Caste and Outcast

Dhan Gopal Mukerji's autobiography, Caste and Outcast (1923), is a moving narrative from the first Indian writer to gain a popular audience in the United States. Raised in a prominent Brahmin family, he devoted himself to nationalist politics and emigrated to Japan and the United States. Mukerji left an inspiring legacy through his literary achievement and commitment to Indian independence. This edition of the book is a classic of Indian American literature reimagined for modern readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

Dhan Gopal Mukerji's autobiography, Caste and Outcast (1923), was published the year after he moved from San Francisco to New York City. It is a poignant autobiographical narrative from the first Indian writer to gain a popular audience in the United States. While he is best known for his children's novels such as Gay Neck: The Story of a Pigeon (1927), which won the 1928 Newbery Medal, and Kari the Elephant (1922), Mukerji was also a gifted poet and memoirist whose experiences in India, Japan, and the United States shaped his unique perspective on twentieth-century life.

"As I reflect on my childhood, the most vivid memory that comes to mind is the profound impact of faces. From the moment consciousness awakened within me, I encountered faces everywhere, and my attention was always drawn to the eyes. It felt as if the entire Hindu race resided within their eyes."

Mukerji was born into a prominent Brahmin family in India, where he enjoyed immense privileges. Raised in this environment, he developed a deep trust in the country's caste system, believing in its effectiveness and fairness. However, as a young man, Mukerji grew weary of the ascetic lifestyle he had explored in his youth and turned his focus toward nationalist politics. He eventually left India for Japan, where he pursued a career as an engineering student.

Unsatisfied with his academic pursuits, Mukerji emigrated to the United States once again, where he immersed himself in anarchist and bohemian circles. He began writing poetry and children's books, gaining popularity among a wide audience. Despite never returning to his native country, Mukerji left an inspiring legacy through his literary achievements and unwavering commitment to Indian independence.

This edition of Caste and Outcast, published by Kessinger Publishing, features a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript. It captures the essence of Mukerji's life and work, providing a glimpse into the experiences that shaped his unique perspective on the world.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513133010