Monthly Archives: September 2025

culture, design, fashion, heritage, music

Burberry’s Festival Beat

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Daniel Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry Group, used the Burberry Spring 2026 collection to connect music with fashion in clear, direct ways. The runway was set under a sky-patterned tent in Perks Field at Kensington Palace, creating a setting that felt like a festival backstage. The floor was covered in dirt, while guests laughed and moved like a crowd eagerly waiting for a headline act.

The clothes maintained British tailoring but offered a music lover’s wardrobe with polish for the stage and durability in the mud. The collection balanced heritage with hedonism, featuring utility pieces built for both performance and weather. Lee referenced decades of British music culture—from the Mod period to folk rock and the current indie revival—filtering these influences through Burberry’s practical design to give each reference a modern shape.

“Musicians have always had incredible style, and together with fashion, they form a really strong culture,” Lee explained. The clothes embodied this idea with cropped A-line coats in Pop-Art checks and tartans in vibrant apple green and acid yellow. Classic camel coats kept their traditional structure while allowing a swinging hem.

The front row added to the festival atmosphere. British cultural icon Twiggy (Dame Lesley Lawson) arrived ahead of a group of musicians, joking, “I want to get in before the boy band arrives.” Also present were Elton John, Vanessa Williams, Skepta, Central Cee, and Naomi Campbell. Anna Wintour attended alongside US tennis star Jack Draper. Benji B, one of the world’s most respected music curators, mixed Black Sabbath tracks into the soundtrack, underlining the connection between rock heritage and new audiences.

Shine and weather protection remained central themes throughout the collection. Sequinned mini kilts flashed Burberry checks in pink and green, while glossy bomber jackets and wet-look leathers reflected light. Trench-inspired pieces appeared in denim, raffia, and waterproof cotton, proving that Burberry still designs with the elements in mind. Crochet and chainmail dresses were paired with fringe and flat lace-up shoes, perfect for festival grounds.

Suits stayed slim and short in silhouette, often featuring a Canadian-denim twist. Other looks were accented with hot pink polish or brown coatings featuring 1960s edges. Accessories included oversized fringe bags, skinny crochet scarves, and belts with prominent buckles—each serving a practical purpose while adding visual impact.

Daniel Lee delivered a focused vision: rock and roll style works when adapted for a modern mindset. In this latest collection, heritage pieces met a festival mood, and England felt ready to swing again.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346803-burberrys-festival-beat

international conflict, politics, protests, social justice

Age of agitation

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Protests erupted worldwide well before the invasion of Iraq in March 2003. However, those demonstrations failed to prevent the invasion. Today, Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza has reignited similar global protests. Nearly every major city has witnessed streets taken over by demonstrators demanding action against what they describe as the genocide and ethnic cleansing of Palestinians. So far, these atrocities have only escalated.

The Black Lives Matter movement also continues to be an ongoing struggle—now more of a campaign than a protest. Unlike the Occupy Wall Street movement, it has not faded away.

In Bangladesh, protests in 2024 led to a regime change. In 1977, the so-called Tehreek-i-Nizam-i-Mustafa protest resulted in the promulgation of martial law and the execution of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. However, the 126-day sit-in following the 2013 elections and the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf protests after a successful no-confidence vote against the government proved futile.

Indonesia’s Suharto and the Philippines’ Marcos were ousted after prolonged, persistent mass movements. In contrast, Adolf Hitler’s downfall came through military defeat and his suicide. Mussolini of Italy and Pinochet of Chile lost power after fighting erupted within their ranks. Mussolini met a remarkably gruesome end, whereas Pinochet escaped relatively unscathed.

The Iraqi people revolted against Saddam Hussein in 1991 and again in 1999. However, these uprisings were crushed with brutal oppression, and Saddam survived as long as his international support remained intact. A similar fate befell Libya’s Gaddafi.

This brief overview suggests that street protests do not always fully represent the people’s will. This raises two key questions: why do people protest, and what determines whether protests lead to positive or negative outcomes?

