Revisiting Manuvad

Manuvad, which can be translated as 'adherence to the doctrine of Manu', is not viewed favorably in India. It is a rallying cry against a section of Hindus, whether or not these people are familiar with the Manusmriti. Critics often highlight Manusmriti's recommendations of certain harsh punishments, but they fail to consider three important questions: are these recommendations merely meant as deterrents? The Manusmriti itself clearly affirms this. And secondly, was the Manusmriti ever util...