Golwalkar: The Myth Behind the Man, The Man Behind the Machine by Dhirendra K. Jha is a well-researched biography that explores the life and influence of Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar, the second chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Scheduled for release on October 10, 2024, this book presents a critical analysis of how Golwalkar shaped the ideological framework of Hindutva politics and expanded the RSS from a regional group into a nationwide movement. Jha’s detailed narrative draws from archival materials, interviews, and historical records to provide an in-depth look at Golwalkar’s journey, from his uncertain youth to his rise as one of the most significant figures in the organization.
The book Golwalkar examines Golwalkar’s early life, his close association with RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar, and the circumstances that led him to take over as its leader in 1940. Under his leadership, the RSS extended its reach across India, gaining a firm foothold in different sections of society. One of the most controversial aspects of Golwalkar’s legacy is his 1939 book We or Our Nationhood Defined, which echoed ideas from European fascist movements. His writings promoted a rigid nationalist ideology and argued for a radical approach to India’s minorities, a viewpoint that influenced the ideological foundation of the RSS and its affiliated organizations.
Jha also explores the role of the RSS during the 1930s and 1940s, analyzing its stance on British colonial rule, its communal ideology, and its indirect influence on key historical events. The biography discusses Golwalkar’s ideological impact on figures such as Nathuram Godse, Mahatma Gandhi’s assassin, and the subsequent government ban on the RSS following Gandhi’s murder.
With a sharp investigative approach, Golwalkar uncovers lesser-known details about Golwalkar’s leadership and the growth of the RSS. Jha’s book presents a critical perspective on how Golwalkar’s vision continues to shape Indian politics, making it an essential read for those interested in history, political movements, and the evolution of Hindutva ideology.
Availability and Details of the Book
Golwalkar: The Myth Behind the Man, The Man Behind the Machine by Dhirendra K. Jha is set to release on 10 October 2024 and is published by Simon & Schuster IN. The book Golwalkar is available in English and comes in a hardcover edition with 416 pages. The Kindle edition is priced at ₹337, while the hardcover version costs ₹603. Kindle is a great option for readers who prefer a portable and budget-friendly way to access books instantly. Readers can buy Golwalkar from leading online bookstores like Amazon, Flipkart, and major book retailers. This deeply researched book provides a critical look at Golwalkar’s influence on the RSS and Indian politics, separating historical facts from myths.
About the Author of Golwalkar: Dhirendra K. Jha
Dhirendra K. Jha is a well-known journalist based in Delhi, recognized for his in-depth research and investigative work on Indian politics, history, and religious movements. Over the years, he has written extensively on the rise of Hindutva ideology and its impact on Indian society. His works are known for their meticulous research, detailed storytelling, and ability to uncover lesser-known aspects of political and historical narratives.
Jha has authored several acclaimed books, including Gandhi’s Assassin: The Making of Nathuram Godse and His Idea of India, where he examines the ideological influences that shaped Godse’s worldview and led to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. In Shadow Armies: Fringe Organizations and Foot Soldiers of Hindutva, he investigates the lesser-known groups supporting the Hindutva movement and their role in shaping contemporary politics. His book Ascetic Games: Sadhus, Akharas and the Making of the Hindu Vote delves into the connection between religious sects and electoral politics in India. He has also co-authored Ayodhya: The Dark Night—The Secret History of Rama’s Appearance in Babri Masjid, which provides a detailed account of the controversial installation of the Rama idol in the Babri Masjid in 1949.
In addition to his books, Jha has contributed to leading publications such as Scroll.in and The Caravan, where he has written extensively on political developments and historical issues. His writing style is engaging yet fact-driven, making complex subjects accessible to a broad readership. His latest book, Golwalkar: The Myth Behind the Man, The Man Behind the Machine, follows his tradition of rigorous research, offering a critical examination of M.S. Golwalkar’s ideology, leadership, and lasting impact on India’s political scene.
Themes of Golwalkar
- Early Life and Ascension in the RSS: Golwalkar explores the early years of Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar, born in 1906 in Nagpur. Initially inclined towards academics, Golwalkar pursued higher studies in science before shifting his focus to spiritual and nationalist causes. His close association with RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar played a crucial role in shaping his ideological beliefs. When Hedgewar passed away in 1940, the 34-year-old Golwalkar took charge of the RSS, leading it from a small organization in Maharashtra to a nationwide force.
- Ideological Contributions and ‘We, or Our Nationhood Defined’: One of the most controversial aspects covered in Golwalkar is his 1939 book We, or Our Nationhood Defined. This work outlined a vision for India rooted in Hindu nationalism and suggested solutions to the country’s “minority problem” that drew comparisons to European fascist ideologies of the time. Jha critically examines how Golwalkar’s ideological framework influenced generations of RSS members and shaped the broader Hindutva movement.
- Expansion and Organizational Growth of the RSS: Under Golwalkar’s leadership, the RSS saw unprecedented expansion, a key focus of Golwalkar. He strengthened the organization’s structure, introduced disciplined training, and promoted its ideology across different sections of society. The RSS, which had a limited presence before his tenure, grew into a nationwide network, with affiliated groups emerging in various spheres, including education, labour, and politics.
