Communalist Approach
What is it?
It’s a way of looking at history that divides people into religious groups (Hindus and Muslims).
It says Hindus and Muslims were always in conflict and could never live together peacefully.
Where did it come from?
This idea comes from British colonial history books.
British historians wrote that India’s medieval history was just a series of Hindu-Muslim fights.
Main Idea:
Hindus and Muslims are shown as permanent enemies.
Muslims are described as the ruling class (proud and powerful) in medieval India.
Hindus are described as the subject race (humiliated and oppressed).
Impact of this Idea:
This thinking was used by communal leaders (political leaders who divided people based on religion).
It created hatred between Hindus and Muslims.
This led to communal riots and, finally, the partition of India in 1947 (India and Pakistan were divided).
Why is it Problematic?
It ignores the times when Hindus and Muslims lived together peacefully.
It simplifies history into just religious conflict, ignoring other factors like culture, economy, etc.
Key Points to Remember:
Communalist history says Hindus and Muslims were always enemies.
It comes from British colonial history books.
This idea led to division, riots, and partition.
It ignores the peaceful coexistence of Hindus and Muslims in history.