Hindutva a timeless nationalist ideology, says Nitin.

Hindutva is a nationalist thought, more needed today for the new generation – Nitin Gadkari.

Upendra Bharti | HENB | New Delhi | June 26, 2025:: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized the enduring relevance of Hindutva as a nationalist thought, particularly in today’s context. Speaking at the launch of the book “Maratha War of Independence” by Abhas Verma, Gadkari highlighted the importance of introducing young people to India’s rich historical heritage to instill a sense of national pride.

Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said, Hindutva is a nationalist thought, it is very much needed today, Shivaji’s Hindu thoughts are like a charger for the society. If we want to charge the youth with Hindutva, then we have to introduce them to our old history. He was speaking on the occasion of the release of the book Maratha War of Independence at IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts).

This book has been written by Abhas Verma, it has been published by Garuda Prakashan. Which highlights an important but neglected chapter of Indian history. It describes the Maratha resistance against the Mughals after the sacrifice of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The Union Minister said, there are distortions in our history written by the British, it needs to be corrected. Young writers like Abhas Verma are compiling old history. They deserve thanks for this. He said, more writers Garuda come forward to compile our old real history. We should tell about our old history through social media, print, TV media. This history is very important for building the future. The Hindu thoughts of our Veer Shiromani Shivaji Maharaj should always flow. Author and historian Uday Mahurkar said, the Marathas controlled the Mughal throne of Delhi for about 50 years. This book also brings alive two great warriors of India, Santaji Ghorpade and Dhanaji Jadhav, who shook the Mughals with their valor and also frightened Aurangzeb, but whose names are not known to today’s India.

This book gives a detailed account of the Maratha struggle against the Mughal Empire, which sheds light on a transformative era in Indian history. It details Rajaram Bhonsle’s escape to Jinji, the defence of Jinji, the guerrilla campaigns of Santaji Ghorpade and Dhanji Yadav and the resurgence under Tara Bai, presenting a picturesque view of the Maratha War of Independence. Lesser-known figures like Santaji and Dhanji, civil servants like Prahlad Niraji and local groups like the Nayak and Berads are praised for their role in uniting different communities in the interest of the Marathas.

Drawing on rare historical texts, Mughal court newsletters, and memoirs, the book ensures an authoritative narrative. It explores key battles like Dodderi (1696) and Wagingera (1706-07), the decline of the Mughal Empire, and the Marathas’ cultural identity rooted in Shivaji’s legacy. Leadership by Rajaram and Tara Bai underscores their adaptability and resilience amidst challenges.

Padma Shri Prof. Bharat Gupta, Prafull Ketkar, editor of Organiser weekly, Sankrant Sanu, founder of Garuda Publications, and others were present.

The book is available online at Garuda Prakashan,  Amazon and Flipkart.