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RSS: The Long and Short of it
THE RUNAWAY BESTSELLER FROM ONE OF KANNADA LITERATURE’S TALLEST FIGURES
What is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh? Where is it steering India now that a party aligned to it has been in power for an extended period? And importantly, what does it believe in, what does it reject? These are only some of the questions that Devanura Mahadeva explores in this remarkable exposition that marries mythology with modernity and folklores with keen political insight. With characteristic humour, he urges readers: ‘When the Koogu Maaris of the RSS arrive at our doors, we should refuse to heed them. Like our people in the villages, we must write “Naale baa” (Come tomorrow) on our doors.’ A tract unlike any other, RSS: The Long and the Short of It is both a political call to action and a work of outstanding virtuosity.
About the Author
One of Kannada literature’s foremost contemporary writers, Devanura Mahadeva is also a public intellectual whose force of conviction and uncompromising integrity has placed him at the centre of social conversations. As a young student, Devanura was drawn to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which he left to work towards building Karnataka’s socialist and Dalit rights movements.
What is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh? Where is it steering India now that a party aligned to it has been in power for an extended period? And importantly, what does it believe in, what does it reject? These are only some of the questions that Devanura Mahadeva explores in this remarkable exposition that marries mythology with modernity and folklores with keen political insight. With characteristic humour, he urges readers: ‘When the Koogu Maaris of the RSS arrive at our doors, we should refuse to heed them. Like our people in the villages, we must write “Naale baa” (Come tomorrow) on our doors.’ A tract unlike any other, RSS: The Long and the Short of It is both a political call to action and a work of outstanding virtuosity.
About the Author
One of Kannada literature’s foremost contemporary writers, Devanura Mahadeva is also a public intellectual whose force of conviction and uncompromising integrity has placed him at the centre of social conversations. As a young student, Devanura was drawn to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which he left to work towards building Karnataka’s socialist and Dalit rights movements.
73 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 13, 2023
Everyone should read this little book and propagate it as much as possible. Sharp writing combined with blunt force in telling people what the RSS really is, in short, and how a powerful BJP under Modi has become the key driver of the agenda of replacing the Constitution with Manuvaad.
Available in multiple languages, apart from the Kannada original.
Available in multiple languages, apart from the Kannada original.
March 4, 2023
Originally published in Kannada as RSS: Aala Mattu Agala, the pamphlet became an instant bestseller with more than a million copies and was later translated into Tamil and English. Devanura Mahadeva is well known among the literary circles of Karnataka for his accessible language and empathetic prose and narration revolving around historically marginalized groups. This book explores the ideological genesis, working patterns, and mechanisms of an organization whose values and philosophy stand antithetical to the very tenets of our liberal democracy.
Borrowing its ideology heavily from 20th-century European nationalism, especially Nazism and Fascism, the RSS's founders professed an immense admiration for Adolf Hitler. The core concepts of such narrowly defined nationalism include:
1. Racial and cultural purity - aversion towards inter-faith and inter-caste union, desire to maintain the Varna system.
2. One language - the covert imposition of and overt importance to Hindi and disregard for other's mother tongue.
3. Concentrated power - aversion towards regional identities, linguistic identities, and federal units.
Mesmerized by the unitary call 'One Hindu', Devanura Mahadeva joined the RSS at an early age only to learn later that the organization was fueled by the above-mentioned philosophies and blatant hate for minorities. For a politically unaware lower middle-class individual who is easily drawn toward majoritarian rhetoric, he makes three important observations:
"For the RSS, the former Shudras must be foot soldiers, they must remain helpless, they must remain servants as laid down in the Chaturvarna order. The majority community of former Shudras, made up of countless castes and sects, who fall victim to hate and participate in this, will have its wings quietly clipped. Subsequently, the rights of these former Shudras will be snatched away. The backward classes have been asserting their Constitutional rights, demanding their due share in education, employment, and politics, and organizing to struggle for them only because they have clear caste and community identities. Amid calls of 'all Hindus are one', when these former Shudras, now shorn of their identities enter the furnace of the Hindu-Muslim war of hate as Hindus, their Constitutional rights are obscured."
"A section ahead of all others socially, a section over-represented in education and employment, and a section that constitutes just 5 percent of the population gets 10 percent reservation in jobs. This gift is in keeping with the Manudharmashashtra injunction that those at the top should get more."
"Shaken by the findings from a recent DNA study conducted based on the remains of the Indus Valley Civilization site, the RSS has begun calling it the 'Saraswati civilization'. They are bringing in the term 'Vanavasis' in place of 'Adivasis'. Those who have a history of grabbing everything from the indigenous people are now trying to snatch away their own identity. The reason is simple. As long as terms like 'original dwellers' are around, some people will continue to feel like outsiders in India."
