Discuss Shri Aurobinod’s views on Culture Nationalism. (UPSC CSE Mains 2016 - Political Science and International Relations, Paper 1)
- Cultural nationalism refers to the recognition of culture as the base of national unity. It emphasises the shared links to heritage and practices. Culture provides naturalness to nationalism. Sri Aurobindo belonged to the extremists tradition with radical views towards nationalism. He had the impression that the moderate methods were not working. He provided an alternate plan in New lamps for old. Later he retired from politics and Set up an ashram at Pondicherry.
- Sri Aurobindo had the impression that nationalism was God given. He felt that like religion, nationalism too was divine. He had a cosmopolitan Outlook and didn''t accept an exclusivist ideology. Though he emphasized on culture,he by no means left out other religious or caste sects. He considered that everyone in Indian subcontinent belonged to one single community and shared their culture irrespective of caste,Creed, religion or language. However,some have criticised him for leaning more towards Hinduism and as incorporating its practices.
- He criticised the moderates analysis of India as a nation in making. He gave the cultural and traditional bonds to emphasize that India has been a nation since the beginning. He believed that Indian reemergence at global level would be inevitable. He said it would be better if the world takes a message from India.
- He emphasized on spiritual development. He criticised the West for its materialistic leaning. He was under the impression that no amount of industrialization or material development can give moral and character upliftment. He wanted a synthesis of empiricism rationalism and institutionalism.
- He believed India''s rise would propel the universal spirit at global level. He cited the sadhus and gurus as embodiment of sacrifice and happiness. His worldview incorporated a holistic perspective with emphasis on cultural, spiritual and human unity.
- Sri Aurobindo was a leading figure of Indian Renaissance. His emphasis on shared culture and practices brought about a sense of belonging and national Unity. Some have criticized that orthodox elements have used Aurobindo theories and ideas to propagate exclusivist ideas .They had criticized him for equating nationalism to religion are advocating the worship of Bharat Mata. This form of extreme reverence antagonised and alienated some sections.
Aurobindo''s emphasis on human unity and spiritual development should usher in cooperation and sustainable practices at global level. With environmental degradation and climate change the need to incorporate has globalisation is necessary.
- He advocated the incorporation of eastern spiritualism with western materialism to balance the moral degradation and to attain sustainable livelihood.
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