Indian Ideology

The Idea of India is largely a pageant of presumed virtues, but Marxist historian Perry Anderson provides an unforgettable reading of the Subcontinent's passage through Independence and the catastrophe of Partition, the idiosyncratic and corrosive vanities of Gandhi and Nehru, and the close interrelationship of Indian democracy and caste inequality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2021
Publisher: Verso Books

The historiography of modern India is a captivating spectacle, portraying a narrative of presumed virtues. It highlights the harmonious territorial unity, religious impartiality, and the remarkable resilience of electoral norms in the world's most populous democracy. Despite the existence of injustices within Indian society, critics often support these claims. However, the question arises: how accurately does the concept of India align with the realities of the Union?

In an audacious and thought-provoking analysis, Marxist historian Perry Anderson delves into the intricate and tumultuous journey of the Subcontinent, encompassing its path towards Independence and the catastrophic aftermath of Partition. Through his unique lens, Anderson uncovers the peculiar and corrosive vanities of figures such as Gandhi and Nehru, as well as the intimate connection between Indian democracy and the enduring legacy of caste inequality.

The Indian Ideology, when it was first published in 2012, sparked a significant uproar. Notably, it challenged the euphemisms used to describe Delhi's occupation of Kashmir, a topic that had long been taboo. This new and expanded edition of the book includes Anderson's response to his critics, an insightful interview with the late Praful Bidwai, a prominent Indian journalist, and a poignant postscript on India under the rule of Narendra Modi. Anderson examines whether Modi's regime truly represents a departure from the practices and thought processes associated with Congress rule, as widely believed.

Through his meticulous research and incisive analysis, Anderson offers a profound exploration of the complexities and contradictions that shape India's history. He challenges the prevailing narratives and sheds light on the often-overlooked aspects of Indian society. The Indian Ideology is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this fascinating and complex nation.

Weight: 260g
Dimension: 140 x 210 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788732710