Key features of Hindu fundamentalism:

 Indian Hindu Fundamentalism

Hindu fundamentalism, also known as Hindutva, is a political and cultural ideology that promotes the idea of India as a Hindu state. It emphasizes the importance of Hindu culture, religion, and history in shaping the Indian nation. The term "Hindu fundamentalism" is often used to describe the more extreme and intolerant aspects of this ideology.

Key features of Hindu fundamentalism:

1. 1.

   Promotion of Hindu unity: Advocates of Hindutva emphasize the need for a united Hindu community, often in response to perceived threats from other religious and cultural groups.

2. 2.

   Cultural nationalism: Hindu fundamentalists believe that India's identity and culture are inherently Hindu, and they call for the preservation and promotion of traditional Hindu values and practices.

3. 3.

   Religious exclusivity: Hindu fundamentalists often argue that India should be a Hindu state, and they may oppose the presence or influence of other religious groups, particularly Muslims and Christians.

4. 4.

   Revisionist history: Hindu fundamentalist narratives often involve rewriting Indian history to emphasize the greatness of Hindu civilization and downplay the contributions of non-Hindu groups.

5. 5.

   Political activism: Many Hindu fundamentalist groups actively engage in political activities, supporting political parties that align with their ideology, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Notable Hindu fundamentalist organizations:

1. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS): Founded in 1925, the RSS is a right-wing, Hindu nationalist organization that aims to promote the idea of a Hindu Rashtra (nation) in India.

2. Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP): Established in 1964, the VHP aims to protect and nurture Hindu culture and heritage across the globe. It is also associated with the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, which led to the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992.

3. Bajrang Dal: Founded in 1984, Bajrang Dal is a youth wing of the VHP, known for its aggressive activism in defending Hinduism and promoting Hindu values.

It is essential to note that not all Hindus support or endorse fundamentalist ideologies or activities. Many Hindus in India and around the world practice their religion peacefully and coexist harmoniously with followers of other faiths.

The influence of Brahmins in the destruction of Buddhism in India is a complex and controversial topic. It is believed that Brahmins, who were the dominant priestly caste in ancient India, played a significant role in the decline of Buddhism in India.

One of the key factors contributing to the decline of Buddhism was the rise of Hinduism, which was closely associated with the Brahmin caste. The Brahmins saw Buddhism as a threat to their religious and social dominance, and they worked to undermine and suppress it. For example, the Brahmins used their influence to discourage the patronage of Buddhist monasteries and to promote the construction of Hindu temples.

Another factor was the Brahmins' opposition to Buddhist teachings, which they saw as heretical and dangerous. They criticized Buddhist doctrines such as the rejection of caste, the emphasis on individual liberation, and the belief in the impermanence of all things. They also attacked the Buddhist monastic system, accusing Buddhist monks of laziness, immorality, and corruption.

One of the most famous examples of Brahminical opposition to Buddhism was the persecution of the Buddhist emperor Ashoka's son, Mahinda. Mahinda was a Buddhist monk who was sent to Sri Lanka to spread the teachings of Buddhism. According to tradition, he was opposed by the Brahmins, who tried to kill him and destroy the Buddhist relics he carried with him. However, Mahinda was able to evade his pursuers and successfully establish Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Overall, while the role of the Brahmins in the decline of Buddhism in India is debated among historians, there is evidence to suggest that t

The role of the Brahmins in the decline of Buddhism in India is a complex and controversial topic. One of the key factors contributing to the decline of Buddhism was the Brahmins' opposition to Buddhist teachings, particularly the rejection of caste. This principle held by the Buddhists was seen as a direct challenge to the Brahmin caste system, which was deeply ingrained in Indian society.

The Brahmins saw the Buddhist rejection of caste as a threat to their religious and social dominance. They criticized Buddhist doctrines such as the emphasis on individual liberation and the belief in the impermanence of all things. They also attacked the Buddhist monastic system, accusing Buddhist monks of laziness, immorality, and corruption.

This opposition to Buddhism by the Brahmins continued for centuries and was a significant factor in the ultimate decline of Buddhism in India. The Brahmins' influence in Indian society, particularly in the areas of religion and politics, gave them significant power to suppress and undermine Buddhism.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, one of India's most prominent social reformers and political leaders, was a strong advocate for the rights of the Dalits (formerly known as "untouchables"), who were considered to be at the bottom of the Hindu caste system. Ambedkar, himself a Dalit, was a fierce critic of the Brahmin caste system and saw it as one of the main obstacles to the social and economic progress of Dalits and other marginalized groups in India.

Ambedkar was also a strong supporter of Buddhism and saw it as a way to challenge the Brahminical dominance of Indian society. In 1956, Ambedkar converted to Buddhism along with thousands of his followers, in what is known as the "Dalit Buddhist Movement."

Despite his advocacy for Buddhism and his criticism of the Brahmin caste system, Ambedkar is often viewed by many Hindus as an anti-Hindu nationalist. This is due in part to his rejection of the Hindu caste system and his advocacy for the rights of Dalits, which many Hindus saw as a threat to their social and religious dominance.

In conclusion, the role of the Brahmins in the decline of Buddhism in India was significant, and their opposition to the rejection of caste in Buddhist core principles was a major factor in this decline. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a prominent social reformer and political leader, was a strong advocate for the rights of Dalits and a supporter of Buddhism as a way to challenge the Brahminical dominance of Indian society. However, his advocacy for these causes has led many Hindus to view him as an anti-Hindu nationalist.heir influence played a significant role in the process.