Extraordinarily comprehensive coverage of Indian and Hindu history. A must read for all Hindus. Particularly recommended to votaries of Hindutva. The historical interplay between the Hindu religion, other religions the exercise of State power is well discussed in the book. The book also discusses at length the contribution that women have made to Hinduism. Highly recommended.

I got to know about the book in the popular media after so much hullabaloo regarding the banning of it.After reading the whole book I would like to add that Wendy Doniger stressed & re stressed out that myth, history & relegion do not go through all time.
At one point our author mentioned that Skanda (Lord Murugan)had a contribution on the weapons of Goddess Durga.But I don't know any scriptures mentioning the same.
Actually Skanda is the son of Devi Durga, so that question about creating h...

Religion and mythology are (wo)man-made. (Pls note am not an atheist, but an ardent Hindu). Hence, they too are not free from the flaws, bias and prejudices (s)he has. One need to be unmoved by the current religious beliefs being followed and the emotions that it brings out. With such an open and inquisitive mind for history, this book would come out as an excellent academic workon Ancient Indian literature.

This books requires patience and more importantly a rational view of religion and religious history. Great interpretations. While many may disagree with author on several count, but the logical view is good. The author has presented the facts and given different perspectives based on the language and context. It is a good read. It is also worth to have as collection. In fact the author is also open to readers comment and takes effort to respond to the mails.

Amezing

Factual book

I thought I'd write a review after I read one describing how biased and negative this book is. First off, if one is looking for a history of the 'reformed Hinduism', please don't order this book, but if you want to read about 'Hinduism' this one is a must read. Yes there is a lot of description about the sexual aspect of Hinduism but then one can't talk about Hinduism without it, it only goes to show how different and open Hinduism is from the Abrahamic religions. The author talks of the sexu...

By far the best work on Hinduism. The research is simply breathtaking and impeccable. What a splendid book to have! Thank you Wendy for writing such a brilliant and brave book. The book was in excellent condition as far as Flipkart is concerned.

Author is having great knowledge of Hindu religion and Hindu culture, even Hindu pandits of India don't have such deep knowledge of Hindu religion,
One of the finest work by the scholar , each and every word in the book is true and with too much research on Hinduism
RIGHT WING CANNOT DIGEST THESE TYPE OF BOOKS SO THEY CREATED A DUMB PEOPLE LIKE RAJEEV MALHOTRA TO COUNTER SUCH VALUABLE BOOKS AND AUTHORS

The book is really amazing... and timely delivery of book and all is very nice.