Brahmans & Cricket

Author: S Anand
Publisher: Navayana
Year: 2003
Language: English
Pages: 60
ISBN/UPC (if available): N/A

Description

Cricket unites Indians. Cricket is nationalism. Cricket is religion.

We are told cricket is also secular. A leftist and a hindutvawadi equally celebrate an Indian victory. However, till recently, a cricket team comprised a majority of brahmans, sometimes 8 out of 11 players. How did a priestly class-soft, even effeminate-come to dominate a sport?
Why does such dominance not extend to hockey or football?

In Brahmans and Cricket, S Anand seeks answers to unasked questions. Beginning with a critique of Aamir Khan's 2002 blockbuster Lagaan and the politics of representation of its dalit character, Kachra, the author tangentially examines why the nation is under the thrall of cricket and cinema.

Sudhanva Deshpande and Lubna Mariam respond. A debate ensues. A must-read for those intersted in sports, politics, film, caste and identity politics.

Contents

Introduction

Eating with Our fingers, Watching Hindi Cinema and Consuming Cricket: S Anand

Caste aspersions: Sudhanva Deshpande

In the Kathakar Tradition : Lubna Mariam

Unravelling Criticism: S Anand

Masala Movie Vacuum and Why Laggan Sucks