CIHS – Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies

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Trouble with ‘The Economist’

Trouble with ‘The Economist’

Write-up on RSS is steeped in distortions, prejudices, agenda driven narrative push rather than nuanced analysis that stands scrutiny. On December 19, 2024, as festive season approached, The Economist released its holiday double issue, featuring an unnamed article on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The publication, owned by immensely wealthy Agnelli and Rothschild families, traces its origins to 1843, when it was founded to advocate for repeal of import tariffs. Yet, in its long history, The Economist has strayed little from its original mission of pushing selective agendas cloaked in garb of intellectual rigour. Over the years, it has subtly perfected the art of propaganda, blending curated narratives with psychological imprinting to advance the interests of its elite patrons. This Christmas edition is no exception. Beneath the veneer of incisive commentary lies a carefully orchestrated exercise in bias—shaping perceptions to align with the ruling class worldview that The Economist so loyally upholds. Whether degrading communities or offering justifications for wars, the magazine has long operated as a conduit for dangerous and radical global agendas. In this latest offering, the publication’s signature word crafting meets its predictable penchant for soft-pedaling propaganda, leaving readers with a polished but shallow narrative that serves its masters across oceans, rather than the truth it claims to champion. In its article titled “Inside the RSS: The World’s Most Powerful Group,” The Economist employs its arsenal of rhetoric to perpetuate a troubling narrative against what it perceives as a significant ideological opposition to its wealthy western ruling elite. The elite, seemingly vested in a global order conducive to its own interests, appears to view Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a formidable challenge. The article alleges that RSS is a paramilitary organization culpable for persecution of India’s post-partition minorities —a claim that rests on foundation of conjecture rather than tangible evidence. In reality, Bharat boasts a thriving minority landscape, some of the world’s most robust legal protections and welfare schemes for minorities, unparalleled in their scope and inclusivity. At a time when Western corporations and elite amass fortunes from wars that devastate nations across the globe, Bharat’s ethos has consistently championed inclusivity, cultural oneness and wellness. The worldview embodied by the RSS—an organization that represents the world’s largest voluntary movement—is deeply rooted in this ancient Indian philosophy. Far from the aggression suggested by The Economist, the RSS reflects a commitment to harmony and resilience, offering a counterpoint to exploitative frameworks perpetuated by those who profit from division and conflict. By choosing to distort rather than understand this ethos, The Economist exhibits its own inability—or unwillingness—to engage with perspectives that challenge the interests of its benefactors. More so, in relentless pursuit of narrative control, The Economist once again attempts to link Nathuram Godse, the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi, to the RSS, describing him as an “ex-member” of the organization. This is a jaded agenda-based narrative that has had exposed RSS rivals. This very fixation not only underscores the publication’s penchant for propaganda but reveals a troubling reliance on conspiracy theories when they align with its agenda. Interestingly, The Economist spares no effort in crafting curated narratives about others while maintaining a conspicuous silence on controversies closer to its own sphere of influence. The Rothschilds, for instance—a family whose immense wealth and influence have been the subject of countless theories, from the Kennedy assassination to the Islamic State—remain untouched by the magazine’s purported investigative zeal. Similarly, the rumoured role of US government in assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. is conspicuously absent from its pages, despite widespread historic scrutiny. This selective focus speaks volumes about the publication’s biases and priorities. For those who can discern fact from fiction, The Economist’s approach serves as a reminder to distinguish credible media from outlets that prioritize agenda driven narratives over professional reportage. By choosing to amplify baseless charges against the RSS while ignoring deeper, systemic issues tied to its elite patrons, The Economist exposes its own limitations as a serious journalistic institution – which it tries to project itself. Ironically, The Economist expects its readers to believe that the RSS draws inspiration from Hitler’s Nazi Germany—a claim that is as baseless as it is sensational. The narrative point that lost its shelf life in last couple of decades, undoubtedly was reborn in champagne circles and elite echo chambers and it fails to hold up against the reality experienced by millions across India. From the youngest child to the eldest member of society, anyone who has encountered RSS firsthand can unequivocally attest to its true source of inspiration: the sacred Vedas, Upanishads and Sanatan Dharmic philosophy and outlook to Hindu way of life. Far from the twisted historical parallels The Economist seeks to draw, RSS is deeply rooted in timeless principles of Indian philosophy, centered on harmony, inclusivity, and selfless service. Such erroneous narratives find little resonance with the Indian population, who recognize them for what they are—attempts to vilify through misinformation. Instead, they gain traction in controlled settings where carefully curated echo chambers are created, often with backing of media outfits like The Economist. By perpetuating these flawed depictions, the magazine reveals not just its bias, but also its disconnect from ethos of a nation it claims to critique. In its relentless campaign against Bharat’s leadership, The Economist perpetuates baseless accusation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi bears responsibility for unfortunate Gujarat riots of 2002. This charge, however, crumbles under scrutiny, exposing not only its absurdity but also the Hinduphobic bias that underpins such narratives. What The Economist conveniently omits—and what must be highlighted—is the inhumane and brutal burning alive of 59 Hindu kar sevaks (volunteers) aboard Sabarmati Express at Godhra. This act of terror, meticulously planned and coordinated by Islamist extremists, sparked the violence that followed. Among those convicted for orchestrating this atrocity were Maulvi Umarji, Farooq Bhana and Imran Sheru—a stark reminder of premeditated nature of the attack. Yet, this foundational context finds no mention in The Economist’s coverage, which prefers to portray Hindus as aggressors while absolving the instigators of their

