Selective Harmony: Challenging the Criticism of Hindu Celebrations

Anton Kirichenko -

In a land renowned for its spiritual and cultural tapestry, Bharat stands as a testament to diversity and coexistence. The heart of this mosaic beats through its myriad festivals, each a reflection of joy and inclusivity. But a troubling trend has surfaced in recent years, revealing a selective approach toward Hindu festivals, leading to a broader societal discourse on civilizational values.

Dissecting the Here-and-Now: Media Icons and Double Standards

A comprehensive report from 2012 to 2025 unveils a pattern among prominent Bharatiya figures—journalists, actors, musicians—who publicly extend harmonious messages during Muslim festivals like Bakrid but selectively criticize Hindu festivals. This pattern is seen in actions such as:

  • Journalists’ Dilemma: While journalists like Ravish Kumar express warm greetings on Eid, their remarks during Diwali might focus on pollution, often in a tone that appears critical.
  • A Parallel in Entertainment: Actors like Alia Bhatt and Rakul Preet celebrate Bakrid, yet during Holi or Diwali, they spotlight environmental concerns, overlooking the mass sacrifices of Bakrid.
  • In Music and Sports: Icons like Vishal Dadlani echo similar sentiments, harmonizing Eid greetings while critiquing Ganesha Chaturthi over animal rights issues.

This narrative portrays a systemic pattern where Hindu festivals are spotlighted for criticism, unlike their non-Hindu counterparts.

Civilizational Context and Its Implications

For the practitioners of Hindu traditions, this double standard is not just concerning but poses deeper questions relating to identity and heritage:

  • Erosion of Identity: The constant criticism breeds a sense of inferiority, questioning the richness of Hindu traditions compared to the unchallenged acceptance of others.
  • Illustrating Hypocrisy: The outcry during Hindu festivals contrasted with the muted response to similar issues during Bakrid highlights a selective outrage often seen as virtue signaling.
  • Impact on Community Harmony: Rather than fostering unity, this discord fuels resentment, depriving Hindus of the equitable recognition of their practices.

Underlying Societal Impact: A Wake-Up Call

The repercussions extend beyond online skirmishes, touching the societal fabric where Hindu festivals face restrictions, negative portrayal in media, and even attacks on gatherings. The attack on Mahakumbh pilgrims in 2025 exemplifies the tangible aggression rooted in this paradigm.

Response and Reimagination: Defending Hindu Dharma

In navigating this skewed narrative, the call for Hindus is threefold:

  • Affirmation of Cultural Pride: Embrace the wisdom and essence of Hindu festivals, recognizing their ecological and spiritual significance.
  • Exposing Inconsistencies: Challenge the biases that depict Hindu festivals unfairly, advocating for balanced scrutiny across all cultural practices.
  • Nurturing Self-Confidence: By dictating the narrative, Hindus can advocate for an unhindered celebration of their traditions.

Conclusion: Crafting a Narrative of True Harmony

The selective scrutiny of Hindu festivals casts shadows on the vibrant celebration within this civilization. To foster real harmony, it is imperative to dismantle these double standards, celebrating cultural legacies with equal reverence. Through this, Bharat can continue to thrive as a diverse yet united society, with mutual respect extending across all its faiths and traditions.

According to HinduPost, acknowledging and addressing this imbalance is paramount to rebuilding civilizational confidence and unity in India’s diverse socio-cultural landscape.