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The Print
13-05-2025
- Politics
- The Print
Varna not decided by birth, Shudra not derogatory—'The Hindu Manifesto', launched by RSS chief Bhagwat
'Varna refers to the classification of individuals or groups based on the different forms of dharma—that is, the duties, responsibilities and roles in life that they either embrace or are inducted into,' reads the book. 'The crucial point is that an individual's acceptance of varna demonstrates that it is not determined by birth, the term 'varna' itself implies that it is independent of birth.' In Hinduism, Varna refers to the four traditional social classes—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. The book—The Hindu Manifesto—argues people's varna is not birth-based and tries to explain why. New Delhi: Varna is not birth-based and Shudra is not a derogatory term, according to a book authored by Swami Vigyananand, and launched by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat last month. The author also argues in the book that the word 'Shudra' is not a derogatory or demeaning term 'even though modern sociologists often associate it with the so-called lower stratum in Bharat'. He cites the example of the Ashvinikumaras, considered the physicians of the gods and the presiding deities of Ayurvedic medicine, and how they were also referred as shudras, 'indicating that it is a respected term rather than a negative one. The Dignity of a Human Being Is Paramount'. In a chapter titled 'Non-discriminatory Social System', the author argues that in Hindu Dharma and society, neither the scriptures nor ancestors discriminated against people based on 'varna, jati, jnati, skin colour, race, gender, language or region'. Vigyananand, also the initiator of the World Hindu Congress, also cites the example of Lord Rama, Krishna and Kali to highlight the point that 'traditionally, Hindu deities were crafted from black granite, black hard stone or other materials such as sandstone'. The author then goes on to state that the term jāti refers to the 'recognition of common features among different objects. Although each object is distinct, they share a common feature that links them, and this essential common feature is known as jati'. In fact, during the book launch, Bhagwat also stressed the fact that the caste system went against the core tenets of Hinduism. The RSS has been quite vocal on ending caste differences in society. Earlier this year, Bhagwat called upon the Hindu community to strive for social harmony by embracing the principle of 'one temple, one well, and one cremation ground' for all. Explaining 'Varna', the book states that different jatis, specialised professional and occupational groups based on shared attributes, align with larger professional groupings known as varnas. 'This reflects the organisational structure of (the) Hindu society, where specialised communities (jati) integrate into broader profession categories or groupings (varnas).' Also Read: Caste census is a bad idea whose time has come. Much worse lies ahead A society without division The author further argues that Hindu ancestors envisioned a society without division or discrimination based on varna, jati, jnati, skin colour, or race. 'In contemporary and future societies, evolution and progress are also measured by the absence of discrimination based on varna, jati, jnati, skin colour, race, gender, language, or region. While distinctions and divisions may have existed in the past among human societies based on various factors, Hindu ancestors envisioned a society without division or discrimination,' he states. The book also writes, 'In all the varnas, there are no special signs or distinct markers. Everyone originates from Bhagwan Brahma; thus, everyone is considered a Brahmin.' The author goes on to argue the 'absence of a special sign or distinct marker for each varna suggests that varna is not inherently based on biological birth. Instead, it underscores the equality of all individuals in their essential nature, believed to originate from the same source. This highlights the fundamental equality of all people'. He further claims that at 'birth, individuals are not predestined to belong to a particular varna or professional grouping', refuting the idea varna is determined solely by birth. Vigyananand states that many scholars argue that Brahmins are merely a jati or varna, rather than a professional or occupational grouping or community. However, he cites an example from the Apad Dharma Parva within the Shanti Parva of the Mahabharata, which deals with the ethical and moral considerations when facing adversity or crisis. He then states 'the reference above demonstrates that when Brahmins lose their means of livelihood, they adhere to Kshatriya and Vaishya dharma (profession) as well'. 'This indicates that professions are interchangeable and also supports the idea that Brahmins can be considered an occupational jati. Several specialised Brahmin occupational jatis come together to form a larger professional community, constituting the Brahmin varna,' he said. In the book, Vigyananand says jāti refers to shared characteristics including work and experience and is not a hereditary concept. 'Jati refers to a professional and occupational grouping characterized by common essential features, shared attributes, shared qualities, specific occupations and specialized professions.' The author argues that many translate 'prasav' as birth, which he says is incorrect. 