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Meditation, Sure Shot Way to Global Harmony

Meditation, Sure Shot Way to Global Harmony

Dr. Aniruddh Subhedar As part of Ashtang Yoga, meditation complements other forms to deliver sustainable universal health and wellbeing of humanity. United Nations unanimously declared December 21 as World Meditation Day. The resolution, introduced by Liechtenstein, was co-sponsored by Bharat among other nations like Bulgaria, Burundi, Dominican Republic, Iceland, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Mongolia, Portugal, Slovenia, etc. In his post on X (formerly Twitter), India’s Permanent Representative to United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish stated, “India had taken the lead in declaration of 21 June, which marks Summer Solstice, as International Day of Yoga by the UN in 2014. In a decade, it has become a global movement which has led to common people across the globe practising yoga and making it part of their daily lives.” Indeed, as UN declaration acknowledged “the link between yoga and meditation as complementary approaches to health and well-being”. Meditation, indeed, has its roots in the ancient Indian philosophy of Yoga. The writer of Yoga-Sutras– one of the most authoritative ancient texts on Yoga- Pantanjali introduced us to Ashtang Yoga (eight limbs of Yoga) with dhyana (meditation) as its seventh step. In Bharatiya tradition the Winter Solstice or “Uttarayan” is one of the most auspicious times of the year. As recounted in the Mahabharata, the great Bhishma chose to leave his body on this very day. Declaring the Winter Solstice as World Meditation Day is therefore deeply symbolic and fitting. What is dhyana? Sanskrit word dhyana comes from the root word ‘dhi’ which means to contemplate or ponder over. Dhyana can be understood as focused attention. Its roots can be traced to the concept of the four types of speech found in the Upanishads—Vaikhari, Madhyama, Pashyanti, and Para. The latter two are not outward expressions of speech but inner, soulful processes. In the Sankhya philosophy (one of the six Vaidik schools), Dhyana is described as: “ध्यानं निर्विशयं मन‌:”- Dhyana is the state where the mind is free from troublesome desires and thoughts. Patanjali defines it as: “तत्र प्रत्यैकतानता ध्यानं”- constant and unbroken contemplation. The centrality of Dhyana in Bharatiya spirituality is evident from its presence in even non-Vedic traditions like Jainism and Buddhism. It is no coincidence that sculptures and paintings of ancient masters and sages from these traditions commonly depict them in the Dhyana Mudra—the posture of meditation. Buddhist meditational practices like Shamatha and Vipashyana and Jain practices like Preksha are still prevalent today. From India, the practice of Dhyana spread to China as “Chán” and later to Japan as “Zen.” While the pronunciation evolved, the essence remained unchanged. Modern Science and Dhyana: Dhyana exists at the intersection of science and spirituality. With the growing global influence of Yoga, modern science has turned its attention to meditation. Notable studies such as “Mindfulness Meditation and Brain Structure” (Hölzel et al., 2011) and “Effects of Meditation on Stress” (Creswell et al., 2014) demonstrate that meditation has a clear and measurable positive impact on mental and physical well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety have become inseparable from modern lifestyles, Yoga and Dhyana are receiving rightful global recognition. World Health Organisation (WHO), in its self-help tools for anxiety management, encourages individuals to: “develop the habit of mindfulness meditation, even if it’s just a few minutes per day.” Practices like meditation offer a