Must Read Books
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.
