Author Rakib Zia has dwelled upon various aspects and has left no stone unturned to make the concepts clear.
“Indian Political Thought” by Mr. Rakib Ahmad Zia is a meticulously crafted book that delves into the vast expanse of Indian political philosophy, tracing its evolution from ancient to modern times. As an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Vitasta School of Law and Humanities, Mr. Zia’s expertise shines through in this comprehensive work.
The book is divided into three major portions, each tackling a distinct era of Indian political thought. The first portion explores ancient Indian political thought, delving into the teachings of Kautilya’s Arthashastra and Manu’s Dharmashastra. Mr. Zia skillfully highlights the significance of these ancient texts, emphasizing their continued relevance in modern times.
The second portion focuses on modern Indian political thought, covering the Indian Renaissance, the principles of liberty, and the ideas of prominent figures such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Dadabhai Naoroji, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The book also dedicates a substantial section to the emancipatory thought of Baba Sahib Ambedkar, shedding light on his views on equality and the removal of untouchability.
The third and final portion, “Indian Political Thought in Perspectives,” offers a nuanced exploration of various ideologies, including VD Savarkar’s cultural nationalism, Maulana Azad’s composit nationalism, and the alternative discourses of Rabindranath Tagore and Allama Iqbal. The book concludes with a thought-provoking critique of modernity, swaraj, and non-violence, as espoused by Mahatma Gandhi.
Strengths:
1. Comprehensive coverage: The book provides an exhaustive overview of Indian political thought, seamlessly weaving together ancient, modern, and contemporary ideas.
2. Expert analysis: Mr. Zia’s expertise in political science shines through in his meticulous analysis and interpretation of complex political concepts.
3. Accessible language: The book is written in clear, concise language, making it accessible to readers from various academic backgrounds.
Drawbacks:
1. Overwhelming scope: The book’s comprehensive nature may overwhelm some readers, particularly those new to political science or Indian political thought.
2. Limited critique: While the book provides an excellent overview, some readers may find the critique of certain ideologies or figures somewhat limited or superficial. Some readers may find the book’s focus on historical figures and ideologies somewhat disconnected from contemporary political issues and challenges.
In conclusion, Mr. Rakib Ahmad Zia’s “Indian Political Thought” is a masterful work that showcases the author’s exceptional scholarship, expertise, and dedication to the subject. The book’s comprehensive coverage, meticulous analysis, and accessible language make it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of Indian political philosophy.
While some readers may find the book’s scope overwhelming or its critique of certain ideologies limited, these drawbacks are far outweighed by the book’s numerous strengths. Mr. Zia’s work is a significant contribution to the field of political science, and “Indian Political Thought” is a must-read for students of political science, and anyone interested in Indian political philosophy.
Faizan Fayaz is Student at Vitasta School of Law and Humanities
