Savarkar Reading

The aspect of Savarkar's writing that I found most interesting is all the different interpretations of the relationship of Swaraj and Swadharma. It is clear that Swaraj and Swadharma have a different literal meaning but they are being used to achieve the same "end." During our class discussion, we came up with several different interpretations of the "means and the end." I began to wonder which interpretation Savarkar would agree with. For example, on page 210 he states: "Rise for Swadharma and acquire Swaraj." Literally this means that Swadharma is the means and Swaraj is the end. However, in other places in the passage it indicates the opposite. Another interpretation is that Swaraj and Swadharma are both means that lead to a successful Revolution, the end. The one that I agree with most is the last one. On page 208, Savarkar states that the principles for the Revolution are Swadharma and Swaraj. One source that he uses is a statement made by Emperor of Delhi who said that they must protect their religion (Swadharma) and the country (Swaraj). He says that these rights, Swaraj and Swadharma, are give to man by God and man should protect these at any cost. These rights must be returned to the people of Hindustan under any circumstances. These strong believes is what leads Savarkar to taking a violent approach. Contrary to Gandhi, Savarkar believes that passive resistance is not sufficient enough to achieve the end.