Ram Swarup

Early Years and Education: Born in 1920 in Sonipat, Haryana, to a banker father, Ram Swarup Agarwal became a luminary in the Hindu revivalist movement. Graduating in Economics from Delhi University in 1941, he actively participated in the Indian independence movement, collaborating with freedom fighters like Aruna Asaf Ali

Changer’s Club and Gandhian Connections:

In 1944, Swarup initiated the Changer’s Club, fostering intellectual discussions and featuring prominent members such as Lakshmi Chand Jain, Raj Krishna, Girilal Jain, and historian Sita Ram Goel. His association with Mahatma Gandhi’s disciple Mira Behn in 1948-49 highlighted his commitment to Gandhian principles.

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Journalistic Contributions: 

Swarup’s prolific writings found space in mainstream Indian publications like The Times of India, Indian Express, Hindustan Times, and others. His early book, Gandhism and Communism, gained influence among American policymakers and members of Congress.

 Voice of India and Publishing Legacy: 

Founding Voice of India: In 1982, Swarup established the non-profit publishing house, Voice of India. This platform played a pivotal role in disseminating the works of notable authors, including Harsh Narain, A. K. Chatterjee, K.S. Lal, Koenraad Elst, and more. American Author David Frawley’s Perspective: Frawley, a fellow Hindutva supporter, commended Voice of India, stating that its criticisms of Islam were rational and comparable to critiques of Christianity by Western thinkers like Voltaire and Thomas Jefferson.

 Views and Philosophical Leanings:

 Critical Stance on Communism: 

Swarup’s early works critically examined communism, earning praise from Bertrand Russell and Arthur Koestler. His book Russian Imperialism: How to Stop It was commended by Russell as “excellent.”

Spiritual and Yogic Perspectives: 

Influenced by Aldous Huxley and George Bernard Shaw, Swarup’s later work delved into spiritual and yogic views. His book The Word As Revelation: Names of Gods on Polytheism (1980) received positive reviews.

Admiration for Sri Aurobindo: 

Swarup, in his later years, devoted extensive time to meditation and drew inspiration from Sri Aurobindo, considering him the greatest exponent of the Vedic vision in contemporary times.

Contribution to Hindu Revivalist Movement:

Revival of Hindu Critique: 

Swarup played a pivotal role in reviving and popularizing the Hindu critique of Christian missionary practices in the 1980s. His assertion that monotheistic religions fostered a lack of respect for other religions became a significant point of discussion.

Recognition and Legacy: 

Named one of the most important thought leaders of the Hindu revivalist movement, Swarup received accolades from various quarters. Former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee hailed him as “a representative of India’s rishi tradition in the modern age.” Arun Shourie acknowledged him as one of the deepest thinkers.  

Interest in European Paganism:

Correspondence with Pagan Figures: Swarup’s interest extended beyond Indian spirituality to European Neopaganism. He corresponded with figures like Prudence Jones and Pagan author Guðrún Kristín Magnúsdóttir, facilitating a cultural exchange.

Advocacy for Pagan Renaissance: Swarup advocated a “Pagan renaissance” in Europe, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with spiritual roots. He suggested compiling a directory of destroyed Pagan temples and reviving sacred sites.

Ram Swarup Agarwal, through his intellectual endeavors, left an indelible mark on the discourse surrounding Hindu philosophy and spirituality, contributing significantly to the revival of Hindu thought in contemporary times.

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Books from the Author