—

### Why Do People Protest?

Psychologically speaking, protests spring from fear, anger, hope, or moral outrage. Fear remains fear only up to a certain point; once it crosses a threshold, it transforms into motivation to resist and retaliate. Fear of losing land or livelihood has sparked many recent protests.

For example, the 2016 Standing Rock Sioux protest in the USA opposed the Dakota Access Pipeline crossing sacred indigenous land. In India, some agricultural laws faced similar protests from small farmers fearing loss of income and land ownership. In 2000, residents of Kerala protested Coca-Cola’s bottling plant, which extracted 1.5 million liters of water daily, drying wells and ponds and raising pollution concerns.

Among various fears, the fear of annihilation is perhaps the strongest motivator. The Holocaust resistance movements of Jews in Nazi camps during the 1940s aimed to overcome the fear of extermination by Hitler. This fear translated first into anger and later into brutal aggression.

Palestinians and Kashmiris are motivated similarly; their protests arise from a complex interplay of fear and hope. Anti-immigrant campaigns reflect similar fears—locals feeling culturally invaded by immigrants. This sentiment was openly expressed by Angela Merkel, former Chancellor of Germany, in 2010 when she declared Germany’s multiculturalism experiment a failure.

Right-wing movements in Europe and the US exploit this fear politically. The September 13 anti-immigrant protest in London, dubbed the Unite the Kingdom rally, epitomized this trend. Participants waved English, American, Israeli, and Union Jack flags; Trump’s MAGA hats appeared prominently.

The rally raised more questions than it answered. Tony Robinson, founder of the English Defence League and an anti-Islam campaigner, was the chief organizer and symbolically significant. Elon Musk’s speech at the rally, ominous and suggesting possible violence if immigration policies did not change, underscored rising tensions.

—

### The Impact and Meaning of Protests

This historical survey of protests reveals various forms of suffering that compel people to outcry. However, protests motivated solely by moral outrage are relatively rare.

After the Vietnam and Iraq wars, the Palestinian cause has uniquely inspired massive global rallies. Participants often have no racial, religious, or political ties to Palestine; they are neither directly impacted by the Gaza crisis nor beneficiaries of its resolution. Yet they mobilize, stepping out of their comfort zones. This illustrates pure public solidarity, even as most governments and capitalist institutions oppose such protests.

Protests never fail completely. Even when they do not achieve their stated goals, they reflect the mass mood, highlight critical issues, express resentments, and surface collective conscience.

Whether these protests will lead to a free Palestine remains uncertain, but their participants will persist in raising their voices for justice—for people on the verge of extermination.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346771-age-of-agitation

culture, design, fashion, heritage, music

Burberry’s Festival Beat

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Daniel Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry Group, used the Burberry Spring 2026 collection to connect music with fashion in clear, direct ways. The runway was set under a sky-patterned tent in Perks Field at Kensington Palace, creating a setting that felt like a festival backstage. The floor showed dirt while guests laughed and moved like a crowd waiting for a headline act.

The clothes maintained British tailoring while offering a music lover’s wardrobe polished enough for the stage and durable enough for the mud. The result was a balance of heritage with hedonism, featuring utility pieces built for both performance and weather. Lee referenced decades of British music culture—from the Mod period to folk rock and the current indie revival—filtering these influences through Burberry’s practical design to give each reference a modern shape.

“Musicians have always had incredible style, and together with fashion, they form a really strong culture,” Lee said. The clothes followed this idea, showcasing cropped A-line coats in Pop-Art checks and tartans in apple green and acid yellow. Classic camel coats retained their structure while allowing a swinging hem.

The front row added to the festival vibe. Twiggy (Dame Lesley Lawson), a British cultural icon, arrived ahead of a group of musicians. “I want to get in before the boy band arrives,” she said playfully. Elton John, Vanessa Williams, Skepta, Central Cee, and Naomi Campbell were also present. Anna Wintour attended alongside US tennis star Jack Draper.

