Abstract :
The paper examines the rise of Hindu nationalism from both theoretical and practical
perspectives. The polarization of Indian politics between the Hindutva right wing and
secular left wing has created a divide among the Indian people. The overall targeting of
minorities in the society especially Muslims has intensified communal violence and greater
rivalry between different religious communities. This ideological division violates the very
essence of multi-culturalism of which India raises loud slogans. Multi-culturalism
necessitates recognition of a number of political, social, cultural, religious and social rights
of minorities living in a country. India has always been vocal of supporting plurality and
acknowledging diversity as its strength. But the reality is otherwise. In this backdrop, the
article suggests an all-inclusive approach adopted by India in order to justify itself being
purely secular and truly democratic through its actions (and not just by words)
Keyword :
Hindutva, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Political Ideology, Cultural nationalism