Punjab-From Perspective of a Punjabi Hindu: Prominent figures from Indian politics and academics recently discussed a daring proposition at a book launch event: that the “Punjabi ethos” is the key to countering the growing Hindutva that is supported by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Challenging Hindutva Ideals
Author of “Punjab: From Perspective of a Punjabi Hindu,” Vinayak Dutt, stated that the aggressive and exclusive Hindutva of today is a far cry from the real spirit of Hinduism. With its strong connections to Sufism and lengthy history of coexisting with Sikhism, Punjabi culture is much more syncretic and inclusive than this “genuine Hindutva,” he claims.
Punjabi Hinduism’s Acceptance of Sikhism and Sufism
Dutt’s claim is bolstered by historical data. He highlights Punjab as the birthplace of important Hindu books like the Ramayana and the Bhagavad Gita, as well as Punjabi Hinduism’s intrinsic inclusivity, which readily accepts aspects of Sikhism and Sufism in its traditions. This is a far cry from the homogenous and even discriminatory image that the RSS and its affiliates present.
Dutt suggests calling this “Punjabi Hindutva,” although it isn’t characterised by conformity or doctrine. Rather, it places a focus on respect for many faiths, tolerance, and cross-cultural interaction. This natural pluralism, which has its roots in common cultural traditions and centuries of interfaith discussion, can be a potent counterbalance to the divisive strategies used by the current administration.
About ‘Punjab: From Perspective of a Punjabi Hindu‘
Maintaining a distinct identity and culture that is more closely associated with Sikhs and even Punjabi Muslims than with Hindus in the Trans Yamuna plains is crucial for a Punjabi Hindu. An era of powerful nation-states is rapidly eroding the unique identity of a Punjabi Hindu. The goal of this work is to restore that identity.
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