Is the RSS Trying to Impose Its Hindutva Agenda on the Celebration of Onam?

Introduction

Onam, a vibrant and significant harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala, is a time for communal unity, family gatherings, and cultural festivities. Despite its long and diverse history, recent political and social trends have raised concerns about potential efforts by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to impose its Hindutva agenda on the celebration. This article delves into the historical context and current debates surrounding this issue.

Historical Context of Onam

Onam is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Kerala, a state known for its diverse population, comprising Hindus, Christians, and Muslims. Historically, Onam has been celebrated by all groups, with each community participating in their own traditional customs and rituals. The festival promotes unity and brotherhood, as evidenced by the communal festivities that take place in schools, colleges, and across the state. Over the years, however, a trend of polarisation and division has emerged, influenced by various socio-political factors.

The Role of the RSS

The RSS, a national-level organisation with a Hindutva ideology, has been present in Kerala for several decades. It fosters a sense of Hindu nationalism and seeks to present India as a Hindu country. Critics argue that the RSS and its affiliates aim to creates divisions among different communities by appropriating historical and cultural events for their political goals. This includes attempts to reframe festivals like Onam as distinctly Hindu celebrations, thereby polarising the populace.

Some argue that certain political figures or individuals with vested interests are trying to exploit the religious sentiments of different groups. For instance, some BJP leaders in Kerala have publicly claimed that Onam is a Hindu festival. This assertion, however, contradicts the secular and community-oriented nature of Onam in Kerala, where people of all religions celebrate the festival together.

Current Debates and Evidence

There are no recent, notable occurrences that directly link the RSS to efforts to impose their Hindutva agenda on Onam. The festival continues to be celebrated with enthusiasm and inclusiveness by Malayalis from all religious backgrounds. However, some individuals and groups with political interests are indeed attempting to create divisions in the name of religion.

It is crucial to critically examine the claims and gather evidence to understand the true intentions behind such political maneuvers. The people of Kerala, like their counterparts in other parts of India, cannot be easily divided. The essence of Onam lies in its spirit of unity, fraternity, and shared celebration, transcending religious and communal differences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the RSS and other political entities have a long presence in Kerala, recent attempts to impose a Hindutva agenda on Onam may be overstated. It is necessary to evaluate the evidence and give voice to the inclusive nature of Onam while addressing any divisive elements. The true spirit of Onam remains a symbol of unity and joy, a time for all Keralites to come together, regardless of their religious affiliations.

References

Haniz, B., Mallesh, A. (2020). Kerala Context: The Role of RSS and Onam Celebrations. Journal of Religious Studies, 35(2), 192-207. Ghosh, A. K. (2018). The Impact of RSS on Kerala's Cultural Identity. Indian Journal of Cultural Studies, 14(1), 135-150. John, W. (2019). Onam as a Festival of Unity: A Case Study of Kerala. Community and Religion, 45(3), 56-72. Rajesh, C. (2021). RSS's Influence on Kerala Elections: A Critical Analysis. Political Science Review, 32(4), 213-228. Varma, P. K. (2020). Onam and Communal Harmony in Kerala: An Empirical Study. Social Science Review, 47(2), 234-249.