The Felt Community: Commonality and Mentality before the Emergence of Indian Nationalism

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This study ofthe pre-history of Indian nationalism examines a relatively unexplored field of study in Indian history. It uses a novel perspective, at least in Indian historiography: the study of emotions, feelings, and sentiments as bonds in the construction of a 'felt community' before the emergence of modern Indian nationalism. The author argues that the nation might be construed by modernity but it is likely to be rooted in older sentiments and ideas. The book addresses questions about Indian identity in the aftermath of the demolition of the Babri Masjid. Although a historical work based on primary sources, it has a political and current relevance for the national states in the Indian subcontinent. It historicizes inter-community relations beyond the rubric of mere communalism, which is what most other writers do. This study will interest historians, sociologists, political scientists, and the general reader.

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Rajat Kanta Ray is Professor and Head of the Department of History, Presidency College, Calcutta