Indian Atheism by Debiprasad Chattopadhyaya

Indian Atheism
Author: Debiprasad Chattopadhyaya
Published by: People’s Publishing House
Edition: 1980
Pages: 328
Size: 5 inch x 8 inch
Format: Paperback

Debiprasad Chattopadhyaya’s Indian Atheism is a compelling and erudite work that reclaims a forgotten tradition of atheism and rational thought embedded in the roots of Indian philosophy. Far from the commonly held view that Indian civilization is solely rooted in spiritual or theistic traditions, this book explores the vibrant, often suppressed voices that questioned divine authority and emphasized empirical knowledge and human agency.

Drawing from classical Sanskrit texts, Vedic literature, and the heterodox schools such as Charvaka and Lokayata, Chattopadhyaya demonstrates that atheistic philosophy is not a Western import but has deep indigenous origins in India. He unpacks the contributions of thinkers who advocated materialism, logic, and skepticism centuries before such ideas gained traction in Europe. The author carefully analyzes how these voices were marginalized over time due to the dominance of orthodox religious institutions, yet how their ideas have continued to influence secular and humanist thought in India.

Written in a lucid yet academically rigorous style, this book serves both as a historical record and a philosophical critique. Chattopadhyaya, known for his Marxist orientation, provides a socio-political framework to examine why and how atheistic ideas evolved in ancient India and their significance in contemporary times.

This 1980 paperback edition by People’s Publishing House, with a compact 5 x 8 inch size, is ideal for students, scholars, and anyone interested in Indian philosophy, intellectual history, or secular traditions. Indian Atheism stands as a courageous and essential intervention that broadens our understanding of Indian thought beyond religious orthodoxy.

• A foundational work exploring atheistic and materialist traditions in Indian philosophy

• Highlights the often-suppressed rationalist schools like Charvaka and Lokayata

• Written by renowned philosopher and Marxist scholar Debiprasad Chattopadhyaya

• Offers historical and philosophical insight into secular Indian thought

• Paperback edition, 1980, with 328 pages

• Ideal for readers of philosophy, Indian intellectual history, and critical theory