Mohan Bhagwat Explains Difference Between Hinduism and Hindutva, Calls for ‘Decolonising the Mind’

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat elaborated on the difference between Hinduism and Hindutva on Sunday, describing Hinduism as inclusive, while Hindutva represents the practical and contemporary application of Hindu values in social and political life.

Speaking at a lecture series marking 100 Years of the Sangh’s Journey, Bhagwat stated, “First, you have to decolonise yourself; otherwise, you will not understand. For example, Hinduism and Hindutva — which is the recent word? The post–world term ‘ism’ is a foreign concept. In our language, ‘ism’ translates to vaad. Have you ever heard the traditional word ‘Hindu-vaad’? No. The traditional term is Hindutva — Hindu-ness.”

Bhagwat’s remarks aimed to clarify the conceptual and linguistic distinction, emphasizing Hindutva as the authentic, traditional articulation of Hindu identity in the modern era.

Bhagwat further said, "And you say Hindu-ness excludes and Hinduism includes — that is not logical, sir. This is bad logic, or illogic, that has been systematically inculcated in our brains. ‘Ism’ is never inclusive — ‘ism’ means a closed thing. ‘Ness’ is inclusive, because in ‘ness’ values are important, and expression differs according to desh, kaal, paristhiti (place, time, and circumstance). But we cannot understand it unless we forget this colonised perception of Hinduism from the wrong or sometimes utterly ignorant viewpoints of the West."

"So Hindu-ness is inclusive. Hindu means, can you name a particular form of worship as Hindu? No. Even if you don’t believe in Ishwara, you can be Hindu. You are following one of the darshanas (philosophical systems) of Hinduism. For example, Kanad, who was asked to chant the name of Ishwara, said, ‘No, I don’t recognise Ishwara. I recognise the atom.’ Thrice he said ‘atom, atom, atom’ and died. He is still respected as a Rishi in the Vaisheshik darshan," he said.

Turning to secularism, Bhagwat said the concept had Western origins but found its most natural expression in India through Hindu values of tolerance and equality.

"This word 'secular' is not from our context. Secular relates to the State. There was once a conflict between the Pope and the King — their domains were divided: the material world would be under the King, and the spiritual life under the Pope. For the State, all religions were equal — that is the origin of secularism,” Bhagwat said.

He added, "So when you say ‘secular Hindu,’ it doesn’t fit. Hindu is an attitude, a way of life. And when one runs a government with that Hindu attitude, it is always secular in the real sense, because every path, every way, is equally respected."

Explaining the difference between India and its neighbours, he said, "Hindu States have always been secular — even before recorded history, right up to our newly independent Bharat. Why were we secular? Because we were Hindu. We naturally respected all faiths and gave them space. Pakistan became independent but did not remain secular. Bangladesh was freed from Pakistan but later reverted to a Sharia-based state. In contrast, despite all the pressures and bloodshed of Partition, our Constitution-makers kept India secular — because they were Hindus."

Bhagwat said the RSS continues to work to reinforce the moral and cultural foundations of Indian society. “The plan to bring Hindus together under a shared ethical framework is already ongoing. Demonstrating values in life, not preaching them, is how Hindu culture remains strong,” he added.

He concluded by saying the essence of Hindutva lies not in confrontation but in conviction. "It is about practising the eternal values of Sanatan Dharma and living them with courage, clarity, and compassion."