The Supreme Refuge: Durgā’s Transformation into the Hindu Great Goddess

by Hillary P. Rodrigues

The Supreme Refuge: Durgā’s Transformation Into the Hindu Great Goddess by Hillary P. Rodrigues (SUNY Press, 2025) presents the first comprehensive academic study of how Durgā evolved from a relatively minor deity into the supreme Mahādevī of Hindu tradition. Drawing on textual, inscriptional, and iconographic evidence, the book traces her development across historical phases—from early references in pre-epic literature to her iconic form as Mahishasuramardini and her theological elevation in Purāṇic texts.

A central focus is the Devi Mahatmya, which Rodrigues analyzes in depth to show how it establishes Durgā as the ultimate, all-encompassing divine शक्ति (Shakti). The study also explores “Proto-Durgā” forms and early goddess traditions, revealing how imagery and worship practices shaped her expanding identity.

Rodrigues, a Professor Emeritus at the University of Lethbridge, integrates multiple disciplines—art history, textual studies, and religious practice—to present a nuanced narrative. The book ultimately demonstrates how Durgā became a universal protector and spiritual refuge, revered by both rulers and common people, and a central figure in Hindu theology.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The Eternal Statesman Hardcover – Picture Book

by Vijay Goel

Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The Eternal Statesman (2026), authored by Vijay Goel and released by C. P. Radhakrishnan, is a richly illustrated coffee table book that presents a visual and personal portrait of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Launched on February 21, 2026, at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, it serves as a “moral archive” rather than a conventional biography.

The book features rare photographs, archival records, and anecdotes tracing Vajpayee’s journey from a young parliamentarian in the 1950s to India’s 10th Prime Minister. It highlights defining moments such as the Pokhran nuclear tests and major infrastructure initiatives like the Delhi Metro. Above all, it emphasizes his eloquence, bipartisan respect, and ability to disagree without discord. Published by the Heritage India Foundation, the work portrays Vajpayee as a poet-statesman whose legacy continues to shape modern India.

Gods, Guns & Missionaries: The Making of the Modern

By Manu S. Pillai

Manu S. Pillai’s Gods, Guns and Missionaries (2025) examines how modern Hindu identity evolved through encounters with European colonialism and Christian missions. He argues Hinduism transformed from a fluid, plural tradition into a more cohesive and political identity. Missionary expansion, backed by colonial power, provoked both resistance and adaptation among Hindu thinkers. Over centuries, this interaction reshaped religious self-understanding, especially during the British Raj. Through diverse historical figures, Pillai presents a nuanced narrative showing how conflict, dialogue, and adaptation collectively shaped the foundations of contemporary Hindu identity and nationalism.  

The Indian Knowledge System: Creative Dialogue on Intellectual Traditions in the 21st Century

Edited by Manindra Nath Thakur and Shailja Tandon

Manu S. Pillai’s Gods, Guns and Missionaries (2025) examines how modern Hindu identity evolved through encounters with European colonialism and Christian missions. He argues Hinduism transformed from a fluid, plural tradition into a more cohesive and political identity. Missionary expansion, backed by colonial power, provoked both resistance and adaptation among Hindu thinkers. Over centuries, this interaction reshaped religious self-understanding, especially during the British Raj. Through diverse historical figures, Pillai presents a nuanced narrative showing how conflict, dialogue, and adaptation collectively shaped the foundations of contemporary Hindu identity and nationalism.  

The American “I” and the Hindu “We”

Balancing Individualism and Dharma in Hindu American Families

By Dr. Mohini Shinde

What does it mean to raise children who feel fully American—yet remain deeply rooted in Hindu values?

Across the United States, millions of Hindu families live at the intersection of two powerful worldviews. One celebrates independence, self-expression, and personal choice—the American “I.” The other emphasizes dharma, family responsibility, spiritual grounding, and collective well-being—the Hindu “We.” For children growing up in this environment, identity is not divided into separate compartments but experienced as a constant, often quiet negotiation between these perspectives.

Hindu American children move fluidly between worlds. In school, they are encouraged to think critically, speak confidently, and define themselves as individuals. At home, they are guided toward respect for elders, commitment to family, moral discipline, and an understanding that life extends beyond the self. Neither set of values is inherently in conflict, yet misunderstandings frequently arise when expectations remain unspoken. What parents see as responsibility, children may perceive as pressure. What children experience as independence, parents may interpret as detachment.

