Indian Society: Images & Realities by Dr. Mohinder Slariya and Abhishiant Slariya, published by Mahaveer Publications, is a comprehensive and insightful textbook designed in accordance with the FYUGP–NEP syllabus for B.A. 2nd Semester Sociology (GEC) students of Dibrugarh University and other Indian universities.

The book offers a detailed exploration of India’s social structure, cultural diversity, and changing realities, blending classical sociological perspectives with contemporary social issues. It discusses the foundations of Indian society, including caste, class, family, kinship, religion, and rural–urban dynamics, while addressing emerging topics like gender equality, globalization, migration, and digital transformation.

Written in simple and analytical language, the book provides a clear understanding of how Indian society functions — its traditional roots, modern transitions, and the coexistence of continuity and change. The authors skillfully present both theoretical interpretations and real-world examples, enabling students to connect sociological concepts with day-to-day realities.

This book serves as an essential resource for undergraduate sociology students, helping them develop sociological imagination and critical perspectives on the complexities of Indian society.

Key Features:

• Based on the FYUGP–NEP and CBCS syllabus for 2nd Semester Sociology (GEC).

• Comprehensive study of Indian social institutions, structures, and cultural diversity.

• Incorporates contemporary sociological debates and real-world examples.

• Written in clear, student-friendly, and examination-oriented language.

• Includes chapter-end questions and references for academic guidance.

• Ideal for students of Dibrugarh University and other Indian universities.

• Authored by Dr. Mohinder Slariya and Abhishiant Slariya, experienced academicians and sociologists.

• Published by Mahaveer Publications, a trusted name in higher education publishing.

Course Contents

Unit I: Sociological Understanding of Ideas of India

Chapter 1: Idea of India – Civilization

• Civilization: An Introduction

• Meaning and Definitions of Civilization

• Characteristic Features of Civilization

• Indian Civilization

• Unique Features of Indian Civilization

• The Indus Valley Civilization

Chapter 2: Idea of India – Colony and Nation

• Colony: An Introduction

• Meaning of Colony and Colonialism

• Basic Features of Colonialism in India

• History and Impact of Colonialism

• Nation: An Introduction

• Types and Origins of Nationalism in India

• Sub-nationalism and Issues Surrounding Sub-nationalism

Chapter 3: Idea of India – Society

• Idea of Indian Society: An Introduction

• Salient Features of Indian Society

• Future Trends of Indian Society

Unit II: Institutions and Processes

Chapter 4: Village

• Meaning and Definitions of Village

• Characteristics and Structure of Village Community

• Evolution and Changes in Village Community

Chapter 5: Town

• Meaning and Definitions of Town

• Features and Functions of a Town

• Classification of Towns and Urban Problems in India

• Difference between Towns and Cities

Chapter 6: Caste

• Meaning and Definitions of Caste

• Characteristics and Theories of Origin of Caste System

• Critique of Caste System

• Difference between Varna and Caste

Chapter 7: Religion

• Meaning and Definitions of Religion

• Religion as a Social Institution

• Role of Religion in Society

• Sociological Perspectives on Religion

Unit III: Family and Gender

Chapter 8: Family

• Meaning and Definitions of Family

• Characteristics and Types of Family

• Functions and Changing Trends of Family

Chapter 9: Gender and Social Construction

• Gender: An Introduction

• Gender and Sex – Social Constructs

• Gender Roles and Socialization

• Sociological Perspectives on Gender

Unit IV: Critical Understanding

Chapter 10: Critical Understanding of Civilization

• Civilization: Concept and Analysis

• Sociological Perspectives on Civilization

Chapter 11: Critical Understanding of Colony and Nation

• Colonialism and Nationalism in India

• M.K. Gandhi’s and Immanuel Kant’s Critiques of Colonialism

• Rabindranath Tagore’s Disenchantment with Nationalism

• Challenging the Eurocentric Notion of Nationalism

• India’s Challenge with Ethnic Harmony

Chapter 12: Critical Understanding of Society

• Introduction to Critical Sociological Analysis

• Critical Understanding of Indian Society