Hindutva: Who Is a Hindu? by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, first published in 1923, is a foundational text articulating the ideology of Hindutva—a vision of Indian identity rooted in a shared cultural, historical, and civilizational heritage, rather than solely in religious practice. Savarkar’s work distinguishes between Hinduism as a religion and Hindutva as a broader concept encompassing national, racial, and cultural unity. He argues that the essence of being Hindu is not just about faith, but about belonging to a common civilization, sharing a homeland, and participating in a collective historical consciousness.

Hindutva is significant for several reasons:It provides the ideological foundation for modern Hindu nationalism and has influenced political movements and parties, notably the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).The book reframes Indian nationalism in cultural and civilizational terms, rather than purely political or religious ones, offering a vision of national unity based on shared heritage.It sparked debates on the nature of Indian identity, secularism, and the role of religion in public life, shaping the discourse on what it means to be Indian in the modern era.

1. Defining HindutvaSavarkar defines Hindutva as the essence of being Hindu, which transcends religious boundaries and is rooted in three essentials: a common nation (rashtra), a common race (jati), and a common culture or civilization (sanskriti).He asserts that anyone who regards the Indian subcontinent (from the Indus to the seas) as both their fatherland (pitrubhumi) and holy land (punyabhumi) is a Hindu.2. Distinction from HinduismSavarkar makes a clear distinction between Hinduism (a religion with specific rituals and beliefs) and Hindutva (a cultural and national identity).Hindutva, in his view, is not about religious dogma but about the collective ethos and historical continuity of the people of India.3. Historical Continuity and ResilienceThe book traces the evolution of Hindu civilization from ancient times, highlighting its ability to withstand invasions and adapt through periods of turmoil, such as the arrival of Islamic rulers and British colonialism.Savarkar draws inspiration from historical figures and movements (e.g., Maratha resistance, Bhakti movement) to illustrate the resilience and unity of Hindu culture.4. Hindu Rashtra and NationalismCentral to Savarkar’s thesis is the idea of a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu nation), where the state aligns with Hindu cultural values and traditions.He envisions the Indian state as a facilitator of cultural preservation, promoting languages, literature, and arts that embody the Hindu ethos.5. Inclusivity and ExclusivityWhile Savarkar’s definition of Hindu identity is inclusive of all Indic religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism), it is exclusive toward those who do not share the cultural and civilizational roots of India, particularly those who reject this shared heritage.He suggests that converts to Christianity or Islam who cherish Indic culture could be reintegrated, but those who reject it are excluded from the Hindu fold.

Savarkar’s Hindutva has become a touchstone for cultural revivalism in India, advocating for the primacy of Hindu culture and values in the nation’s public sphere.The book’s emphasis on cultural pride and historical continuity has inspired efforts to revive and celebrate Hindu traditions, festivals, and historical narratives in education and public life.It has also influenced the reinterpretation of India’s history, with a focus on indigenous heroes and resistance to foreign rule.

The ideology of Hindutva has had a profound impact on Indian politics and society, particularly since the late 20th century.It has contributed to the rise of Hindu nationalism, leading to significant electoral successes for the BJP and its allies, and reshaping the political landscape toward cultural nationalism.The assertion of Hindu identity has fostered a sense of unity among many Hindus, but has also been criticized for marginalizing religious minorities and challenging India’s pluralistic and secular traditions.Critics argue that the exclusivist aspects of Hindutva have led to increased polarization, communal tensions, and challenges to religious coexistence in India.

Hindutva: Who Is a Hindu? is a seminal work that redefined the contours of Indian identity by placing cultural, historical, and civilizational factors at the heart of nationalism. Savarkar’s vision, rooted in the idea of a unified Hindu nation, has left a lasting legacy—both as a source of inspiration for cultural revival and as a subject of intense debate regarding its implications for religious pluralism and social harmony. The book’s influence continues to shape India’s political, cultural, and social dynamics, making it one of the most consequential texts in the country’s modern history.