'The correct interpretation is provided by Maharishi Vatsayan in his commentary on this Sutra—ya saamna buddhi prasootay—this refers to the common features that appear in the mind from which they are recognised, and that constitutes their jati. Jati does not refer to biological birth here. Jati exists not only in animate beings but also in inanimate objects,' the book states. Similarly, jātiya, the book argues, is rooted in a sense of brotherhood in the scriptures. The author states that in Bengali, the terms jati and jatiya have broader meanings 'often signifying both brotherhood and national identity. In Bengal, 'jatiya' was used to express a sense of brotherhood, meaning 'national' in this context'. The author then goes on to explain the word jñāti which he says indicates 'lineage' or 'family line' (kul or vansh). '(It) Represents a family line that cannot be changed-neither in the past, present nor future.' 'A person's identity is known by their jnati, meaning lineage or 'family line', which refers to the family of their birth. This 'jnati' signifies that no one can deny their birth identity, regardless of whether their lineage is ordinary or prominent. 'Jnati' indicating lineage' or 'family line (kul or vansh) represents a family line that cannot be changed-neither in the past, present nor future,' the author wrties. Jatiya, the book argues, refers to the concept where individuals from various 'jnati', signifying different families and lineages, come together to form a jati—a specialised professional and occupational grouping or community. 'The individuals within this jati develop a sense of brotherhood that unites them as part of that community. This essence of togetherness and shared identity among individuals constitutes jatiya identity,' the book states. Also Read: At CWC, Rahul says caste count 1st step towards social justice, but timing of govt announcement suspect 'Lack of understanding' Vigyananand further states that individuals from various jnati, or family lineages, come together to form or join a jati, which he says, represents a community centred on a particular profession, occupation, or grouping. The author then goes on to highlight the problem of intermixing between Jati and Jnati. 'There is a significant issue arising from the lack of understanding of the difference between 'jnati' and 'jati'. This often leads to the misinterpretation and conflation of jnati as jati,' he highlights. The book claims that over a long period in history, the word 'jatiya' gradually became 'jati' and was often used in its place. He cites the example of Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, who in his final message to the nation while addressing Hindu society before his death, used 'Hindu jati' instead of 'jatiya'. The book also gives a number of examples from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana to state there is no room for any form of untouchability even based on birth or social status in the Hindu society. The book cites the example of how Lord Rama shared a strong friendship with King Guha, the Nishad Raj. 'In current societal norms, individuals who engage in the practice of untouchability and those often discussed in public discourse and academia in the context of untouchability within (the) Hindu society need to understand that untouchability was never historically accepted in the Hindu society. The friendship between Shri Rama and Guha serves as an example, indicating that there is no room for any form of untouchability, even based on birth or social status, in Hindu society,' it says. Within the Non-discriminatory Social System chapter, there is a strap stating, 'In Hindu Society, the Shudras are a respected community, and they also have their own states.' The author then cites an example from the Bhumi Parva within the Bhishma Parva of the Mahabharata and states that in the Mandaga Janpada (state) of Shudraa, where there is no centralised authority such as a king or a ruler, punitive measures enforced by a governing body become unnecessary. 'This absence signifies a profound level of self-governance and mutual respect among individuals,' he said. (Edited by Ajeet Tiwari) Also Read: Mohan Bhagwat's speech isn't working on Hindu fundamentalist mobs on the ground
Hans India
29-04-2025
- General
- Hans India
Parshuram Jayanti 2025: Date, Rituals & Significance
Parshuram Jayanti, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Parshuram, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, holds deep religious importance in Hinduism. In 2025, this auspicious day coincides with Friday, April 29, aligning with Akshaya Tritiya, a day celebrated for its ever-increasing blessings. Date and Muhurat of Parshuram Jayanti 2025 According to the Hindu Panchang, Parshuram Jayanti falls on Tritiya Tithi of Shukla Paksha inVaishakh month. The specific timings are: • Tritiya Tithi Begins: April 29, 2025, at 5:31 PM • Tritiya Tithi Ends: April 30, 2025, at 2:12 PM As per tradition, worship should be performed during Pradosh Kaal, which is believed to be the time of Lord Parshuram's appearance. Who Is Lord Parshuram? Lord Parshuram, born to Rishi Jamadagni and Renuka, is the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Known for his short temper and immense power, Parshuram was originally named Ram. After learning weaponry under Lord Shiva, who later gifted him an axe, he came to be known as Parshuram. A unique warrior-sage, Parshuram is one of the Chiranjivi—the immortal beings destined to live through multiple