For parents, this duality is both hopeful and unsettling. They want their children to thrive in an open and competitive society—to pursue careers, express opinions, and participate fully in American life. At the same time, they hope to transmit a heritage shaped by continuity across generations: language, rituals, festivals, reverence, and a sense of belonging to something larger than individual achievement. The challenge lies not in choosing one path over the other, but in learning how to integrate both consciously.

In The American “I” and the Hindu “We”, Dr. Mohini Shinde explores this integration through lived experience, cultural observation, and contemporary understanding of family dynamics. The book examines how Hindu identity evolves across generations, especially among second- and third-generation families. It looks at parenting styles shaped by Western psychology and traditional expectations, conversations about education and success, and the ways children interpret religious practice while growing up as a minority in a pluralistic society.

The discussion extends beyond the home. Schools, peer groups, media, and social narratives influence how young people understand themselves. Festivals must be balanced with academic calendars. Faith is sometimes reduced to stereotypes. Temples and community organizations attempt to reinforce what families alone cannot always sustain. Grandparents adjust to changing roles in nuclear households, while parents navigate conversations they themselves never had growing up. Each of these forces shapes how the “I” and the “We” either harmonize or drift apart.

Importantly, the book does not frame American and Hindu values as opposing choices. Individual confidence need not negate collective responsibility. Personal freedom does not erase spiritual discipline. Adaptation does not require cultural loss. Instead, Dr. Shinde presents a framework in which both perspectives coexist—strengthening identity rather than fragmenting it.

Written for parents, educators, community leaders, and young adults alike, these pages offer an invitation to reflection and dialogue. By naming the dynamics between the American “I” and the Hindu “We,” the book guides families toward clarity, understanding, and harmony—so that the next generation may grow not divided between worlds, but enriched by both.

For more information or to buy this book, please visit www.deshvideshpublishing.com.

How to Build Character, Culture, and Confidence in the Next Generation

By Raj Shah

Every Hindu parent in America knows this moment: Your child walks into school wearing a Diwali T-shirt or carrying a Krishna book, and you silently hope they will feel proud—not different. You want them to shine in this land of opportunity, yet stay rooted in the values your parents lovingly poured into you.

This book was born from that feeling.

Hindu Parenting in the USA is the story of how families like ours keep culture alive—through bedtime tales of Rama and Krishna, through shlokas whispered before school, through festivals celebrated in living rooms far from India. It shows how children can grow up grounded in dharma while embracing the best of American life.

With warmth and wisdom, this book helps parents raise children who are kind, confident, resilient, and deeply connected to their heritage.

Because our children deserve both: the wings to soar—and the roots to stay strong.

For More information or to buy this book, please visit

https://deshvideshpublishing.com/

“Inshallah Bangladesh: The Story of an Unfinished Revolution” is a new book that tells a dramatic and controversial story about the political unrest that led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Deep Halder, Jaideep Mazumdar, and Sahidul Hasan Khokon are journalists who wrote the book. It contains shocking claims by former Bangladesh home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who says that Hasina’s removal was part of a carefully planned American CIA plot.

The book says that Kamal claims the events were part of a “perfect CIA plot” that was carefully planned over a long period of time. He says that General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the head of the Bangladesh Army, was secretly working with American intelligence and “stabbed” Hasina in the back at a crucial time. Kamal also says that the country’s intelligence agencies didn’t tell the prime minister about Waker’s plans, which makes it seem like high-ranking officials in those agencies may have been involved as well.

The book looks at Kamal’s claim that the US wants weaker governments in South Asia instead of strong, independent leaders like Narendra Modi, Xi Jinping, or Sheikh Hasina. He also brings up a more immediate strategic issue: St. Martin’s Island, which Hasina had said the U.S. wanted in exchange for political stability.

Kamal compares Hasina’s fall to Abhimanyu’s tragic entrapment in the Mahabharata. He says that General Waker worked with fundamentalist groups to bring about her fall. He also says that Pakistan’s ISI got into Jamaat-e-Islami and caused violence in June 2024, even though Hasina was told that the army would handle the situation. Kamal says that her trust cost her life the next day.

Growing Up Hindu in the U.S:

A Step-by-Step Guide for the New Generation

By Raj Shah

The book “Growing Up Hindu in the U.S—A Step-by-Step Guide for the New Generation” is a warm and engaging introduction to Sanatan Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism, created especially for children of the New Generation who are growing up outside India but want to stay connected to their spiritual roots. This book will instill pride, peace, and understanding in their hearts.

With 15 inspiring chapters, reflection activities, and vibrant cultural insights, this book is a perfect companion for a Hindu dad or mom raising kids outside India, home libraries, interfaith education, Bal Vihar classes, Hindu school programs at the Hindu temples, and giving gifts for birthdays, Diwali, or religious milestones.

