Swaraj Beyond Politics and Intellectual Autonomy in the Thought of K. C. Bhattacharya

This study assesses the concept of "Swaraj in Ideas" by K.C.Bhattacharya with regard to the relevance for contemporary India, specifically emphasizing the importance of cultural and intellectual freedom. Bhattacharya stated that political independence without intellectual autonomy is an incomplete independence. He perceived colonialism as both political domination and cultural/epistemic subjugation, in which foreign frameworks shaped native self-perception. Through a philosophical analysis of primary texts and secondary literature, this article explores his critiques of cultural mimicry, linguistic alienation, and the uncritical acceptance of Western epistemological frameworks. Additionally, this study examines the ongoing intellectual dependency in post-colonial India, especially in educational systems and academic discourse. Using thematic analysis, the study identifies self-realization, cultural self-awareness, and philosophical reflection as avenues toward intellectual self-governance. The study's findings indicate that "Swaraj in Ideas" offers a valuable model for enhancing cultural confidence and enabling intellectual self-determination during globalization.