‘Conversion is a complex and emotionally charged issue. Fundamentalists exploit it, liberals complicate it, many do not comprehend what the fuss is about, and others shy away from getting involved’. These statements express the centrality of the book Changing Gods: Rethinking Conversion in India by Rudolf Heredia, a Jesuit sociologist who attempts to explore the both the language around conversion as well as the process and the outcome of conversion. Being a provocative writer, Rudolf Heredia invites the readers to go back to the pages of history of religious conversion, both individual and collective, and also take note of the present debate in India about conversion and related issues. The introductory chapter, ‘Many Voices’ attempts to capture the different viewpoints about religion and religious conversion. Since religious beliefs and practices themselves are perceived by different people and groups in different ways,
October 2007, volume 31, No 10