Prime Minister Modi's emphasis on inaugurating Hindu temples in India and abroad, such as the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and a temple in Abu Dhabi, can be seen as an effort to reinforce Hindu identity and pride. Modi's recent visit to the submerged city of Lord Krishna in the Arabian Sea also holds a symbolic significance. The act of offering prayers at this underwater site can be interpreted as a reaffirmation of India's cultural and religious heritage, particularly its connection to Hindu mythology. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting India's ancient heritage, a narrative that resonates with many Indians, especially those who identify strongly with Hinduism.

By consistently associating himself with these monumental events, Modi aligns himself with a significant segment of the Indian population that identifies strongly with Hinduism. This phenomenon, often referred to as "Temple Diplomacy," is not merely about personal faith but is a carefully crafted political narrative aimed at consolidating power and securing political supremacy in India. The concept of Temple Diplomacy is not new in India's political landscape. Throughout history, temples have played a significant role in shaping the socio-political fabric of the country. They have been centers of religious and cultural activities, and have often been associated with political power and patronage. In recent times, the issue of temple construction and restoration has been a contentious and politically charged topic, particularly in the context of Hindu-Muslim relations and the broader secular fabric of the Indian state.

India is predominantly a Hindu-majority country, and Modi's focus on Hindu temples is a strategic move to appeal to this demographic. By highlighting his visits to temples and participation in Hindu festivals, Modi seeks to connect with the sentiments of the Hindu majority and consolidate their support for the BJP. This strategy has proven effective in garnering electoral support, particularly in the 2014 and 2019 general elections.

Additionally, these actions resonate with the ideology of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which emphasizes Hindutva, a concept that seeks to establish the hegemony of Hindus and the Hindu way of life. Modi's focus on reclaiming Hindu temples in Kashi and Mathura, two historically significant cities for Hindus, is in line with the BJP's long-standing demand to reclaim these sites, which are believed to have been built upon Hindu temples destroyed during Islamic rule. By stoking the imagination around reclaiming these temples, Modi is tapping into a sentiment of historical grievance among Hindus, thereby consolidating support for his party among this demographic.

Modi's Temple Diplomacy is rooted in the idea of reinforcing Hindu identity. By associating himself with the inauguration of Hindu temples, such as the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Modi aims to position himself as a champion of Hindu causes.

This strategy is aligned with the ideology of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which emphasizes Hindutva, or the cultural and nationalistic assertion of Hindu identity. Modi's frequent visits to Vishwanath temple in Kashi, which is his parliamentary constituency as well strengthens the argument to reclaim historical narratives that many of such temples, which existed earlier were destroyed during Islamic rule. By visiting these temples and stoking the imagination of reclaiming them, Modi taps into a sentiment of historical grievance among Hindus and positions himself as a leader who is willing to assert Hindu rights.

Modi's ‘Temple Diplomacy’ extends beyond India's borders, as seen in his visit to Abu Dhabi for the inauguration of a Swaminarayan temple. This move is part of a broader strategy to project India's soft power and enhance its cultural and religious influence globally. By showcasing India's rich religious heritage, Modi aims to strengthen diplomatic ties with countries that have significant Hindu populations and promote a positive image of India abroad.

Each of Modi's visits to temples and religious sites is accompanied by a carefully crafted political message. Whether it is seeking blessings from Hindu saints or offering prayers at revered sites, Modi uses these gestures to convey a message of solidarity with the Hindu community. These actions are not only aimed at garnering political support but also at shaping public perception and reinforcing Modi's image as a devout Hindu leader.

While Modi's temple visits are often highlighted, it's worth noting that he has also visited Gurudwaras and sought blessings from Hindu saints, Jain, and Sikh gurus. These actions demonstrate a broader appeal to religious diversity and inclusivity, showcasing Modi's efforts to connect with a wide range of religious communities in India. By engaging with different religious groups, Modi aims to project an image of a leader who respects and values all faiths, thereby garnering support from a diverse cross-section of the population. By emphasizing common Hindu heritage and identity, Modi seeks to transcend traditional fault lines within Hindu society and consolidate a unified Hindu vote bank. This strategy could prove beneficial in the upcoming elections by ensuring a broad base of support from the Hindu community, regardless of caste or regional differences.

However, Modi's Temple Diplomacy has not been without its share of criticisms and controversies. While it has been successful in galvanizing support among certain segments of the population, it has also sparked debates about the implications for India's secular ethos and communal harmony. As Modi continues to engage with Hindu temples and religious sites, the impact of his Temple Diplomacy on India's political landscape remains a subject of ongoing scrutiny and debate. Critics argue that the emphasis on temple diplomacy has contributed to the polarization of religious communities and has reinforced a majoritarian narrative that is exclusionary in nature. They argue that the government's focus on Hindu temples has overshadowed the need to address the concerns and aspirations of religious minorities, and has contributed to a climate of religious intolerance and discrimination.

Critics also argue that Modi's focus on Hindu temples undermines India's secular fabric and marginalizes religious minorities. There are also concerns that Modi's emphasis on Hindu nationalism has a potent danger that could lead to communal tensions and polarization within Indian society. As he continues to engage with Hindu temples and religious sites, the impact of his Temple Diplomacy on India's political landscape remains a subject of ongoing scrutiny and debate. Furthermore, the promotion of temple diplomacy has also raised questions about the separation of religion and state in India. The Indian Constitution enshrines the principle of secularism, and the state is expected to maintain a neutral stance in matters of religion. The active involvement of the government in the restoration and promotion of Hindu temples has raised concerns about the blurring of lines between religion and state, and has sparked debates about the appropriate role of the state in religious matters. Whether this strategy will translate into electoral success remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly underscores the complex interplay between religion and politics in India.

(Alok Verma is a National Award-winning journalist and founder of NYOOOZ.com)

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