Book details
India and the Indians
Inspect the stored metadata, editorial profile, authors, categories, and local EPUB state.
Stored record
Metadata
- Gutenberg ID
- 27886
- Title
- India and the Indians
- Language
- en
- Book source
- Project Gutenberg
- Description max 80 words
-
Edward F. Elwin offers an intimate, firsthand look at life in India, challenging stereotypes about Hinduism, caste, and character. Blending personal anecdotes with social observation, this work explores the complexities of Indian culture, the challenges of missionary work, and the daily realities of villagers, servants, and officials under British rule.
- Summary up to 500 words
-
In 'India and the Indians,' Edward F. Elwin offers a grounded, intimate portrait of Indian society drawn from his extensive residence in the Poona District. Structured as a miscellany of essays, the book explores a vast array of topics, ranging from the fidelity of village post-runners and the abuses of the telegraph to the nuances of Hindu mythology, asceticism, and caste distinctions. Elwin argues that India is slowly 'waking up,' a process requiring guidance in morality, sanitation, and industry. He critically examines Hinduism, describing it as deeply steeped in idolatry and lacking a unified moral code, yet he expresses profound affection for the people he serves. The text details the transition from traditional dress to English attire among Christians, the economic struggles of the poor, and the specific dangers villagers face, including wild beasts and thieves. Elwin addresses the tension between modern missionary approaches and traditional Hindu beliefs, warning against a 'false Christ' that might dilute the faith. Through vivid descriptions of Indian meals, music, games, and architecture, as well as accounts of specific individuals like the night-watchman Ragu and the widow Sarla Kalu, Elwin paints a picture of a nation caught between ancient traditions and emerging modernity. He concludes that true understanding requires long residence and close intercourse with the people, urging readers to recognize the vital need for prayer and work in such a complex environment. The book serves as both a critique of religious and social defects and a testament to the deep bonds formed through personal observation and service.
- LLM editorial rating
- 4.2/5
- Download URL
- https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/27886.epub.noimages
- Local file path
-
data/epubs/pg27886.epub - Downloaded at
- 2026-07-03 10:05 UTC
People
Authors
- Edward Fenton Elwin
Classification
Categories
- History
- Social Life and Customs