Mysore/Mysuru, May 7 -- Claims veteran writer Prof. S.G. Siddaramaiah

Veteran writer Prof. S.G. Siddaramaiah sparked controversy by claiming that what is today referred to as Hindu Dharma exists more as a political construct than as a true religion in the country.

Speaking after receiving 'Kayaka Yogi Siddarameshwara Award' at Kalamandira in city yesterday, Prof. Siddaramaiah argued that the 'Chaturvarna' system, rooted in the Vedic order, has in recent times been equated with Hindu Dharma. He pointed out that the term 'Hindu' itself emerged during the medieval period and is now being projected for political purposes.

"Hindu Dharma is being used only for politics. In reality, there is no such religion in this country," he said. Explain...