Devanura Mahadeva concluded the book with an impressive passage: "At least now, forward-looking groups, progressive-minded people, organizations, and parties should rise above being just little streams; they should flow collectively as one river. To be able to do that, they must abandon the unhealthy attitude that they are pure and superior to others. They must give up their ego and develop the humility to accept that hundredths of paths might exist for attaining an aim. They must come together to build a participatory democracy, one in which all citizens and communities take part, and to create a culture that is tolerant, loving, and free of distinctions of high and low."
Borrowing its ideology heavily from 20th-century European nationalism, especially Nazism and Fascism, the RSS's founders professed an immense admiration for Adolf Hitler. The core concepts of such narrowly defined nationalism include:
1. Racial and cultural purity - aversion towards inter-faith and inter-caste union, desire to maintain the Varna system.
2. One language - the covert imposition of and overt importance to Hindi and disregard for other's mother tongue.
3. Concentrated power - aversion towards regional identities, linguistic identities, and federal units.
Mesmerized by the unitary call 'One Hindu', Devanura Mahadeva joined the RSS at an early age only to learn later that the organization was fueled by the above-mentioned philosophies and blatant hate for minorities. For a politically unaware lower middle-class individual who is easily drawn toward majoritarian rhetoric, he makes three important observations:
"For the RSS, the former Shudras must be foot soldiers, they must remain helpless, they must remain servants as laid down in the Chaturvarna order. The majority community of former Shudras, made up of countless castes and sects, who fall victim to hate and participate in this, will have its wings quietly clipped. Subsequently, the rights of these former Shudras will be snatched away. The backward classes have been asserting their Constitutional rights, demanding their due share in education, employment, and politics, and organizing to struggle for them only because they have clear caste and community identities. Amid calls of 'all Hindus are one', when these former Shudras, now shorn of their identities enter the furnace of the Hindu-Muslim war of hate as Hindus, their Constitutional rights are obscured."
"A section ahead of all others socially, a section over-represented in education and employment, and a section that constitutes just 5 percent of the population gets 10 percent reservation in jobs. This gift is in keeping with the Manudharmashashtra injunction that those at the top should get more."
"Shaken by the findings from a recent DNA study conducted based on the remains of the Indus Valley Civilization site, the RSS has begun calling it the 'Saraswati civilization'. They are bringing in the term 'Vanavasis' in place of 'Adivasis'. Those who have a history of grabbing everything from the indigenous people are now trying to snatch away their own identity. The reason is simple. As long as terms like 'original dwellers' are around, some people will continue to feel like outsiders in India."
Devanura Mahadeva concluded the book with an impressive passage: "At least now, forward-looking groups, progressive-minded people, organizations, and parties should rise above being just little streams; they should flow collectively as one river. To be able to do that, they must abandon the unhealthy attitude that they are pure and superior to others. They must give up their ego and develop the humility to accept that hundredths of paths might exist for attaining an aim. They must come together to build a participatory democracy, one in which all citizens and communities take part, and to create a culture that is tolerant, loving, and free of distinctions of high and low."
January 3, 2025
This rather pernicious wishful thinking from the left and the liberals is one of the reasons why there is no reconciliation between the Right and the Left.
While capturing the cancerous outgrowth of right wing ideology and RSS successfully, it's unfortunate that the impeccable intellect of Devanuru fails to appreciate the philosophical and civilization depth of the right wing, just like their polestar Ambedkar.
Segregation of human beings into two warring cliques without understanding the human condition is as dangerous as those misguided few who want to establish the supremacy of the religion or caste.
Assuming that a particular identity makes one individual moral or immoral, good or bad, right or wrong is a crime against humanity. While higher castes were guilty to this crime in the past, it appears that today tables have turned. Self-fashioned activists, while reveling in their sanctimonious identity, brand a caste, class, group or community as good or bad. It couldn't be anything other than their deep seated bias to consider oneself as moral or virtuous. It's a massive disservice to the truth of human nature.
The spirit of the age might consider the likes of Devanuru as heroes. He is indeed a hero in many ways. But a hero can be misguided. Better heroes don't spread hateful propaganda rooted in selective reading, in the name of social justice. I am inclined to believe that It's unwittingly done. But the consequences don't discriminate intentions.
PS: My views are not the endorsement of RSS or Right wing. I am not a big fan when it comes to their methods and some of their ideas. But I don't hate them. Just like I don't hate liberals and the left.
As far as the book is concerned, it is crisp and concise. Distills some of the important ideas. Easy to understand for the general public. I am giving it a 4/5.
While capturing the cancerous outgrowth of right wing ideology and RSS successfully, it's unfortunate that the impeccable intellect of Devanuru fails to appreciate the philosophical and civilization depth of the right wing, just like their polestar Ambedkar.
Segregation of human beings into two warring cliques without understanding the human condition is as dangerous as those misguided few who want to establish the supremacy of the religion or caste.