Music curator Benji B, one of the world’s most respected in his field, mixed Black Sabbath into the soundtrack to highlight the connection between rock heritage and new audiences.

Shine and weather protection remained central themes throughout the collection. Sequinned mini kilts flashed Burberry checks in pink and green, while glossy bomber jackets and wet-look leathers reflected light. Trench-inspired pieces appeared in denim, raffia, and waterproof cotton, reminding guests that Burberry still designs for the elements.

Crochet and chainmail dresses came with fringe and flat lace-up shoes suitable for festival grounds. Suits stayed slim and short in silhouette, often with a Canadian denim twist. Others featured hot pink polish or brown coatings with 1960s edges.

Accessories included oversized fringe bags, skinny crochet scarves, and belts with prominent buckles. Each piece served a practical purpose while adding visual impact.

Daniel Lee delivered a focused concept: rock and roll style works when adapted for a modern mindset. In this latest collection, heritage pieces met a festival mood, and England felt ready to swing again.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346803-burberrys-festival-beat

education, financial crisis, police activity, student movements, university administration

Institutional conflict

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The Quiet Menace: Tensions Rise at University of the Punjab Over Fee Hike

The University of the Punjab campus has been enveloped in an unsettling silence—an ominous sign of the ongoing conflict between students and the university administration over a recent increase in fees.

On September 24, the administration adopted a firm stance against protesting students, implementing disciplinary actions that have sparked a heated debate about responsibility for the unrest on campus.

### Disciplinary Measures and Administration’s Stance

Dr. Khurram Shehzad, spokesperson for the University of the Punjab (PU), confirmed that 37 students are currently facing disciplinary action for violating university regulations. Among them, 21 students were fined Rs 20,000 each for their alleged involvement in agitation and violence, while 15 others were placed on a three-month probation.

Further penalties included withholding the result of one student and banning another from entering the campus altogether. According to Dr. Shehzad, these measures aim to restore order and encourage responsible behavior among students through a mix of penalties and counselling.

### Student Groups Speak Out

The Islami Jamiat Talaba (IJT), one of the most active student groups at PU, views the administration’s actions as a deliberate campaign to suppress dissenting voices. They argue the university is unfairly targeting them for opposing what they describe as an indiscriminate increase in tuition and hostel fees.

The IJT claims the administration prioritizes revenue generation over the financial struggles faced by students from middle-class backgrounds. An MPhil student from the Department of Development Communication highlighted the severe financial strain, noting that hostel fees have doubled from Rs 24,000 in 2024 to Rs 48,000 in 2025. Similarly, tuition fees have seen a significant increase.

### Administration’s Justification for Fee Hike

Defending the fee increase, Dr. Shehzad explained, “Back in 2000, a student enrolling in an MSc programme had to pay only Rs 1,200 per year. This fee remained unchanged for many years, which was unsustainable. The recent hike feels sharp simply because there was no adjustment for a long time.”

He further elaborated on the university’s financial challenges, mentioning that a major source of revenue—from private students taking BA and BSc exams—had been eliminated due to policy changes. Additionally, government funding for higher education has drastically decreased, shrinking from around Rs 100 billion in 2017 to about Rs 60 billion today.

Dr. Shehzad also pointed out that the university’s hostels operate at a loss by offering accommodation at only a fraction of the market rate, a model that cannot be financially maintained.

### Contention Over University Policies and Campus Access

The IJT alleges the administration selectively targets them for their opposition to the fee hikes and accuses it of prioritising profits over student welfare.

Dr. Shehzad mentioned PU’s recent campaign to remove illegal occupants from university land, stating that land worth billions of rupees had been reclaimed, allowing for the conversion of several boys’ hostels into facilities for girls.

