Nepal’s Political Mood Is Becoming Religiously Charged
Nepal underwent an epochal political upheaval just a year ago, toppling the government in a fashion few could have imagined. An even more dramatic development followed. Voters handed a near-supermajority to the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which was founded only four years earlier. Its senior leader, Balendra Shah, became the youngest prime minister in Nepal’s history and has since been leading the country.
What’s Behind the BJP’s Interest in Sufism?
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has recently intensified its outreach to Sufi Muslims, following engagements with the economically and socially marginalised Pasmanda Muslims. The effort seemingly aims to counter the influence of other Islamic sects and to solidify political support within some Muslim communities. But one might ask why it hasn’t embraced a very similar spiritual tradition known as Bhakti.
Our Duty Towards Solidarity, Coexistence and Scientific Temperament
On this Republic Day, let’s take a moment for introspection about our role as citizens. As per the Constitution of India, we are entrusted with certain Fundamental Duties. Among these, three duties – promoting brotherhood or solidarity, preserving our composite culture and developing a scientific temper and humanism – stand out for their relevance in today’s context. Let’s ask ourselves if we actively abide by these values in what we endorse, disseminate or tolerate?
What Does Gandhi Have to Do with Cleanliness?
Cleanliness campaigns in India these days invoke Mahatma Gandhi, but the iconic leader’s vision for the country went far beyond sanitation. Gandhi’s writings and speeches reveal a broader mission that contrasts sharply with the current direction of Indian governance.