Misguided souls driven by a dangerous ecosystem: VP Dhankhar on Sanatan Hindu criticism.

‘Originating From Colonial Mindsets’: Vice President Dhankhar Slams ‘Misguided Reactions’ To Sanatan, Hinduism. 

Upendra Bharti | HENB | New Delhi | Jan 4, 2025:: Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar recently expressed concern over the negative reactions some people have to references of Sanatan and Hinduism in India. He finds it ironic and painful that terms deeply rooted in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage evoke such strong reactions in their own homeland. 

Dhankhar attributes these reactions to “misguided souls” influenced by a “dangerous ecosystem” and colonial mindsets. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the profound meanings behind these terms, rather than reacting impulsively. 

The Vice President also warned that dismissing Vedanta and Sanatan texts as “regressive” reflects a sinister effort to undermine India’s cultural identity. He criticized the misuse of secularism to camouflage destructive ideologies, calling it a “pernicious design” that threatens societal harmony and democratic values.

Vice President  Dhankhar stressed the importance of introducing Vedantic wisdom into mainstream education and society, moving it beyond academic circles. During his address at the 27th International Congress of Vedanta at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Dhankhar expressed concern over the prevalent dismissive attitude towards Hindu and Sanatani traditions, which he attributed to residual colonial mindsets and misguided interpretations of secularism. Dhankhar also said, “Vedanta is much beyond a Philosophy and it is the algorithm for human consciousness”.

Dhankhar emphasized the importance of balancing the right to expression with constructive dialogue, stating that “expression is a divine gift, but it must be accompanied by dialogue”. He lamented the increasing disruptions in democratic institutions, including Parliament, which have replaced meaningful debate and deliberation.

The Vice President also criticized the colonial influences and a lack of understanding of India’s intellectual heritage. He warned that this intolerance undermines democratic values and disrupts societal harmony.

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__Inputs from Agencies.