Seminar in Hindu Studies: Colonialism, Reform, and Nationalism in Modern Hinduism

In this course we will study the historical and political contexts of modern Hinduism in South Asia. We will begin with the colonial critique of Hinduism in the 19th century and the resulting movements of reform, focusing on major debates on image worship, caste, and the position of women. We will then consider the rise of Hindu nationalism, paying particular attention to the role of mass media (print, television/film, and the Internet). Working with textual and visual material, we will explore the role of Hinduism in defining cultural and national identity. (RELI 0140) 3hrs. sem.