New book explores the secretive world of Hindutva pop stars and its societal impact

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New Delhi: Award-winning independent journalist Kunal Purohit delves into the intriguing world of ‘Hindutva Pop’ (H-Pop) in his upcoming investigative book, ‘ H-Pop: The Secretive World of Hindutva Popstars’. Operating beyond the purview of mainstream urban media, this cultural phenomenon is quietly enchanting millions across India’s small towns, both online and offline.

H-Pop manifests in various forms, from catchy songs with pointed lyrics to poetry presented in kavi sammelans or poetry readings. Social media influencers contribute by shaping opinions with their unique ‘breaking news,’ and books are reshaping historical narratives.

Purohit explores the seamless integration of Hindutva into popular culture, gradually normalizing Islamophobia, marginalizing minorities, and vilifying critics without making mainstream headlines.

Published by HarperCollins India, ‘H-Pop: The Secretive World of Hindutva Popstars‘ by Kunal Purohit will be released on 30 November on SoftCover, ThePrint’s online venue to launch non-fiction books.

The book scrutinizes the factors fueling H-Pop’s popularity, identifying its stars, audience, and the substantial resources invested in its production and dissemination. Purohit aims to unravel the impact of H-Pop on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Modi’s popularity, questioning the kind of India it envisions.

Associate Publisher, Swati Chopra, says, “In H-Pop, Kunal Purohit brings a credible, original
journalistic investigation to Indian citizens months before they elect a new government. It is a must-read for every Indian who wishes to be better informed about the country they are living in, and creating through their vote.”

By profiling influential H-Pop creators, Purohit seeks to uncover whether their motivations are driven by ideology or commerce. Kunal Purohit’s extensive experience in journalism, documentary filmmaking, and podcast creation positions him as a discerning voice, equipped to navigate the complexities of H-Pop and its societal implications.