Shourie’s upcoming book challenges Savarkar’s ‘false’ claims about India, Hinduism
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Arun Shourie, a former Union Minister, economist, journalist, and acclaimed author, has announced the release of his latest book, The New Icon, where he critically examines Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, asserting that Savarkar’s claims about Indian history and Hindu identity lack evidence and warning that his ideological prescriptions could lead to societal divisions.
The book delves into Savarkar's life, ideology, and legacy, presenting a detailed analysis of the controversial figure who is often credited as the ideological architect of Hindutva.
Shourie, who was a prominent figure in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government from 1998 to 2004, is known for his intellectual contributions to Hindu nationalism. His new book scrutinises Savarkar’s life and legacy, juxtaposing the claims and ideologies of the Hindutva icon with historical evidence. By drawing from over 550 sources, including intelligence reports, memoirs, and archival materials, Shourie aims to deconstruct the myths surrounding Savarkar and his vision for India.
Savarkar remains a divisive figure, celebrated by many on the Hindu right for his advocacy of a Hindu-majority nation, while others criticise him for his exclusionary views. Shourie’s critique in The New Icon is expected to spark significant debate, given his past criticisms of organised religion and various political ideologies, including those associated with Hindu nationalism.
In the book, Shourie argues that adopting Savarkar’s prescriptions would lead to a state reminiscent of the very entities Savarkar opposed, marked by societal division and an erosion of civil discourse. The work also addresses how the propagation of myths around Indian history and Hindu identity could distort the nation's path, potentially leading to outcomes contrary to the foundational principles of Hinduism and Indian unity.
The New Icon is set to be published by Penguin India and will be available for purchase starting 30 January, priced at ₹999. Shourie’s analysis is poised to contribute to ongoing discussions about Savarkar’s influence and the broader implications of Hindutva in modern India.