood concepts in the world today. For many people, it conjures images of radical nationalism and fundamentalism; however, this could not be further from its true meaning. The concept of Hindutva actually reflects an inclusive religious philosophy that seeks to respect all other faiths while celebrating and embracing Hindu culture and tradition.

At its core, Hindutva is based on the idea of “one truth” – that there exists only one underlying truth and this applies to all religions, philosophies, ways of life and cultures. This implies that despite our differences, we should seek unity through understanding and acceptance of each other’s beliefs. Thus, Hindutva is a philosophy that promotes tolerance and harmony among different faiths, cultures, and traditions.

Hindutva does not advocate for the establishment of a Hindu state – it instead advocates for the recognition and appreciation of multiple religious systems within India. It seeks to promote pluralism and respect for diversity by recognizing the importance of other religions in India’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, Hindutva is rooted in ancient Vedic texts which emphasize the oneness of all existence and stresses the importance of living a life based on dharma (duty).

In today’s world where intolerance has become increasingly prevalent, Hindutva serves as an example of how we can live with respect and understanding for one another. It teaches us that it is possible to recognize, appreciate and celebrate different religions while still upholding our own beliefs and traditions. By understanding Hindutva in its true sense, we can learn the importance of embracing diversity and respecting each other’s differences. In doing so, we can create a more peaceful and harmonious world for future generations.