Super Short Summary

The Hindus: An Alternative History by Wendy Doniger is a scholarly examination of Hinduism's religious beliefs and practices, aiming to provide a counter-narrative to the one favored by Hindu nationalists, which Doniger argues is influenced by British colonialism. She challenges the concept of a unified Hinduism and highlights marginalized traditions such as tantra and bhakti, emphasizing the diverse and less-documented aspects of Hindu history. Doniger covers the ancient origins of Hinduism, critiques the nationalist portrayal of Muslim rulers, and explores lesser-known narratives within major Sanskrit texts, concluding with an analysis of contemporary Hindu practices. The book addresses sensitive topics such as caste discrimination, gender politics, and religious violence.