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9781793622372

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In her praiseworthy work, Nalini Rao integrates archival, archaeological, and textual references to historically ground the contribution of the monastic institutions in Karnataka. With her innovative research, Dr. Rao highlights how the monasteries kept traditional knowledge and practices alive in medieval times. In the wake of cosmopolitan spirituality, this study is timely, not only because it traces the monasteries' struggles to keep traditional education vibrant, but also because it traces the historical origins of several contemporary guru movements.--Sthaneshwar Timalsina, San Diego State University Nalini Rao skillfully examines three distinct types of matha: those dedicated to the Advaita teachings established by Sankaracarya, others devoted to the Visistadvaita teachings of Ramanuja, and a third group created in the Dvaita spirit of loving devotion to the family of Siva or the many incarnations of Vishnu. She presents the first scholarly analysis of the vrndavana, the distinct structure that houses in salt the uncremated remains of a revered teacher whose breath and soul have departed the body. This book is highly recommended as an example of the importance of material culture in understanding religion.--Christopher Key Chapple, Loyola Marymount University

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Nalini Rao is professor of world art at Soka University of America.

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