Citation

Jha BK. Stud. Hist. 2013; 29(1): 119-146.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0257643013496691

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The All-India Hindu Mahasabha, founded in 1915, advocated physical and military regeneration of the Hindu community. This initiative formed an indivisible part of the larger goal of Hindu sangathan. Gradually, as this idea became more sharp and aggressive, there was a fervent appeal for militarization of the Hindu youth. This appeal also made a subtle reference to the supposed organic unity and militant outlook of the Muslim community. Marathi leaders of the Mahasabha, led by B.S. Moonje, were frontrunners in this initiative. Moonje made special efforts to found the first military school at Nasik in 1937, devoted exclusively to the training of Hindu boys. This school was also envisioned as a feeder school for future recruitment to the armed forces. Building on this spirit, the Hindu Mahasabha also established Ram Sena or the Hindu national militia.

Language: en