Restoring Ahimsa: Challenging Nationalism's Hold on Hindu Values
In 2023, the Parliament of the World’s Religions, once a pristine platform for interfaith dialogue, found itself confronting the shadows of right-wing ideologies, particularly those stemming from India. As the world navigated evolving socio-political landscapes, the Parliament grappled with the complexities of understanding and unity in the face of divisive ideologies.
The "India problem" as highlighted in Richa Karmarkar’s August 18, 2023 Religion News Service article became emblematic of the challenges presented by the rise of Hindu nationalism. The crux wasn't just addressing the surge of this ideology, but more so the attempts by certain right-wing Hindu organizations to obfuscate or erase its impacts from interfaith discussions. Their rationale? To shield and perpetuate the political authoritarianism intertwined with religious nationalism in India. These groups were resolved to let this brand of nationalism thrive unchallenged and undissected on global platforms like the Parliament.
The essence of Hinduism, with its intricate web of beliefs, stories, and teachings, historically revolved around embracing diversity and adaptability. Yet, the contemporary tide of religious nationalism seemed to have distorted this rich tradition.
Hindus for Human Rights (HfHR) and their sister organization Sadhana tried bridging these divides, highlighting topics from caste-based discrimination to challenges faced by religious minorities. But their earnest efforts met stark resistance. Confrontations from attendees bearing nationalist ideologies with HfHR staff were indicative of the palpable tension between the Parliament's unity-centric goals and the pervasive right-wing ideologies.
A disturbing recollection from the Toronto-based Parliament in 2018 amplifies these tensions. Swami Agnivesh, a luminary of progressive thought, tireless advocate for social justice within the Hindu spiritual framework – and a vocal critic of Hindu nationalism received death threats from Hindu extremists, who threatened to storm the stage before his appearance, starkly demonstrating that these extremists leaned more towards a space of political violence rather than adhering to the core Hindu tenet of "ahimsa" (non-violence). Such threats and actions stand in direct contradiction to the spiritual ethos of Hinduism, where "ahimsa" and peaceful coexistence are paramount.
In the face of growing nationalism and divisive rhetoric, our shared "dharma" – our ethical duty – urgently beckons every Hindu to introspection and responsibility. It's impossible to ignore the increasing visibility of figures like presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who not only lean into their Hindu identity but also embrace the tenets of Hindu nationalism. Their prominence amplifies the domestic and global stakes of this issue. It is a moral imperative to hold accountable those among us who tread the nationalist path, urging them to deeply consider the implications of their calls for violence against dissenters or individuals of diverse faith traditions. The strategic political maneuverings currently at play veer alarmingly away from the universal values that form the bedrock of Hinduism. The spirit of the Parliament has always been to foster dialogue, understanding, and unity. Now, more than ever, it is paramount for every Hindu to transform this spirit into actionable change. We must steadfastly champion a future where true dharma reigns, ensuring mutual respect, compassionate dialogue, and a world where the values of unity and peace transcend divisions.
