Introduction
In recent discussions, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has drawn attention to the omission of the word ‘Sanatana’ before ‘Dharma’ in the name of Sree Narayana Guru’s organization. This move appears aimed at distancing progressive elements within Hinduism from what is perceived as the casteist ‘Sanatana’ version of the religion. However, it is essential to recognize that no Hindu reformer, including Sree Narayana Guru, criticized or disowned ‘Sanatana Dharma’ in favor of any other religion or philosophy.
Rediscovering ‘Sanatana Dharma’
Orthodox ‘Sanatanists’
During the 19th century, opponents of reform movements such as Arya Samaj and the Ramakrishna mission proudly identified themselves as ‘Sanatanists.’ They emphasized the permanence of ancient textual doctrines over dynamism and change, considering this feature as the essence of Hinduism. Nevertheless, these ‘Sanatanists’ resisted change and remained on the wrong side of history. What they failed to grasp, much like certain politicians today, is that dynamism and the propensity for reform are the most ‘Sanatana’ or ancient and original features of Hinduism’s ‘Dharma.’
Dynamism in Hinduism
The essence of ‘Sanatana Dharma’ lies in its dynamism and capacity for reform. This inherent quality has allowed for the evolution of Hinduism over millennia while preserving its core values. Reformers did not hesitate to use the phrase ‘Sanatana Dharma’ to describe their philosophies, signifying that the concept is not static but adaptable and evolving.
Icons of Progressive ‘Sanatana Dharma’
Swami Dayananda Saraswati
Swami Dayananda Saraswati, in his ‘Satyartha Prakasa,’ referred to ‘Vedic Dharma’ without many prevalent features of Hinduism, such as untouchability and idol worship, as ‘Sanatana Nityadharma.’ This illustrates how reformers saw dynamism as a fundamental aspect of ‘Sanatana Dharma.’
Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi, a proud ‘Sanatani,’ played a pivotal role in integrating women into India’s social mainstream. His commitment to social justice and gender equality demonstrates that ‘Sanatana Dharma’ can be a driving force for positive change.
Swami Vivekananda and Subramania Bharati
Swami Vivekananda’s Chicago Speech
Swami Vivekananda, who passionately called for reform, grounded his activism in ‘Sanatana Dharma.’ He criticized regressive practices within Hinduism, particularly in Kerala, and called for change. His famous Chicago speech outlined ‘Sanatana Dharma’ as a dynamic and evolving philosophy, countering the perception of Hinduism as static and unchanging.
Subramania Bharati’s Vision
Subramania Bharati, deeply influenced by Swami Vivekananda’s teachings, expressed anguish over India’s material and spiritual decline during his time. He believed that spiritual awakening within the framework of ‘Sanatana Dharma’ was essential for achieving political liberation. Bharati’s works reflect the importance of rejuvenating the ‘Sanatana’ spirit within Hinduism.
Rediscovering the ‘Sanatana’ Spirit
Attempts to distance these reformers from their ‘Dharmic’ backgrounds miss the point. Swami Vivekananda and Subramania Bharati were able to embrace ‘Sanatana Dharma’ while challenging its established norms. Hinduism’s unique characteristic lies in its persistent search for truth through continuous renewal of experience, allowing for evolution and reform.
Conclusion
Hinduism’s ‘Sanatana Dharma’ is not a stagnant belief system but a dynamic philosophy that accommodates change and reform. Swami Vivekananda and Subramania Bharati exemplify how one can embrace ‘Sanatana Dharma’ while challenging its regressive elements, reaffirming the idea that the essence of Hinduism lies in its relentless pursuit of truth and the continual renewal of experience.
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