Assuming that a particular identity makes one individual moral or immoral, good or bad, right or wrong is a crime against humanity. While higher castes were guilty to this crime in the past, it appears that today tables have turned. Self-fashioned activists, while reveling in their sanctimonious identity, brand a caste, class, group or community as good or bad. It couldn't be anything other than their deep seated bias to consider oneself as moral or virtuous. It's a massive disservice to the truth of human nature.
The spirit of the age might consider the likes of Devanuru as heroes. He is indeed a hero in many ways. But a hero can be misguided. Better heroes don't spread hateful propaganda rooted in selective reading, in the name of social justice. I am inclined to believe that It's unwittingly done. But the consequences don't discriminate intentions.
PS: My views are not the endorsement of RSS or Right wing. I am not a big fan when it comes to their methods and some of their ideas. But I don't hate them. Just like I don't hate liberals and the left.
As far as the book is concerned, it is crisp and concise. Distills some of the important ideas. Easy to understand for the general public. I am giving it a 4/5.
December 8, 2022
More of a pamphlet (in the classical use of this term) than a book, yet a concise, simple and a withering take-down of the current politics of the RSS-BJP-associates. Devanura Mahadeva is quite well known for his critical reflections on how caste and the growing majoritarian construction of the modern Hindu identity. Starting with excerpts of text from Savarkar, he traces the origins of the ideology that is currently feeding the RSS and its associate organisations. Language is very simple and is spoken much more as an appeal to what he calls "Vishaala hindu samaaja (wideest hindu people)" to not give in to hatred and divisiveness. This book is the English translation of the original written in Kannada. Upon reading it, I had immediately put out an unofficial, unauthorised English translation which someone has uploaded on the Internet Archive and has already seen >1500 views/downloads. It is also available in several other Indian languages. My only grouse is the pricing: the Kannada one is priced at 40 while this one is nearly 5 times that: nonetheless affordable, accessible and irrespective of one's political leaning, something to be "engaged" with.
January 30, 2023
Kannada writer Devanura Mahadeva's 'RSS:The Long and Short of it" looks almost like an extended pamphlet, but it packs so much punch that sangh groups in Karnataka have over the past few months been working overtime to trash the book and the writer. It has been wildly popular and has had translations to multiple languages within a few months of its publication. The book goes straight for the jugular in succinctly putting forward the twisted world views of the founding fathers of the RSS, based on which the organisation is still carrying out its ground work.
Mahadeva also has had an insider's view of the RSS, as he was part of it during high school. He left the organisation a few years later after discovering within it caste prejudice, anti-Muslim hatred, displeasure at inter-caste marriages and many of its other characteristic features. Later in the book, he notes how the RSS pulls young children into its organisational fold. "It doesn't make humans out of them," he writes.
Mahadeva starts by using M.S.Golwalkar's and V.D.Savarkar's own words to lay bare the ideology that underpins RSS. Although we are familiar with Golwalkar's writings hailing Nazism and Hitler, and his conclusion that what happened in Germany was "a good lesson for us in Hindustan to learn and profit by'', one of the most important parts of the book is his view of federalism, which makes us realise that the BJP Government currently is working just as per these. Golwalkar writes-"The most important and effective step will be to bury deep for good all talk of a federal structure of our country's constitution to sweep away the existence of all 'autonomous' or semi-autonomous states and proclaim one country, one state, one legislature, one executive' with no trace of fragmentational, regional, sectarian, linguistic or other types of pride being given a scope for playing havoc with our integrated harmony. Let the Constitution be re-examined and re-drafted, so as to establish the unitary form of Government."
Connecting these words to the present, Mahadeva writes - "The BJP, the RSS's descendant, has buried the federal system with a single stroke - by introducing the goods and services tax (GST). On the surface, the GST looks like an act of financial reform. But its impact? The states in our federation have surrendered all their powers to the centre. They place all their wealth at the feet of the centre, and then beg for their share. The BJP has offered Golwalkar its guru dakshina by burying federalism." Golwalkar also talks about Hindi as a first step to making Sanskrit the lingua franca in India.
An interesting quote from Golwalkar is with regard to the "minority problem" - "It is worth bearing in mind how these old nations solve their minority problem. Emigrants have to get themselves naturally assimilated in the principal mass of the population, the national race, by adopting its culture and language by losing all consciousness of a separate existence. If they do not do so, they live merely as outsiders, deserving of no special protection, far less any privilege or rights." One can see the BJP Government following exactly this line in the implementation of laws like the CAA and NRC.
Another highlight of the book is his characterisation of the BJP Government's privatisation spree and its calculated weakening of the public sector as a war against the oppressed castes. "When new positions remain vacant and backlogs in government departments are left unfilled, and jobs are handed over to the private sector where no reservation exists, aren't the BJP and the RSS pushing back communities that benefit from reservation to being Shudra servants?" he asks.
