Book Review: Savarkar and Hindutva: The Godse Connection by A.G. Noorani

 

Book Review: Savarkar and Hindutva: The Godse Connection by A.G. Noorani

·         Title: Savarkar and Hindutva: The Godse Connection

·         Author: A.G. Noorani

·         Publisher: LeftWord Books

·         First Edition: 2002

·         ISBN: 978-81-87496-83-0

·         Format: Paperback

·         Length: x + 168 pages

·         Language: English

Structure and Content:

The book is organized into five main chapters:

Chapter I: The Myth and the Man

In the opening chapter titled "The Myth and the Man," A.G. Noorani embarks on a critical examination of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar's early life, revolutionary activities, and the subsequent construction of his public persona. Noorani aims to deconstruct the glorified image of Savarkar, often referred to as "Veer" (brave), by scrutinizing historical events and personal actions that contributed to his complex legacy.

Early Revolutionary Activities

Savarkar's initial foray into revolutionary politics began with the formation of the Mitra Mela in 1903, which later evolved into the Abhinav Bharat Society. This secret society aimed to overthrow British colonial rule through armed rebellion. Savarkar's commitment to the cause led him to London, where he continued his revolutionary activities, including the procurement and distribution of arms. His involvement in the assassination of British officials, notably the murder of District Magistrate A.M.T. Jackson in 1909, resulted in his arrest and subsequent trial.

Imprisonment and Ideological Shift

Following his conviction, Savarkar was sentenced to life imprisonment and transported to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands. During his incarceration, he penned several mercy petitions to the British authorities, seeking clemency and expressing a willingness to abandon revolutionary activities. Noorani highlights these petitions to illustrate a significant shift in Savarkar's approach—from militant activism to a more pragmatic stance aimed at securing his release.

Construction of the 'Veer' Persona

After his release, Savarkar's narrative underwent a transformation. He began to craft an image of himself as a steadfast patriot who had endured immense suffering for the nation's cause. This self-fashioned persona of "Veer Savarkar" was propagated through his writings and speeches, which emphasized his sacrifices and contributions to India's freedom struggle. Noorani critically assesses this constructed image, suggesting that it served to overshadow the more controversial aspects of Savarkar's past, including his appeals for clemency and ideological realignments.

Ideological Evolution and Hindutva

Noorani delves into Savarkar's ideological journey, particularly his development of the concept of Hindutva. Distinguishing it from Hinduism, Savarkar's Hindutva emphasized cultural and national identity over religious practices. He defined a Hindu as someone who regards India as both their fatherland and holy land, thereby excluding adherents of religions with origins outside the Indian subcontinent. This ideology laid the groundwork for a form of cultural nationalism that Noorani argues was exclusionary and divisive.

Critical Assessment

Noorani's portrayal of Savarkar in this chapter is unambiguously critical. He challenges the glorified narratives by presenting evidence of Savarkar's pragmatic compromises and ideological shifts. The chapter serves as a foundational critique, setting the stage for subsequent discussions on Savarkar's influence on Hindu nationalism and his alleged connections to political violence, including the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Conclusion

"The Myth and the Man" offers a nuanced exploration of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar's early life and the deliberate construction of his public image. Through meticulous research and critical analysis, Noorani invites readers to reconsider the legacy of a figure who remains both influential and contentious in India's political history.

            Chapter II: Savarkar’s Nationalism

In Chapter II, A.G. Noorani delves into the ideological evolution of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, scrutinizing his transition from a revolutionary nationalist to the progenitor of Hindutva; a form of cultural nationalism that redefined Indian identity along religious lines. Noorani's analysis is rooted in historical documents, speeches, and writings, offering a comprehensive critique of Savarkar's nationalist philosophy.

From Revolutionary to Ideologue

Initially, Savarkar emerged as a fervent revolutionary, advocating armed resistance against British colonial rule. His early activities, including the formation of the Abhinav Bharat Society and involvement in political assassinations, underscored his commitment to India's liberation. However, Noorani highlights a pivotal shift during Savarkar's incarceration in the Andaman Islands, where he authored Essentials of Hindutva in 1923. This work marked a departure from inclusive nationalism, introducing a vision of India as a Hindu nation defined by cultural and religious homogeneity.

