This podcast explores Hindu nationalism in the US, its impact on minoritized communities, and the tie between Hindutva and caste discrimination. It also discusses the relationship between Hinduism and socialism, the geopolitical trends driving the BJP's ties with US political parties, and the urgent questions surrounding Hindu nationalism and the US far right.
The podcast discusses the rise of Hindu nationalism in India and its connections to far-right Christian nationalism in the United States.
The importance of interfaith work in South Asian community organizing and coalition building is highlighted, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of different religions in India.
The podcast explores the influence of Hindutva in US politics and its impact on diaspora communities, emphasizing the need for awareness and critical understanding to challenge the popular narrative and promote informed discussions.
Deep dives
Hindu nationalism and its impact in India and beyond
This episode explores the rise of Hindu nationalism in India and its connections to far-right Christian nationalism in the United States. It discusses the roots of Hindutva and its impact on domestic politics, as well as the efforts of organizations like Thasna and Hindus for Human Rights to combat it. The episode highlights the dangers of Hindu nationalism for religious and ethnic minorities in India and the diaspora, and the need for progressive spaces to be educated on and take a stand against Hindutva.
Understanding Hindutva as a right-wing political ideology
Hindutva, also known as Hindu nationalism, is a modern political ideology originating in the early 20th century. It draws inspiration from Nazi Germany and Mussolini's party and promotes a Hindu majority identity for India. Unlike the pluralistic secular democratic vision of the Indian independence movement, Hindutva emphasizes a staunchly Hindu and identitarian vision. The episode draws parallels between Hindutva and conservative right-wing movements in the US, both of which emphasize nationalism and prioritize the interests of their respective nations.
Interfaith work and its role in South Asian community organizing
The episode discusses the importance of interfaith work in South Asian community organizing and coalition building. Organizations like South and Out Coalition of Progressive Hindus aim to empower Hindu American communities to live out the values of their faith through service, community transformation, and targeted advocacy work. It highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of different religions in India, such as Sikhism, Jainism, and Christianity, and the challenges posed by the appropriation and erasure of their distinct identities by Hindutva narratives.
The influence of Hindutva in US politics and diaspora communities
The episode explores the influence of Hindutva in US politics and its impact on diaspora communities. It discusses the presence of Hindutva groups in the US, such as the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Vishva Hindu Parishad of America, and Hindu American Foundation, which peddle Hindutva politics and funnel money into both Republican and Democratic politics. It also highlights the need for awareness and critical understanding of Hindutva's influence in order to challenge the popular narrative and promote informed discussions on the issues.
Challenges of combating misinformation and division
The episode addresses the challenges of combating misinformation and divisive narratives perpetuated by Hindutva proponents. It highlights the role of digital platforms like WhatsApp and Twitter in spreading hate speech and fake news, as well as the resulting self-censorship and external censorship. The episode emphasizes the importance of protecting mental health, engaging in strategic and effective conversations, supporting grassroots movements, and challenging popular narratives through education, interfaith work, and involvement in progressive spaces.
This episode explores the growing alliance between the U.S. and the Indian far right, the various appearances of Hindutva (Hindu Nationalism)in US public life, anti-caste discrimination, and how Hinduism and socialism can be mutually informed.
For more on this topic, check out
– Hindus for Human Rights @hindusforhumanrights
www.hindusforhumanrights.org
– Sadhana Coalition of Progressive Hindus @sadhanahindus
www.sadhana.org
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