Unlike some commentators, he does not lose sight of the fact that those taking on the fascist machine have to learn to take on the RSS, by understanding how it has always been pulling the strings from behind the curtains. Writing about Modi, he says "But he is only an utsava murti, a replica of the temple deity taken out during a procession. The real deity sits in Nagpur, inside the RSS shrine. The utsava murti dazzles everyone across the length and breadth of the country. It is hailed everywhere. The qualifications of an utsava murti are the ability to put up a show and the canniness to give an emotional colour to things that spin out of control, and create a commotion, and thus take attention away from the problem."
He writes about how the RSS tries to pull out the teeth and nails of Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Lingayat and other dharmas that were born in India and rejected the Chaturvarna order. Saying 'They are part of us', "it swallows them up and subsumes them into the caste order". (Even today, there is a news report of a mega event being organised by the RSS in Maharashtra to bring the Banjaras to the Hindutva fold, amid opposition from the Banjaras). They are also bringing into circulation the term 'vanavasis' (forest dwellers) in place of 'adivasis' (indigenous dwellers), because as long as the original dwellers are around, the Aryans will continue to feel like outsiders in India.
Mahadeva effectively counters the ongoing sangh smear campaign against Tipu Sultan, one of the few Indian kings to stand up to the British. "RSS claims that Tipu converted 69,000 Hindus to Islam at Kodagu at a time when the total population of the province was less than that. Even now, the Muslim population of Kodagu is less than 15%." Touching upon the nature of the hydra-headed organisational structure, with a large number of front organisations, he writes "When such groups go on the rampage and earn notoriety, it is customary for the RSS to say that it has no connection with them. But we shouldn't be deceived. They share an umbilical link with the RSS."
Making a fervent plea to the readers, he writes "we must tell the world over and over again that what the RSS calls Hindusim is nothing other than the Chaturvarna sect. If Golwalkar's Chaturvarna order were to be established, then what is to become of the right to personal liberty. When the Koogu Maaris of the RSS arrive at our doors, we should refuse to heed them. Like our people in the villages, we must write 'Naale Baa' (come tomorrow) on our doors".
Mahadeva had in the 1970s moved over to the socialist camp and took part in the resistance against emergency. He co-founded the Dalit Sangharsh Samiti in 1977 in Karnataka. In 2005, he formed the Sarvodaya Karnataka Party to bring together the farmers' and dalit movements together. In 2015, he was one of the writers who returned Padma Shri and the Sahitya Akademi Award in protest against rising intolerance in the country. This thin volume from him is a useful addition to the ongoing debates following the release of the BBC documentary, which has made a whole new generation aware of their past misdeeds. (Cellars of the Inferno/Narakasakethathinte Ullarakal by Sudheesh Minni, a former RSS man, is another one)
Mahadeva also has had an insider's view of the RSS, as he was part of it during high school. He left the organisation a few years later after discovering within it caste prejudice, anti-Muslim hatred, displeasure at inter-caste marriages and many of its other characteristic features. Later in the book, he notes how the RSS pulls young children into its organisational fold. "It doesn't make humans out of them," he writes.
Mahadeva starts by using M.S.Golwalkar's and V.D.Savarkar's own words to lay bare the ideology that underpins RSS. Although we are familiar with Golwalkar's writings hailing Nazism and Hitler, and his conclusion that what happened in Germany was "a good lesson for us in Hindustan to learn and profit by'', one of the most important parts of the book is his view of federalism, which makes us realise that the BJP Government currently is working just as per these. Golwalkar writes-"The most important and effective step will be to bury deep for good all talk of a federal structure of our country's constitution to sweep away the existence of all 'autonomous' or semi-autonomous states and proclaim one country, one state, one legislature, one executive' with no trace of fragmentational, regional, sectarian, linguistic or other types of pride being given a scope for playing havoc with our integrated harmony. Let the Constitution be re-examined and re-drafted, so as to establish the unitary form of Government."
Connecting these words to the present, Mahadeva writes - "The BJP, the RSS's descendant, has buried the federal system with a single stroke - by introducing the goods and services tax (GST). On the surface, the GST looks like an act of financial reform. But its impact? The states in our federation have surrendered all their powers to the centre. They place all their wealth at the feet of the centre, and then beg for their share. The BJP has offered Golwalkar its guru dakshina by burying federalism." Golwalkar also talks about Hindi as a first step to making Sanskrit the lingua franca in India.
An interesting quote from Golwalkar is with regard to the "minority problem" - "It is worth bearing in mind how these old nations solve their minority problem. Emigrants have to get themselves naturally assimilated in the principal mass of the population, the national race, by adopting its culture and language by losing all consciousness of a separate existence. If they do not do so, they live merely as outsiders, deserving of no special protection, far less any privilege or rights." One can see the BJP Government following exactly this line in the implementation of laws like the CAA and NRC.
