The Hindu Manifesto, a landmark book written after years of meticulous research, was formally launched today in Delhi after a solemn two-minute silence to honor the victims of the brutal Pahalgam terror attack.
Dr. Prerna Malhotra, Joint Director of the Centre for Hindu Studies, introduced the author Swami Vigyananand as someone who walks in the footsteps of Adi Shankaracharya and also follows the modern tradition of the RSS. The Hindu Manifesto is the product of deep scholarship, drawing insights from dozens of sacred texts and reference books, and aims to serve as a vital guide for the resurgence of one of the world's oldest civilizations.
Speaking at the event, Swami Vigyananand explained that the book captures the essence of ancient wisdom, reinterpreted for contemporary times. He emphasized that Hindu thought has always addressed the needs of the present while being firmly rooted in timeless principles distilled into powerful Sutras by Rishis.
The 8 foundational sutras of The Hindu Manifestoemphasise prosperity for all, national security, quality education, responsible democracy, respect for women, social harmony, sacredness of nature, and respect for one’s heritage.
Expounding on these sutras, Swami Vigyananand said that unlike Western capitalism or socialism, Hindu tradition proposes a balanced economic model that values wealth creation alongside fair distribution. True Dharma includes the responsibility to destroy enemies without misplaced mercy, something we forgot in the past with disastrous consequences. The importance of quality education was stressed, recognising the destruction of Bharat’s indigenous education system under colonial rule. Rooted in a republican spirit, Hindu civilization advocates for responsible governance with public participation and rejects the mentality of passive acceptance of rulers.
The second half of the book lays the foundations for a civilizational renaissance, talking about safety, dignity, and respect for women, inspired by figures like Draupadi; a non-discriminatory society based on Dharma, with the correct understanding of Varna and Jati; environmental stewardship, reflecting deep-rooted reverence for nature; and respect for the sacred geography and cultural unity of Bharat.
Prof. Yogesh Singh, Vice Chancellor of Delhi University, noted that true education is a blend of knowledge and wisdom, emphasizing the need for a strong treasury and defense for a resilient state. Swami Krishnashah Vidyarthi, Mahant of Rashtriya Valmiki Mandir, said that this book promises to be transformative as it contains the essence of our Dharmic thought.
RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, in his address, reflected on the failure of purely materialistic development models that have led to dissatisfaction and environmental degradation worldwide. He highlighted Bharat’s civilizational path as the “third path” — a harmonious balance between material and spiritual well-being. However, before inspiring the world, Hindus must first embody the principles outlined in Swamiji’s book, which are rooted in the eternal wisdom of the shastras. Historically, Bharat's influence was widespread without conquest, but complacency and narrow-mindedness led to the neglect of true Dharmic values.
Hindu saints gathered at Udupi recently reaffirmed that any form of discrimination has no religious sanction, acknowledging the need to correct historical deviations. Dr. Bhagwat said that the book seeks to reignite debate and bring the authentic Hindu worldview back into consciousness — a worldview that holds no ill will, even towards adversaries. True Dharma emphasizes righteous action, societal prosperity, and adherence to the four purusharthas without rejecting worldly responsibilities.
Bhagwat ji stressed that Dharma is deeper than religious rituals; it embodies universal truths and spiritual wisdom (adhyatmikta). He positioned ‘The Hindu Manifesto’ as an essential reference for Hindus, urging scholars, researchers, and common people alike to engage with it, fostering a contemporary and vibrant understanding of traditional knowledge.
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