Romila Thapar Argues Hindutva Historical Interpretations Stem From Colonial Frameworks

Historian Romila Thapar stated on October 25, 2026, that modern Hindutva historical readings build upon colonial interpretations of Indian history. Delivering the Second Sitaram Yechury Memorial Lecture in New Delhi, she argued that colonial scholars reduced complex socio-political processes into simplified religious narratives.

Key Arguments on Historiography

• Colonial Frameworks: Ms. Thapar stated that British scholars viewed India through "Oriental despotism" and categorized history into Hindu, Muslim, and British periods.
• Religious Reductionism: She noted that conflicts like the Battle of Haldighati—where Rana Pratap's forces included Afghan soldiers and the Mughal army was led by a Rajput commander—are often incorrectly framed as purely religious battles.
• Physical Evidence: According to the historian, greater focus on inscriptions and physical evidence, particularly post-Gupta era documents, would have provided a richer understanding of governance and social life.

Decolonization and Contemporary Views

Ms. Thapar emphasized that decolonizing history should rely on new archaeological and genetic evidence rather than reinforcing colonial-era religious fractures. She remarked that contemporary political views often shape the Hindutva reading of history, ignoring the internal multiplicity within Hinduism, such as distinct regional deities.

Readers can verify official lecture announcements and reports through academic archives and major news outlets covering the event.