Defining Hindutva

In Essentials of Hindutva, Savarkar delineates the concept of Hindutva, distinguishing it from Hinduism. He posits that a Hindu is one who considers India as both their fatherland (Pitru Bhumi) and holy land (Punya Bhumi), thereby excluding adherents of religions with origins outside the Indian subcontinent, such as Islam and Christianity. Noorani critiques this definition as inherently exclusionary, arguing that it marginalizes significant segments of the Indian population and undermines the pluralistic fabric of the nation.

Political Engagement and the Hindu Mahasabha

Savarkar's ideological stance found a political platform in the Hindu Mahasabha, where he served as president during the 1930s and 1940s. Under his leadership, the organization propagated the idea of a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu Nation) and opposed the Indian National Congress's inclusive nationalism. Noorani examines Savarkar's opposition to the Quit India Movement and his advocacy for Hindu militarization, interpreting these positions as aligning with colonial interests and fostering communal divisions.

Critique of Savarkar's Nationalism

Noorani's critique centers on the argument that Savarkar's nationalism, rooted in Hindutva, deviated from the secular and inclusive vision espoused by other freedom fighters. He contends that Savarkar's emphasis on cultural homogeneity and religious identity laid the groundwork for sectarianism and communal strife. By redefining Indian identity through the lens of Hindutva, Savarkar's ideology, according to Noorani, posed a challenge to the secular democratic framework envisioned for independent India.

Conclusion

Chapter II of Noorani's work presents a critical examination of Savarkar's nationalist ideology, tracing its evolution and assessing its implications for India's socio-political landscape. Through meticulous analysis, Noorani argues that Savarkar's conception of Hindutva introduced an exclusionary form of nationalism that continues to influence contemporary political discourse. The chapter serves as a pivotal component of the book's overarching critique of Hindutva and its historical roots.

Chapter III: Andamans and the Origins of Hindutva

In Chapter III, A.G. Noorani delves into the transformative period of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar's incarceration in the Andaman Islands, particularly at the Cellular Jail, and how this phase influenced the genesis of his Hindutva ideology. Noorani meticulously examines the conditions of Savarkar's imprisonment, his ideological evolution during this time, and the subsequent implications for Indian nationalism.

Savarkar's Incarceration in the Andamans

Savarkar was arrested in 1910 for his involvement in revolutionary activities against British colonial rule, notably his association with the Abhinav Bharat Society and the assassination of British officials. He was sentenced to life imprisonment and transported to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands. The harsh conditions of the jail, characterized by isolation and rigorous labor, had a profound impact on Savarkar. Noorani highlights that during this period, Savarkar began to reassess his strategies for India's liberation, moving from revolutionary violence to ideological propagation.

Development of Hindutva Ideology

It was within the confines of the Cellular Jail that Savarkar penned Essentials of Hindutva in 1923, under the pseudonym "A Mahratta." In this work, Savarkar articulated a vision of Indian nationalism rooted in cultural and religious identity, distinguishing Hindutva from Hinduism by emphasizing a common ancestry, culture, and homeland among Hindus. Noorani critically analyzes this shift, arguing that Savarkar's Hindutva was exclusionary, defining Indian identity in a manner that marginalized non-Hindu communities.

Mercy Petitions and Political Pragmatism

During his imprisonment, Savarkar submitted multiple mercy petitions to the British authorities, seeking clemency and expressing a willingness to abandon revolutionary activities. Noorani scrutinizes these petitions, suggesting that they reflect a pragmatic approach by Savarkar to secure his release. This aspect of Savarkar's conduct is contrasted with his later portrayal as a steadfast nationalist, raising questions about the consistency of his ideological commitments.

