India that is Bharat: Coloniality, Civilisation, Constitution

. Sai Deepak's "India that is Bharat" is not just a book; it's an intellectual and emotional excavation, unearthing the forgotten foundations of a vibrant civilization. It delves into the historical, philosophical, and legal dimensions of what it truly means to be "Bharat," challenging the colonial narratives that have shaped our understanding of India.Deepak's central thesis is that India, as we know it, is a product of European colonization, both in its physical borders and its mental framework. He argues that the notion of a unified "India" is a colonial construct, obscuring the rich tapestry of diverse cultures and traditions that have thrived for millennia under the umbrella of "Bharat."The book masterfully weaves together historical accounts, philosophical insights, and legal arguments to support this claim. Deepak meticulously dissects the evolution of the Indian Constitution, tracing its roots back to colonial legal frameworks and highlighting the subtle ways in which it continues to perpetuate colonial biases.One of the book's most thought-provoking chapters explores the concept of "coloniality," a term coined by Anibal Quijano to describe the ongoing psychological and cultural effects of colonialism. Deepak demonstrates how coloniality manifests in various aspects of Indian life, from education and language to law and governance."India that is Bharat" is not a comfortable read, especially for those who subscribe to the dominant narrative of India as a secular, unified nation-state. It forces us to confront the uncomfortable truths of our past and question the very foundations of our present. However, it is precisely this discomfort that makes the book so necessary.Deepak's writing is both erudite and engaging, making complex legal and philosophical concepts accessible to a lay audience. He seamlessly transitions from historical analysis to contemporary commentary, offering a fresh perspective on issues like nationalism, secularism, and Hindu identity.While some may find Deepak's arguments controversial, his meticulous research and logical reasoning are undeniable. He provides ample evidence to support his claims, drawing from diverse sources like ancient Indian texts, colonial documents, and postcolonial scholarship."India that is Bharat" is not just a critique of the present; it is a call to action. Deepak urges us to reclaim our civilizational heritage, to rediscover the values and principles that have sustained Bharat for millennia. He envisions a future where India, rooted in its own unique identity, can contribute meaningfully to the world stage.Whether you agree with all of Deepak's conclusions or not, "India that is Bharat" is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex history and identity of India, and for those who believe that the future of this nation lies not in imitating the West, but in rediscovering its own unique soul.In conclusion, "India that is Bharat" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that challenges our assumptions about India and its place in the world. It is a timely and necessary contribution to the ongoing conversation about decolonization, identity, and the future of our nation.

I studied this book and not just read it. I believe the author had painstakingly elucidated sentiments of Sankaracharya Sri Sri Sri Chandrasekhar Sarasvati Swamigal ( Kanchi Mahaperiyava) is reported to have observed back in 1947 “the country may be free but its people are not yet”. Kanchi Mahatma (and such other Mahatmas) walked the length and breadth of Bharat to ensure that the flame of indigeneity is kept alive. One of the strands of this book ‘coloniality’ was/is so ingrained that prompted such a comment leading to such a tapas by Mahaperiyava. Fast forward 75 years, it still holds true and sadly this thread of coloniality has intertwined to become the third strand of our (Bharatiya) DNA. Author in his inimitable style is attempting to surgically remove (at the very least, draw our attention) this alien parasite before it completely devours.Author is commended for embarking on this journey to raise the collective consciousness through this trilogy and complementing it with his debates and discussions. The clinical assessment supported by rigorous analysis was fascinating. Personally, and there are many like me, holding similar thoughts but unsure how to coherently articulate and feared of ridicule, found intellectual support in this book. The book, to me, has highlighted the root cause of the blights that have plagued our country and to a large extent what the world has witnessed. The book presents a convincing argument for the decay, the constant upheaval, the disunity, restlessness and the myriad of social issues which has/(and continues) confronted us throughout since decolonisation.The author defined terms - Indigenous /Indigeneity- and recommended the use of term “indigeneity” to capture the meaning of native consciousness. I was hoping, that the author would actually coin a new term as opposed to using the word indigeneity which is a derivative of indigenous and therefore suffers it’s limited connotation. I am sure the author has his reasons.Similarly, I am but at a loss to understand why the author chose to employ the word “indic” when referencing indigenous OET and civilisation. In light of what the author has highlighted in the debates about naming the country, the word Indic equally suffers the limitations as that of the name India. Staying true to the theme of this book, decoloniality, would the word Dharma be an appropriate description of both the civilisation and the OET?I have to admit upon reading all the curated passages of the proceedings in UK Parliament and those of TB Macaulay, Charles Grant, Lord Moira and including Rammohun Roy washed me with a range of usual emotions but culminating in a strong sense of shame of being a product of a covert, diabolical, systematic debasement and travesty. Certain passages were downright nauseous, revealing their utter contempt and the warped sense of reason (justification) was just unbelievable and clearly delusional. It was a deliberate insidious strategy to strip us of our self dignity and respect through denigration and undermining Dharmic OET.I concur with the author’s assertion that there never was (is) a true secular government. Countries (governments) around the world are in the main, either Christian or Islamic in character. Religion and politics are inextricably woven and can never be divorced. Governments after all are made up of people. People are all influenced by religion in many ways, including those who profess to be irreligious. Therefore, it is inevitable that actions, thoughts of persons in the government will never be truly secular.It would not be an understatement to say that the 300 years of Christian colonisation of Bharat is the darkest period in its antiquity. In contrast the Islamic colonisation was at worst bloody and overt. I do take comfort, again from our antiquity, that it is not that easy to destroy our civilisation which has stood its ground time and again despite confronted with apocalyptic events and existential crisis.It is also true to say that countries which were colonised are now merely decolonised and not necessarily “independent” in its true spirit. A second war of independence is justified to truly liberate ourselves and to reclaim our lost consciousness. The enormity of the task should not be a deterrent.I applaud the author for recommending materials for further reading throughout the book. Towards the end of the book, it was illuminating to read Sri Lala Lajpat Rai’s thoughts on Bharat as a nation. This book has certainly assisted me to comprehend the antagonism, hostility, veiled slur and derision in the actions of western governments and their media organisations.In conclusion, I am reminded of Swami Vivekananda’s famous quote “ Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached”. I believe this book (trilogy) aims to do just that.Awaiting Book 2 eagerly.