profound tool to relieve individuals from stress, enabling a calmer and more balanced state of mind. By cultivating mindfulness and focused attention, meditation reduces anxiety, improves emotional regulation, and creates compassion—towards oneself and others. As more individuals embrace these practices, the ripple effect can create a world where people are less reactive, more understanding, and empathetic. This shared mental peace can transcend boundaries, helping build a harmonious global family united by values of inner well-being, mutual respect, and collective happiness. Meditation over Military Might: The human desire to conquer the world is as old as civilization itself. Bharat, being one of the oldest civilizations, has witnessed its share of conquerors and dictators. Yet, Bharat was among the few that transcended this mirage. It is no coincidence that every ancient tradition of Bharat—Vaidik, Buddhist, or Jain—regardless of their internal differences, emphasized Dhyana. In fact, in Jainism and Buddhism, meditation occupies an even more central position. Moreover, the founders of these traditions, like Mahavir and Gautama Buddha, hailed from the Kshatriya (warrior) class. Having understood the futility of worldly conquest, they turned inward and realized that true victory lies in mastering the self—conquering one’s Indriyas (senses and desires). Such a person is called Jitendriya, and only the truly brave (Mahavir) can achieve it. Gautama Buddha, born in the Shakya tribe, mastered the science of meditation and spread it across the world. He was fittingly called Shakya-Simha—the Lion of the Shakyas. Bharat’s outlook toward the external world has always been shaped by its profound understanding of the human mind and soul. The Indian adage “Yat Pinde Tat Brahmande” (As is the body, so is the Universe) underscores this philosophy, encouraging introspection as a path to understanding the greater cosmos. Bharat’s traditions endured because its people were already pursuing the ultimate victory—mastery over their own senses (Indriyas) Meditation and Yoga, deeply rooted in India’s ancient traditions, have the potential to serve as powerful instruments of soft power on the global stage. Unlike hard power, which relies on military or economic might, soft power influences through culture, philosophy, and values. The universal appeal of Yoga and meditation as tools for holistic well-being resonates with people across nations, cultures, and ideologies. India’s leadership in initiatives like the International Day of Yoga and now World Meditation Day showcases its ability to offer solutions to modern challenges. These practices not only promote physical and mental health but also inspire inner peace, empathy, and collective mindfulness—values the world deeply needs. By promoting meditation and Yoga, India positions itself as a cultural and spiritual guide, strengthening its image as a nation that leads through wisdom, healing, and universal well-being. A Global Alternative This is not to suggest that the world will suddenly become a utopia

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RSS and Spirit of Volunteerism

RSS and Spirit of Volunteerism

Sangh volunteers’ service projects have stumped the global communities & offer a unique template to serve humanity. Introduction Millions of selfless volunteers or Swayamsevaks working round the clock in Bharat and outside form flesh and blood of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the largest Hindu-centric organization. Swayamsevak or volunteers driven movement run by RSS is easily bracketed as the biggest for social up-lift of vulnerable individuals, socially and economically deprived families and ensure ‘inclusive’ development and progress of Bharat.

