Indian Politics and Political Processes explores the key ideas, foundations, continuities, major shifts and challenges to the state and democracy in modern India. The book presents an in-depth analysis of recent issues and challenges confronting the Indian state and politics. Presenting a comprehensive account of the major trajectories of Indian politics, this book introduces the readers to the existing literature and enables them to think critically about major issues and institutions of politics and democracy. The chapters engage critically with the historical antecedents, major debates, and recent developments. The book also elaborately deals with issues such as populism, religious movements, minority rights, health, and the environment, which are often ignored or side-lined in the available literature on Indian politics and political processes. The book will be useful to the students, teachers and researchers pursuing courses in political science, South Asian Studies, and international/global politics and economics. It will also be an informative read for those interested in contemporary South Asian politics.

The present study aims to explore the relationships between nation and its myth to address larger issues of national, international and universal interests in the dramatic mechanism of Girish Karnad. Dramatics, in the hands of Karnad, uses myth to serve its real purpose of educating and entertaining the masses. As far the importance of myth for a nation is concerned, myth has been establishing its importance in every era and in every society. It frames a major part of national heritage. It constantly reminds us who we are, where we have come from and what future we are leading to. It sounds cautionary call about making wrong decisions with the help of mythological examples. It teaches the lessons and help people avoid a similar fate. The present study aims an investigation of searching role of myth in a scenario which witnesses swift changes in priorities. World today is obsessed with endless conflicts. Every nation brims with national pride. The evil of casteism, regionalism, religious fundamentalism, patriarchy and racism have placed many seen and unseen barricades in the way of national safety and integration. Myth, in such a scenario, comes forward to guide the masses with the wisdom and experiences of ages. It not only acts as a manifesto for the present social order but works as a demonstration pattern of ethical values, sociological order, and miraculous conviction also so that traditional values can be strengthened to the extent that these can accommodate the changing form of long-established concept of morality. Myth finds expression through various forms of art. Literature is one such form that makes us see beyond obvious and what the front door shows. It takes man to discover, inquire and construct new knowledge. Literature is a means to leap into the past through myth, history and legends. Literature, especially drama is such a form of art that reflects and expresses the inner sections of human mind in a better way. It depicts man, family, community, nation and world with all the possible tinges of truth. It not only affirms faith but can challenge long-held beliefs as well. It has been a strong medium to convey deeper meanings of life in its true and vivid colours.

Includes music.