Savarkar and the Making of Hindutva

Explore a monumental and critical intellectual history of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar—one of the twentieth century's most contentious political thinkers—written by scholar Janaki Bakhle!

About the Book: Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (1883–1966) stands as a pivotal figure of Hindu nationalism: an intellectual, ideologue, and anti-colonial nationalist leader whose writings profoundly shaped modern Indian politics. Savarkar and the Making of Hindutva delivers the first comprehensive intellectual history of his life and works by examining the full range of his voluminous writings in his native Marathi, spanning historical essays, poetry, political treatises, and speeches. Janaki Bakhle navigates the complexities of Savarkar's multifaceted trajectory—from an anti-caste progressive, champion of women’s dignity, and patriotic poet to the architect of a militant political program aimed at Hindu majority rule. By dismantling myths and unpacking his vast hagiographic literature, this groundbreaking book reveals how Hindutva operates as both an aesthetic attachment to the idea of India and a powerful political force in post-colonial history.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Rigorous Intellectual History: Written by acclaimed scholar Janaki Bakhle, offering an objective and deeply researched analysis of original Marathi sources.

• Comprehensive Perspective: Examines the full spectrum of Savarkar's literary, historical, and political contributions without shying away from his controversial legacy.

• Critical Context: Uncovers the myths and hagiographic legends that transformed a provincial nationalist into a world-historical figure of modern Indian politics.

• The Perfect Gift: An essential, highly intellectual present for political scientists, historians, students of South Asian studies, and readers interested in modern Indian history.