Sacred Feminine in Contemporary Hindu Discourse: An Islamic Appraisal of Female led Hindu Movements and Social Reforms

Abstract

This study is an analysis of Feminine as sacred in contemporary Hinduism through having an insight into three female religious/spiritual organizations that are being led by women spiritual leaders. Three reform movements are also studied in this regard as they are, although not having female leadership, but also becoming a symbol of Sacred Feminine in contemporary Hinduism because of working on women specific welfare issues. All these organizations and movements have highlighted the women related issues in Hindu society and tried to preserve the Hindu culture and traditions against the changing circumstances of the world in the light of religion itself. This effort of these organizations and movements has resulted in the revival of Sacred Feminine in Hindu Religion in contemporary period. The research is Qualitative, analytical, and phenomenological in nature. Netnography is also used as a tool to collect data. A description of influential relation between the two types of organizations is also a part of the study. Above all how they have contributed to the development of religion and tried to make it compatible to globalization in contemporary times is also studied here. Lastly, Islamic appraisal towards the phenomena of Sacred Feminine is given as well along with the status of women as religious leaders in Islam. Exploring the issue with Islamic appraisal also enhances significance of the study.