Jerome Anto is a Politico Religious observer and a Hindu resurgence movement Evangelist.

He staunchly advocates for the rights of the indigenous people and believes that religious conversion efforts are a direct attempt to erode and destroy the rights of the indigenous people of Bharat.

1. “Until the lions have their own historians, the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter”. Contorted Indian history aptly reflects this scenario. But what are we doing about it?

Repealing the distortions of the past in India is a complex and time-consuming process, given the nation's inherent diversity encompassing myriad perspectives, worldviews, opinions, and the ethos of free-thinking Sanatani ideology. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of this challenge, the endeavour involves not just rectifying historical narratives but also navigating the intricate tapestry of cultural, religious, and social diversity that defines India. The country's rich tapestry of thought, from various schools of philosophy within Sanatana Dharma to myriad traditions and beliefs, contributes to the complexity of the task.

The challenges are compounded by a significant period spanning a century, both pre and post-independence, during which history was deliberately mistold through distorted facts, omissions, and the rigging of educational systems to create a narrative that propagated a slave mentality among Indians. This deliberate manipulation aimed at suppressing authentic historical narratives and fostering a distorted worldview has had a profound impact on societal perceptions. However, the ongoing efforts in revising historical accounts, promoting indigenous narratives, reforming education, and leveraging digital platforms collectively signify a commitment to unravelling a more authentic depiction of India's past.

The myth of a subservient mentality has been systematically challenged and debunked, empowering Indians to reassess their history with a critical eye. This process reflects a collective determination to break free from historical distortions and foster a renewed sense of pride and identity rooted in the diverse and resilient history of the Indian people.

2. Unshackling the colonial discourse, Latin American countries and African countries are rescripting their own narrative. Where is Bharat positioned in this regard?

India, particularly post-2014 with the emergence of the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) at the forefront, has experienced a profound shift. The challenges of repealing historical distortions and fostering a genuine narrative have been intricate, given India's diverse perspectives and the deliberate mis-telling of its past. Comparatively, India's progress surpasses that of some Latin American and African countries, especially post-2014. The emergence of the BJP has revitalized the pursuit of truth, leading to substantial developments and placing India at the forefront of this transformative journey. The nation's superfast development and advancements underscore its commitment to breaking free from historical distortions and fostering a renewed sense of pride and identity rooted in its diverse and resilient history. In this regard, India stands as a testament to the transformative power of revisiting and reshaping historical narratives.

Furthermore, India has not only broken its own chains of suppression but has also illuminated a path for these nations, showcasing how a commitment to truth and historical accuracy can fuel progress and instill confidence. India's experience serves as a source of inspiration, demonstrating that confronting and rectifying historical distortions can lead to societal empowerment and pave the way for comprehensive national development. In this way, India stands as a guiding light for nations seeking to break free from the shadows of colonial history and forge a path towards self-determination and confidence.

3. More than ever, why is it important for Bharat, right now, to regain the narrative?

In the contemporary context, it is paramount for Bharat (India) to reclaim its narrative for several compelling reasons. Regaining control over the narrative is integral to shaping and preserving the nation's identity, fostering a positive self-perception, and instilling pride among its diverse citizens. This cohesive national narrative serves as a unifying force, bridging gaps among different communities and promoting a collective sense of belonging. Moreover, the narrative plays a crucial role on the global stage, influencing how India is perceived internationally and impacting diplomatic relations and global partnerships.

A positive and forward-looking narrative not only attracts investments and encourages innovation but also positions Bharat as a hub for economic and technological advancements. In the realm of cultural heritage, regaining the narrative enhances India's soft power, contributing to its influence globally. This endeavour is also pivotal for historical accuracy, ensuring that future generations have a truthful understanding of their heritage. Beyond these factors, regaining the narrative empowers the people of Bharat by instilling confidence, motivating citizens to actively contribute to the nation's development, upholding democratic values, and resisting external influences seeking to define India's identity. Ultimately, the present moment demands a strategic and purposeful effort to shape a narrative that reflects Bharat's resilience, progress, and aspirations in the face of contemporary challenges.

4. People contend that Narendra Modi’s ascent to power as Prime Minister in 2014 has been the turning point. Do you agree, if yes, in what way is the post-2014 era different?

Absolutely, Shri Narendra Modi's ascent to power as Prime Minister in 2014 undeniably marks a significant turning point for India. The post-2014 era under his leadership has been distinctive in several aspects. PM Modi, transitioning from a Chief Minister to a formidable Prime Minister, has overcome numerous challenges and transformed his image, not just as a capable leader domestically but also as a contender on the global stage.

His tenure has witnessed a remarkable shift in India's trajectory, characterized by a renewed sense of national pride and confidence. PM Modi has played a pivotal role in scripting the Indian and Hindu resurgence movement, steering the nation towards embracing and celebrating its rich cultural heritage. This resurgence has not only instilled pride among the people for their past glory but has also contributed to a sense of unity and purpose.

It's clearly evident that PM Modi understands the pulse of the nation, encompassing the past, present, and future. His visionary approach has influenced the trajectory of India's development, making significant strides in various sectors. Moreover, his diplomatic endeavours have elevated India's standing globally, positioning him as a key player and India as a prominent voice in international affairs.

The post-2014 era, under PM Modi's leadership, reflects a commitment to transformative governance, economic reforms, and social development. His pragmatic policies, such as "Make in India" and "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan," have aimed at fostering inclusive growth and improving the quality of life for citizens.

In essence, PM Narendra Modi deserves credit, whether directly or indirectly, for steering India through a period of significant transformation. His leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing national pride, fostering economic growth, and positioning India as a dynamic player on the world stage. As a true visionary, PM Modi has left an indelible mark on the post-2014 era, shaping the nation's narrative and influencing its trajectory toward a brighter and more assertive future.

5. Along with the hard power, strong nations have invested heavily in subtly constructing and building narratives. Are Bharat political efforts commensurate with its diplomatic efforts to reshape perceptions? 

India's attempt to reshape its global image requires a comprehensive strategy that integrates both hard power and strategic narrative construction. However, this task is formidable, given the historical burdens that the nation bears. Legacies of colonialism, invasions by Islamic and Christian forces, and the consequences of misrule during the initial post-independence decades have left deep wounds that demand time for healing.

India has achieved significant progress, evolving from a perceived underdeveloped and aid-dependent nation to a prominent player in global development. Despite these strides, the challenge lies in narrative construction. The country has long been on the defensive, countering accusations rather than actively shaping its narrative.

The historical victimization narrative crafted by minority communities, namely Islam and Christianity, to expand their influence and propagate their ideologies, has been a powerful tool hindering India's rise on the global stage. This narrative is often amplified by left-leaning voices. Policies such as the CAA, UCC, and the abrogation of Article 370 faced staunch resistance, with dubious narratives built by the minorities themselves. For instance, despite being beneficiaries, the Christian community criticized the CAA, overlooking the Modi government's intent to rescue its members from persecution in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.

While efforts to counter this narrative are evident, there is a recognition that more must be done. India needs to shift from a defensive posture to actively dictating its narrative globally.

Safeguarding local narrative builders is crucial for strengthening the global narrative. However, a notable gap exists in protecting those who construct local narratives, especially under the BJP, which, at times, has left its own supporters vulnerable by not providing sufficient support and protection. Acknowledging these constraints, there is a call to move forward and address these challenges, recognizing that empowering local narrative builders is integral to enhancing India's global standing.