"A Hindu In Oxford," authored by the resilient Rashmi Samant, was launched on a noteworthy Wednesday, with Union Minister Smriti Irani gracing the event held at Constitution Club, New Delhi.
In a press release, Garuda Prakashan, the book's publisher, extolled "A Hindu In Oxford" as an extraordinary narrative that escorts readers through the remarkable journey of Rashmi Samant. Hailing from Udupi, she shattered the glass ceiling to ascend to the position of President of the Oxford University Students Union. Her narrative is a testament to resilience, decolonization, and the triumphant overture against the strains of racism and discrimination.
Union Minister Smriti Irani, at the book's unveiling, lauded Rashmi Samant's accomplishments and her relentless pursuit of breaking barriers. She underscored the imperative of diversity and inclusivity in both education and society, advocating for unity in safeguarding students facing discrimination on the basis of religion.
“If a teacher engages in a conflict with their student and promotes hatred against their religion within an Indian campus, then we, regardless of our political backgrounds and setting aside social conflicts, should unite to protect that student. This stands as my belief as an Indian. Upon assuming the role of Minister of Education for the country, I faced a question regarding the role of Hindi speakers in corridors dominated by those with degrees from Oxford and Cambridge, or those from tribal communities in rural areas. Explaining this took some time," she said.
The union minister went on to spotlight individuals whose relentless commitment to their homeland surpasses their academic achievements, yet they never ascended to the rank of an Assistant Professor. She urged the publication to consider chronicling the untold stories of those unjustly labeled for their loyalty, individuals whose pens have remained untouched, and whose narratives still lie buried, deserving publication someday.
"There are individuals who, despite their dedication and devotion to their motherland surpassing their work, couldn't rise to the position of an Assistant Professor despite their studies. A book should shed light on such people too. I urge for the publication to consider creating a book about those who were ruined, unjustly labeled for their loyalty, individuals whose stories remain untold, those who have yet to pick up a pen and have been buried. Their narratives deserve to be published someday,” she added.
Speaking on this occasion, Shri Sunil Ambekar, Akhil Bhartiya Rashtriya Prachar Pramukh, RSS, shared his thoughts on the significance of Rashmi Samant's story in the context of the educational landscape in India and abroad. He praised her courage and determination in the face of adversity.
“The book's narrative of struggle is both captivating and inspiring, sure to resonate with a wide audience. The title underscores the book's uniqueness, emphasizing the pivotal role of Hindus in Oxford, especially during British rule. This book holds particular value, shedding light on critical struggles related to India and Hinduism, making it relevant for Bhartiya students studying in Britain,” he said.
According to the publisher, the book is available for purchase on various online ecommerce sites including garudabooks, amazon and flipkart along with various physical bookstores.
