Savarkar's Contested Legacy: 1924-1966

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was an Indian nationalist, politician, and writer. He was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement and is known for his political philosophy of Hindutva. Savarkar's legacy is contested, with some praising him as a patriot and others criticizing him for his support of Hindu nationalism.

Savarkar (Part 2): A Contested Legacy, 1924-1966

by Vikram Sampath

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3238 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	910 pages

FREE

Early Life and Education

Savarkar was born in 1883 in Bhagur, Maharashtra. He was the son of a well-to-do farmer. Savarkar was a bright student and excelled in his studies. He attended Fergusson College in Pune, where he studied history and political science. Savarkar was also an active participant in the Indian independence movement. He joined the Indian National Congress in 1901 and soon became one of its most prominent leaders.

Political Career

Savarkar was a strong advocate for Indian independence. He believed that India should be a Hindu nation and that Hindus should be the dominant force in Indian society. Savarkar's views were controversial, and he was often criticized by other Indian nationalists. However, he remained a popular figure among many Hindus.

In 1924, Savarkar was arrested for his role in the assassination of a British official. He was sentenced to life in prison and sent to the Andaman Islands. Savarkar spent the next 10 years in prison, where he wrote extensively about his political philosophy. He was released from prison in 1937 and returned to India.

After his release from prison, Savarkar continued to be active in politics. He founded the Hindu Mahasabha, a political party that advocated for Hindu nationalism. Savarkar also wrote several books and articles, in which he expounded his views on Hindutva. Savarkar's legacy is contested, with some praising him as a patriot and others criticizing him for his support of Hindu nationalism.

Hindutva

Hindutva is a political philosophy that advocates for the dominance of Hindus in India. Savarkar was one of the main architects of Hindutva, and his ideas have had a profound impact on Indian politics. Hindutva is based on the belief that Hindus are the original inhabitants of India and that they have a unique culture and identity. Hindutva also advocates for the creation of a Hindu nation in India.

Hindutva is a controversial ideology, and it has been criticized for its exclusionary and divisive nature. However, it remains a popular ideology among many Hindus, and it has had a significant impact on Indian politics. Savarkar was a complex and controversial figure. He was a strong advocate for Indian independence, but he also supported Hindu nationalism. His legacy is contested, with some praising him as a patriot and others criticizing him for his support of Hindu nationalism.

Legacy

Savarkar is a controversial figure in Indian history. He was a leading figure in the Indian independence movement, but he also espoused controversial views on Hinduism and Indian nationalism. His legacy is contested, with some praising him as a patriot and others criticizing him as a communalist.

Savarkar's supporters argue that he was a visionary leader who fought for India's independence and defended Hindu interests. They point to his role in the Indian National Congress and his founding of the Hindu Mahasabha. They also argue that his concept of Hindutva was a positive force that helped to unite Hindus and inspire them to fight for their rights.

Savarkar's critics argue that he was a divisive figure who promoted Hindu nationalism at the expense of other religions and communities. They point to his support for the partition of India and his advocacy of violence against Muslims. They also argue that his concept of Hindutva is exclusivist and intolerant.

The debate over Savarkar's legacy is likely to continue for many years to come. He was a complex and controversial figure who left a lasting impact on Indian history.

References

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinayak_Damodar_Savarkar
• https://www.britannica.com/biography/Vinayak-Damodar-Savarkar
• https://www.jstor.org/stable/44274073

Savarkar (Part 2): A Contested Legacy, 1924-1966

by Vikram Sampath

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3238 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	910 pages

FREE