Written in friendly, easy-to-understand language, this beautifully crafted book covers every aspect of Hinduism.

The book also includes

Parent’s Guide: Step-by-Step Guidelines for Parents Who Can Support Their Child’s Journey.

Teacher’s Guide: Chapter-wise guidelines for teachers who can guide young hearts on the Hindu path in their classroom.

For More information or to buy this book, please visit

https://deshvideshpublishing.com/

In our multicultural world, few joys compare to sharing diverse foods at the table. This book celebrates that delight through the rich and aromatic cuisine of Kashmir, India’s northernmost region known for its unique culinary heritage. It features flavorful recipes, many with healthier alternatives to deep frying, proving that Kashmiri cooking can be quick, fun, and done in just 10 to 25 minutes. The dishes stand apart from the rest of India with their bold, spicy character and distinct style.

Beyond recipes, the book highlights the health benefits of everyday foods and explains the cultural and religious significance behind Kashmiri traditions. Koshur Saal (“Kashmiri Feast”) has long been cherished by home cooks, food lovers, and cultural enthusiasts. This new edition goes a step further by reviving forgotten dishes and preserving them for future generations.

“This book is more than recipes—it’s a heritage volume for the global Kashmiri diaspora, a way to reconnect with tradition and identity through food,” says author Chandramukhi Ganju.

Readers agree. Kartikeya Tanna, who gave it 5 stars and called it the “Best ever Kashmiri Pandit cookbook,” writes:
“Best Kashmiri cookbook with easy everyday recipes. Simple to follow, with cultural and religious insights. I recommend it to everyone.”

Another reviewer, Walter J. Campbell, also rated it 5 stars, calling it “one of the best recipe books on the market.” He adds:
“I tried a few dishes and they turned out excellent. The best part is the simplicity—you could become a chef just by following this book.”

Extract from the book with the permission from the Author

“White rice is the staple food that balances the spicy hot Kashmiri dishes.

Some of the dishes have a cultural as well as a religious background and hence are prepared on special occasions. I have tried to indicate at the appropriate places the necessary information in this regard. Quantities of spices specified in recipes are merely a guide. So, feel free to experiment and adjust these as per your liking. In general, chilies and salt are the two ingredients that can be varied according to personal taste.”

“Deeply concerned at the fact that future generations of diasporal Kashmiris might lose touch with authentic Kashmiri cuisine, as they do with their native language, it occurred to me that I must pass on the recipes learned by me from my mother, Prabha Pandita, to the generations to come.”

About the Author:

ChandraMukhi Ganju’s journey of cultural preservation began after the Kashmiri Hindu exodus of the early 1990s. Forced to leave her homeland in 1993 due to escalating terrorism, she rebuilt her life in the United States with one urgent concern—that Kashmiri language, cuisine, and traditions might fade with time and distance. Instead of accepting that loss, she transformed her worry into action.

Believing that food is memory, identity, and heritage on a plate, she began documenting and sharing traditional Kashmiri recipes. She created koshursaal.com, one of the first online platforms devoted to Kashmiri cuisine and culture. The enthusiastic global response encouraged her to expand her mission.

In 2009, she published Koshur Saal, an authentic cookbook that goes beyond ingredients and methods. It preserves the cultural and spiritual meaning behind traditional dishes and introduces them to younger generations and non-Kashmiris alike. Now headed into its third edition, the book revives recipes that had quietly disappeared from daily kitchens, offering both nostalgia and preservation.

ChandraMukhi also became the first Kashmiri food blogger on YouTube, sharing monthly recipe videos through Shehjar magazine. Her work has inspired the diaspora and sparked new interest among youth who may never have seen these dishes prepared at home.

To her, cooking is an art and an experience. She believes that a peaceful, intentional kitchen infuses meals with positive energy that nourishes both the body and family ties.

Her cultural commitment extends beyond food—she also writes plays in the Kashmiri language to keep the spoken tradition alive.

Through storytelling, culinary revival, and creative outreach, ChandraMukhi Ganju has become a custodian of heritage—ensuring that Kashmiri culture is not just remembered, but shared, celebrated, and savored across generations.

Discover Hinduism with Joy, Pride, and Purpose!

A Joyful Journey Through Hinduism—For Children Ages 6 to 13

As Hindu parents and grandparents raising children in America, we often ask:

How can we pass on the wisdom of Sanatan Dharma to the next generation?

