An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hinduism (Introduction to Religion)

An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hinduism third edition offers a comprehensive study of a contemporary form of Hinduism. Begun as a revival and reform movement in India 200 years ago it has now become one of the fastest growing and most prominent forms of Hinduism. The Swaminarayan Hindu transnational network of temples and institutions is expanding in India East Africa the UK USA Australasia and in other African and Asian cities. The devotion rituals and discipline taught by its founder Sahajanand Swami (1781–1830) and elaborated by current leaders in major festivals diverse media and over the Internet help preserve ethnic and religious identity in many modern cultural and political contexts. Swaminarayan Hinduism here described through its history divisions leaders theology and practices provides valuable case studies of contemporary Hinduism religion migrants and transnationalism. This new edition includes up-to-date information about growth geographic expansion leadership transitions and impact of Swaminarayan institutions in India and abroad.