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Manipur Violence, a Blot

Manipur Violence, a Blot

An unfortunate turning point in violence hit north-eastern Indian state of Manipur was the horrific deaths of six people including women and children a few days back. The delicate social fabric of Manipur, where many tribes like Meiteis, Kukis, Zomis and Nagas cohaManipur Violence, a Blotbit in a complicated mosaic of history, culture, and religious ties, has been brought to light by the latest violence, crimes against women and children which have its roots in decades of ethnic strife. (Author is a doctoral fellow at Amity University in Gwalior, content manager at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, New Delhi)

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India at G 20: Rio de Janeiro Summit

India at G 20: Rio de Janeiro Summit

India’s commitment to broader global engagement is demonstrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s November 18–19 sojourn to Rio de Janeiro and his proactive participation in G 20 Summit among world leaders. Modi’s participation in G 20 summit demonstrates Bharat’s commitment to multilateralism and enrolling diverse partners. His “productive” official visit to Nigeria was centred on improved relations with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Indian diaspora. As India’s representative at G 20 summit, Modi shouldered the responsibilities of the country’s G20 leadership and her ambitious agenda for global transformation and inclusivity. (Author is a doctoral fellow at Amity University in Gwalior, content manager at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, New Delhi)

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US Elections: Will Donald Trump deliver for Bharat?

US Elections: Will Donald Trump deliver for Bharat?

The 2024 US presidential election holds critical implications for global politics and economies with countries like India closely watching the outcome. This analysis compares key policy positions of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris highlighting how each candidate’s potential leadership could shape Indian economy and bilateral relations. To understand dynamics at play, it’s worth revisiting narrow 2000 election between Al Gore and George W. Bush where each candidate gained and lost modest leads throughout the race, ultimately ending in deadlock. The 2024 election is distinctly different with results reflecting a decisive shift in favour of Republicans in an increasingly polarized political landscape. Donald Trump and Republicans that emerged victorious face the daunting task of governing an increasingly divided nation. Polls indicated a tight race, yet beneath these numbers were profound shifts in American politics, some of which spotlighted key issues in Harris’s record and underscored difficulties she would have faced if she had won the White House.

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Ottawa Falls

Justin Trudeau’s biggest blunder was to rely on ISI, CCP to tie up with anti-India Khalistani extremists; Five Eyes, US deep state purported inputs to make baseless accusations against India. “At that point it was primarily intelligence, not hard evidentiary proof,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated during foreign interference inquiry, alluding to the claims he made against India, linking ‘Indian agents’ to Khalistani Canadian terrorist Hardeep Nijjar’s death in a gang war outside the gurdwara in Surrey, Canada.

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Can Labour Rebuild the Bridge with Bharat

Can Labour Rebuild the Bridge with Bharat?

