As India Turns 75, Here’s 75 Debates for Argumentative Indians
From the world of politics and diplomacy to security and sports, culture, ideas and society, there is no denying the salience of these names for Independent India. This list is intended to provoke debate and disagreement–even consternation– rather than to be definitive. It is entirely personal, drawn up by a 60-year-old who was born just […]Read More
Better Sorry Than Shave: In India, the Moustache Is Serious Business
Moustaches are an enduring symbol of maleness on which hang pride and social standing. In India, however, they also dictate caste equations, employment and how we see law enforcement. Moustaches are not just a fashion statement in India, but an integral part of tradition and folklore. They are closely associated with respect, privilege, honour and […]Read More
Bhagavad Gita in Schools: Rote Learning of Illiberal Theological Text Will Trump Rational Inquiry
The book is full of obscurantist themes and ideas which require critical engagement of the kind school teachers will not be willing or able to provide. Earlier this week, the Gujarat government announced that the Bhagavad Gita will be part of the school syllabus for classes VI to XII across the state from the academic year 2022-23. The Karnataka […]Read More