Book Review by Saumya Bhatt

“Mandiron ke liye Ek Dashak” (Volume 2) by Sandeep Singh serves as a compelling call to action for Hindus to actively engage in preserving and revitalising their Mandirs. Building on the foundation in the first volume, Singh emphasizes the necessity of moving beyond social media activism to tangible, on-ground efforts for Mandirs’ preservation and economic nurturing.

Singh emphasizes that this is the most opportune time for Hindus to reclaim the glory of their Mandirs. He finds the current political climate less hostile to Hindu interests than previous governments.

The book is divided into four parts, each addressing critical aspects of the establishment of the anti-Mandir framework, the lack of understanding among Hindus about their own Mandirs, identifying the enemies, and dismantling the anti-Mandir framework.

Part One: Establishing the Anti-Mandir Framework

This section uncovers the systematic destruction of Mandirs by various forces. Additionally, Singh uses the case study of Kalighat Mandir to illustrate how the push for modernization has eroded the Mandir’s spiritual and cultural importance. 

Singh illustrates how government interference, NGO activities, judiciary actions, bureaucratic apathy, and the neglect of devotees contribute to this decline. He argues that Public interest litigations (PILs) and judicial interventions have sometimes been used as tools to impose secular viewpoints on Mandirs to strip them of their essence.

Part Two: Hindus Do Not Understand Mandir

Singh delves into the lack of understanding among Hindus about their own Mandirs. He argues that while foreign visitors often grasp the essence of Mandirs as a journey of holistic exploration—encompassing physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects—many Hindus see them merely as places for leisure or tourism. 

Singh attributes this misunderstanding to the influence of colonial perspectives, which have shaped Hindu self-perception and led to a misinterpretation of traditional concepts. Terms like “Dharma” and “religion” are often conflated, leading to confusion about their meanings and implications. For instance, the concept of “Sone Ki Chidiya” is a misrepresentation of Bharat’s historical prosperity. Similarly, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” has been misinterpreted as a slogan for strategy instead of goodwill.

Part Three: The Enemy

Singh categorizes the internal enemies of Hinduism into two broad categories: those within the government and society. He critiques Raajnitik (Political) Hindus and Sarkari (Government) Hindus who, knowingly or unknowingly, harm Hindu interests.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is cited as an example of Raajnitik Hindus whose monotheistic and secular interpretations of Hinduism diluted traditional practices. The book discusses various types of Hindus who contribute to the decline of Hindu traditions. These include  intentional enemies (e.g., opportunists and corrupt individuals) and unintentional enemies (e.g., brainwashed or misguided Hindus).

Moreover, Singh emphasizes the damaging role of leftist historians and intellectuals who deny the existence of figures like Bhagwan Ram. Some examples and case studies include statements by professors of JNU, Delhi University, AMU, Allahabad University, Kurukshetra University, Calcutta University.

Part Four: Dismantling the Anti-Mandir Framework

This final section provides actionable steps for restoring Mandirs. Key recommendations include reclaiming the rights of deities and respecting and empowering Pujaris. He suggests making Mandirs more accessible and welcoming to devotees, especially children and the underprivileged. 

Singh advocates for a thorough cleanup of Mandir management, rebuilding and reviving traditional rituals, festivals, and cultural practices. He emphasizes reclaiming the sanctity of pilgrimage sites and ensuring Mandirs serve as centers of excellence, development, and self-defense. The book also calls for protective measures against external and corporate influences. It also advocates for a dedicated ministry to oversee Mandirs’ affairs.

Sandeep Singh advocates dedicating the next decade to the betterment of Mandirs. He urges people to commit themselves to visit and contribute to their local Mandir every day. Even small efforts, sustained over time, will result in significant growth. 

He urges a personal, passionate commitment to restore and support Mandirs, blending one’s hobbies and efforts into this mission. By getting better just 1 percent each day for a year, you will be thirty-seven times better than when you started your journey. In contrast, if you get 1 percent worse each day for a year, you will be worse off 1500 times… If you do not even visit Mandir, in a year Mandir will be worse off by 1500 times.