Sanatan is considered synonymous with Hinduism, one of the world’s most ancient and rich religions. It is not just a religious belief but also a way of life that paves the path for spiritual advancement while teaching the art of living harmoniously. This religion stands distinct from others due to its eternal nature, lack of a single founder, and its inclusiveness across eras, philosophies, and spiritual ideas. Sanatan allows its followers the freedom to choose their path of knowledge, devotion, or experience, making it adaptable with scientific and cultural evolution. It emphasises harmony with humanity, nature, and the universe while promoting balanced living through its four pursuits: Dharma (moral duties), Artha (prosperity), Kama (desires), and Moksha (spiritual liberation).
Sanatan Dharma values actions (karma), believes in reincarnation, and upholds compassion, non-violence, and harmony with nature. It reveres yoga, meditation, and sadhana as means of spiritual purification and union with the divine. Sanatan also respects the five elements of nature (sun, water, air, earth, and fire) and emphasises their judicious use to maintain ecological balance. Its scriptures, such as the Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Smritis, provide comprehensive guidance on religious, philosophical, scientific, and moral matters.
The State of Sanatan Dharma in India
Approximately 80 per cent of India’s population believes in and follows Sanatan Dharma. However, it is ironic that despite being a majority, Sanatanis have faced periodic atrocities, challenges, and forced migrations even in their own country.
Historical Atrocities on Sanatanis
(i)8th to 18th Century: During this period, India faced invasions from Islamic rulers and Mughals. Sanatan was attacked through:
(a)Temple Destruction: Iconic temples like Somnath, Kashi Vishwanath, and Mathura were repeatedly looted and destroyed.
(b)Forced Conversions: Hindus were coerced into accepting Islam.
(c)Jizya Tax: A discriminatory tax imposed on non-Muslims.
(d)Suppression of Traditions: Hindu religious practices, festivals, and rituals were banned.
(ii)18th to 20th Century (British Rule): The British regime systematically undermined Hindu traditions by:
(a)Promoting conversions through economic incentives.
(b)Criticising Hindu practices as regressive.
Replacing the indigenous education system with Westernized schooling.
(iii)20th Century (Post-Independence): Post-independence saw challenges like communal violence during Partition, persecution of Hindus in Pakistan, and cultural defamation under leftist ideologies.
(iv)21st Century: Despite being a technologically advanced era, atrocities against Sanatanis continue:
(A)Atrocities in India:In India Sanatani faced following problems:
(a)Communal Riots: Targeting Hindu communities.
(b)Desecration of Religious Sites: Frequent incidents of defiling temples.
(c)Mockery of Scriptures: Denial of historicity of figures like Lord Rama and Krishna.
(d)Love Jihad: Exploitation of Hindu women under the guise of interfaith marriage.
(B)Atrocities Abroad: Sanatani is not only facing problems in India, but abroad too.Sanatanis face racial discrimination and hate crimes in countries like the USA, UK, and Australia. Temples and religious leaders abroad are often targeted, and Hindu traditions are misrepresented in global academic and media narratives.
Who Is Responsible for atrocities against Sanatani?
The atrocities against Sanatan Dharma are the result of religious fanaticism, political appeasement, lack of awareness among Sanatanis, and global agendas to weaken India’s cultural unity. Key factors include:
(i)Religious intolerance and forced conversions.
(ii)Vote-bank politics and absence of a Uniform Civil Code.
(iii)Misrepresentation of Hinduism in media and education.
(iv)Internal divisions within the Sanatani community due to caste and class disparities.
Solutions of challenges and injustice
To address ongoing challenges or injustices
Sanatani (followers of Sanatan Dharma) can adopt following approaches:
(a) Awareness and Education
(i)Understand the rich heritage, principles, and values of Sanatan Dharma.
(ii)Spread awareness about its inclusive, timeless philosophy through books, online platforms, and social initiatives.
(iii)Counter misinformation and negative narratives with facts and logical arguments.
(b) Unity and Collaboration
(i)Unite with like-minded individuals and organizations to address common challenges.
(ii)Support initiatives that aim to preserve and promote Sanatan Dharma’s culture, temples, and traditions.
(c) Legal and Institutional Strengthening
(i)Use the judicial and legal system to protect religious rights.
(ii)Advocate for fair representation in government policies, media, and education systems.
(d) Youth Engagement
(i)Encourage the younger generation to connect with their roots through cultural programs, spiritual retreats, and discussions.
(ii)Equip them with tools to defend their faith in a modern and rational way.
(e) Promotion of Values
(i)Live and exemplify Sanatan Dharma values like truth, compassion, tolerance, and non-violence to build harmony.
(ii)Highlight its universal principles to create goodwill among diverse communities.
(f)Use of Technology and Media
(i)Leverage digital platforms to share knowledge, refute false narratives, and connect with a global audience.
(ii)Create engaging content like documentaries, podcasts, and blogs to reach wider audiences.
By combining knowledge, unity, and proactive measures, Sanatanis can preserve their identity and counter any challenges effectively.
(g) Solution from Government site
(i)Enforce stringent laws against religious conversions and hate crimes.
(ii)Promote accurate representation of Sanatan Dharma in educational curricula and media.
(iii)Strengthen unity among Sanatanis by overcoming caste and regional divisions.
(iv)Foster interfaith dialogue to build mutual respect among communities.
Despite many challenges, Sanatan Dharma continues to thrive globally due to its inherent values of tolerance, diversity, and harmony. It offers solutions to modern issues through teachings of coexistence and peace. However, unity among Sanatanis remains crucial to safeguarding its principles and heritage. As stated by current Indian leaders i.e. ‘Batoge to katoge’, ‘Ek hai to safe hai’.It means collective strength is the key to overcoming oppression.
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