Same-sex Love in India  (English, Paperback, unknown)

A pioneering book, Same-Sex Love In India: A Literary History is a must read for those who are interested in gender studies or those simply interested in the development of homoerotic traditions in India.

Summary Of The Book

For a country that is so steeped in tradition and heritage, it is almost implausible to believe that India has an equally strong and deep rooted connection to homosexuality. By focussing and analysing ancient texts, the book shows how same-sex love was expressed and written about in the decades that have gone by in the country. Drawn from numerous Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist and contemporary fictional sources, these writings prove without a doubt that same-sex love was not just present in the country, but also managed to evolve as an integral part of the society.

A well-presented and argued book, the editors of the Same-Sex Love In India: A Literary History have properly prioritised and presented their understanding of the main themes in the collection, namely love, gender, friendship, marriage and India.

Each section of the book has an introduction by the editors who give the readers a better understanding about the section and how there are varying opinions to the same. They provide detailed justifications to help the readers to better understand their thought process. One of the major advantages of the book is that it always states that the editors understanding and views are not conclusive and exhaustive in nature, allowing the readers to form their own opinion.

Additionally, this book also breaks the stereotype that same-sex love was an invention of the Western culture and was brought to India only in the 19th century. Through these readings of ancient texts, the readers will be able to understand that same-sex love was an inherent part of the lifestyle of Indians from the ancient times. By helping promote more tolerance and respect towards erotic and sexual diversity, the book, Same-Sex Love In India: A Literary History is a definite eye-opener for many readers. On the whole, it is a stunning array of writings and can be a great value addition to both history and gender students who want to gain a better understanding on this aspect of the society.

It is also important to note that the editors of the book have personally translated all the pieces of ancient literature and that even the formerly translated pieces have been translated again keeping in mind the new sensitivities, which now does not hide or gloss over same-sex love or sexual references in any manner.