India: Belief and Ritual; the Gods and the Cosmos; Meditation and the Yogic Arts

by Richard Waterstone

By the author of "Cats in the News", this is a similar collection of doggie stories. The book is a light-hearted celebration of dogs of every sort - the lovable and the ludicrous, the timid and the terrible, the heroic and the ridiculous, the bizarre and the unbelievable.

Genres: India, Nonfiction, Travel, Religion, Spirituality

Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Alex Kartelias]

The best book I've read on Hinduism. While giving some mention to buddhism and Jainism, this book gives a general history of India while emphasizing key ideas that are universal to the different traditions. The pictures give a great sense of how rich the religion is and how open it is to embracing different beliefs. What most struck me was the description of the dancing shiva and how it relates to Einstein's theory of relativity- defintetly mind bending. Other than the illuminating similarities that were connected to western religion/philosophy, reading about mantras, mandalas and different yoga practices were really awe-inspiring. I will defintely read this book over and over again to remind myself of both the beauty that lies within the small and the unity that exists behind the illusion of duality.

[Gareth Hughes]

This book is beautiful. When it was a course book for Indian religion at Cardiff Univeristy, I thought it didn't look academic enough, but don't be deceived. The writing is thoroughly informed and informative, covering the basics of Indian religion. However, what sets this book apart are the sumptious photographs on every page. It's like a coffetable book, wrapped round encyclopaedia entries and squished down to decent size.

[Shanmugam Ramasamy]

A decent book to get a glimpse of the different traditions in India. However in now way is this book supposed to cover any of the topics in detail.

[Cherie]

A good colorful look at India and her many layers, specifically focusing on the spirituality and religions of India (esp Hinduism). LOVED THIS. Bought it.

[Spencer Rich]

Read most of it. Pretty good information. Skimmed most of the latter half.

[William Prystauk]

This is a wonderful and comprehensive overview of the grand nation, including its history and religions. Though illustrated with a great look, the book is too small in size. A larger print would have allowed for better views of photos and prints. Furthermore, at times the font size is too small. Though the information is clearly packed in, and therefore, overwhelming at times, this is a great introduction to the largest democracy on Earth. Enjoy.

[Nancy]

This book provided for me important insights into the wealth and diversity of spiritual beliefs, rituals, arts and architecture. I will be mindful of significant gods and goddesses and sacred rituals as I travel in India. The writing style is a bit heavily academic, but the photographs are well-chosen and help develop a profile of an amazing culture.

[Shriya]

Beautiful pictures and very simple, great basic book.

[Alexis]

I've never been to India so naturally I think this is an interesting book. I dont have the working knowledge to dispute anything in this book so it gets a good rating!