On Religion - Khushwant Singh

 

Bought from a literature festival stall, I have had previous experience with Mr Singh’s words, I was curious as to see his say on one of the most delicate subjects – ‘Religion’.

As with Khushwanth Singh’s writings, the collection of essays in this book as well are well-structured, beautifully written and thoroughly researched. One good things about journalists turned authors are how they bring their years of encounters and exposure with the big wild world to their works – the result being highly interesting, non-monotonous books. This book is no different. Though one expecting the usual unapologetic, snarky, Khushwant Singh model may miss such moments in the book.

Having read a stronger and more authoritative version on the same subject by Richard Dawkins on his book ‘The God Delusion’, Mr. Singh’s language seems a bit soft compared to his view. Often there is a touch of diplomacy which is most surprising in Mr. Singh’s words. As the book progresses there is a slight confusion as to where the author stands and what point is being tried to be conveyed.

Adding below a couple of catchy, thought-provoking lines from the book, one of which is a Khushwant Singh classic:

What I liked

-            Astronomy is a science; astrology is not. What superstition is to religion, astrology is to astronomy – the illegitimate offspring of sick minds.

-            I cornered her at a coffee-break and asked her “How does a young and pretty girl like you got so deeply involved in the claptrap of religion”. A few minutes later, she announced to the whole assembly “Mr. Singh asked me why a young and beautiful girl like me had turned to religion. I told him that I was young and beautiful because my religion had made me so.”. Moral: - Never make a private pass at a girl who publicly declares adherence to God.

-            As mentioned, author’s extensive play and hold on the language is a pleasure to read and help us add more interesting usages to own vocabulary.

What I did not like

-            Majority of the essays circle around different religions, their beliefs and practises rather than strongly advocating the author’s views on them. A reader, judging by the title may be expecting a clearer say on the matter.

Overall, the book is short, good and simple in its own ways. It probes readers’ inner thoughts and may/can act like a stepping stone towards a chain of radical thoughts that may get triggered.