Why I Am a Hindu

Why I Am a Hindu – A Bold Exploration of Faith, Identity & India by Shashi Tharoor

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 320
Date of Release: 18 January 2018

Why I Am a Hindu is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of the world’s oldest living religions by one of India’s most respected public intellectuals, Shashi Tharoor. Blending personal reflection with historical insight, this bestselling book examines the spiritual, philosophical and political dimensions of Hinduism in the modern world.

Tharoor begins with his own understanding of faith before exploring the teachings of Hinduism’s great thinkers, including Adi Shankara, Patanjali, Ramanuja, Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He unpacks core concepts such as the Purusharthas, Bhakti, and the philosophy of Bhagavad Gita, while explaining major schools like Advaita Vedanta in clear, accessible language.

The book also examines contemporary political Hinduism, the rise of Hindutva, and the ideas of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, offering a sharp yet nuanced critique of religious extremism. At its heart, this is a defence of pluralism, tolerance and India’s secular democratic fabric.

A compelling blend of memoir, philosophy, religion and politics, Why I Am a Hindu is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand Hinduism, Indian identity and the future of India.

Why You Should Read This Book

• Deep yet accessible guide to Hindu philosophy
• Explores Advaita Vedanta, Bhakti, Purusharthas & the Gita
• Insightful analysis of Hindutva and political Hinduism
• Perfect for readers of Indian history, religion & contemporary politics
• A widely debated modern classic on faith and nationalism

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