Death of the Innocence

 

Death of the Innocence

Engaging in a conversation with someone deeply influenced by the Hindutva ideology, as propagated by the BJP across India, can be an exercise in futility. The fervent support for Prime Minister Modi and the belief that no religious conversions are occurring in India often stem from a profound misunderstanding of the socio-political landscape. When questioned about the merits of Hindutva or the significance of worship practices, such as the controversial worship of the phallic symbol, responses are frequently defensive and angry. This reaction highlights a fundamental lack of understanding among many adherents regarding the very essence of Hindutva.

A glaring contradiction within this ideology is the continued discrimination in many Hindu temples, where individuals from lower castes are often barred from entry and worship. Instances of violence against lower caste individuals, merely for accidental physical contact with higher caste individuals, remain disturbingly common. Yet, these realities are often ignored or denied by those fervently supporting the Hindutva narrative.

The reluctance to engage with historical truths is another significant issue. Many supporters of Hindutva refuse to acknowledge the caste system's role in driving mass conversions to Islam. Historically, lower caste Hindus, oppressed and marginalized, found solace in Islam's more egalitarian social structure. These converts often aided invaders who pillaged temples and communities, motivated by centuries of mistreatment by the upper castes. This historical context is essential to understanding the complex dynamics of religious conversion in India, yet it is often overlooked.

The persistence of caste-based discrimination and violence in contemporary India is a testament to the deep-seated issues within Hindu society. Despite this, many Hindutva proponents fail to see these actions as hate crimes, instead perceiving them through a lens of religious and cultural purity. Growing up in a religious family, I witnessed firsthand the rituals and prayers that reinforced submission to a priestly class, which eventually led me to question the very foundation of these practices. The realization that religious worship often benefits a privileged few financially, regardless of the occasion, further deepened my disillusionment.

Faith, while a powerful motivator, can also be a double-edged sword. It provides strength and hope but can also stifle scientific inquiry and rational thought. The trouble arises when faith is used to justify the denial of others' rights or to perpetuate systemic injustices. Many adherents of Sanatan Dharm remain oblivious to the fact that numerous individuals are turning to alternative faiths such as Radha Swami, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Nirankari. Yet, any mention of conversion to Islam or Christianity often incites violence, a reaction rooted in historical animosities and a deeply ingrained fear of the 'other.'

The historical conflicts between Christians and Muslims, Jews and Muslims, and Hindus and Muslims, often fueled by Western interventions, have created a legacy of distrust and hostility. These conflicts, sustained by enormous financial investments, have only deepened the divide rather than fostering dialogue and reconciliation. Weak-minded individuals often gravitate towards leaders who offer false hope, and by the time they realize their mistake, it is often too late. Logic and reason are the first casualties under the influence of blind faith.

The courage to question and explore alternative viewpoints has always been a threat to those in power. Historically, many who dared to challenge the status quo were silenced. The Vedic civilization once encouraged dialogue and learning, a tradition that has sadly been abandoned in favor of rigid religious orthodoxy. The transformation of Hinduism over centuries, driven by the interests of the wealthy and powerful, has led to the creation of numerous rituals and practices that marginalize the poor and reinforce the caste system.

The BJP and its leaders are adept at using these historical tools of control to maintain their grip on power. However, they face a significant challenge in the modern age of real-time information and widespread access to knowledge. There is a growing number of individuals willing to engage in reasoned debate and challenge the prevailing narratives. I believe that the falsehoods propagated over the last decade will eventually be exposed, allowing the truth to emerge.

The Indian Constitution, much like the ancient Vedas, was crafted by scholars who drew on a deep understanding of India's history. It represents a collective vision for a democratic union, a vision that stands in stark contrast to the divisive and exclusionary practices promoted by Hindutva. Those who continue to undermine this constitutional framework must recognize that India's strength lies in its diversity and its commitment to justice and equality for all its citizens.