This conversation explores the themes of yoga as a form of power and its intersection with politics, particularly in the context of India. Sunila S. Kale and Christian Lee Novetzke discuss their book, The Power of Yoga, which examines how yoga has been historically understood not just as a spiritual practice but as a means of political expression and control. They delve into ancient texts like the Rigveda and the Mahabharata, the role of figures like the Raja of Aundh, and the implications of yoga in modern political contexts, including its use by leaders like Gandhi and Modi. The discussion highlights the evolving understanding of yoga and its relevance in contemporary society.

Sunila: https://jsis.washington.edu/people/sunila-kale

Christian: https://jsis.washington.edu/people/christian-novetzke/

Excerpt from the book about the film on Surya Namaskar: The Yoga of Power, Yoga as Political Thought and Practice in India: https://thewire.in/books/the-yoga-of-power-surya-namaskar

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