Prime Minister Keir Starmer may have to work overtime to mend Labour ways and breath fresh life into UK ties with Bharat. Prakhar Sharma Relationship between United Kingdom and Bharat has always been complex, evolving and shaped by their checkered past. Today, these ties are transforming into modern partnership. With Labour Party storming back to power under Keir Starmer, UK-India relations are entering a new phase that demands careful attention. Labour Party’s past actions and current stance on Bharat-related issues might impact these ties particularly considering growing influence of British Indian community. Labour Party on Bharat Labour Party hasn’t always been on the best terms with Bharat, especially during key moments in recent history. In 2019, under Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership, the Labour Party adopted a controversial resolution calling for “international intervention in Kashmir” and even mooted UN-led referendum. This move came right after India abrogated Article 370 which revoked special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The timing and content of the resolution were seen by many as aligning with Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir and as an anti-India position. The backlash was immediate. Over 100 Indian organizations wrote to Corbyn expressing their strong disapproval. The response wasn’t just limited to letters of protest. Several British-Indian voters who had supported Labour felt betrayed and shifted to the Conservative Party in the following elections. The result? Significant losses for Labour were attributed to their stance on Kashmir. Recognizing the damage done, Labour Party chairman Ian Lavery publicly acknowledged that Kashmir resolution had offended not just India but British Indians as well. In a bid to repair relations, Lavery assured that Labour would not take sides—neither pro-India nor pro-Pakistan—on the Kashmir issue, signalling an attempt to distance the party from Corbyn’s earlier position. This promise, reported by The Guardian, was clear effort to regain the trust of British-Indian voters who felt alienated by Labour’s earlier approach. Similarly, during farmers’ protests in Bharat during 2020 – 21, Keir Starmer and some Labour MPs voiced concerns about Indian government’s handling of the situation citing human rights issues. While their concerns were claimed to be framed around human rights, it highlighted their stance on Bharat’s domestic affairs which is not acceptable for a nation like Bharat with better political stability than UK in the recent past. British Indian Community and its Political ‘voice’ Understanding the need to mend ties with British Indian community, Keir Starmer has made significant efforts to rebuild trust. His visit to Swaminarayan temple in Kingsbury where he stated that “There is no place for Hinduphobia in the UK,” was a clear attempt to reach out to the community. He also emphasized Labour’s intention to build a new strategic partnership with Bharat, marking a shift from the party’s previous positions (BBC, 2021). British Hindu community with nearly 983,000 people in England and Wales has become a significant political force (ONS, 2021). Historically seen as Labour vote bank, this community has grown more assertive in recent years, making it clear that their support is not guaranteed. The launch of  ‘Hindu Manifesto’ reflects this change, aiming to bring Hindu voices into mainstream political discussions and ensure that their concerns are addressed (The Times, 2023). Future of UK-Bharat Relations With Labour Party back in power, the future of UK-Bharat relations is at a crossroads. Keir Starmer’s recent efforts to engage with the British Indian community and his commitment to a stronger partnership with Bharat are promising signs. However, it’s crucial that the Labour Party goes beyond words and takes actions that respect Bharat’s sovereignty and address concerns of the British Indian diaspora (The Times, 2021). From Bharat’s perspective, there is cautious optimism that the Labour Party will adopt a more nuanced and informed approach to bilateral relations under Starmer’s leadership. The success of UK-Bharat ties will depend on how well the Labour Party can navigate this complex relationship acknowledging the growing influence of British Indian community while fostering mutual respect and cooperation. (Author is Alumnus of London School of Economics and a doctoral scholar at University of Delhi. He works at Rishihood University)

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Swami Vivekananda Unpacked Dharma for Global Communities

