Was Pushpendra Kulshrestha a Muslim?

Pushpendra Kulshrestha, a prominent Indian figure, has been a subject of numerous debates and discussions. The question of whether he was a Muslim by birth has been a contentious issue. This article explores the nuances around his linguistic background and his political journey, providing insight into his true identity and allegiances.

Linguistic Background

There is a belief that a person’s religious background can be discerned by their language and accent. However, it is more accurate to measure one's inclination by the words they use and their cultural associations. In India, many Muslims have adopted Hindi as their primary language, integrating Persian and Urdu words into their speech. Pushpendra Kulshrestha, while utilizing Hindi, does not exhibit any change in his accent or use exclusively Urdu or Persian words, suggesting he retains his identity as a Hindu, rooted deeply in the Hindi-speaking community.

Pushpendra has worked for a Pakistani agency for over a decade. Given the precarious political climate in India, with a rise in Hindutva (Hindunationalist) sentiment, he realized the necessity to adapt to the new political climate to ensure his survival and relevance. The shift in his public statements did not necessarily reflect a change in his religious or cultural identity but rather a strategic decision to align with the dominant political narrative.

Political Shift and Motivations

The period when Pushpendra transitioned from being a neutral broadcaster to an avid critic of Muslims and Pakistan was marked by the rise of Hindutva forces in India. In such a context, remaining vocal about his support for Muslims or Pakistan could have labeled him as a "Pakistani sympathizer" or "anti-national," making his professional and personal life in India unsustainable. Therefore, he adopted a new persona, aligning with Hindutva rhetoric to stay relevant and gain favor among the ruling political parties.

This phenomenon is not isolated. Many individuals have engaged in a similar pattern, including Wasim Reezvi, a member of the Shia Waqf Board. Reezvi has been known for his acidic attacks on Muslims and support for Hindutva groups. His actions can be attributed to his attempt to save his legal and financial troubles by aligning himself with the prevailing political currents. Such individuals lack credibility because they are driven by self-interest, not genuine convictions.

Educational Background and Cultural Affiliation

Pushpendra Kulshrestha’s education at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and his close association with Muslim friends during his studies highlight his cultural integration. Despite being a Hindu, he immersed himself in the Muslim environment, learning Urdu and befriending many Muslims. Yet, his personal and professional stand remained firmly rooted in Hindutva nationalism, indicating a disconnect between his cultural experiences and his political affiliations.

Conclusion

The question of whether Pushpendra Kulshrestha was a Muslim by birth is more about linguistic and cultural assimilation rather than religious affiliation. His responses to political changes and his adaptation to Hindutva rhetoric do not alter his Hindu identity or the cultural ties he formed in his youth. Understanding this context provides a clearer picture of his character and the political landscape of contemporary India.