Exploration of Perspectives: An Insightful Collection of Essays Critiquing the Concept of India
Fresh Perspective: Diving into the Labyrinth of Indian Thought
Pavan K. Varma's latest opus, "Echoes of Eternity: A Journey through Indian Thought from the Rigveda to the Present," offers a whirlwind tour of our intellectual evolution over the centuries. Yet, it's a minefield, brimming with intellectual conundrums, contentious selections, and tantalizing omissions.
The book aims to be an indispensable primer, illuminating the brilliance and continuity of our cerebral growth. But does it achieve this goal? Let's find out.
Book Review: A Middle Finger to the Status Quo?
Varma's book should provoke thought among the general public, not just scholars. It's intended to inspire critical discourse, helping readers reevaluate their preconceived notions of India. However, some may argue that certain schools of thought, such as the Charvakas, or the Materialist School, should have a larger presence, while others might demand more south Indian bhakti poets, especially from Tamil Nadu.
What's more contentious, though, is what Varma chose to include. Savarkar's inclusion, for example, raises eyebrows, with critics arguing he lacked intellectual merit. But Varma sees this as an opportunity to spark vital debate. Similarly, Osho's presence might raise questions, considering his status as a 'cult hero.' The inclusion of Indira Gandhi, Atal Behari Vajpayee, or even Jawaharlal Nehru may also stir up controversy. But that's the beauty of this anthology - it invites us to interrogate the ideas of numerous individuals and make up our own minds.
Navigating the Book:
This isn't a book for passive readers. It's meant to challenge our understanding of India and the thoughts that have shaped us. So, dive in, challenge your views, and let the echoes of eternity reverberate within you. But remember, it's not a curated museum exhibit; it's a dynamic, pulsating, and ever-evolving thought experiment.
Echoes of Eternity: A Journey through Indian Thought from the Rigveda to the Present
By Pavan K. Varma
Westland;
pp. 681; Rs 999
This book, "Echoes of Eternity," not only serves as a learning resource for education-and-self-development but also doubles as an entertainment source, offering a unique lifestyle experience by inviting readers to interrogate their own thoughts and beliefs about India. As you navigate through its pages, you'll encounter a diverse selection of thinkers, from the Charvakas to contemporary figures like Osho, that span various genres, similar to the sections on books.
