3 Review(s)

The Nation and Its Citizens: Tales of Bondage and Belonging is about nationalism as a uniquely modernpolitical doctrine, shaped by the lived experience of citizens. Nationalism has changed in its appealthrough history, as have its manifestations. Getting to know these may be part of the challenge ofnegotiating the ongoing turmoil, both internal and external to the nation.In addressing these issues, this book offers several propositions on how the construct of ‘identity’is crafted, with all its power to influence modern politics. It then explores how well India’s practiceof republican democracy has lived up to the competing dynamics of identity and equality.As India celebrates 75 years of Independence, author Sukumar Muralidharan takes the readers on ajourney into how the sense of fellow-feeling and mutual dependence of the nation are consolidated,and under what circumstances these could fray. The Nation and Its Citizens offers many freshperspectives in understanding India’s unique political trajectory.