Max Rodenbeck, The Economist's South Asia bureau chief, and Sue Lin Wong, a correspondent for The Economist, dive deep into the rising tide of religious bigotry in India, particularly concerning the Hindu nationalist movement. They explore how government complicity worsens violence against religious minorities and impacts India's secular identity. The discussion also shifts to China's evolving propaganda film industry, notably its successful cinematic endeavors that mix entertainment with nationalism, shedding light on cultural trends and their implications.
As the country celebrates its secular constitution, we examine the rising bigotry of Hindu nationalists—at best tolerated and at worst encouraged by the ruling party. China’s propagandists are onto something: after years of dull jingoism, the entertainment they put out now is glossy, big-budget and ever more watchable. And why South-East Asia’s obsession with otters poses a threat to them.