- RSS’s Role in Pre- and Post-Independence India: Jha’s Golwalkar critically analyses the RSS’s role during India’s struggle for independence and the post-independence period. The book explores its interactions with the British colonial administration and its stance on movements like Quit India. It also discusses the RSS’s ideological opposition to leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru and the controversial ban imposed on the organization following Gandhi’s assassination in 1948.
- Legacy and Continuing Influence: Golwalkar assesses the long-term impact of Golwalkar’s leadership. His vision for a Hindu Rashtra continues to shape Indian politics, influencing the ideology and strategies of present-day organizations affiliated with the RSS. Jha’s book provides an in-depth look at how Golwalkar’s legacy still resonates in contemporary debates on nationalism, religious identity, and governance in India.
- The Sangh Parivar and Its Ideological Offshoots: The book highlights how Golwalkar examines the evolution of the Sangh Parivar, an umbrella term for organizations inspired by RSS ideology. Jha explores the expansion of groups like the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bajrang Dal, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), explaining how Golwalkar’s foundational principles played a role in shaping their goals and methods.
- Criticism and Opposition to Golwalkar’s Views: A crucial section in Golwalkar focuses on the criticism Golwalkar faced from secular leaders, historians, and political analysts. The book examines how his ideas on Hindu nationalism clashed with the secular vision of India’s founding leaders. It also discusses opposition from Dalit and minority rights activists who argue that his vision marginalized non-Hindu communities.
- Historical Research and Uncovering Hidden Aspects of Golwalkar’s Life: Jha’s Golwalkar is based on extensive archival research and interviews, making it a significant addition to political history studies. The book sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Golwalkar’s personality, his internal struggles, and his strategic moves to consolidate power within the RSS. By separating myth from reality, Jha presents a compelling narrative about one of the most influential yet enigmatic figures in India’s political history.
Reviews for Golwalkar
“Ambitious, resentful, anxious and insular as he faces a new India based on secular and democratic principles.” — Christophe Jaffrelot, author
“Well-researched, exhaustive, accessibly written… Jha argues that Golwalkar’s ideology was rooted in a deeply exclusionary conception of national identity, where religious minorities, particularly Muslims, were viewed as potential threats to Hindu cultural supremacy.” — Manoj Kumar Jha, MP (Rajya Sabha), Rashtriya Janata Dal
“A disturbing book, because its revelations on the inner working of the RSS, do little to inspire confidence in its professed nationalist and democratic credentials.” — Mridula Mukherjee, historian
“This is one of the most detailed biographies available of M. S. Golwalkar, the RSS’s second chief who tried to establish the character of India as a Hindu nation.” — Shashi Warrier, The Asian Age
“Mr Jha’s painstakingly researched book provides a vivid look into Golwalkar’s mind… and unknown details of his life.” — Business Standard
“A substantial portion of Jha’s work focuses on Golwalkar’s book We or Our Nationhood Defined… Golwalkar, as his work shows, was in favour of imitating Hitler’s treatment of Jews when it came to minorities in India.” — The Telegraph
“Jha’s work illuminates the life of Golwalkar in a new light, laboriously picking out the facts from the legends built around him.” — Scroll
Why You Should Read and Buy This Book
Golwalkar is a crucial book for readers who want to understand the ideological foundations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its influence on Indian politics.
- Students and Researchers: Those studying political science, modern Indian history, or religious movements will find this book a valuable resource. It presents a detailed analysis of Golwalkar’s role in shaping Hindutva ideology.
- Journalists and Political Analysts: Anyone seeking to understand the historical roots of contemporary political developments in India will benefit from Jha’s research. The book provides insights into how Golwalkar’s beliefs continue to shape political discourse.
- General Readers Interested in Indian History: Those who want to explore how political ideologies evolve and influence governance will find this book both informative and thought-provoking.
Dhirendra K. Jha presents Golwalkar in a clear and engaging manner, making complex historical and political themes easy to grasp. The book is deeply researched, drawing from archives, interviews, and historical documents, yet it remains accessible to a wide audience.
Jha avoids overly academic language, making the book suitable not just for scholars but for general readers as well. His writing style balances fact-based analysis with engaging storytelling, ensuring that readers stay interested while gaining an in-depth understanding of Golwalkar’s life and ideology. The book also challenges existing narratives by separating myths from historical facts, offering a fresh perspective on a controversial figure. This makes it important and insightful read for anyone interested in India’s political history and the evolution of Hindutva.
Final Thoughts
This book offers a revealing look into the life and ideology of Golwalkar, a figure who played a pivotal role in shaping the RSS and its influence on Indian politics. Dhirendra K. Jha dismantles the myths built around him, presenting a nuanced examination of his beliefs and their long-term impact.
This book goes beyond biography it critically analyses how Golwalkar’s vision influenced political narratives, social structures, and religious identity in India. By drawing from historical records and firsthand accounts, Jha presents a compelling study of power, ideology, and nationalism. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Golwalkar’s contributions and controversies, this book is essential. It encourages readers to question and reflect on the forces that continue to shape India’s political and ideological landscape today.