Speaking to The News on Sunday, Mehr Zain, the IJT nazim for the Old Campus, said that while the IJT initially supported the eviction drive, the administration subsequently failed to provide rooms to legitimate occupants—including out-of-town students enrolled in evening programmes. He argued that the university’s record revenue figures suggest profit-driven motives.

### Beyond Fees: Accusations of Policing and Free Speech Suppression

The dispute is not limited to fee hikes. Fasih-ur Rehman, IJT spokesperson for PU, accused the university of excessive policing and suppression of free expression. He cited instances where police presence was allowed on campus to disperse even neutral events, such as a peaceful Defend Pakistan rally, during which students were reportedly questioned.

Conflicting versions have emerged regarding a recent Students Rights March. The IJT claims their peaceful procession was blocked by armed security guards, sparking a scuffle. Meanwhile, the administration alleges that the IJT’s true motive is to get around 100 expelled activists reinstated.

The administration further accuses IJT members of engaging in illegal activities, including renting out hostel rooms and receiving free services, and claims that their protests are retaliatory responses after losing these privileges.

### The Impact on Regular Students

As tensions continue with no clear resolution in sight, it is the regular students of PU who bear the brunt—navigating an environment filled with uncertainty and unrest amidst the ongoing deadlock between the administration and student groups.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346832-institutional-conflict

colonialism, history, pakistan, religion, sociopolitical

History’s unanswered questions

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The creation of Pakistan, as proposed by the Two-Nation Theory, asserts that Hindus and Muslims are separate nations incapable of coexisting. This claim invites several important inquiries:

1. What was the significant role of the Muslim-majority provinces in the establishment of Pakistan?
2. What motivated Jogendranath Mandal, a Dalit leader from Bengal, to advocate for the establishment of Pakistan?
3. Why did Abul Ala Maududi and other prominent Islamic religio-political parties oppose the Pakistan Movement?
4. What factors contributed to the separation of East Pakistan from West Pakistan within 24 years?
5. Why did it take nine years to establish Pakistan’s first constitution, even though the implementation of Islamic laws could have started earlier?
6. What were the reasons behind Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s appointment of Jogendranath Mandal as the inaugural chairman of the Constituent Assembly and later as the first minister for law and labour?

Let us explore these important questions.

### The Role of Muslim-Majority Provinces in Pakistan’s Establishment

The contribution of Muslim-majority provinces, especially Punjab, to the establishment of Pakistan has been extensively studied. Historians focusing on Pakistani nationalism note Punjab’s strategic significance during the Pakistan Movement, which played a crucial role in the All-India Muslim League’s (AIML) success in the 1945-46 general elections.

In the 1946 elections, the AIML won 73 of the 175 seats in Punjab, all of which were Muslim seats. These seats were primarily secured by notable landlords, who are believed to have allied with the AIML out of concern over potential land reforms suggested by the Indian National Congress. This alliance appears more as a landlord-protection strategy than a purely religious nationalism project.

Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (formerly the North-West Frontier Province), the only Muslim-majority province in India without a Muslim League cabinet, strongly resisted the formation of Pakistan.

### Jogendranath Mandal and the Dalit Support for Pakistan

Bengali Hindus, particularly the Dalits under the leadership of Jogendranath Mandal, joined the Pakistan Movement with the expectation of a new political framework that would address systematic inequalities. The caste system severely limited individual freedom, whereas Islamic equality offered an alternative vision.

Their participation highlights a class struggle context, where marginalized groups sought emancipation through structural and social change rather than solely on the basis of religion or nationalism. This involvement indicates that social status challenges were a core driver behind the demand for a new state, more so than religious identification. Religion was instrumental in gaining support in some areas, but the movement’s central narrative involved resistance to colonial and feudal oppression as well.

### Opposition from Jamaat-i-Islami and Abul Ala Maududi

The Jamaat-i-Islami, led by Abul Ala Maududi, opposed the partition of India. They viewed the partition as detrimental to the concept of the *ummah*—the global Muslim community. Maududi argued that dividing the subcontinent with physical borders would weaken the spiritual and cultural ties among Muslims.

