Tantra: enlightenment to revolution

A compelling exploration of Tantric rituals and spirituality, published to coincide with a once-in-a-generation exhibition at the British Museum

Tantra: enlightenment to revolution explores the radical force that transformed the religious, cultural and political landscape of India and beyond.

A philosophy originating in medieval India, Tantra has been linked to successive waves of revolutionary thought – from its sixth-century transformation of Hinduism and Buddhism, to the Indian fight for independence and the rise of 1960s counterculture.

Centring on the power of divine feminine energy, Tantra inspired the dramatic rise of goddess worship in medieval India and continues to influence contemporary feminist thought and artistic practice.

Presenting masterpieces of sculpture, painting, prints and ritual objects from India, Tibet and around the world, this publication offers new insights into a philosophy that has captured our imagination for more than a millennium.

Table of Contents

1. The Rise of Tantra in Medieval India
2. Tantric Yoga in the Court
3. The Spread of Tantra Across Asia
4. Tantra and Revolution in Colonial India
5. Reimagining Tantra in the 20th Century