Write a note of the Swadeshi Movement in Bengal
THE SWADESHI MOVEMENT IN BENGAL: A Communal Tangle Unraveled
Introduction
The Swadeshi movement in Bengal during the early 20th century was characterized by a complex interplay of religion and nationalism. While the movement aimed to mobilize Indians against British rule, the use of religious imagery and symbols inadvertently contributed to communal tensions and divisions. This analysis explores how the Swadeshi movement's blend of religion and nationalism resulted in both communal harmony efforts and unfortunate communal strife.
1. Religious Nationalism and Communal Divide
In traditional societies, religion often served as a catalyst for indigenous nationalism. However, this marriage of religion and nationalism in the context of the Swadeshi movement led to unintended consequences. Instead of uniting the people of Bengal, it contributed to the growing divide between Hindus and Muslims.
1.1 British Imperialist Ideas and Divide
The British imperialist agenda aimed at dividing the people of Bengal was exploited during the Swadeshi movement. This agenda was initially proposed by Curzon, supported by figures like Andrew Fraser and Herbert Risley, and continued by successors such as Lord Minto and Bampfylde Fuller. The strategy involved pitting Hindus and Muslims against each other, effectively serving the colonial interests.
1.2 Emergence of Muslim League and Religious Antagonism
The authorities encouraged the formation of the Muslim League in 1906, led by Nawab Salimullah of Dacca, to protect Muslim interests separately. Additionally, the influence of obscurantist mullahs in eastern Bengal projected religious antagonism between Hindu landlords and Muslim cultivators. These elements further contributed to the communal divide.
2. Attempts at Communal Harmony
Despite these challenges, there were instances of communal harmony during the Swadeshi movement. Writings like "Sanjivani" advocated for unity, and events like the joint procession of 10,000 students in Calcutta showcased Hindu-Muslim fraternization. Some distinguished Muslim leaders actively participated in the movement.
2.1 Unintended Consequences of Hinduization
However, the movement's leadership attempted to boost morale by Hinduizing the movement. Nationalist publications like "Bande Mataram" and the glorification of Hindu past intensified communal sentiments. The practice of using Hindu rituals, images, and myths became a medium of communication between leaders and followers, but it also distanced Muslims from the movement.
3. Communal Strife and Violence
The heightened Hinduization of the movement led to a hardening of attitudes within both communities. References to Hindu icons, rituals, and values inadvertently deepened communal divisions. The emphasis on Hindu symbolism, including references to the goddess Durga and religious pledges before Hindu deities, contributed to communal polarization.
3.1 Communal Violence and Riots
Communal tensions escalated into violence, resulting in a series of communal riots in various regions of Bengal. The riots targeted Hindu landlords and moneylenders, revealing an underlying agrarian dimension to the strife. Rumors of British intentions to hand over administration to Nawab Salimullah added fuel to the communal fire.
Conclusion
The Swadeshi movement in Bengal showcases the intricate relationship between religion and nationalism. While efforts were made to promote communal harmony, the unintended consequences of heightened Hinduization fueled communal strife. This complex dynamic reveals the challenges of maintaining unity while invoking religious symbols in the pursuit of national liberation.