‘The Hindu-American Mosaic’: A Tribute to Hindu Heritage in America
- Released in October, aligning with Hindu Heritage Month, the book serves as a fitting tribute to the cultural and spiritual contributions of the Hindu-American community.
A friend recently recommended “The Hindu-American Mosaic,” a book that was published during the Hindu festival of Navratri. I found it to be a well-researched account that captures the journey of Hindu thought, culture, and community in the United States. Spanning over two centuries, the book weaves a rich tapestry of the Hindu experience in America, providing readers with a brief historical lens through which to understand the community’s influence and resilience.
The book opens with a brief yet insightful history of Hinduism’s introduction to the West, tracing its roots back to the early 1800s and highlighting the pivotal figures, such as Swami Vivekananda and Neem Karoli Baba, whose teachings ignited American curiosity about Hindu philosophy and spirituality. These early encounters set the stage for the modern evolution of Hindu thought in the U.S., illustrating how these spiritual travelers inspired a cross-cultural dialogue that continues to evolve today.
In chronicling Hindu immigration, “The Hindu-American Mosaic” navigates through key eras of legal and societal trials, and immigration reform in the US. These sections shed light on the diverse paths taken by Hindu immigrants to establish themselves and build lasting institutions like temples, festivals, and yoga centers, which serve as vibrant anchors of community and culture. The book underscores the evolution of Hindu-American movements and organizations, highlighting how these cultural practices adapted to new surroundings while staying rooted in tradition.
An important topic touched on in the book is the resilience of the Hindu-American community in the face of Hinduphobia. The author addresses this sensitive subject thoughtfully, discussing both the cultural and political challenges faced by the Hindu diaspora. These reflections provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between cultural identity and social perception in the US.
Overall, “The Hindu-American Mosaic” is not only a historical account but also a timely reference with apt illustrations in every chapter for those interested in the intricacies of Hindu heritage in America. It offers an informative, balanced exploration of how Hindu thought and culture have been woven into the fabric of American society, making it essential reading for those seeking to understand this rich heritage. Released in October, aligning with Hindu Heritage Month, the book serves as a fitting tribute to the cultural and spiritual contributions of the Hindu-American community.
Anil Kothari is an Oklahoma City-based mechanical engineer, yoga practitioner, and yoga teacher.