Religion as a Social Vision: Movement Against Untouchability in 20th Century Punjab

Religion as a Social Vision examines the Ad Dharm movement that emerged in Punjab, India during the early 1900s. The movement sought to establish a new religious identity for Dalits (formerly called "untouchables") and challenge the caste-based discrimination they faced. The book follows the development of Ad Dharm through its founder Mangoo Ram and other key figures who worked to mobilize the Dalit community. Juergensmeyer draws on interviews, archival materials, and historical records to document how the movement utilized religious frameworks to pursue social change. Through analysis of Ad Dharm's strategies and impact, the book demonstrates how religious identity and social reform movements intersected in colonial India. The text explores the relationship between spiritual beliefs, political activism, and the fight for basic human dignity. The work raises fundamental questions about the role of religion in social movements and its potential as a tool for liberation rather than oppression. It contributes to broader discussions about religious reform, social justice, and the struggle for equality in South Asian history.

This book appears to have limited reader reviews available online. The few academic reviewers note its detailed examination of the Ad Dharm movement in Punjab and its role in Dalit empowerment. Readers appreciated: - The thorough research into primary sources and oral histories - Clear explanation of caste dynamics in Punjab - Documentation of a lesser-known social movement Criticisms mentioned: - Dense academic writing style that can be difficult to follow - Limited scope focusing only on Punjab region - Could have provided more context about similar movements in other regions Available Ratings: Goodreads: No ratings Amazon: No ratings Google Books: No ratings The book seems to be primarily referenced in academic papers and scholarly works rather than receiving widespread reader reviews. Most citations appear in other works about Dalit movements, religious studies, and Indian social history.

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📚 The book examines the Ad Dharm movement, one of the first major anti-caste movements organized by Dalits themselves in India, rather than by upper-caste reformers 🗓️ Mark Juergensmeyer conducted his initial research for this book in Punjab during 1966-1968, spending extensive time with the movement's founder Mangoo Ram before his death 🌟 The Ad Dharm movement declared Dalits to be a distinct religion, separate from Hinduism, and gained official recognition as such in the 1931 census of India 🔍 The author reveals how the movement used religious language and symbolism to create a new social identity, effectively turning social protest into a religious revolution 🌍 The study demonstrates how Punjab's unique religious diversity (with significant Sikh, Muslim, and Hindu populations) created conditions that made this pioneering anti-caste movement possible