Why I Picked This Book?
This book is written by Pieter Friedrich, who is a South Asian Affairs Analyst. So I was intrigued what he has to offer about India and Hindu outfits like RSS and political party BJP. The book also captures the support of US diaspora for the current government and especially PM Modi. So I thought of reading it to get and outsider’s perspective on the current political situation and how he sees things are shaping up in India as a result of right wing nationalism.
The Book
The book is a collection of articles on right wing ideology and its impact on the day to day life of a common Indians. Through various articles written over a period of last few years the author reports that how the Hindutva ideology is creating fissures among people of various faiths and how an atmosphere of xenophobia is created.
The articles are on contemporary topics and tells the reader how the Hindutva ideology is spreading fast post Modi and the mobs are having a free run spewing hate against minorities and anyone speaking against the government.
He likens the Hindu nationalism to Fasicm, white supremacy and violence. For the readers who haven’t read about RSS and its founders and their ideology, it gives a brief introduction to what it stands for.
Also, the readers will get to know more about the international branches of RSS and Vishv Hindu Parishad and their support for Hindu Nationalism.
The author through his articles reports that Hindu nationalism is dangerous for the country as was fascism and nazism. He argues that Hindu ideology of RSS is inspired by Hitler and Benito Mussolini and the founder of RSS and later on the longest serving leader of RSS have supported the views of Hitler and Mussolini.
The book gives you an idea about the Hindu nationalism and where it might lead us to. It also gives you a starting point to know and understand more about RSS and what it stands for.
About The Author
Pieter specializes in analysis of historical and current affairs in South Asia. He engages with issues such as human rights, supremacist political ideologies, ethnonationalism, politicization of religion, authoritarian government structures and policies, state-sponsored atrocities, and the need to unify around doctrines of liberty.
Pieter has lectured at Columbia University, Stanford University, UC Berkeley, UC Los Angeles, Carleton University, and St. Stephens College. A staunch advocate for religious liberty and interfaith cooperation, he has spoken at mosques, gurdwaras, churches, and viharas. He has traveled and lived in Europe and Asia.
Our Verdict
A good read to get an understanding about the Hindu Nationalism, which if not checked will take India into an abyss where Germany and Italy went under the fascist rule.
To get your own copy click on the link below.