We want our children to know more than rituals. We want them to understand the meanings behind mantras, the values behind stories, and the deep peace that comes from knowing who they truly are. We want them to feel proud of their Hindu identity—not just as something inherited, but as something joyfully lived.

That heartfelt desire is what inspired this book—Learning Hinduism: A Step-by-Step Guide for the New Generation.

Written especially for children aged 6 to 13 who are growing up outside India, this warm and engaging book offers a clear, joyful introduction to Sanatan Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism. With easy-to-understand language, vibrant cultural insights, and reflection-based activities, it helps young readers explore:

• What is Hinduism, and what is Sanatan Dharma?

   

• What does it mean to be a Hindu child growing up in America?

   

• The meaning behind our gods, goddesses, and epics

   

• Life lessons from the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, and Mahabharata

   

• How to live as a proud Hindu in a modern world

   

• The deeper values behind festivals, yoga, prayers, and symbols

   

The book includes 15 inspiring chapters that can be used at home, in Bal Vihar classes, at Hindu temples, in interfaith education, or as part of Hindu school programs. It’s also a thoughtful gift for birthdays, Diwali, or religious milestones.

Bonus Resources Included:

• Parent’s Guide: Step-by-step tips to support your child’s spiritual journey

   

• Teacher’s Guide: Chapter-wise instructions for leading meaningful discussions in the classroom

   

Whether read at bedtime or used as part of a weekly lesson, each chapter is designed to start a conversation and light a spark. It’s not just about reading—it’s about living Hinduism joyfully in a Western world.

Published by:

Desh-Videsh Media Group

An imprint of Desh-Videsh Publishing

www.deshvideshpublishing.com

ISBN 978-1-64999-375-5

To buy the book online, please visit the link. 

http://bit.ly/3Ja4IdE

For press inquiries, bulk orders, or review copies:
Email: info@deshvidesh.com

Discover Hinduism with Joy, Pride, and Purpose!

A Joyful Journey Through Hinduism—For Children Ages 6 to 13

As Hindu parents and grandparents raising children in America, we often ask:

How can we pass on the wisdom of Sanatan Dharma to the next generation?

We want our children to know more than rituals. We want them to understand the meanings behind mantras, the values behind stories, and the deep peace that comes from knowing who they truly are. We want them to feel proud of their Hindu identity—not just as something inherited, but as something joyfully lived.

That heartfelt desire is what inspired this book—Learning Hinduism: A Step-by-Step Guide for the New Generation.

Written especially for children aged 6 to 13 who are growing up outside India, this warm and engaging book offers a clear, joyful introduction to Sanatan Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism. With easy-to-understand language, vibrant cultural insights, and reflection-based activities, it helps young readers explore:

• What is Hinduism, and what is Sanatan Dharma? 
  
• What does it mean to be a Hindu child growing up in America? 
  
• The meaning behind our gods, goddesses, and epics 
  
• Life lessons from the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, and Mahabharata 
  
• How to live as a proud Hindu in a modern world 
  
• The deeper values behind festivals, yoga, prayers, and symbols

The book includes 15 inspiring chapters that can be used at home, in Bal Vihar classes, at Hindu temples, in interfaith education, or as part of Hindu school programs. It’s also a thoughtful gift for birthdays, Diwali, or religious milestones.

Bonus Resources Included:

• Parent’s Guide: Step-by-step tips to support your child’s spiritual journey
• Teacher’s Guide: Chapter-wise instructions for leading meaningful discussions in the classroom

Whether read at bedtime or used as part of a weekly lesson, each chapter is designed to start a conversation and light a spark. It’s not just about reading—it’s about living Hinduism joyfully in a Western world.

Published by: Desh-Videsh Media Group

An imprint of Desh-Videsh Publishing www.deshvideshpublishing.com

ISBN 978-1-64999-375-5

To buy the book online, click HERE.

For press inquiries, bulk orders, or review copies:

Email: info@deshvidesh.com

Sanatana Dharma: Understanding the Knowledge and Ethics of Hinduism

by Rupa Publications

The religion of Sanatana Dharma is the most ancient, continuously practiced spiritual tradition on earth. Culturally relevant and imperative in the contemporary era, this work has been preserved and reproduced as the fundamental knowledge base of a civilization. This selected guide is an attempt to keep the ethos of Hinduism alive and relevant.

The term ‘Sanatana Dharma’ is translated from the Sanskrit language to English as the ‘Eternal Natural Way;’ thereby making Hinduism a way of living within nature, alongside nature and through nature. This comprehensive work touches upon all the aspects of this Sanatana philosophy for spiritual enlightenment.

