By Muslim Mirror Staff
The first Kannada language critique of the RSS, titled ‘Hindu Rashtradege Himseya Hejjegalu’, authored by Lathamala was released at the Chitrakala Parishat. Social activist Shivasundar, speaking at the event, said the hegemony of Hindutva looms large in today’s polity, resulting in a gradual drift from secularism towards religious identity.
The book, authored by the former activist whose identity remains undisclosed for security reasons, delves into the history, ideology, and impact of the RSS on Indian society. Titled “ಆರ್.ಎಸ್.ಎಸ್. ನಿಂದಿಸಲು ಆರಂಭಿಸಿದ ಮೊದಲ ಕನ್ನಡ ಪುಸ್ತಕ” (“The First Kannada Book Critiquing RSS”), it presents a critical analysis of the organization’s role in shaping Indian politics and culture.
The release event, held in Bengaluru, attracted a diverse audience, including scholars, activists, and members of the public eager to engage with the contentious subject matter. During the event, the author delivered a passionate speech outlining the motivations behind writing the book and the urgency of addressing the influence of the RSS in contemporary Indian society.
Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research, the book meticulously examines various aspects of the RSS, from its founding principles to its involvement in key historical events. It scrutinizes the organization’s stance on issues such as nationalism, religious identity, and social hierarchy, challenging the dominant narratives propagated by the RSS.
Furthermore, the book sheds light on the RSS’s organizational structure, its strategies for recruitment and indoctrination, and its influence on education and media. By unraveling these layers, the author aims to stimulate critical thinking and foster informed discourse on the RSS’s impact on pluralism, secularism, and democracy in India.
The release of the book has sparked mixed reactions from different quarters of society. While some laud it as a courageous attempt to confront the RSS’s hegemony, others criticize it as an attempt to malign a nationalist organization deeply ingrained in Indian ethos. Nonetheless, the book’s publication underscores the importance of intellectual freedom and the need for diverse perspectives in shaping public discourse. ( With Agencies Inputs )