Yugas. He trained legendary warriors like Bhishma, Dronacharya, and Karna, and is believed to reappear to train Lord Kalki, the final incarnation of Vishnu. Significance of Parshuram Jayanti The day is a celebration of righteousness, discipline, and divine justice. Parshuram fought evil forces, punished corrupt Kshatriyas, and protected sages. Devotees believe that praying to Lord Parshuram brings courage, prosperity, and protection against enemies. His appearance is also closely linked with Akshaya Tritiya, considered a highly auspicious time to begin new ventures or purchase gold. Rituals and Celebrations Devotees begin the day by waking up during Brahma Muhurat, bathing in Gangajal, and wearing clean clothes. Offerings to the Sun God and Lord Parshuram include: Yellow flowers Yellow sweets Aarti and Archana rituals Fasting is observed throughout the day. After performing evening prayers, devotees break their fast with fruits or eat only the next day. Mythological Stories of Parshuram Conflict with Kartavirya Arjuna Parshuram's legend includes the killing of King Kartavirya Arjuna, who forcefully seized the divine cow Kamdhenu from Jamadagni's ashram. In retaliation, Parshuram waged war against Kshatriyas for 21 generations until Sage Ruchika intervened. Killing His Mother In another tale, after suspecting his wife Renuka's mental infidelity, Jamadagni asked his sons to execute her. While others refused, Parshuram obeyed. Pleased, Jamadagni granted him boons—reviving Renuka, restoring his brothers, and granting him invincibility and long life. Confrontation with Lord Ganesha A lesser-known tale states Parshuram once broke Lord Ganesha's tooth in anger, earning Ganesha the name Ekadanta. Why Parshuram Has Kshatriya Traits Though born a Brahmin, Parshuram displayed Kshatriya-like aggression. This was attributed to a myth involving his grandmother Satyavati, who mistakenly consumed a ritual meant for her mother. As a result, her son (Jamadagni) inherited Brahmin traits, but her grandson (Parshuram) was destined to possess warrior qualities. Akshaya Tritiya and Its Connection Celebrated on the same day, Akshaya Tritiya marks the onset of Treta Yuga and is revered for bringing never-ending fortune. It's a day when buying gold and beginning new ventures are considered particularly fruitful. People worship Lord Vishnu, chant Vishnu Sahasranama, and donate food and grains to the needy. Parshuram Jayanti 2025, falling on April 29, is more than a birthday celebration. It is a day to embrace righteousness, reflect on mythological values, and invoke blessings from Lord Vishnu's fierce incarnation. With spiritual practices, fasting, and traditional rituals, devotees across India pay homage to this eternal protector of Dharma.
Hindustan Times
26-04-2025
- Hindustan Times
Agra Biryani restaurant worker shot dead, man in viral video says 'Pahalgam avenged'
A restaurant worker, identified as Gulfam Ali, was shot dead in Agra, and his colleague was injured in the firing. Both of them worked at Shahid Ali Chicken Biryani, which was owned by Gulfam's cousin Shahid Ali. The incident happened on the intervening night of Wednesday through Thursday, reported The Indian Express. Hours after the killing, a video popped up on social media and quickly gained traction in which two men are seen claiming responsibility for the crime as an act of avenging the Pahalgam terror attack. In the purported video, a man is heard saying that two people (he uses a religious slur) were killed and that Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal takes responsibility for the act. The man is seen armed with two pistols and a knife strapped to his waist, and another man similarly armed accompanying him. 'I pledge in the name of Bharat Mata that if we do not avenge the killing of 26 with 2,600, I am not a son of Bharat Mata,' he is heard saying in the video in Hindi, referring to the terror attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam that left 26 dead, mostly tourists. According to a Times of India report, the man identifies himself as Manoj Chaudhary, while the identity of the man accompanying him is not known. could not independently verify the authenticity of the video. Reacting to the video, the local police have denied the claim and said no such cow vigilante group is operational in Agra. 'No organisation in the name of 'Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal' is operational (here). The video on social media appears to be a publicity stunt. An FIR has been registered at Tajganj and a probe is on,' TOI quoted police as saying. According to Agra's police commissioner Deepak Kumar, the killing happened after a quarrel over the quality of food at the Biryani restaurant a few days back, and the men in the video are using the incident for publicity. "The crime was a fallout of a quarrel over the quality of food a few days ago. Investigation has revealed that the two men in the video are not Kshatriyas, and their self-declared status as gau rakshaks is also doubtful. At this stage, it appears to be more of a publicity stunt. CCTV footage from the crime scene shows the presence of four individuals. We have arrested a suspect," Kumar told TOI. Gulfam and his co-worker Saif Ali were targeted by three men on a scooter. While Gulfam was shot dead, Saif Ali almost dodged the bullet but it grazed his neck, the report says. An FIR under sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita pertaining to murder and attempt to murder has been filed.