Impact on Indian Nationalism

Noorani argues that the formulation of Hindutva during Savarkar's incarceration laid the groundwork for a form of nationalism that was at odds with the inclusive and secular vision championed by other leaders of the Indian independence movement. By defining Indian identity in narrow cultural and religious terms, Savarkar's ideology, according to Noorani, sowed the seeds for future communal divisions and conflicts.

Conclusion

Chapter III of Noorani's work provides a critical examination of a pivotal period in Savarkar's life, highlighting how his experiences in the Andaman Islands influenced the development of Hindutva. Through meticulous analysis, Noorani contends that Savarkar's ideological shift during this time had lasting implications for the nature of Indian nationalism, steering it towards a more exclusive and divisive path

Chapter IV: Gandhi’s Murder

In Chapter IV, A.G. Noorani delves into the intricate details surrounding the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 1948. This chapter meticulously examines the events leading up to the assassination, the individuals involved, and the subsequent legal proceedings, with a particular focus on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar's alleged connection to the conspiracy.

The Assassination and Immediate Aftermath

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a former member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and a prominent figure in the Hindu Mahasabha. Godse approached Gandhi during a prayer meeting at Birla House in New Delhi and shot him at point-blank range. The assassination sent shockwaves throughout the nation and led to widespread investigations into the conspiracy behind the act.

Savarkar's Alleged Involvement

Noorani presents a detailed account of the investigations that followed Gandhi's assassination, highlighting the arrest of several individuals, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Savarkar, a leading ideologue of Hindutva and a former president of the Hindu Mahasabha, was accused of being the mastermind behind the conspiracy. The prosecution's case against Savarkar was built on testimonies from key witnesses, including Digambar Badge, who claimed to have been privy to meetings where the assassination plot was discussed.

The Trial and Acquittal

The trial commenced on May 27, 1948, and concluded on February 10, 1949. While Nathuram Godse and Narayan Apte were convicted and sentenced to death, Savarkar was acquitted due to lack of concrete evidence directly linking him to the conspiracy. Noorani critically examines the trial proceedings, suggesting that the acquittal was a result of insufficient investigation and the failure to thoroughly explore Savarkar's connections with the conspirators.

The Kapur Commission's Findings

In 1965, the Indian government established the Kapur Commission to re-examine the circumstances surrounding Gandhi's assassination. The commission's report, released in 1969, indicated that Savarkar had prior knowledge of the conspiracy and had met with the assassins shortly before the murder. Noorani emphasizes the significance of these findings, arguing that they cast a shadow over Savarkar's acquittal and suggest a deeper involvement in the plot than previously acknowledged.

Ideological Underpinnings

Noorani delves into the ideological motivations behind Gandhi's assassination, highlighting the stark contrast between Gandhi's inclusive vision of India and the exclusivist ideology of Hindutva propagated by Savarkar. He argues that the assassination was not merely the act of a fanatic but was rooted in a broader ideological conflict over the identity and future of the Indian nation.

Conclusion

Chapter IV of Noorani's work provides a comprehensive analysis of the events surrounding Gandhi's assassination, scrutinizing the roles of the individuals involved and the ideological currents that influenced their actions. Through meticulous examination of legal documents, witness testimonies, and commission reports, Noorani presents a compelling argument about the depth of the conspiracy and the potential involvement of Savarkar. This chapter serves as a critical exploration of a pivotal moment in Indian history, shedding light on the complex interplay between ideology, politics, and violence.

Chapter V: The Aftermath – A Critical Examination

In Chapter V of Savarkar and Hindutva: The Godse Connection, A.G. Noorani delves into the multifaceted repercussions following Mahatma Gandhi's assassination on January 30, 1948. This chapter meticulously examines the immediate and long-term consequences for individuals involved, particularly Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, and the broader implications for Hindu nationalist movements in India.

