The Hindu Diaspora Comparative Patterns

In this theoretically innovative analysis Steven Vertovec looks at why Hindu identities have developed in such different ways in different contexts and in so doing questions the assumption that subcontinent Hinduism represents the authentic articulation of Hindu identity.

Hinduism outside the Indian subcontinent represents a contrasting and scattered community. From Britain to the Caribbean, diasporic Hindus have substantially reformed their beliefs and practices in accordance with their historical and social circumstances. In this theoretically innovative analysis Steven Vertovec examines:* the historical construction of the category 'Hinduism in India'* the formation of a distinctive Caribbean Hindu culture during the nineteenth century* the role of youth groups in forging new identities during Trinidad's Hindu Renaissance* the reproduction of regionally based identities and frictions in Britain's Hindu communities* the differences in temple use across the diaspora.This book provides a rich and fascinating view of the Hindu diaspora in the past, present and its possible futures.

Chapter 1 Introduction; Chapter 2 Tracing Transformations of Hinduism; Chapter 3 ‘Official’ and ‘Popular’ Hinduism; Chapter 4 Religion and Ethnic Ideology; Chapter 5 Reproduction and Representation; Chapter 6 Category and Quandary; Chapter 7 Community and Congregation; Chapter 8 Three Meanings of ‘Diaspora’; Chapter 9 Conclusion;

Robin Cohen