For Jamaat-i-Islami, partition was not just a political change but a fracture in the unity of Muslim identity. This challenged the ideal of the *ummah*, which called for unity beyond geographical divisions.

### Factors Leading to the Separation of East and West Pakistan

The separation of East Pakistan from West Pakistan in 1971, leading to the creation of Bangladesh, is attributed to a multitude of factors. Long-term causes include:

– The mistreatment of the Bengali language,
– Disputes over provincial autonomy.

Short-term causes involved the results of the 1970 general elections, while immediate events like the Searchlight Operation and foreign intervention by India and the USSR also played significant roles.

The complexity behind the 1971 partition raises questions about the more simplistic, mono-causal explanations often applied to the 1947 partition. A comparative analysis of both partitions using a unified theoretical framework could provide a deeper understanding of these significant historical events.

### Delayed Constitution-Making and Debates on Pakistan’s Identity

Pakistan’s foundation rooted in the Two-Nation Theory naturally spurred expectations regarding the immediate implementation of Islamic laws. However, the constitution took nine years to be established due to intense debates over the country’s identity and governance structure, including:

1. Whether the state should be theocratic or secular,
2. Preference for parliamentary or presidential democracy,
3. Choice between a federal or unitary system,
4. Division of power between a strong federation and autonomous provinces,
5. Whether the legislature should be bicameral or unicameral.

These complex discussions delayed the constitution-making process and questioned the very nature of the Pakistani state.

### Jogendranath Mandal’s Appointment by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

The appointment of Jogendranath Mandal, a Hindu Dalit leader, as the first chairman of the Constituent Assembly and later minister for law and labour by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah is significant, especially in light of the Two-Nation Theory.

This choice reflected a nuanced understanding of nationhood, suggesting that Pakistan’s founders sought to include different social groups in the new state’s governance despite religious divides. Mandal’s involvement challenges the simplistic binary interpretation of the Two-Nation Theory and acknowledges the complex social dynamics within the independence struggle.

### Conclusion

The creation of Pakistan in 1947—like the formation of Bangladesh in 1971—was influenced by a complex web of interconnected factors rather than a single, overriding cause. To fully understand these historical events, it is essential to examine both partitions within a consistent analytical framework.

Moreover, the foundation of Pakistan can also be interpreted through the lens of class struggle, particularly in Bengal, where marginalized and oppressed communities aspired for improved social and economic conditions under an Islamic socialist vision. This perspective complements the religious nationalism narrative, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Pakistan’s creation.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346769-historys-unanswered-questions

general

NBA: Blazers guard Scoot Henderson injures hamstring, out 4-8 weeks

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Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson has suffered a left hamstring tear this week. As a result, he will be sidelined from all basketball activities for an estimated four to eight weeks.

The team announced on Friday that Henderson sustained the injury during an offseason workout.

In other news, the Trail Blazers are reportedly in the process of finding a buyer.

The team is scheduled to open training camp next week as they prepare for the upcoming season.
https://sports.inquirer.net/642159/nba-blazers-guard-scoot-henderson-injures-hamstring-out-4-8-weeks

celebration, culture, religion, spirituality, tradition

Symbols of offering

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Every year, during the Islamic month of Rabi al-Thani, devotees of Abdul Qadir Gilani gather on the banks of the Ravi River to participate in a unique and heartfelt tradition. They launch paper boats carrying lighted clay lamps and other symbolic offerings into the river.

This ritual serves as a means for devotees to make wishes or to express gratitude after their wishes have been fulfilled. It is a deeply spiritual practice that reflects devotion and hope.

The event is part of the celebrations commemorating the urs, or death anniversary, of the revered Sufi saint Abdul Qadir Gilani. This occasion, known as Gyarwin Shareef, falls on the 11th of Rabi al-Thani each year.

