On MS Golwalkar 's 1939 book 'We or Our Nationhood Defined'

Ladies and gentlemen,

 

Today, I stand before you to address a book that has stirred controversy and raised concerns about its content—the 1939 publication "We or Our Nationhood Defined" by M.S. Golwalkar. While this book has been regarded by some as a seminal work in shaping the ideology of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), it is essential to critically examine its contents, particularly regarding its portrayal of Muslims, and raise concerns about its potential to incite hatred and division.

 

"We or Our Nationhood Defined" presents a worldview that promotes exclusivity and fosters a divisive narrative. One of the most alarming aspects of this book is its explicit anti-Muslim stand, which propagates a sense of hostility towards a specific religious community. Golwalkar's portrayal of Muslims in this book is deeply troubling, as it generalizes and stereotypes an entire religious group, painting them as a threat to the Hindu community and the nation at large.

 

This divisive rhetoric has severe consequences for social cohesion and the pluralistic fabric of our society. It fuels prejudice, deepens communal divisions, and perpetuates a sense of animosity between religious communities. In a diverse and multicultural country like ours, fostering harmony and understanding among different religious groups should be our priority. Any work that seeks to undermine these principles by promoting hate and discrimination should be critically examined and denounced.

 

Moreover, the book's emphasis on cultural homogeneity and the assertion of a singular national identity raises concerns about the exclusion of diverse voices and the marginalization of minority communities. By promoting the notion of a dominant majority, it undermines the principles of equality, inclusivity, and secularism that are enshrined in our Constitution. Our nation's strength lies in its diversity, and any ideology that seeks to erode this diversity weakens the social fabric that holds us together.

 

It is crucial to note that criticism of "We or Our Nationhood Defined" is not an attack on freedom of expression or an attempt to stifle differing viewpoints. In a democratic society, diverse perspectives are valued and protected. However, there is a distinction between expressing one's opinions and promoting hatred or inciting violence against a particular community. The responsibility lies with us, as individuals and as a society, to engage in meaningful and respectful dialogue while rejecting ideas that seek to marginalize or vilify any religious or ethnic group.

 

To build a harmonious and inclusive society, we must actively work towards fostering understanding, empathy, and unity. We must celebrate our diversity and embrace the principles of equality and social justice. It is only through collective efforts that we can overcome the divisions and challenges that hinder our progress as a nation.

 

In conclusion, the book "We or Our Nationhood Defined" by M.S. Golwalkar, particularly in its portrayal of Muslims, raises serious concerns about its potential to promote hate and division. As responsible citizens, we must reject any ideology that seeks to undermine our shared values of harmony, pluralism, and secularism. Let us strive to build a society that upholds the principles of inclusivity, respect, and dignity for all, irrespective of religion, caste, or creed.

 

Thank you.