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Defamation of Hindu Dharma in a course at Houston University, USA

University issues clarification following a Hindu student’s complaint

Vasant Bhatt, an Indian student who exposed an anti-Hindu course at the University of Houston

New Delhi – Houston University in the USA is offering a course titled ‘Lived Hindu Religion’. A Hindu student raised objections, claiming that the course misrepresented the Hindu Dharma in a negative manner. Following this, Houston University issued a clarification stating that it values academic freedom and allows professors full liberty to discuss complex and sensitive topics.

1. A student named Vasant Bhatt objected to the course content, calling it Hinduphobic. The university acknowledged his concerns, and the Dean and Director of the Department of Religious Studies reviewed the course content and held discussions with the faculty.

2. Professor Aaron Michael Ullrey, who teaches the course, said that his objective is to explain the various forms of the Hindu Dharma. He highlighted that the Hindu Dharma is a fusion of multiple traditions and beliefs. He also pointed out that in ancient Indian Sanskrit literature, the word ‘Hindu’ did not appear; instead, it evolved as a geographical and cultural identity. In 1922, ‘Hindutva’ emerged as a political ideology, and its historical aspects are taught appropriately in the course.

What is the controversy ?

– Vasant Bhatt, a political science student

Houston University’s ‘Lived Hindu Religion’ course is available online, with weekly lectures by Professor Aaron Michael Ullrey. Vasant Bhatt, a political science student at the same university, lodged a complaint with the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. According to Bhatt, Professor Ullrey portrayed the Hindu Dharma not as an ancient and living religion but as a political tool used by Hindu nationalists. The professor allegedly suggested that Hindu nationalism is a system of oppression against minorities and denied the historical fact that the Hindu Dharma is an ancient tradition.

Bhatt also provided evidence supporting his claims. The course reportedly claims that the term ‘Hindu’ is modern and does not appear in religious scriptures. It also suggests that the words ‘Hindutva’ and ‘devout Hindu’ are used by Hindu nationalists to define their religion and to discredit others, particularly Islam. According to this perspective, Hindu nationalists believe that Hindu Dharma should be India’s official religion.

 

Editorial Perspective

While Hindus may initially feel pleased that foreign universities are offering courses on the Hindu Dharma, the reality is that such courses often tarnish its reputation. Given this, India should introduce a legal framework requiring international universities to verify their Hindu studies courses with Indian authorities before offering them.

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