Readings for a Deeper Understanding of Indian Civilisation

Growing up in India and learning Indian history through textbooks may not have educated Indians about their own civilisation to the extent they may imagine.

In recent times, many writers have challenged the narrative from the textbooks of our youth and brought up several new, thought-provoking ideas. Here is a selection of the ones that I have found most interesting. I daresay any educated Indian will have a mind-altering experience after reading all of these.

On the neglected aspects of Indian history - The Kaipullai's Vetti Thoughts

1. The greatest heist in Indian history - Part 1

2. The greatest heist in Indian history - Part 2

3. Four little things that shaped India - Part 1

4. Four little things that shaped India - Part 2

On the neglected influence of caste in how Indians (and Pakistanis) behave - Aakar Patel

5. Of Punjab's partition, castes and martial races

6. Why caste persists in politics

7. Patels have let down Vallabhbhai

On the toll taken by a history of invasion - Cinemarasik's opinion

8. Why does India tend to collapse so often?

On how "Western Universalism" makes non-Western cultures seem quaint - Rajiv Malhotra

9. Oprah's India: Through the lens of Western Universalism