Through this beautiful custom, followers come together to honor the saint’s memory and seek blessings, creating a serene and meaningful atmosphere along the riverbanks.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346831-symbols-of-offering

celebrity, entertainment, wedding

Video: Selena Gomez Fixes Husband Benny Blanco’s Bow Tie, Newlyweds Kiss In FIRST Wedding Glimpse

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Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco tied the knot in an intimate ceremony held in Santa Barbara, California, on September 27. Shortly after the special day, Selena shared dreamy wedding photos and videos on her official Instagram account, giving fans a glimpse into their memorable celebration.

The photos capture tender moments between the couple—hugging, holding hands, and enjoying each other’s company. In one touching image, Benny rests his head on Selena’s lap, while a heartfelt video shows Selena fixing his bow tie before placing a kiss on him. Selena simply captioned the post with “9.27.25” accompanied by delicate white heart emojis.

For the occasion, Selena wore a custom hand-draped satin halter-neck dress adorned with intricate embroidery, carrying a bouquet of lily of the valley. Benny looked dashing in a classic black tuxedo. Both outfits were designed by Ralph Lauren. Completing her bridal look, Selena accessorized with stunning platinum-and-diamond earrings by Tiffany & Co.

The ceremony took place at Sea Crest Nursery and was attended by around 170 of the couple’s closest family members and friends. Extra security was present to ensure privacy and safety. According to a Vogue report, large white tents were set up on the grounds for dining, dancing, and celebration, which continued late into the night.

Selena and Benny’s wedding gathered some of Hollywood’s biggest names, making it a star-studded event. Among the earliest arrivals was pop superstar Taylor Swift, who touched down in California ahead of the festivities. The guest list was a blend of longtime friends, collaborators, and prominent celebrities from the music, film, and fashion worlds.

Fans around the globe eagerly awaited updates, hoping for glimpses of the elegant affair and the radiant bride and groom. Since confirming their relationship in late 2023, Selena and Benny have quickly become one of Hollywood’s most beloved couples. Their engagement, announced in December 2024, delighted fans—especially when Selena shared a sneak peek of her stunning engagement ring on Instagram.

From glamorous red carpet appearances to candid moments shared on social media, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco continue to express their love and affection for each other, enchanting admirers worldwide.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/video-selena-gomez-fixes-husband-benny-blancos-bow-tie-newlyweds-kiss-in-first-wedding-glimpse

celebrity, entertainment, wedding

Video: Selena Gomez Fixes Husband Benny Blanco’s Bow Tie, Newlyweds Kiss In FIRST Wedding Glimpse

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**Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Tie the Knot in Intimate Santa Barbara Ceremony**

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco got married in an intimate ceremony in Santa Barbara, California, on September 27. Soon after exchanging vows, Selena shared dreamy wedding photos and videos on her official Instagram account, giving fans a glimpse into their special day.

The photos showcase the couple hugging, holding hands, and savoring tender moments together. In one heartwarming picture, Benny rests his head on Selena’s lap, while a video captures her fixing his bow tie before planting a kiss on him. Selena captioned the post simply with “9.27.25,” accompanied by white heart emojis.

The bride wore a custom hand-draped satin halter-neck dress adorned with intricate embroidery and carried a delicate bouquet of lily of the valley. The groom chose a classic black tuxedo. Both outfits were designed by Ralph Lauren. Selena completed her elegant look with stunning platinum-and-diamond earrings from Tiffany & Co.

The ceremony took place at Sea Crest Nursery and was attended by about 170 family members and close friends. Additional security ensured the event remained private and secure. According to a Vogue report, huge white tents were set up to host food, dancing, and celebrations that lasted well into the night.

Selena and Benny’s wedding brought together some of Hollywood’s biggest names. The guest list reportedly featured around 170 A-listers from the worlds of music, film, and fashion. One of the first to arrive was singer Taylor Swift, who was spotted touching down in California ahead of the festivities and joined other notable attendees.

