Hindu Nationalism on the Rise: A Closer Look at India and Nepal

In recent times, the political landscapes of India and Nepal, the world's only two Hindu-majority countries, have been significantly influenced by the rise of Hindu nationalism. While Nepal maintains its status as a Hindu country, it has notably refrained from adopting Hindutva, a form of Hindu nationalism, into its political agenda. This decision underscores a complex relationship with its neighbor, India, where Hindu nationalism has become a dominant force in politics under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Modi's tenure has been marked by a surge in popularity, yet it has also been divisive, with critics warning that his brand of politics is exacerbating religious divides in a country with a history of sectarian violence.

In India, the impact of Hindu nationalism has been profound, particularly in the holy city of Varanasi, where Muslims express growing fears over their safety and place in society. The assertiveness of the Hindu-nationalist right wing has become more visible, signaling a shift in the country's secular ethos. This development has sparked concerns both domestically and internationally, as observers watch closely how these dynamics will affect the broader South Asian region.

The rise of Hindu nationalism in India, contrasted with Nepal's cautious stance, highlights the diverse ways in which religion and politics intersect in South Asia. While Nepal chooses a path of religious identity without the political edge of Hindutva, India's journey under Modi's leadership has been one of embracing Hindu nationalism, with significant implications for its social fabric and interfaith relations. As these two nations navigate their unique political landscapes, the future of secularism and religious harmony in the region remains uncertain, drawing attention from around the world to the unfolding narrative of Hindu nationalism in South Asia.