The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), an organisation that has earned a prominent place in the hearts of millions of Hindus across India and abroad through its leadership in the Ram Temple movement in Ayodhya, celebrated its Foundation Day with a renewed commitment to key social and cultural causes. The VHP was established on the auspicious day of Sri Krishna Janmashtami on August 29, 1964, in Mumbai, under the inspiration of the second Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Madhav Rao Sadashiv Rao Golwalkar, popularly known as Shri Guruji.
Today, the VHP’s work extends beyond India’s borders, with operations in more than 50 countries worldwide. Following the successful completion of the Ram Mandir movement, the VHP has turned its focus towards pressing issues such as the nationwide ban on cow slaughter, prevention of religious conversions, and combating “Love Jihad.” The organisation has also launched initiatives to establish service centers in every block and form committees in every panchayat across the country. Through its efforts, the VHP claims to have prevented the religious conversion of approximately 6.3 million Hindus and facilitated the “homecoming” of over 900,000 individuals.
Historical Context and Purpose
The roots of the VHP can be traced back to 1925 when Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar founded the RSS with the aim of uniting society. The RSS created a cadre of dedicated workers, and while India achieved political independence in 1947, cultural independence remained elusive. The challenges faced by Hindu society, including attacks on its symbols and values, underscored the need for a leadership-driven organization to protect and promote Hindu interests.
On August 29, 1964, a significant meeting was convened at the ashram of Swami Chinmayananda in Powai, Mumbai, to establish the VHP. The meeting, held on Sri Krishna Janmashtami, was attended by prominent figures including Swami Chinmayananda, Sant Tukdoji Maharaj, Sikh leader Master Tara Singh, Jain leader Sushil Muni, Hanuman Prasad Poddar from Geeta Press, K.M. Munshi, and Shri Guruji, along with 40-45 other distinguished personalities and sants. It was in this gathering that the foundation of the VHP was laid.
Objectives and Expansion
The primary objective of the VHP, as outlined by regional organization minister Akarpu Keshav Raju, is to organise and awaken Hindu society, protect its rights, values, and symbols, and strengthen cultural ties with Hindus living abroad. The VHP is also actively involved in service-oriented activities, promoting self-employment, and encouraging organic farming.
The VHP’s first major conference was held during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj from January 22 to 24, 1966, where 25,000 representatives from 12 countries, including 300 prominent saints, participated. It was at this conference that the issue of religious conversions was addressed, and the concept of “homecoming” (ghar wapsi) was endorsed. The conference also saw the adoption of the VHP’s motto, “Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah,” and its emblem, the “Akshay Vatavriksha.”
Social Integration Efforts
The challenge of untouchability within Hindu society was a significant concern for the VHP. In response, the organization developed a comprehensive plan to build a more inclusive and cohesive society. The 58-year journey of the VHP has seen numerous initiatives aimed at achieving this goal, contributing to a significant transformation in the status and direction of Hindu society.
A historic resolution on social integration was passed at the Dharma Sansad in Udupi, Karnataka, on December 13-14, 1969. Spearheaded by Shri Guruji’s efforts, the resolution declared, “Hindavah Sodara Sarve, Na Hindu Patito Bhavet,” emphasising equality among all Hindus. The participants also took a pledge, “Mum Deeksha Hindu Raksha, Mum Mantra Samanata,” reinforcing the commitment to Hindu unity and equality.
Expanding Outreach and Service Projects
In 1982, Ashok Singhal took on a leadership role within the VHP, significantly expanding the organization’s reach. The Ekta Yatra of 1983, which aimed to unify Hindu society, saw the VHP connecting with thousands of villages across India, with six crore people participating. This marked a major milestone in bringing VHP’s work to the grassroots level.
The first Dharma Sansad held in New Delhi in April 1984, with participation from hundreds of saints from 125 sects, further solidified the VHP’s influence. The Ram Janmabhoomi movement was also launched the same year, and on October 8, 1984, the VHP’s youth wing, Bajrang Dal, was established.
By 1994, the VHP had made significant strides in social integration, as seen in the Kashi Dharma Sansad where the Dom Raja of Kashi was given a platform. The VHP also trained thousands of people from tribal, scheduled caste, and backward communities to serve as village priests.
Ongoing Service Initiatives
Today, the VHP, with the support of society, runs over one lakh service projects across India. These include approximately 70,000 cultural centers, over 2,000 educational centers, 1,800 health centers, 1,500 self-reliance centers, and various other initiatives such as hostels, orphanages, medical centers, computer training, and vocational training centers. The organisation’s work continues to expand, driven by its commitment to social service and Hindu unity.
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