Constructing Bangladesh: Religion, Ethnicity, And Language in an Islamic Nation (Islamic Civilization And Muslim Networks)

Dive into the intricate tapestry of faith, identity, and nationhood with Sufia M. Uddin's "Constructing Bangladesh: Religion, Ethnicity, and Language in an Islamic Nation." This meticulously researched and compellingly argued work offers a fresh perspective on the historical forces that shaped Bangladesh, challenging simplistic narratives of Islamic identity and illuminating the dynamic interplay between local culture and global Islamic traditions. Uddin's book moves beyond conventional portrayals of Islam as a monolithic entity imposed from above. Instead, she meticulously traces the centuries-long process through which Islam was localized and integrated into the vibrant cultural landscape of Bengal. She delves into the precolonial era, revealing how Bengali, as the dominant regional language, served as a crucible for diverse religious traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and the Islam brought by Urdu-speaking conquerors. This wasn't a story of simple imposition but rather a nuanced process of exchange, adaptation, and negotiation. Explore the ways in which Bengali Muslims crafted a unique understanding of their faith, blending Islamic principles with local customs, literary traditions, and social practices. Uddin expertly analyzes popular religious literature, scholarly debates, and political movements to reveal how Bengali Muslims actively shaped their own distinct Islamic identity. The book highlights significant historical moments, examining the intricate relationship between language, religious expression, and the colonial experience. "Constructing Bangladesh" sheds light on the complex role of language in shaping national identity. The book analyzes the pivotal role of the Bengali language movement in the struggle for independence, demonstrating how linguistic identity became a powerful symbol of cultural resistance and self-determination. Uddin challenges simplistic notions of religious nationalism, demonstrating how Bengali Muslims asserted their unique cultural and linguistic identity within a broader Islamic framework. Published by the University of North Carolina Press, this new edition of "Constructing Bangladesh" remains highly relevant for students and scholars of South Asian history, Islamic studies, postcolonial studies, and nationalism. Uddin's work provides a valuable framework for understanding the complex dynamics of identity formation in other parts of the Muslim world, offering a nuanced perspective on the relationship between local heritage and the global Islamic community (umma). Through her insightful analysis, Sufia M. Uddin demonstrates that the Bengali experience offers a valuable case study for understanding the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of Islamic identity in the modern world. Discover how the people of Bangladesh forged their nation, blending faith, ethnicity, and language into a unique and resilient identity. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Bangladesh, Islam, and the complexities of cultural identity in a globalized world. Gain fresh insights on Bengali Islam, Bengal, India, Pakistan and the umma.