The Global Turn in Nationalism: The USA as a Battleground for Hinduism and Hindu Nationalism (Kim 2023)

Abstract

  • Thesis: Hindu nationalism operates globally today, with noticeable transnational networks and strategies impacting politics and discourse beyond national boundaries.

  • Key Examples:   - The Sangh Parivar's activities   - Amendments to textbooks and historical narratives promoting Hindu nationalism.

  • Focus on the US: The US serves as a key arena for the conflict surrounding Hindu nationalism, emphasizing diasporic Indian activism.

  • Argument: Although long-distance Hindu nationalism in the US is traceable only since the 1970s, early Indian activist experiences are crucial for understanding current Hindu nationalism debates and exploring Hindutva’s counterpublic.

1. Introduction

  • World Hindu Congress (WHC):   - Hosted in Chicago, September 2018.   - Aimed to unify the global Hindu community, but its nationalist agenda became evident.   - Key Figures: Swami Vigyananand (founder), Vice President of India Venkaiah Naidu, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.

  • Counter Protests:   - Activists protested Bhagwat's presence, facing physical violence and hateful insults which underscored the deep divisions within the Hindu community in the US.

  • Historical Context:   - The WHC's celebration of attendance was linked to Swami Vivekananda's earlier achievements in Chicago in 1893, contrasting with the violence that was unacknowledged in official reports.

2. Significance of the US for Global Hindu Nationalism

2.1. Hindu Community in Numbers

  • Demographics: Hindus number around 1.2 billion, comprising 16% of the global population.

  • Global Presence: Hindus are present in approximately 200 countries, with a significant number in the US.

  • Cultural and Historical Ties: The legacy of Vivekananda has remained influential in shaping perceptions and narratives around Hinduism in the US.

2.2. Contemporary Hindu Nationalism Record

  • Dismantling Global Hindutva Conference (2021):   - Highlighted the rise of activism against Hindutva and shed light on past discrimination faced by Indian migrants.

  • Migration History: The article emphasizes how the history of migration shapes contemporary Hindu nationalist narratives in the US.

3. Transnational Hindu Nationalism in the USA

3.1. Key Historical Moments

  • Immigration and Naturalization Act of 1965:   - Overturned immigration quotas, increasing Indian immigration to the US.

  • Economic Liberalization in India (1991):   - Led to the rise of a tech-savvy Hindu middle class and nationalism in India.

  • Post-9/11 Climate:   - Rise in Islamophobia provided a backdrop for Hindu nationalism to gain traction.

3.2. Organizations and Movements

  • Vishva Hindu Parishad America (VHPA): Founded in 1970, linked to the Sangh Parivar and cross-state expansion.

  • Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS): Founded in 1989, encourages local Hindu community engagement but is seen as supportive of Hindutva at a deeper level.

  • Hindu American Foundation (HAF): Established in 2003, despite claims of political neutrality, has leadership ties to the BJP.

  • Debate on Multiculturalism: Multiculturalism allows ethnic pride but can simultaneously lead to victimization narratives.

3.3. Hinduphobia

  • Definition (HAF): Hinduphobia includes antagonistic attitudes toward Hindus and Sanatana Dharma that can manifest from bias or hatred.

  • Victims of Hinduphobia: Children, students, and public figures can be potential victims of systemic bias.

  • Evolving Definitions: HAF frequently updates the Hinduphobia glossary to reflect contemporary incidents and stereotypes.

  • Awareness Initiatives: Programs documenting Hinduphobia exist to counter anti-Hindu sentiments, arguing that historical narratives support claims of victimhood.

4. Historical Context of Indian Activism in the USA (1890s - 1920s)

4.1. Encountering Discrimination

 - Cultural Identity: Indians faced racialized discrimination and often referred to their Aryan heritage without acceptance by the broader society.  - Media Representation: The myth of a 'Hindu invasion' took hold, portraying Indian laborers as threats to American workers.

4.2. Activism and Response

  • Sudhindra Bose:   - An advocate for Indian immigrant rights, protested against legislative discrimination and highlighted the value Indian students brought to America.

5. Deterritorial Movements and Anti-colonialism

  • Historical Context of Activism: Deterritorial politics by Indian activists emerged to combat colonial narratives and raise awareness of Indian independence.

  • Cultural Diplomacy: Indian monks and reformers from the Chicago Parliament of Religions attempted to reshape public perceptions of Hinduism.

6. Hindutva’s Counterpublics

  • Counterpublic Definition: A counterpublic differs from dominant narratives, providing a space for dissent and critical engagement.

  • Modern Movements: Contemporary anti-Hindutva organizations advocate for pluralism and civil rights, showcasing a diverse activism approach.

  • Transnational Buildouts: Current anti-Hindutva organizations reflect historical activism patterns among early Indian immigrants who sought rights both in the US and India.

Conclusion

  • The World Hindu Congress will reconvene in November 2023, focusing on collaboration and Hindu resurgence.

  • The continued examination of counterpublics is vital for understanding contemporary dynamics and historical legacies of Hindu nationalism.