This book is a social¿scientific interpretation of the 15 centuries-old Hinduand Buddhist traditions of tantra. It is a self-reflexive study, informed by an insider¿s empathy and the apprehension of an Indologist-cum-anthropologist who is also a mystic and an initiated practitioner of the cult himself. Using his personal praxis to inform his research, the author examines three core themes tantra: a 'holonic¿/mandalic individuality that conduces to the mystical experience; a positive valorisation of pleasure and play; and cultural attitudes of gender-mutuality and -complementarity as neatly encapsulated in the icon of Shiva as Ardhanariswara. This analysis ¿as captured by the tantric mandalasof deities in intimate union who vividly enact the three themes ¿ leads to his compelling metathesis, that of tantra serving as a permanent counterculture within Indic civilisation. This book should be of interest to those in anthropology, South Asian studies, religious studies, gender studies, psychology, andphilosophy, as also the general reader.
- ISBN: 978-0-415-48001-7
- Editorial: Routledge India
- Encuadernacion: Cartoné
- Páginas: 284
- Fecha Publicación: 01/11/2011
- Nº Volúmenes: 1
- Idioma: Inglés