Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India’s formal education system has witnessed a notable transformation, with a pronounced shift towards integrating ancient Hindu concepts and philosophies. This paradigm shift blurs the lines between religious beliefs and the established narratives of history and science, prompting discussions and criticisms about the potential consequences of such changes.
A prime example of this trend is the incorporation of the Sanskriti Bodhmala books into the curriculum. Published by Vidya Bharati, the educational arm of the far-right Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), these books have become mandatory reading for students from classes four to 12 in RSS-run schools. Among their claims are assertions that the Vedic-era philosopher Kanada was the world’s first atomic scientist and that ancient Indian physician Sushruta was the pioneer of plastic surgery.
However, the inclusion of these claims in the curriculum of state-run schools has sparked a wave of criticism. Critics argue that the Modi government is using the education system to shape the perspectives of young minds, especially those who will be eligible to vote in the upcoming national elections. Detractors, including historians, scientists, and academics, accuse the government of modifying school syllabi to promote a Hindu nationalist agenda. They contend that the presentation of history in the Sanskriti Bodhmala textbooks is biased, discouraging critical thinking about the past and making unverified scientific claims.
This educational shift is perceived by many as part of a broader “saffronisation” agenda pursued by the Modi administration and its affiliates. Vidya Bharati Sanskriti Shiksha Sansthan, the publisher of the Sanskriti Bodhmala books, has wielded significant influence in shaping education policy in India. Its involvement in the development of the National Education Policy (NEP) and contributions to various committees and task forces have raised concerns about the ideological underpinnings of the country’s education system.
The influence of Vidya Bharati extends beyond curriculum development, as the organization has played a pivotal role in the preparation of education policies for nearly half a decade. Critics argue that this shift in education policy may not be a new phenomenon, as similar efforts were made between 1999 and 2004 during the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) tenure, with key figures from Vidya Bharati playing influential roles.
Journalist Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay suggests that the overarching strategy behind Vidya Bharati schools is to establish Hindu hegemony across various societal facets, including education. The aim is to promote the notion of ancient Hindu superiority and portray Hindu India as a civilization undermined by centuries of Muslim and Christian rule. However, concerns are growing that this educational approach could potentially foster resentment towards Muslims and Christians among young Hindus, exacerbating societal divisions and undermining religious harmony.
In Shorts, the involvement of Vidya Bharati in shaping India’s education policy highlights the growing influence of Hindu nationalism in schools. This trend raises significant concerns about its potential effects on social cohesion and the country’s secular fabric.