Immediate Public and Political Reactions

The assassination of Mahatma Gandhi by Nathuram Godse, a former member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and a prominent figure in the Hindu Mahasabha, sent shockwaves across the nation. Public outrage was palpable, leading to widespread condemnation of organizations associated with Hindu nationalism. The RSS faced a temporary ban, and the Hindu Mahasabha's reputation suffered significantly. Noorani highlights how these immediate reactions underscored the nation's collective grief and the urgency to address the ideological undercurrents that led to such a tragic event. 

Legal Proceedings and Savarkar's Acquittal

Following the assassination, a comprehensive investigation led to the arrest of several individuals, including Savarkar. He was charged with conspiracy to murder, among other allegations. However, due to insufficient evidence directly linking him to the assassination plot, Savarkar was acquitted. Noorani critically examines the trial proceedings, suggesting that the acquittal did not necessarily exonerate Savarkar in the court of public opinion. The lack of conclusive evidence left lingering doubts about his involvement, which continued to fuel debates and discussions in subsequent years. 

The Kapur Commission's Findings

In 1965, the Indian government established the Kapur Commission to re-examine the circumstances surrounding Gandhi's assassination. The commission's report, released in 1969, indicated that Savarkar had prior knowledge of the conspiracy and had met with the assassins shortly before the murder. Noorani emphasizes the significance of these findings, arguing that they cast a shadow over Savarkar's acquittal and suggest a deeper involvement in the plot than previously acknowledged. 

Impact on Hindu Nationalist Movements

The assassination and its aftermath had profound implications for Hindu nationalist organizations. The RSS, in particular, faced intense scrutiny and was temporarily banned. The Hindu Mahasabha's influence waned, and its association with the assassination led to a decline in public support. Noorani discusses how these events forced such organizations to reevaluate their strategies and public image, leading to a period of introspection and reorganization within the Hindu nationalist movement. 

Savarkar's Later Years and Legacy

After his acquittal, Savarkar lived a relatively subdued life, refraining from active political engagement. He continued to write and express his views but remained a polarizing figure. Noorani examines how Savarkar's legacy was contested, with some viewing him as a patriot and others as a divisive ideologue. The debates surrounding his role in Gandhi's assassination and his contributions to the Hindutva ideology continued to influence discussions on nationalism and secularism in India.  

Conclusion

Chapter V of Noorani's work provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex aftermath of Gandhi's assassination. Through meticulous examination of legal documents, commission reports, and historical narratives, Noorani presents a nuanced understanding of the events that unfolded and their lasting impact on Indian society and politics. This chapter serves as a critical exploration of a pivotal moment in India's history, shedding light on the intricate interplay between ideology, politics, and justice.

The book also includes extensive footnotes and references, drawing from court records, personal correspondences, and historical

Overall Critical Assessment:

A.G. Noorani, a seasoned lawyer and historian, presents a meticulously researched critique of Savarkar's ideology and political actions. He argues that Savarkar's concept of Hindutva marked a departure from inclusive nationalism, promoting a form of cultural nationalism that excluded non-Hindu communities. Noorani delves into Savarkar's alleged connections to political assassinations, including that of Mahatma Gandhi, suggesting a pattern of ideological

While the book is lauded for its thorough research and detailed documentation, some readers have noted a perceived bias in Noorani's narrative. The author's strong opposition to Savarkar's ideology is evident, which may influence the presentation of facts and interpretations. Nonetheless, the book serves as a significant contribution to the discourse on Hindutva and its historical roots.

Reception:

The book has received mixed reviews. Critics have praised its depth of research and the light it sheds on lesser-known aspects of Savarkar's life. However, some readers have criticized the work for its overtly critical tone and lack of neutrality. Despite these criticisms, the book is considered an important resource for understanding the complexities of Hindutva ideology and its impact on Indian history.

Conclusion:

Savarkar and Hindutva: The Godse Connection offers a comprehensive examination of a controversial figure in Indian history. Noorani's detailed analysis provides valuable insights into the ideological underpinnings of Hindutva and its implications for contemporary Indian society. While the book's critical stance may not appeal to all readers, its scholarly rigor makes it a noteworthy addition to studies on Indian nationalism and political history.