The Quest For Freedom & Dignity: Caste, Conversion & Cultural Revolution

by Vishal Mangalwadi

Biographical account of few Hindus who converted to Christianity.

199 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Vishal Mangalwadi (1949-) is an international lecturer, social reformer, cultural and political columnist, and author of thirteen books. Born and raised in India, he studied philosophy at universities, in Hindu ashrams, and at L’Abri Fellowship in Switzerland. In 1976 he turned down several job offers in the West to return to India where he and his wife, Ruth, founded a community to serve the rural poor. Vishal continued his involvement in community development serving at the headquarters of two national political parties, where he worked for the empowerment and liberation of peasants and the lower castes.

His first book, The World of Gurus, was published in 1977 by India's Vikas Publishing House, and serialized in India’s then-largest weekly, Sunday. It is still used as a text book in universities. It was Mangalwadi’s book on the New Age Movement and India: The Grand Experiment, that first brought his works to the attention of the American public. In demand worldwide, Vishal is a dynamic and engaging speaker who has lectured in 34 countries. He enjoys simplifying complex ideas and inspiring despairing hearts with hope.

Reviews

[Carla White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Mangalwadi shares many stories creating pictures of the need for a cultural revolution in India. It can not be obtained by force or a government’s will. The hearts of people must change. Read to find out how.

[Matthew Farrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good book. Vishal is a great thinker. At first I was a little concerned about reading this book because he is such a smart guy and uses a lot of big words; as I was reading this book I was surprised how much I understood of what he was saying. He uses many stories of people in India, who have done many things. Things which have shaped India, for the good, and not so good. He does a fantastic job explaining worldview and the history of Hinduism and the progression over the centuries. Book recommended.