The Nation and Its Citizens: Tales of Bondage and Belonging is about nationalism as a uniquely modern political doctrine, shaped by the lived experience of citizens. Nationalism has changed in its appeal through history, as have its manifestations. Getting to know these may be part of the challenge of negotiating 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 practice of 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 a journey 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 fresh perspectives in understanding India’s unique political trajectory.
Review
‘This is a book of considerable theoretical acuity, courage and scholarship…’ —Achin Vanaik, Author and Retired Professor of International Relations and Global Politics, University of Delhi
About the Author
Sukumar Muralidharan teaches at the school of journalism, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat. Prior to this, he worked for many years in the print media, heading editorial desks and news bureaus. Since 2004, he has worked as a freelance journalist, trainer and press freedom campaigner. He began his professional life as a science and technology reporter, before moving on to the themes of economics and current political affairs. He has published research papers on the media industry and contemporary politics and worked in conflict analysis, both domestic and global. As a fellow at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla, he worked on the Indian development experience and on modes of theorizing on technology. He is also the author of Freedom, Civility, Commerce: Contemporary Media and the Public (2018).
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