Unveiling the Legal Battle Against Caste: Caste Pride by Manoj Mitta

Demystifying the enduring legacy of caste in India isn't just about social movements. Manoj Mitta's groundbreaking work, "Caste Pride: A Radically New History of Caste Based on Previously Unseen Legislative and Judicial Records," delves into the heart of the fight for equality – the legal system.

A Fresh Perspective Through Law

This captivating book sheds new light on the Hindu caste system by examining two centuries of legal reforms alongside social movements. "Caste Pride" meticulously dissects the characters, arguments, and historical decisions that have shaped the ongoing war against caste discrimination.

Beyond Untouchability: A System of Persecution

The book goes beyond the widely known issue of untouchability. It exposes the pervasive nature of caste, revealing how it dictated every aspect of life for Hindus:

Where they could reside
How they dressed
Access to basic necessities like shops and water sources
Religious participation
Marriage options
Legal consequences of actions
Reframing the Narrative: Heroes and Hurdles

"Caste Pride" celebrates the pioneering figures who challenged the caste system, including:

Savitribai Phule, a champion of women's education and social reform
M.C. Rajah, a fierce advocate for a casteless society
B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of India's constitution and a tireless fighter for Dalit rights
The book also acknowledges the contributions of non-Hindus like Maneckji Dadabhoy and British administrators who enacted crucial legal reforms.

A Critical Look at Historical Figures

"Caste Pride" doesn't shy away from reevaluating iconic figures. It examines the stances of Motilal Nehru, Mahatma Gandhi, and C. Rajagopalachari on caste, highlighting their complexities in the fight for equality.

Untangling the Web of Varna

Through its insightful analysis of legal history, "Caste Pride" argues that untouchability merely represents the most visible aspect of a larger system – varna. This intricate hierarchy, based on notions of purity, impacted the freedoms of all Hindus across the social spectrum.

A Powerful and Transformative Read

With groundbreaking research and insightful commentary, "Caste Pride" offers:

A moving journey through the ongoing struggle for equality
A deeper understanding of the pervasiveness of caste in Indian society
A catalyst for transformative change

This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of caste in India and the ongoing fight for a more just society.

Caste Pride by Manoj Mitta [Hardcover]