Question as to what an Indian entity consists of, what it includes and what it excludes. Is the idea defined on the basis of Hindutva or pan hinduism south of Himalayas feasible. Or as the liberals would argue that Indian-ism can not be defined through such microscopic lenses. It is the idea that all people who migrated into this land with their identity intact in original form make up this land. No choices of Hinduism can be enforced on them. Furthermore, diversity is to be more emphasized over unity. This same debate has also crippled US intellectual circles in recent times especially after Trump took the charge. USA has been referred to as as melting pot of all cultures just like India as mosaic of different cultures. Conundrum is, what should be the premise on the basis of which a nation state is defined or idea of nationalism is construed.
Let us first explore the concepts of nation-state and nationalism, Nation state is a recent idea originated from Europe (European theater) when colonial powers like Britain, France, Prussia among others started dividing European territories geographically and forming political states. This was done mostly on the basis of some kind of homogeneity of languages, culture or ethnicity. People sharing similar ideas or beliefs came together to form a nation. Feelings of protecting the sovereignty of these nations so formed started brewing and came to be known as nationalism. Thus, Idea of nation state and nationalism became a political and mental construct respectively. Some kind of homogeneity became the essential perquisite of forming a nation. This homogeneity even in otherwise heterogeneous society was not an inhibition to formation of a diverse yet united flourishing nation. For an instance, USA welcomed people from all roots whether Arabic, Catholics, Protestants, Hindus or even Chinese. Yet, there is a common unique thread running across all of them. An element of Americanism makes the US society blend of both homogeneity and heterogeneity.
In case of India, This one common homogeneous value is way of life practiced by people south of Himalayas. Now, some may call it a hinduistic way of life and others Indian way of life. For an example, Muslims of Indian subcontinent are way too different from their counterparts in Arabic countries. They resemble their hindu brothers more closely than their religious brethren in Arabic world. This is also true in case of Christians, Paresis or Jews living in India. This happens as people in Indian subcontinent are used to a common way of life. Wedding Procession forms part of an important rituals across religions which otherwise is not seen world over. Muslims weddings in India is a point in case. Ayurvedic medicine or Yoga transcends the boundary of religions in India. This argument gets bolstered by the fact that a religion like Islam known for egalitarian system has also imbibed the caste system practiced by Hindus. Likewise, many events prove the point that there is a common thread running across all people across the country. Therefore, concept of Rasthra or Matrubhoomi are very ancient to India than recent westernized ideas of nation state or nationalism. People of diverse origin have been enjoying harmonious living together since time immemorial.
Going back to the original question as to how one should define nation state or nationalism. These are modern concepts which may be applied to many nations on their face value as evolved by Europeans. But in case of India, these can be applied in a modified way. First and foremost, basis of Indian-ism or Indian nation is inextricably linked to a unique way of life practiced by oldest inhabitants which are Hindus. Geographically, India is what south of Himalayas from kirthar and suleman ranges to Poorvanchal ranges west of Irrawady. Nationalism or Rasthriyata is one's love or respect for this Indian-ism. Hindutva as also explained by Veer Savarkar highlights this point when he says India is Hindu Rasthra. He does not suggest that conversion of muslims or other religions as a condition to the formation of a Hindu Rasthra. But, All people while following their religions can still weave this beautifully diverse yet united nation into one Rasthra. One may call this a Hindu Rasthra or only India. It does not make an iota of difference. Indian nationalism is all about imbibing Indian values in one's life and an effort to save this rather than distort it.
Some Liberals have gone wrong in understanding this concept of Hindutatva or probably have misquoted this idea. Its not about conversion of religion but accepting the fact that India stands intact due to Sanatan Philosophy making the foundation of building and its flexibility to assimilate other ideas or religious beliefs. Problems arises, when some people wants to change this fundamental characterestics. In simple words, Islamic or any other religious values can never replace Sanatan philosophy as foundation of this nation. This in no way suggests that religious values other than Hindus can not be weaved into Sanatan Philosphy.
Therefore, Cultural Identity in case of india is same as politial identity. This is the major difference between Indian concept of nation state from that of other nations world over. Nationalism in India is not about imposition of choices but about voluntary acceptance of Indian Ideas. Therefore, India is rightly called as Mosaic of cultures.
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