“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”- the world is one family. This ancient Sanskrit phrase beautifully embodies acceptance and unity, reminding us all of our interconnectedness. In a world where cultural identities are too often oversimplified, Hindutva calls for recognition of both global brotherhood and the depth of Hindu heritage. In fact, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” is the shortest and truest definition of Hindutva-capturing universal belonging, harmonious coexistence, and respect for ancient traditions at its core.
Recently, the concept of Hindutva has been widely misrepresented and, at times, wilfully weaponised. Critics and detractors commonly portray it as a rigid, majoritarian doctrine, neglecting its original meaning rooted in inclusion, harmony, and cultural flourishing. Media narratives and political debates often equate Hindutva with exclusion or aggression, eclipsing the philosophy’s call for self-restraint, spiritual humanism, and universal brotherhood. This distortion is compounded by selective reporting, viral misinformation, and opportunistic leaders aiming to polarise society for electoral gain.
Some public figures and commentators cherry-pick isolated incidents or remarks from fringe groups and use them to generalise about an entire tradition, thereby misleading the public and perpetuating needless fear or prejudice. Academic discourse can also become skewed, emphasising contentious aspects rather than the deep philosophical, historical, and socio-cultural roots of Hindutva. Social media amplifies these half-truths and indignation, quickly turning nuanced heritage into caricature. Such tendencies to oversimplify, politicise, or demonise Hindutva do a grave disservice to its true legacy of inclusivity, unity, and spiritual humanism, a legacy that celebrates diversity and cares for all humanity and the earth.
“Hindutva”, meaning “Hinduness”, isn’t just an ideology. It lives in the everyday customs and celebrations that form the core of Hindu identity. Applying Tilak to the forehead is Hindutva. Wearing Kalava bands on the wrist is Hindutva. Adorning oneself in a dhoti and kurta is Hindutva. Offering obeisances to ShriKrishna is Hindutva. Fasting on Maha Shivratri is Hindutva. Worshipping Maa Durga is Hindutva.
Honouring ancient festivals, all deeply symbolic and meaningful, demonstrates the vibrancy and unity within diversity that defines this heritage:
Every one of these customs and festivals echoes the civilisational ethos and inclusivity that Hindutva stands for, both in India and far beyond. Diwali, the crown jewel of Hindu festivals, is celebrated on every continent, filling the world with shimmering lights, joy, and togetherness. As lamps are lit in distant lands, Diwali becomes more than a festival, it is Hindutva illuminating the globe with the promise of peace and harmony, proving that the light of this heritage can dispel darkness and unite hearts across cultures.
Lines from a celebrated Hindi poem shine light on the essence of Hindutva, blending personal and global growth with responsibility:
Nirmano ke pawan yug mein hum charitra nirman na bhoolein
Swarth sadhana ki aandhi mein vasudha ka kalyan na bhoolein
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