The Gujaratis: A Portrait of a Community by Salil Tripathi [Hardcover] [rare books]

Book Summary: 

The Gujaratis: A Portrait of a Community is a comprehensive exploration of the Gujarati people, both within India and across the globe. Spanning over 700 pages and divided into twelve parts with eighty-seven chapters, the book delves into various facets of Gujarati identity, culture, history, and contemporary issues. Drawing from extensive research, including interviews with 213 individuals and readings of over 100 books, Salil Tripathi offers a nuanced portrayal of the community. 

Key Themes:

• Identity and 'Asmita': Tripathi examines the concept of 'asmita'—a sense of self or pride—and how it shapes the Gujarati identity. 

• Diversity Within the Community: The book highlights the internal diversity among Gujaratis, encompassing various castes, religions, and regional backgrounds.

• Historical and Cultural Evolution: Tripathi traces the historical roots of the community, from ancient times to the present, and discusses cultural practices, literature, and cuisine.

• Global Diaspora: The book explores the Gujarati diaspora, focusing on their migration patterns, economic ventures, and cultural assimilation in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and East Africa.

• Controversial Issues: In the final chapters, Tripathi addresses sensitive topics such as communal violence, particularly the 2002 Gujarat riots, and the community's role in these events. 

Through a blend of personal anecdotes, scholarly research, and critical analysis, Tripathi presents a multifaceted view of the Gujaratis, challenging stereotypes and offering insights into their complexities.

About the Author: 

Salil Tripathi is an Indian author and journalist, born in Mumbai. He is a contributing editor at Mint and The Caravan and has written for several international publications, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Guardian. Tripathi has authored multiple works of non-fiction, including The Colonel Who Would Not Repent: The Bangladesh War and its Unquiet Legacy. He holds an MBA from the Amos Tuck School of Business Administration at Dartmouth College. In addition to his writing, Tripathi has been involved in human rights advocacy and served as the Chair of PEN International's Writers in Prison Committee. 

The Gujaratis reflects Tripathi's deep engagement with his heritage and his commitment to exploring the complexities of identity and community.