révolutionnaires? Exploring Caste in Contemporary India Through Religion and Social Conflict

“Religion and Social Conflict,” penned by the astute Indian sociologist Dipankar Gupta, is a book that delves deep into the labyrinthine social structures of modern India, using religion as a prism through which to analyze the persistent issue of caste.

Gupta’s work transcends the confines of dry sociological analysis, instead offering a vibrant tapestry woven from historical insights, meticulous field research, and insightful theoretical frameworks. He meticulously dissects the intricate relationship between religious identity and social hierarchy in India, exposing how religion can both reinforce and challenge the age-old caste system.

Deconstructing Caste: Beyond Ritual Purity

Gupta begins by dismantling the prevalent notion of caste as solely a hierarchical structure based on ritual purity. He argues that caste is far more complex and fluid, shaped by factors such as economic power, political influence, and access to resources. The book skillfully elucidates how religious institutions and practices can be manipulated to legitimize or contest existing caste hierarchies.

For example, Gupta analyzes the role of Hindu revivalist movements in reinforcing traditional caste divisions, while simultaneously exploring how Dalit (formerly known as “untouchable”) communities have appropriated religious symbols and narratives to challenge their subordinate status. He examines how Sikhism, with its emphasis on egalitarianism, has provided a space for social mobility outside the constraints of the caste system.

The Interplay of Religion and Social Change

A central theme explored by Gupta is the dynamic interplay between religion and social change in India. He argues that religious movements are not static entities but rather active agents of social transformation. They can both contribute to and undermine social inequalities depending on the context and their specific ideologies.

Gupta employs a nuanced historical lens, tracing the evolution of caste relations through various religious upheavals and reform movements. He examines the impact of colonialism on the caste system, highlighting how British policies often inadvertently exacerbated existing divisions. The book also delves into the rise of modern political parties and their attempts to utilize religious identities for electoral gain.

Production Features: A Scholarly Gem

Published by Oxford University Press in 1998, “Religion and Social Conflict” is a testament to Gupta’s rigorous scholarship. The book is meticulously researched and densely packed with insights, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars of sociology, anthropology, religion, and Indian history.

The text is accompanied by comprehensive footnotes, providing readers with access to the extensive scholarly literature that informs Gupta’s analysis. A detailed bibliography further enhances the book’s value as a research tool.

Table 1: Key Themes Explored in “Religion and Social Conflict”

Theme	Description
Caste as a Multi-dimensional System	Gupta argues that caste is not simply about ritual purity, but also involves economic, political, and social factors.
Religion as a Tool for Reinforcing and Challenging Caste	The book explores how religious institutions and practices can be used to legitimize or contest existing caste hierarchies.
Religious Movements as Agents of Social Change	Gupta emphasizes the dynamic role of religious movements in shaping social structures and influencing social inequalities.
Colonialism and its Impact on Caste	The book examines how British colonial policies impacted the caste system, often exacerbating existing divisions.
Politics and Religion	Gupta analyzes the rise of modern political parties and their utilization of religious identities for electoral purposes.

A Lasting Legacy: Insights into a Complex Society

“Religion and Social Conflict” stands as a seminal work in the field of Indian sociology. It provides a nuanced and insightful understanding of the complex relationship between religion and caste, shedding light on the persistent challenges facing Indian society. Gupta’s masterful analysis continues to inspire scholars and provoke debate, making this book an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the intricate social fabric of India.