From Hindutva to Moditva: Growing Religious Fanaticism in Indian Politics

Abstract

This article aims to explore the evolution and development of Hindutva in Indian
politics. Hindutva, a Hindu nationalist ideology, has had significant political influence
over the last few decades. Since its inception in the early 20th century, the doctrine of
Hindutva as a political ideology has evolved and developed over time. The analysis of
the Hindu nationalist organizations and political parties like the Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh, Bharatiya Jana Sangh, Janta Party, and the Bharatiya Janata Party
indicates the evolution of Hindutva in mainstream politics in India. The Hindutva
doctrine asserts the hegemony of Hindu culture and values in India. The paper also
explains how Hindutva has an influential role in Indian politics, for instance, its role in
shaping public policies, Hindu nationalism, and cultural identity. However, the secular
and democratic environment in India poses dire challenges to the rise of Hindu
nationalism in the country. This paper explores the evolution and development of
Hindutva in Indian politics. Moreover, it will concentrate on how Hindutva has shaped
the political landscape of India. In general, this research work traces the historical
origin of the Hindutva doctrine and its evolution and development in Indian politics.