Book Details

• Author: Ashish Lahiri

• Publisher: Ababhash

• Language: Bengali

• ISBN: 9789380732206

• Pages: 160

• First Edition: November 2012

• Fourth Edition: June 2024

• Format: Paperback

• Size: 21.5 x 14 cm

• Price: ₹275

About the Book
This provocative and analytical work examines the ideological tensions within the Bengali intellectual tradition. The author contrasts two paradigms: the rational, secular outlook associated with Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and the religious-spiritual paradigm shaped by Swami Vivekananda. According to the book, the Bengali mind has long been caught between these competing visions.

Ashish Lahiri re-evaluates the life of Narendranath Datta (later Swami Vivekananda), highlighting his scepticism, intellectual depth, cultural refinement, and organisational brilliance. The study argues that his immense potential might have taken different socio-political directions had it not been channelled predominantly through religion. In doing so, the book attempts to untangle the perceived contradictions in Vivekananda’s life and thought—without diminishing his stature.

At 160 pages, this paperback offers a critical, historically grounded exploration of secularism, religion, and the evolution of Bengali modernity.