Introduction

As a Hindu residing in Kerala, I often ponder the relationship between religion and politics. In this essay, I aim to explore these connections and reflect on the importance of religion in my personal and political choices.

The Role of Religion in My Life

Hinduism has always been more than just a set of religious practices or beliefs for me. It is an ideology that guides the path of spirituality, helping me to approach the divine and understand the underlying principles of life. The beauty of Hinduism lies in its inclusivity; it embraces a wide range of practices and beliefs, as long as one believes in the presence of divinity in all forms.

The Intersection of Spirituality and Mortal Life

While religion offers a spiritual path, it does not address the practical needs of our daily lives. For survival and growth, we require resources such as food, employment, and economic stability. These necessities are closely tied to the policies and governance of our nation. Thus, the political choices we make play a crucial role in ensuring that our basic needs are met. It is this pragmatic view that guides my political choices, not religious affiliation.

Disentangling Religion from Political Ideologies

Supporting a political party should be based on their policy and welfare measures, and not on religious ideologies. The current scenario in India, where religion is politicized to win votes, is detrimental to society. It has led to phenomena such as vigilantism, lynching, and a polarized environment where divisive political agendas are fueled by fear and misinformation.

The Importance of a Secular Society

A true democracy should ensure that religion and politics remain independent. Modern democratic states serve as examples where such separation is a vital component of a healthy and progressive society. The focus should be on upholding the policy and welfare measures promised by political parties, which should be the criteria for our support, rather than advocating for or against religious agendas.

Conclusion

As a Hindu in Kerala, I believe that religious beliefs should not dictate my political choices. Instead, my decision should be guided by the pragmatic needs of my community and the well-being of all citizens. Our political system should be a reflection of these values, ensuring that governance is inclusive, progressive, and rooted in the welfare of the people.