
The Saffron Wave
Democracy and Hindu Nationalism in Modern India
Thomas Blom Hansen(Author)
Princeton University Press
Published on 12. April 1999
Book
Hardback
328 pages
978-0-691-00670-3 (ISBN)
Description
Analyzing Indian receptivity to the right-wing Hindu nationalist party, this book also explores its political wing, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which claims to create a policy based on "ancient" Hindu culture. The author places the BJP within the context of the larger transformation of democratic governance in India. The text goes on to argue that the Hindu nationalist movement has successfully articulated the anxieties and desires of the large and amorphous Indian middle class. Consequently, the movement has attracted privileged groups fearing encroachment on their dominant positions but also "plebian" and impoverished groups seeking recognition around a majoritarian rhetoric of cultural pride, order, and national strength. This book aims to advance the understanding of democarcy in the post-colonial world.
Reviews / Votes
"One of Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles for 1999" "This may become a classic text. . . . Hansen writes well and thoughtfully." * Journal of Peace Research * "Combining broad analysis with vivid local case studies, this book gives the reader profound insights into the turbulent world of contemporary Indian politics."---Judith M. Brown, HistoryMore details
Language
English
Place of publication
New Jersey
United States
Target group
College/higher education
Professional and scholarly
Product notice
Trade binding
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Weight
595 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-691-00670-3 (9780691006703)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

E-Book
03/1999
1st Edition
Princeton University Press
€188.95
Available for download
Person
Thomas Blom Hansen is Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and International Development Studies at Roskilde University in Denmark.