Though the couple kept most details under wraps, sources say the guest list was a carefully curated mix of longtime friends, collaborators, and prominent celebrities. Fans around the world eagerly awaited updates, hoping for more glimpses of the star-studded affair as well as the bride and groom.

Selena and Benny confirmed their relationship in late 2023 and quickly became one of Hollywood’s most beloved duos. Their engagement in December 2024 thrilled fans, especially when Selena shared a peek at her stunning engagement ring on Instagram. From glamorous red carpet appearances to candid social media moments, the couple has consistently expressed their affection and support for one another.

Their wedding marked a joyous new chapter in their journey together, celebrated by loved ones and admired by fans worldwide.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/video-selena-gomez-fixes-husband-benny-blancos-bow-tie-newlyweds-kiss-in-first-wedding-glimpse

culture, history, india, philosophy, religion

Is Sanatan dharma a Pagan faith?

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Many Sanatanis today like to describe Hinduism as the mother of all dharmic religions, and sometimes even as the mother of all pagan faiths. This obsession with the word *pagan* is not native to India. It comes from Europe and America. In the 1960s and ’70s, hippies who disliked Judaism and Christianity, or who wanted to weaponize Hinduism against Islam, embraced this word and dragged it into Hindu conversations.

The word *pagan* itself has a strange history. Early Christians used it to mean peasants, rustic folk, people outside the army of Christ. It carried a sense of backwardness. Modern scholars now say the word comes from *pagus*, the smallest administrative unit of the Roman Empire. Those who worshipped local gods of the *pagus* were called pagans.

Seen this way, religion can be divided into two broad categories. One kind is tied to a place. It honours local gods and spirits of hills, rivers, groves, or villages. The other kind transcends geography. It builds on doctrine, not landscape. India has both. Every region has its local gods, but over these gods, Vedic ideas—detached from any single location—take precedence.

Christianity works the same way. It started in Jerusalem, then Rome became its centre, but it does not depend on either city. Islam, too, broke free of geography. Its followers do not worship local gods. They face Mecca, and Mecca alone, the seat of the god of Arabia.

Europe before Christianity was full of local religions. These were later branded *pagan*. Over time, pagans were imagined in very different ways. Some called them noble savages, close to nature. Others called them wicked savages who had to be tamed.

In the 18th century, with the rise of evolutionary theories, people placed pagan religions somewhere between primitive savagery and refined monotheism. Germans glorified their Viking ancestors as pure gods of the land, uncorrupted by Christianity. Admirers of Greece and Rome saw their paganism as sophisticated—until it was supposedly polluted by eastern rituals.

In England, the Industrial Revolution destroyed woods and groves. Intellectuals mourned and romanticized the pagan past as a lost paradise. In France, less industrialized, pagan nature worship looked sinister, even satanic.

By the Victorian age, when Christianity became increasingly puritanical, paganism was recast as free-spirited. It was imagined as a religion of the body, celebrating love and sexuality. But this pagan past was not remembered—it was invented. Christianity and modernity created the image of the pagan to suit their own needs.

Paganism became a mirror for anxieties about nature, body, and morality. Pagans were the other—those who did not align.

The countless local gods of Hindu villages were never wiped out. But they were reinterpreted. Vedic and Vedantic doctrines were layered on them. What was once a forest spirit became a form of Vishnu, Shiva, or Shakti. In this way, local faiths were whitewashed, given a respectable Sanskritic coating.

In the 19th century, many intellectual Hindus insisted that Hinduism was not pagan. They shunned the tree and animal worship part of Hinduism and focused on Vedanta. Today, politicians have realized that vote banks believe in old village and tribal rituals. Hence, in the 21st century, it makes sense to refer to Hindus as pagans, distinct from monotheistic religions like Islam and Christianity.

—

*The author writes and lectures on the relevance of mythology in modern times. Reach him at devdutt.pattanaik@mid-day.com.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/is-sanatan-dharma-a-pagan-faith-23596150