Another highlight of the book is his characterisation of the BJP Government's privatisation spree and its calculated weakening of the public sector as a war against the oppressed castes. "When new positions remain vacant and backlogs in government departments are left unfilled, and jobs are handed over to the private sector where no reservation exists, aren't the BJP and the RSS pushing back communities that benefit from reservation to being Shudra servants?" he asks.
Unlike some commentators, he does not lose sight of the fact that those taking on the fascist machine have to learn to take on the RSS, by understanding how it has always been pulling the strings from behind the curtains. Writing about Modi, he says "But he is only an utsava murti, a replica of the temple deity taken out during a procession. The real deity sits in Nagpur, inside the RSS shrine. The utsava murti dazzles everyone across the length and breadth of the country. It is hailed everywhere. The qualifications of an utsava murti are the ability to put up a show and the canniness to give an emotional colour to things that spin out of control, and create a commotion, and thus take attention away from the problem."
He writes about how the RSS tries to pull out the teeth and nails of Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Lingayat and other dharmas that were born in India and rejected the Chaturvarna order. Saying 'They are part of us', "it swallows them up and subsumes them into the caste order". (Even today, there is a news report of a mega event being organised by the RSS in Maharashtra to bring the Banjaras to the Hindutva fold, amid opposition from the Banjaras). They are also bringing into circulation the term 'vanavasis' (forest dwellers) in place of 'adivasis' (indigenous dwellers), because as long as the original dwellers are around, the Aryans will continue to feel like outsiders in India.
Mahadeva effectively counters the ongoing sangh smear campaign against Tipu Sultan, one of the few Indian kings to stand up to the British. "RSS claims that Tipu converted 69,000 Hindus to Islam at Kodagu at a time when the total population of the province was less than that. Even now, the Muslim population of Kodagu is less than 15%." Touching upon the nature of the hydra-headed organisational structure, with a large number of front organisations, he writes "When such groups go on the rampage and earn notoriety, it is customary for the RSS to say that it has no connection with them. But we shouldn't be deceived. They share an umbilical link with the RSS."
Making a fervent plea to the readers, he writes "we must tell the world over and over again that what the RSS calls Hindusim is nothing other than the Chaturvarna sect. If Golwalkar's Chaturvarna order were to be established, then what is to become of the right to personal liberty. When the Koogu Maaris of the RSS arrive at our doors, we should refuse to heed them. Like our people in the villages, we must write 'Naale Baa' (come tomorrow) on our doors".
Mahadeva had in the 1970s moved over to the socialist camp and took part in the resistance against emergency. He co-founded the Dalit Sangharsh Samiti in 1977 in Karnataka. In 2005, he formed the Sarvodaya Karnataka Party to bring together the farmers' and dalit movements together. In 2015, he was one of the writers who returned Padma Shri and the Sahitya Akademi Award in protest against rising intolerance in the country. This thin volume from him is a useful addition to the ongoing debates following the release of the BBC documentary, which has made a whole new generation aware of their past misdeeds. (Cellars of the Inferno/Narakasakethathinte Ullarakal by Sudheesh Minni, a former RSS man, is another one)
October 16, 2022
RSS: Depth and Breath, puts forward a critical assessment of the infamous organization (which is associated with Godse, assassin of Gandhi) which is today a mere so called cultural organization and the brain of the ruling political dispensation in India.
Mr. Mahadeva provides insights into various ideologies of RSS - cultural supremacy, belief in Aryan purity, yearning for a traditional Hindu social order of varnashram, non acceptance of Constitution of India, rampant Islamophobia it tries to propagate at the same time discrediting the issue of caste oppression in the society.
He points out, with data and records, many colours of the organization in various spheres such as culture, education, legislation, media, etc, where it is trying very hard to achieve its ultimate and vicious goal of saffronisation of the country by making it into an absolute fascist monolithic Hindu nation, dismantling democracy step by step.
This work is highly important and relevant to today's India which is battling with divisions and tensions in society, demonization of the Muslim community, consuming the state propaganda like no tomorrow, witnessing the convergence of state and religion discrediting Secularism.
Mr. Mahadeva provides insights into various ideologies of RSS - cultural supremacy, belief in Aryan purity, yearning for a traditional Hindu social order of varnashram, non acceptance of Constitution of India, rampant Islamophobia it tries to propagate at the same time discrediting the issue of caste oppression in the society.
He points out, with data and records, many colours of the organization in various spheres such as culture, education, legislation, media, etc, where it is trying very hard to achieve its ultimate and vicious goal of saffronisation of the country by making it into an absolute fascist monolithic Hindu nation, dismantling democracy step by step.
This work is highly important and relevant to today's India which is battling with divisions and tensions in society, demonization of the Muslim community, consuming the state propaganda like no tomorrow, witnessing the convergence of state and religion discrediting Secularism.
