Vice President Dhankhar Decries Negative Reactions to Sanatan and Hinduism References

New Delhi, 3rd January 2025: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Friday expressed concern over the baffling reactions to references to Sanatan and Hinduism in India, attributing such responses to “misguided souls” influenced by a “dangerous ecosystem.” Speaking at the International Congress of Vedanta at JNU, Dhankhar remarked that it is ironic and disheartening to witness people reacting to these terms without delving into their profound significance.

“It is both ironic and painful that in a nation like ours, references to Sanatan and Hinduism elicit incomprehensible reactions,” he said. Dhankhar criticized the tendency to react impulsively rather than exploring the deeper meaning of these concepts. He described those exhibiting such behaviour as “misguided souls” operating within a “dangerous ecosystem” that poses a threat not only to society but also to themselves.

Highlighting the importance of free expression, Dhankhar stated, “The right to expression is a divine gift. Its suppression or dilution is unhealthy. However, free expression must be coupled with dialogue. Without dialogue, the right to expression loses its essence.” He further emphasized that dialogue, debate, discussion, and deliberation have diminished in the face of disruptions, even in democratic institutions.

Dhankhar also addressed the global acceptance of Vedanta philosophy, contrasting it with the dismissive attitudes of some within India. He criticized individuals who label Vedanta and Sanatani texts as “regressive,” attributing such views to “distorted colonial mindsets and inadequate understanding of India’s intellectual heritage.” He warned that these elements operate systematically and insidiously, undermining the nation’s spiritual and cultural traditions.