In recent decades, India's political landscape has witnessed a significant shift with the consolidation of the Hindu vote bank. Central to this transformation is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has adeptly intertwined religious sentiments with political strategy, promoting Hindu nationalism and integrating Hindu values into the national discourse. This approach has resonated strongly with the electorate, as seen in the recently concluded assembly elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Delhi.
The BJP's ascent in Indian politics is closely linked to the promotion of Hindutva, an ideology advocating for Hindu nationalism. This ideology seeks to define Indian culture in terms of Hindu values, positioning Hinduism not merely as a religion but as the core of national identity. The party's commitment to this cause became evident during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement in the late 20th century, which aimed to construct a temple at the birthplace of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. This movement not only galvanised Hindu sentiments but also established the BJP as the principal political force championing Hindu causes.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership since 2014, Hindu nationalism has transitioned from the periphery to the mainstream of Indian politics. Modi's tenure has been marked by policies and rhetoric that emphasise India's Hindu heritage, resonating with a significant portion of the populace. This shift reflects a broader trend where religious identity increasingly influences political affiliations and voting behaviours.
The BJP has strategically promoted Hindu values and cultural symbols to foster a sense of unity among Hindu voters. Initiatives such as the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya serve as powerful symbols of Hindu resurgence. The temple's inauguration was portrayed as the fulfilment of a long-standing promise, reinforcing the party's commitment to Hindu causes.
Beyond Ayodhya, the party has invested in developing temple corridors and promoting Hindu religious texts like the Bhagavad Gita. These efforts aim to integrate Hindu traditions into the public sphere, thereby strengthening the cultural and religious identity of the nation. For instance, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project in Varanasi enhances access to one of Hinduism's most revered temples, symbolising the fusion of religious devotion with infrastructural development.
With Hindus constituting approximately 80% of India's population, they represent a substantial electoral force. The BJP has effectively mobilised this demographic by addressing issues pertinent to Hindu communities and emphasising a collective Hindu identity. Campaigns highlighting historical injustices against Hindus, coupled with promises to preserve and promote Hindu culture, have resonated with many voters. This strategy has not only consolidated the Hindu vote but has also redefined political alignments in the country.
The core ethos of this paradigm is that Hinduism is the cultural identity of India. The foundation of Indian nationalism is not geographical but cultural, with Sanatan values at its core. Hinduism is not solely a political aspect but a way of life, deeply embedded in Indian culture. It has historically allowed other religions to coexist and flourish. Additionally, it advocates for India's rightful place in global affairs, underscoring the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the belief that "the world is one family."
The opposition, particularly the Indian National Congress, has expressed concerns over the BJP's approach, accusing it of undermining India's secular principles. However, opposition parties have often been criticised for using secularism as a tool to appease minorities and secure their votes, leading to dissatisfaction among many Hindu voters. Events like the inauguration of the Ram Temple have been condemned by the opposition as political manoeuvres intended to polarise voters along religious lines. The Congress party's decision to abstain from such events underscores the deepening ideological divide in Indian politics.
Furthermore, the opposition's inability to distinguish between opposing the BJP and opposing Sanatani culture has backfired, inadvertently strengthening the Hindu vote bank. This reaction has bolstered Hindu political consciousness and increased support for the BJP's narrative.
The recent successful conduct of the Mahakumbh, which saw participation from almost every Sanatani either directly or indirectly, has further underscored this growing Hindu awareness. This heightened sense of Hindu identity has become a defining political and social reality in contemporary India.
(Rajiv Tuli is an independent author and columnist, and Dr. Barthwal teaches Political Science at the University of Delhi.)
Disclaimer: These are the personal opinions of the author
