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International Journal of Political Science 12(1):p 41-47, Jan - June 2026. | DOI: 10.21088/ijops.2454.9371.12126.5
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Cultural Nationalism and Foreign Policy: RSS Ideological Roots in Modi Global Strategy
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Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.
International Journal of Political Science 12(1):p 41-47, Jan - June 2026. | DOI: 10.21088/ijops.2454.9371.12126.5
How Cite This Article:
Gedam Kamalakar, Kandi Kamala. Cultural Nationalism and Foreign Policy: RSS Ideological Roots in Modi Global Strategy. Int J Pol Sci 2026; 12(1): 41–47.Timeline
Received : December 05, 2025
Accepted : January 07, 2026
Published : June 30, 2026
Abstract
The paper explores the intersection of cultural nationalism and foreign policy by examining the ideological influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Prime Minister Narendra Modi global strategy. It argues that Modi foreign policy is not merely pragmatic but deeply rooted in the cultural and civilizational ethos articulated by the RSS, emphasizing Bharatiya identity, self-reliance (Atmanirbharta), and global recognition of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The study highlights how cultural nationalism serves as both a guiding principle and a soft power tool in India’s diplomatic engagements under Modi. Through an analysis of policy initiativessuch as the promotion of Yoga diplomacy, the reconstruction of civilizational ties with the Global South, and assertive stances in international forums the research demonstrates how India external relations reflect a blend of realpolitik and cultural idealism. By situating Modi approach within the broader ideological framework of the RSS, this paper provides a nuanced understanding of how domestic cultural narratives shape India’s evolving global identity and foreign policy orientation in the 21st century
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Cite this article
Gedam Kamalakar, Kandi Kamala. Cultural Nationalism and Foreign Policy: RSS Ideological Roots in Modi Global Strategy. Int J Pol Sci 2026; 12(1): 41–47.
Licence:
Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.
| Received | Accepted | Published |
|---|---|---|
| December 05, 2025 | January 07, 2026 | June 30, 2026 |
DOI: 10.21088/ijops.2454.9371.12126.5
Keywords
Cultural NationalismForeign PolicyRSS IdeologyModi DoctrineHindutvaSoft PowerCivilizational DiplomacyAtmanirbhar BharatIndian Identity •Global StrategySearch for Similar Articles
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Timeline
| Received | December 05, 2025 |
| Accepted | January 07, 2026 |
| Published | June 30, 2026 |
licence
Attribution-Non-commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)
This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator.
