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Controversy and Books on Hindu Religion

Controversy over books on Hinduism by religion scholar Wendy Doniger continues to grow. Doniger's The Hindus: An Alternative History, first published in 2009, was recalled and pulped by Penguin Books India last month in response to charges it violated the Indian penal code, which criminalizes “deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings.”

Publishers Weekly explores the continuing story of book targeted for destruction in India: what's happening and why.

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Penguin India withdraws Wendy Doniger's The Hindus - Daily News & Analysis

Quo Vadis

And the rest of the film, which has more to say about the periods when the original book was written and the period when the film was made than it may have to say about Rome: Quo Vadis. [Updated: apparently MGM is defending its copyright. Look here for the theatrical trailer, which gives some impression of the scope of the film. "The most genuinely colossal movie you are likely to see for the rest of your life."]

Agents Unimpressed By Non-Standard Publishing

Publishers Weekly reports on agents' reactions to the growth in non-standard publishing. Short version: they're not very impressed, pointing out that most success stories represent special cases, while the vast majority of non-standard published books go nowhere.

Sita Sings the Blues

A unique interpretation of the classic Indian story.

Now Hear This

Chuck Jones. Yes, it will all come together in the end. Until then, enjoy the trip.