August 24, 2023
In "RSS: The Long and the Short of It," Devanura Mahadeva embarks on a thought-provoking journey through the intricate tapestry of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). With a blend of mythology, modernity, and astute political insights, Mahadeva delves into the essence of this influential organization that has significantly shaped India's sociopolitical landscape.
Mahadeva's exploration of the RSS is nothing short of remarkable. Through the lens of mythology and folklore, he delves deep into the core beliefs and practices of the RSS. He analyzes its alignment with political power and its influence on contemporary India. With a touch of humor, he emphasizes the need to critically engage with the ideology, urging readers to resist without dismissing.
Mahadeva's writing is a fusion of scholarly depth and approachable narrative. His skillful use of mythology and political insight creates a captivating discourse. The author's wit and humor add a unique dimension to his exploration.
The book primarily focuses on the RSS as an entity rather than individual characters. Mahadeva examines the organization's beliefs, practices, and impact on society. He probes into its ideological foundations and its resonance in India's evolving political landscape.
While not a conventional novel, the book follows a logical progression, moving from the historical roots of the RSS to its contemporary influence. Mahadeva's narrative is well-organized, leading readers through a comprehensive journey of exploration.
The book explores themes of ideology, power, and social impact. It raises questions about the role of the RSS in India's trajectory and its implications for the future. The message is one of critical examination and engagement rather than passive acceptance.
Mahadeva's exploration invokes curiosity and introspection. He presents ideas that challenge prevailing narratives, sparking emotional resonance and intellectual stimulation.
The book's strength lies in its innovative approach, blending mythology with political analysis. However, the complexity of the subject might occasionally challenge readers unfamiliar with Indian politics or cultural nuances.
"RSS: The Long and the Short of It" is a compelling read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the RSS and its impact. Mahadeva's skillful navigation of intricate topics demonstrates his mastery of the subject matter.
Devanura Mahadeva's book is an enlightening examination of the RSS, offering readers a unique blend of mythology, political insight, and humor. It challenges us to critically engage with the RSS's role in shaping India and its future. "RSS: The Long and the Short of It" stands as a testament to Mahadeva's virtuosity as both a writer and a thinker.
Mahadeva's exploration of the RSS is nothing short of remarkable. Through the lens of mythology and folklore, he delves deep into the core beliefs and practices of the RSS. He analyzes its alignment with political power and its influence on contemporary India. With a touch of humor, he emphasizes the need to critically engage with the ideology, urging readers to resist without dismissing.
Mahadeva's writing is a fusion of scholarly depth and approachable narrative. His skillful use of mythology and political insight creates a captivating discourse. The author's wit and humor add a unique dimension to his exploration.
The book primarily focuses on the RSS as an entity rather than individual characters. Mahadeva examines the organization's beliefs, practices, and impact on society. He probes into its ideological foundations and its resonance in India's evolving political landscape.
While not a conventional novel, the book follows a logical progression, moving from the historical roots of the RSS to its contemporary influence. Mahadeva's narrative is well-organized, leading readers through a comprehensive journey of exploration.
The book explores themes of ideology, power, and social impact. It raises questions about the role of the RSS in India's trajectory and its implications for the future. The message is one of critical examination and engagement rather than passive acceptance.
Mahadeva's exploration invokes curiosity and introspection. He presents ideas that challenge prevailing narratives, sparking emotional resonance and intellectual stimulation.
The book's strength lies in its innovative approach, blending mythology with political analysis. However, the complexity of the subject might occasionally challenge readers unfamiliar with Indian politics or cultural nuances.
"RSS: The Long and the Short of It" is a compelling read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the RSS and its impact. Mahadeva's skillful navigation of intricate topics demonstrates his mastery of the subject matter.
Devanura Mahadeva's book is an enlightening examination of the RSS, offering readers a unique blend of mythology, political insight, and humor. It challenges us to critically engage with the RSS's role in shaping India and its future. "RSS: The Long and the Short of It" stands as a testament to Mahadeva's virtuosity as both a writer and a thinker.
January 18, 2023
This is a very short pamphlet. But Devanuru, distills within it, the core goals of the RSS and why and how the RSS is the empire which is running India and is on track to take over complete control of India. Although I was aware of all of this since couple of decades, this small but very important book is much required for people to open thier eyes if they want to protect the constitution of the Republic of India as it was envisioned on 1957.
India is a concept, it is an experiment. There has been no time in history when such a diverse set of states or provinces were challenged to work together as one. I assume thate we could all feel prior to the 1990s, that although on the whole of practical and superficial things were developing and not so great, the core fabric of India remained strong. I never knew anybody who had hate or anybody who looked upon any person of any faith with doubt or ulterior motive. But 1992 India changed forever, never to be what it was a 100 years back. This change is possibly permanent unfortunately. But how far down the dark side does one want to take it. There are serious forces which want to take over the control of the entire nation and Constitution. These forces are strong and long. They took birth in 1920 and slowly and steadily have grown like a cancer and releasing thier venom progressively. I am surprised that the younger generation and so called 'educated-middle-and-upper-class' blissfully unaware or possibly even in favor of it.
