Reawakening to a Secular Hindu Nation: M. S. Golwalkar’s Vision of a Dharmasapeksa Hindurastra

This work undertakes a critical inquiry into M. S. Golwalkar’s vision of a Hindu nation that would be in harmony with a functioning secular state in contemporary India. Chapter one examines the flowering of the Hindu nation (Pragatan) attributable to the operating value of Dharma rooted in reciprocal and reasonable accommodation. Chapter two addresses the phase of decline (Vighatan) that was characterized by crisis and challenges (internal and external) to the Hindu nation. Chapter three analyzes Golwalkar’s suggested plan of action to reawaken the Hindu nation through organized effort (Sanghatan). In the ancient past India played a crucial role in interlinking the East and West through the process of cultural diffusion. Chapter four examines Golwalkar’s visualization of a similar leading role for India in the world today (Paryatan). The discussion is carried out with reference to the ideas, institutions, and key personages involved using illustrative examples for each phase.