One can appreciate history and leave it where it belongs. – Why I Am A Hindu
Thank you @MumbaiBookstagram, @ShashiTharoor and @AlephBookCo for an advance reading (signed) copy of Why I Am A Hindu.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life each of us has had, at some point of time in life, introspected oneself about one’s caste, culture, rituals. Each of us, among multiple chores, does knowingly-unknowingly try to search for the real reality of self. For a spiritual seeker like me, I have read tons of books that will help me enhance my search for truth. Frankly speaking, I dived into Why I Am A Hindu with one too many negative notions. Tharoor being a leftist and me, a rightist (liberal), I knew my thoughts might not concur. But I was wrong.
Tharoor shows wits, intelligence, logic, throughout his book Why I Am A Hindu. He packs it with ample knowledge. So much is this book knowledge-heavy that one doesn’t get a micro-second to even think about binge reading it. (Take this as an advise, please don’t think or try to binge read it.)
This book has a connectivity with it’s readers. It cites wisdom from Upanishads, Vedas, Gita and many other puranic stories. This book is divided into 3 sections and has 7 chapters. Each chapter deals with one particular issue and delves deeper into the trenches of wisdom to bring out an insightful and a delightful read. A flow is maintained throughout a chapter and the topic is discussed from different perspectives, touching base with every aspect possible.
I loved the fact that Tharoor has systematized his thoughts. In section one, which has 4 chapters, Tharoor, brings forth the essence of Hinduism. No one can ever differ on it. Every word rings true. This is the only section which has been tabbed with multiple post-its by me. Section two tackles the Hinduism as defined by extremist in the pre-independece era and politicians of the present day. Despite having rightist views, the liberal in me had to agree to Tharoor’s enunciation of the topic. Lastly, section three is more about bringing Hinduism back from the clutches of predatory instincts of those with political agendas. Again, I had to agree to this as well.
When we had a government with absolute majority, the only thought that kept on going in my mind was, ‘we also need a strong opposition.’ Shashi Tharoor, packs his intelligence and knowledge in this treatise and emerges as an applause worthy and a strong opposition. He gained my respect with every page that I turned.
To sum up, all I can say is that to some extent, my views of Hindutva, may differ from here on.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Publisher: Aleph Book Co
Available on: Amazon, Flipkart, In-store
#HappyReading
This is wow, I wanted to read this book and now I defnite that I’ll buy it soon after reading ur review
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Yes, yes. Pls go ahead. Treat yourself . This book is really nice!
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I’ve been wanting to read thins book since forever! This review helps 🙂
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Thank you ♥️
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Lovely review 😍 adding this to my tbr
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You should give it a read ♥️
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This sounds an interesting read…
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Sounds like an interesting read. I have seen a lot of people say nice things about it!
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It is. Esply if the study of Hinduism and/or Indian philosophy interests you.
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I have heard a lot about this book, from the day of its release. I eagerly wanted to read it and even more after reading your review. Well explained, well written…thanks for sharing…
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You are welcome ❤️
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I always stay away from books based on a particular religion.. as authors try to make their religion look the best and neglect all the flaws! But this book os Definately different! It seems to cover all the aspects! Will get this one!
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Thank you Mrinal. The author does neglect some aspects of the other fundamentalist religions in India. But the extensive research on Hinduism is mind blowing. 🌼
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Wow! This is sounding interesting. Loved your review. Definitely added this book to my wish list.
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This is going to be an interesting read. The title and book overview captured my attention and i would love to read whats there in all the chapters. I will be picking this book by Shashi Tharoor.
Akanksha
IG: @ms_tantrum
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Wow coincidentally i read somewhere today that shashi tharoor claims to be not a hindu , but this seems to be an interesting read!!!
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Are you serious? Will look up for that statement right away!
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Seems like a great read with some powerful thoughts.
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I did not know about the book until I came across your review on the same. Definitely, the book seems like a nice read. Would love to see how Shashi Tharoor has minced words in this word, as he his language is quite good. Topic he has picked also interesting.
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Yes and indeed he has minced words and the opposition alike in this one.
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I did wonder about this book, as both the title, subject and author point to it being a heavy book – and i was a bit worried that it may be propaganda driven. your review makes me think, it may be a good read and a good introduction to the ideology as a whole.
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Propaganda driven a tad. You can take out politics from a politician. It is well timed even. Just before 2019 elections. But I loved the presentation, writing, debate worthy points, thoroughly researched work.
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Look like great plot with true depiction of religion post and before independence. Sounds interesting
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It is a non fiction Dr Bushran. But the sections are very cleverly done.
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I really adore the way Shashi Taroor conveys messages in a way no one else Can .. would definitely read this book 😍
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I agree to that. He has served the UN after all. He can get diplomatic and yet not let it show.
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for once i am really tempted to buy this book. i love shashi tharoor’s speeches and would like to read more
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