Why did Hindus and Muslims not get along in India?

Answer 1

Answer 1

because of the British colonial policy of "divide and rule," so there would not be a mass uprising against their colonizer but instead against each other.

Answer 2

The hatreds between Hindus and Muslims preceded the arrival of the British and were brought about by the two communities fighting for political power and resources. Historically, Muslims were rarely under Hindu authorities, but Hindus were under Islamic authorities for numerous centuries. As a result of having more power for longer, Muslims are responsible for more of the grievances that have caused Hindu-Muslim hatreds.

One of the most prevalent causes of these hatreds were forcible conversions and conversions by choice. Depending on the Muslim ruler of India, there were events of forcible conversion, but this was not consistent. King Aurangzeb is well-known in India for this act as well as destroying major Hindu Temples such as the Kashi Vishwanath temple, Kesava Deo temple and Somnath temple. His grandfather, Akbar the Great was known for permitting the free and equal practice of religion. However, the majority of Islamic converts in India came from the Untouchable and Sudra Hindu Castes who never would have had a chance to be well-treated in Hindu society. However, in Islam all men were equal before God, making conversion an escape from this social suppression. This was welcomed by the lower classes, but angered the Hindu elites.

Another cause of these hatreds are the numerous wars between the Maharajas of India who would identify as representing Hindus or Muslims against other Maharajas who were of the other religion.

Another cause of these hatreds was the disrespect of Muslims towards Hindu methods of worship and idolatry.