‘Us’ versus ‘them’ is passé. The great Bharatiya sage unveiled vedic vision of entire humanity being part of the wholesome ‘Supreme’. Dr Aniruddh Subhedar Very few people know that “Juggernaut” is derived from Sanskrit word “Jagannath,” most revered Hindu god literally meaning “Lord of the world”. In early 19th century, Christian missionaries spread malicious propaganda that during popular Rath Yatra of Bhagwan Jagannath, a huge chariot crushed devotees under its wheels. Many influential people in England including William Wilberforce who is admired in Western world for his advocacy to abolish slave trade demanded an end to the so-called devilish practices. Over the years, western world got enlightened about Jagannath Rath Yatra. But, even today, English word “Juggernaut” is seen as a destructive, unstoppable force serving as living testimony to the smear campaign against Bharat’s culture and Hindu dharma. Truth behind this one word illustrates the hostile world in which Swami Vivekananda had to work at a time when Hindus were considered savages, their philosophy and traditions viewed as devilish. Amidst these hostile forces, Swami Vivekananda hoisted the banner of Bharat’s spiritualism to Western world and emerged victorious. Throughout her history, Bharat produced great sages and scholars, each one greater than the other. But, in modern times, Swami Vivekananda is seen as harbinger of sanskritik (cultural) and adhyatmik (spiritual) revolution in India. He was the pioneering monk who understood the need to spread sublime and profound philosophy of Advaita Vedanta throughout the world. Global awakening to Yoga and Vedanta is fruition of Swamiji’s pioneering efforts. World’s Parliament of Religions World Parliament of Religions held in Chicago in September 1893 can be termed the first organized interfaith gathering internationally. Swami Vivekananda participated in this parliament which was held during September 11 – 27, 1893. From his first rendition on September 11 which opened with touching lines “Brothers and Sisters of America,” up to his address at the final session on September 27, Swamiji addressed the parliament six times. Each of these speeches focused on Bharatiya philosophy, universal brotherhood and need for global unity. Swamiji not only expounded on the philosophy of Vedanta but amplified teachings of Lord Buddha and their intricate relationship to Sanatan Dharma. While he criticized evangelical activities of Christian missionaries, he stressed the need for every individual to walk the path of self-realization. Quoting Lord Krishna’s words from Bhagavad Gita: “ये यथा मां प्रपद्यन्ते तांस्तथैव भजाम्यहम्। मम वर्त्मानुवर्तन्ते मनुष्या: पार्थ सर्वश:।।” (O Arjuna! In whatsoever form one seeks Me, I reach him in that form, for all mankind is but following the paths I laid down for them.) Swami Vivekananda told the world that the path to reach Supreme Being is not and cannot be monopolized by one religion. It is open to every honest seeker. Bharat’s Soul Unveiled Swamiji’s words were not just verbose discourse on philosophy for armchair intellectuals, nor were they a recounting of Bharat’s long-lost past. Rather, what Swamiji presented to the world was Bharat’s very soul. When Swamiji said, “I am proud to tell you that we have gathered in our bosom the purest remnant of the Israelites… I am proud to belong to the religion which has sheltered and is still fostering the remnant of the grand Zoroastrian nation,” he was not merely recounting Bharat’s glorious past but presenting reality of Bharat that was rooted in spirituality even during most testing times of colonial oppression. This legacy continues today when Iran, the original land of Zoroastrians is suffering religious fanaticism, riots and theocracy. Zoroastrianism continues to flourish in India. It is this soul of Bharat that prompted Indian Government to offer citizenship to persecuted religious minorities in its neighbouring countries through Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019. Arguments and conspiracy theories floated against the all-inclusive act was from those that did not realize Bharat’s Soul. Swami Vivekananda and World Peace Swami Vivekananda’s work had lasting impact not only on people of Bharat but global communities. His teachings led to setting up Vedanta societies across United States that continue to thrive even today. Vedanta Society of New York and that of Northern California, San Francisco were centres established by Swami Vivekananda. Today, the world going through conflicts and wars may have missed an enlightened soul like Vivekananda. We see racial crimes, bigotry, wars and persecution. Religious fanaticism is raising its head in the form of Khalistani terrorism. The land of Bengal (both Bangladesh and West Bengal) has descended into religious persecution and chaos as it has strayed from the path shown by Swami Vivekananda. At the World’s Parliament of Religions, Swami Vivekananda said: “Sectarianism, bigotry and its horrible descendant fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth. They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often and often with human blood, destroyed civilization and sent whole nations to despair. Had it not been for these horrible demons, human society would be far more advanced than it is now”. These words of Swamiji are more relevant today than ever. For long, organizations like United Nations have attempted at maintaining global peace. But, the world tends to lapse into chaos and violence periodically. Limited success is seen by UN as its efforts are mainly aimed at political level. What Swamiji preached was the path of emancipation of every soul where every individual strives for self-realization. September 11, when Swami Vivekananda delivered his speech at World’s Parliament of Religions, is commemorated by his disciples and admirers as ‘Vishwa Vijay Diwas’ (the day when he conquered the world). But this conquering is not a dystopian dream of military victory and subjugation; it is a victory through message of peace. For those harbouring malice, the “Lord of the World” (Jagannath) becomes a “destructive force.” But for noble minds nurtured by Swamiji, even “conquering” loses its bloodshed and becomes an exercise in love and mutual respect. To a world that knew only the logic of “us vs. them,” Swami Vivekananda introduced the idea of “आत्मवत् सर्वभूतेषु”. It signifies all living entities as part of one’s self. It’s time the world revisits

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