In search of the Sacred in Modern India William Dalrymple
A Travelogue is not only about the places but can also about the people. Darlymple is in search of human vistas. He searches into the depth of devotions of , of stratnge customs , even strange practices in the Indian sub-continent.
The Nun’s tale tell the story of a Jain Sanyasin, whom he met at Sravanabelgola. Prasann Mataji narrates her story, the Sallekhana, and other practices.
In the Dances of Kannur, it is about Theyyam. A Theyyam performer narrates his story of his everyday life.
In the Daughter of Yellama it is about the Devdasis of Karnataka.
The Singer of Epics is about the oral tradition in singing the parts of Rajasthan.
In the Red fairy about Lal Shahbas of Sehwan.
The Monk’s tale is about a Tibetan Monk
The Lady of Twilight is about worshipper of skulls in cremation ground of Bengal.
The Song of the Blind Minstrel is about the legacy of Bauls.
Each story has its originality. Also Dalrymple goes into the historical aspects of the practices.
The book gives a a very good insight into the lesser known practices and ritual of the Indian subcontinent.