Religion has been, and is, an important element in Indian society and
history. It is, however, rare for the subject to be discussed with the
necessary degree of detachment. This volume was, therefore, planned with
the object of providing a collection of studies that would deal with the
role of religion in Indian history on the basis of a rigorous
application of academic criteria. The results may surprise those who are
more familiar with chauvinistic or apologetic interpretations. The
editor's introduction and the fifteen chapters range over an extensive
period, from prehistory to the present day, and take up specific
problems of crucial significance in exploring the inter- relationship
between religion and social change. This volume draws on new research
and is meant for academics as well as general readers, who may find here
much that is of relevance to their social and intellectual concerns.