Time of India
26-04-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Agra biryani shop murder: Self-styled ‘gau rakshak' claims revenge for Pahalgam attack, but police call it fake
Hours after a 27-year-old restaurant worker named Gulfam Ali was shot dead and his colleague injured in Agra , a man claiming to be a ' gau rakshak ' ( cow protector ) posted a video online taking responsibility for the attack. He said it was revenge for the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, where 26 people lost their lives. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack India pulled the plug on IWT when Pakistanis are fighting over water What makes this India-Pakistan standoff more dangerous than past ones The problem of Pakistan couldn't have come at a worse time for D-St The man identified himself as Manoj Chaudhary, a member of the so-called Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal . In the video, which has been widely shared on social media, he appears with another armed man and says, 'Two [slur] were killed in Taj city Agra. Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal takes responsibility. I swear by Bharat Mata, if we don't avenge the 26 deaths with 2,600, I am not her son.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo He is seen with pistols tucked into his jeans and knives on his belt, shouting a religious slogan at the end of the video. Agra police , however, said the murder had nothing to do with the Pahalgam attack. They called the video a publicity stunt and said no such organisation called Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal is active in the area. Live Events Agra police commissioner Deepak Kumar told TOI, 'The murder was the result of a quarrel over the quality of food a few days ago. The two men in the video are not Kshatriyas, and their claim of being cow protectors seems fake. CCTV footage from the crime scene shows four people. We've already arrested one suspect.' Gulfam Ali worked as a waiter at Shahid Ali Chicken Biryani in Tajganj, which is owned by his cousin Shahid Ali. Around midnight, three men on a scooter arrived and shot him. He died on the spot. His colleague Saif Ali, 25, was also shot at but managed to avoid serious injury. Police have filed an FIR under sections 103 (1) (murder) and 109 (attempt to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The investigation is still ongoing. Inputs from TOI
Time of India
26-04-2025
- Time of India
Agra biryani seller shot dead, killer says 'Pahalgam revenge'
AGRA: Hours after 27-year-old restaurant worker Gulfam Ali was shot dead and his co-worker injured, a self-proclaimed 'gau rakshak' (cow vigilante) who identified himself as Manoj Chaudhary and said he was member of ' Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal ', took to social media on Friday to announce that the murder was "retribution" for the Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 tourists were killed. He said "there were more deaths to be avenged". A widely circulated video on social media purportedly shows a man, with two pistols tucked into his jeans and knives strapped on, claiming responsibility for the killing. In the video, Chaudhary, accompanied by another man, is heard saying: "Two k#### (slur) were killed in Taj city Agra. Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal takes responsibility for this." I pledge in the name of Bharat Mata that if we do not avenge the killing of 26 with 2600, I am not a son of Bharat Mata." He then raises a religious slogan, with the other man chiming in. The identity of Chaudhary's associate is not known. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Co-Founder of Google Brain, Andrew Ng, Is Reported To Have Read Every... Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Police, however, rejected the claims and said, "No organisation in the name of 'Kshatriya Gau Raksha Dal' is operational (here). The video on social media appears to be a publicity stunt. An FIR has been filed at Tajganj police station, and a probe is on." Agra police commissioner Deepak Kumar told TOI: "The crime was a fallout of a quarrel over the quality of food a few days ago. Probe has revealed the two men are not Kshatriyas, and their self-declared status as gau rakshaks is also doubtful." He added, "The motive can only be confirmed after the accused are arrested. It appears to be more of a publicity stunt. CCTV footage from the crime scene shows the presence of four individuals. We have arrested a suspect." Gulfam worked as a waiter at Shahid Ali Chicken Biryani, owned by his cousin Shahid Ali, in Tajganj area of the city. Around midnight, he was closing for the day when three men came on a scooter and shot him dead. Co-worker Saif Ali, 25, dived down and suffered minor injuries after a pellet grazed his neck. Saif told TOI: "Two men walked up to Gulfam after parking their scooter some distance away. They said hello to him, to which he responded, and one of them pulled out a pistol and shot him in his chest. Another assailant was standing near the scooter, and the three sped away soon after." Gulfam was rushed to SN Medical College, where he was declared dead. An FIR was lodged under BNS sections 103 (1) (murder) and 109 (attempt to murder). Police teams are currently analysing CCTV footage and guarding border checkpoints to nab the suspects. Gulfam was laid to rest after a postmortem on Thursday. His family is now looking to the govt for justice.
