How Do You Spell HINDUTVA?

Pronunciation: [hˈɪndʌtvə] (IPA)

Hindutva is a term in Indian politics that describes a Hindu nationalist ideology. The spelling of Hindutva comes from combining two words: Hindu and Tattva, with Tattva meaning essence or principle. In IPA phonetic transcription, this word is spelled [hɪnduːt̪və], with the stresses on the first syllable and the second-to-last syllable. The pronunciation of the "t" in Tattva is dental rather than aspirated. The spelling of this word may vary based on dialect and region, but its meaning as a political ideology remains controversial.

HINDUTVA Meaning and Definition

1. Hindutva is a term derived from the combination of two words; "Hindu" and "tva," which translates to "Hinduness" or the essence of being Hindu. It is a complex and multi-dimensional concept that embodies distinct aspects of Hindu identity, culture, and ideology. Hindutva represents a nationalist ideology and a socio-political movement that upholds Hinduism as the unifying force for the Indian subcontinent.

   Hindutva advocates for the preservation and promotion of Hindu culture, heritage, values, and traditions in the face of perceived threats or challenges to the Hindu community's existence. It emphasizes the idea of a Hindu nation, where Hindus have a unique and central place. However, it is essential to note that Hindutva is distinct from Hinduism, which is mainly a religious faith.

   Advocates of Hindutva often strive for the political and social dominance of Hindus in India, projecting Hinduism as its cultural core. They aim to establish a society governed by Hindu principles, where religious and cultural practices are accorded greater social and political significance. However, Hindutva has also been a subject of controversy, criticized by some for fostering divisions among religious communities in India.

   Overall, Hindutva encompasses various aspects of Hindu identity, nationalism, and cultural preservation, promoting a vision of a Hindu-centric society. Its principles and ideas have influenced the political landscape in India, sparking debates and discussions about the role of religion and its intersection with governance and national identity.

Etymology of HINDUTVA

The word "Hindutva" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Hindu" and "tattva".

1. Hindu: The term "Hindu" is believed to have originated from the Persian word "Hind" which referred to the Indus River. The Persians used this term to describe the people living in the region beyond the Indus River. Over time, the term "Hindu" started being used specifically for the inhabitants of the Indian subcontinent who followed the religions native to the region, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Therefore, "Hindu" is primarily associated with the religious, cultural, and ethnic identity of people from the Indian subcontinent.

2. Tattva: In Sanskrit, "tattva" translates to "principle", "truth", or "reality".