Abstract
This contribution to the ‘Commentary’ series is based on the conversation contained in fourteen letters exchanged electronically in January–February 2005 between Neshat Quaiser, Ahmad (full name withheld) and Satish Saberwal. The text rests in major part on Quaiser’s response to issues raised by Ahmad and Saberwal. The conversation focuses on the various facets of being an ‘Indian Muslim’, with reference to the binary opposition between the high caste elite and the Shudra Muslim sections of the community. The conversation is confined to processes affecting North Indian Muslims. However, the central argument on caste and revivalist thinking as crucial structuring principles is, it is felt, applicable equally to Muslims of other parts of the country. It identifies the ways in which the high caste elite hegemonise readings of the ‘Muslim’ role in India’s history and the agenda they advance to further the ‘community’s’ more favourable location in India’s polity, economy and society.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.