This is a must read for every citizen. Devanur has made it painlessly simple and short to nail the long and short of it. He has distilled the point with enough clear references. In one sentence, the only way the experiment called India will work is 'unity in diversity'. But the current forces want 'subservience via a normalized monotony'. A complete takeover is less than 10-15 yrs away and mostly unstoppable now. Wake up.
India is a concept, it is an experiment. There has been no time in history when such a diverse set of states or provinces were challenged to work together as one. I assume thate we could all feel prior to the 1990s, that although on the whole of practical and superficial things were developing and not so great, the core fabric of India remained strong. I never knew anybody who had hate or anybody who looked upon any person of any faith with doubt or ulterior motive. But 1992 India changed forever, never to be what it was a 100 years back. This change is possibly permanent unfortunately. But how far down the dark side does one want to take it. There are serious forces which want to take over the control of the entire nation and Constitution. These forces are strong and long. They took birth in 1920 and slowly and steadily have grown like a cancer and releasing thier venom progressively. I am surprised that the younger generation and so called 'educated-middle-and-upper-class' blissfully unaware or possibly even in favor of it.
This is a must read for every citizen. Devanur has made it painlessly simple and short to nail the long and short of it. He has distilled the point with enough clear references. In one sentence, the only way the experiment called India will work is 'unity in diversity'. But the current forces want 'subservience via a normalized monotony'. A complete takeover is less than 10-15 yrs away and mostly unstoppable now. Wake up.
January 18, 2023
This is a very short pamphlet. But Devanuru, distills within it, the core goals of the RSS and why and how the RSS is the empire which is running India and is on track to take over complete control of India. Although I was aware of all of this since couple of decades, this small but very important book is much required for people to open thier eyes if they want to protect the constitution of the Republic of India as it was envisioned on 1957.
India is a concept, it is an experiment. There has been no time in history when such a diverse set of states or provinces were challenged to work together as one. I assume thate we could all feel prior to the 1990s, that although on the whole of practical and superficial things were developing and not so great, the core fabric of India remained strong. I never knew anybody who had hate or anybody who looked upon any person of any faith with doubt or ulterior motive. But 1992 India changed forever, never to be what it was a 100 years back. This change is possibly permanent unfortunately. But how far down the dark side does one want to take it. There are serious forces which want to take over the control of the entire nation and Constitution. These forces are strong and long. They took birth in 1920 and slowly and steadily have grown like a cancer and releasing thier venom progressively. I am surprised that the younger generation and so called 'educated-middle-and-upper-class' blissfully unaware or possibly even in favor of it.
This is a must read for every citizen. Devanur has made it painlessly simple and short to nail the long and short of it. He has distilled the point with enough clear references. In one sentence, the only way the experiment called India will work is 'unity in diversity'. But the current forces want 'subservience via a normalized monotony'. A complete takeover is less than 10-15 yrs away and mostly unstoppable now. Wake up.
India is a concept, it is an experiment. There has been no time in history when such a diverse set of states or provinces were challenged to work together as one. I assume thate we could all feel prior to the 1990s, that although on the whole of practical and superficial things were developing and not so great, the core fabric of India remained strong. I never knew anybody who had hate or anybody who looked upon any person of any faith with doubt or ulterior motive. But 1992 India changed forever, never to be what it was a 100 years back. This change is possibly permanent unfortunately. But how far down the dark side does one want to take it. There are serious forces which want to take over the control of the entire nation and Constitution. These forces are strong and long. They took birth in 1920 and slowly and steadily have grown like a cancer and releasing thier venom progressively. I am surprised that the younger generation and so called 'educated-middle-and-upper-class' blissfully unaware or possibly even in favor of it.
This is a must read for every citizen. Devanur has made it painlessly simple and short to nail the long and short of it. He has distilled the point with enough clear references. In one sentence, the only way the experiment called India will work is 'unity in diversity'. But the current forces want 'subservience via a normalized monotony'. A complete takeover is less than 10-15 yrs away and mostly unstoppable now. Wake up.
January 18, 2023
This is a very short pamphlet. But Devanuru, distills within it, the core goals of the RSS and why and how the RSS is the empire which is running India and is on track to take over complete control of India. Although I was aware of all of this since couple of decades, this small but very important book is much required for people to open thier eyes if they want to protect the constitution of the Republic of India as it was envisioned on 1957.