The Religion of the Rigveda

by Thomas Oberlies

This comprehensive new presentation of the religion of the Rigveda is the result of a thorough-going endeavour to extrapolate historical circumstances from that literary text and present them chiefly from the perspective of the adherents to this religion. For them society, social life, and religion were inextricably bound. This helps to explain the meanings of rights and rituals. Which rituals are to be performed at what times is influenced by the way of life of these Vedic tribes which alternates between peaceful settling and predatory raids.

The ‘priests’ who carry out the rituals embody the gods of the Rigvedic pantheon. In telling the story of these rituals, Thomas Oberlies highlights particular connections — such as the association of the war god Indra with the priest who recites the hymns which invite the gods — that help us solve many of the riddles which the text of the Rigveda still poses to this day. The Religion of the Rigveda includes a wealth of quotations from primary sources which form the basis of this approach to a religion that would later become Hinduism. A comprehensive index of subjects makes the book eminently accessible for use in further studies.

Exploring Sanatan Dharma: Unveiling the Eternal Path

by Vikash Dabriwal

“Exploring Sanatan Dharma: Unveiling the Eternal Path” is a comprehensive and illuminating exploration of the ancient and intricate spiritual tradition of Sanatan Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism. This book delves into the profound philosophical and spiritual underpinnings of Hinduism while providing a contemporary perspective on its relevance in the modern world.

The book begins with an introduction to the concept and significance of Sanatan Dharma, highlighting its timeless nature and universal appeal. It then takes the reader on a historical journey, tracing the roots of the tradition from pre-Vedic times through the Vedic period and into the emergence of Sanatan Dharma. It explores the significant influence of other religious and philosophical schools on Hinduism, emphasizing its adaptability and inclusivity.
Central philosophical concepts like dharma (duty), karma (action and consequence), samsara (cycle of birth and rebirth), and moksha (liberation) are explained in depth. The book elucidates the role of major deities such as Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi, along with the significance of avatars (incarnations).

It also sheds light on the intricate rituals, practices, and worship associated with Hinduism, including the importance of the Vedas and Upanishads. The epic stories of the Ramayana and Mahabharata are presented, as well as the spiritual guidance found in the Bhagavad Gita.

The reader gains insight into daily, seasonal, and life-cycle rituals, the significance of puja (worship), and the role of temples and pilgrimage sites. The practice of yoga and the different paths to spiritual realization, such as Karma, Bhakti, Jnana, and Hatha Yoga, are explained.

The book doesn’t shy away from addressing societal issues, including the caste system and concepts of dharma in society. It emphasizes ethical principles like ahimsa (non-violence) and explores the impact of colonialism and globalization on Sanatan Dharma.

In the modern context, the book highlights the relevance of Sanatan Dharma, its interactions with other belief systems, the diversity of sects within Hinduism, and key reform movements. It concludes by underlining the enduring principles of Sanatan Dharma that offer spiritual guidance, unity, and a sense of purpose in the 21st century.

“Exploring Sanatan Dharma: Unveiling the Eternal Path” serves as a comprehensive guide for both those new to Hinduism and those seeking a deeper understanding of its profound teachings. It celebrates the tradition’s enduring wisdom while demonstrating its adaptability and universal appeal in today’s ever-changing world.

Eternal Universal Truth of the Soul: Sanatan Dharm As It Is

by Rahul Gupta

Eternal Universal Truth of the Soul: Sanatan Dharm As It Is shares the beliefs and teachings of Hinduism (also known as Sanatan Dharm) to enlighten all of humanity in both the present and future times toward the path to liberation (moksha).

Readers will gain further insights about God (Bhagwan), Dharm, the soul (atma), the material world and the spiritual world as well as the creation of the universe, multiverse, love, faith, devotion, compassion, forgiveness, patience, positive attitude, charity, yoga, chakra, Kundalini Shakti, Samadhi, aura, the third eye, meditation, vegetarianism, karma, destiny, death, reincarnation, and moksha.

Most importantly, the readers will gain the knowledge and strength they need to never give up, always smile, and find the right solutions for overcoming any difficulties they may encounter in their journeys through life. Through this knowledge, they will find good health, stay blissful, and find peace and contentment in their own lives while being well guided on how to be a winner.

This book has been divided into three chapters:
Chapter 1: Teachings of Sanatan Dharm (Hinduism)
Chapter 2: We Have Seen Bhagwan Krishna
Chapter 3: Teachings of Brahmrishi Guruvanand (aka Siddh Guru)