/198/ Universal India ft. Achin Vanaik
Added 2021-06-18 17:02:35 +0000 UTCOn secularism, nationalism and identity politics.
India is held up as a model developing country: liberal, democratic, multicultural. Renowned Indian writer and activist Achin Vanaik joins us to examine how India has turned away from universalism and secularism.
How did Gandhi, Nehru and the Congress as a whole lay the seeds for today's Hindu chauvinism? What are the consequences of defining secularism as merely 'tolerance'? And how has caste come to function a bit like identity politics in relation to the state?
We also discuss the 'cultural turn' under neoliberalism, and look at how an emphasis on culture diverts away from materialist, class-based politics.
Readings:
- Nationalist Dangers, Secular Failings, Achin Vanaik, Aakar Books
- The Rise of Hindu Authoritarianism, Achin Vanaik, Verso Books
- The Rise of Hindu Nationalism and the Failures of the Indian Left, Interview with Achin Vanaik, Jacobin
Comments
Great episode. I was afraid you were running out of guests ;) It was very informative especially because I couldn't quite get why suddenly the question of intelectual property regarding the vaccines got so medial. Got plenty stuff to think about now!
Marc Walles
2021-06-22 12:18:43 +0000 UTCWe'll try to do more of these! The timing didn't work out for this one as the episode was already delayed.
Aufhebunga Bunga
2021-06-20 11:12:52 +0000 UTCI miss the after parties 😞
Paul Brewer
2021-06-19 17:28:37 +0000 UTC