India is a concept, it is an experiment. There has been no time in history when such a diverse set of states or provinces were challenged to work together as one. I assume thate we could all feel prior to the 1990s, that although on the whole of practical and superficial things were developing and not so great, the core fabric of India remained strong. I never knew anybody who had hate or anybody who looked upon any person of any faith with doubt or ulterior motive. But 1992 India changed forever, never to be what it was a 100 years back. This change is possibly permanent unfortunately. But how far down the dark side does one want to take it. There are serious forces which want to take over the control of the entire nation and Constitution. These forces are strong and long. They took birth in 1920 and slowly and steadily have grown like a cancer and releasing thier venom progressively. I am surprised that the younger generation and so called 'educated-middle-and-upper-class' blissfully unaware or possibly even in favor of it.
This is a must read for every citizen. Devanur has made it painlessly simple and short to nail the long and short of it. He has distilled the point with enough clear references. In one sentence, the only way the experiment called India will work is 'unity in diversity'. But the current forces want 'subservience via a normalized monotony'. A complete takeover is less than 10-15 yrs away and mostly unstoppable now. Wake up.
India is a concept, it is an experiment. There has been no time in history when such a diverse set of states or provinces were challenged to work together as one. I assume thate we could all feel prior to the 1990s, that although on the whole of practical and superficial things were developing and not so great, the core fabric of India remained strong. I never knew anybody who had hate or anybody who looked upon any person of any faith with doubt or ulterior motive. But 1992 India changed forever, never to be what it was a 100 years back. This change is possibly permanent unfortunately. But how far down the dark side does one want to take it. There are serious forces which want to take over the control of the entire nation and Constitution. These forces are strong and long. They took birth in 1920 and slowly and steadily have grown like a cancer and releasing thier venom progressively. I am surprised that the younger generation and so called 'educated-middle-and-upper-class' blissfully unaware or possibly even in favor of it.
This is a must read for every citizen. Devanur has made it painlessly simple and short to nail the long and short of it. He has distilled the point with enough clear references. In one sentence, the only way the experiment called India will work is 'unity in diversity'. But the current forces want 'subservience via a normalized monotony'. A complete takeover is less than 10-15 yrs away and mostly unstoppable now. Wake up.
November 22, 2023
Originally published as pamphlets in Kannada soon translated into book for English reader. A short synopsis of the long history of RSS exposing their hidden agenda. What is really surprising that the Hydra like penetration that the RSS is doing or already into various system, need a eye opener before it is too late and this book is an eye opener.
September 11, 2023
ആർ.എസ്.എസ്: ഒളിഞ്ഞും തെളിഞ്ഞും - ദേവനുരു മഹാദേവ
ഇന്ത്യയുടെ ശരീരത്തിൽ പടർന്നുപിടിച്ച RSS എന്ന വൈറസിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അതിനെ പ്രതിരോധിക്കേണ്ട രീതിശാസ്ത്രവും വിവരിക്കുന്ന ലഘു ഗ്രന്ഥം. ഇക്കഴിഞ്ഞ കർണാടക തിരഞ്ഞെടുപ്പിൽ ജനാധിപത്യപാർട്ടിയെ വിജയിപ്പിച്ച പ്രത്യയശാസ്ത്ര ഗ്രന്ഥം.
ഇന്ത്യയുടെ ശരീരത്തിൽ പടർന്നുപിടിച്ച RSS എന്ന വൈറസിനെക്കുറിച്ചും അതിനെ പ്രതിരോധിക്കേണ്ട രീതിശാസ്ത്രവും വിവരിക്കുന്ന ലഘു ഗ്രന്ഥം. ഇക്കഴിഞ്ഞ കർണാടക തിരഞ്ഞെടുപ്പിൽ ജനാധിപത്യപാർട്ടിയെ വിജയിപ്പിച്ച പ്രത്യയശാസ്ത്ര ഗ്രന്ഥം.
November 29, 2022
This book is about the RSS and its ideology and the present condition is written for bringing about awareness. Well-written and translated book.
April 4, 2023
Inspirational and spirited exposition
Short and focused. Explains Why RSS and affiliates are on the path of destroying India. Suggests a way out to regain sanity!
Short and focused. Explains Why RSS and affiliates are on the path of destroying India. Suggests a way out to regain sanity!
April 18, 2023
Absolute gem
This really needs to be read by as many as possible to counter the forces that are destroying our great country.
This really needs to be read by as many as possible to counter the forces that are destroying our great country.
May 23, 2023
Devanura Mahadeva explores the crucial issue in a remarkable manner combing mythology with modernity and folklore.
October 31, 2024
Nothing much just some facts
August 17, 2023
A very gripping read. Translated from Kannada. This book was recommended to me by a local bookseller after I picked up Ghachar Ghochar (Shoutout to Paperback Book store in Kalyan Nagar). More than anything it exposes a sinister agenda of continuing casteism, changing the constitution and curbing freedom of expression.
September 29, 2024
Hard hitting book on the origins and operation of RSS machine. In small parts conspiratorial.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews