This ground-breaking monograph delves into the complexities of masculinity, mental health, and cultural identity among young Bangladeshi-Canadian men. Employing an anthropological, intersectional approach, it scrutinizes the interplay of neoliberalism, Islamic piety, and diasporic experiences in shaping their masculine trajectories. The study unravels the intergenerational trauma, parental pressures, and societal expectations that contribute to their deteriorating mental well-being. With a unique insider perspective and rich empirical data, the findings fill a crucial gap in the literature by offering invaluable insights for scholars exploring the nuances of migration, ethnicity, gender, and psychological resilience. Strikingly, the monograph proposes evidence-based interventions and policy recommendations to address the mental health struggles of this underserved population, making it a must-read for academics and policymakers alike.
This monograph analyzes development through an examination of those class relations and how they are situated vis-à-vis the politics of development and economic globalization in Bangladesh, and how they shape aid delivery mechanisms and aid recipients’ choices in participating in such program.
One of the main findings is that development in Bangladesh relies on dual hegemony, which he articulates as an alliance between the new Bangladeshi political and economic elite and the Western international aid/development industry.
Dr. Husain argues that dual hegemony functions in such a way that it erodes the Bangladeshi middle-class and reinforces class and caste differences through the privatization of the public sector and greater fragmentation of civil society. This book is of interest to scholars of political Islam, international politics, and security studies, including terrorism and the politics of South Asia.
Asif Chowdhury, feeling his soul has been drained working in the financial world in the United States, decides one morning to return home to Bangladesh where he left his heart over a decade ago. Disregarding advice from his friends and mentors, Asif leaves behind his American girlfriend and American dreams. Yet, being back on the colourful streets of Dhaka, his modern idealism and longing for meaning are challenged by the traditions of his country and is all the while haunted by the memories of his never-forgotten love and questions of how he lost her.
Eager for a distraction and to find value in his new life, Asif accepts a coveted position at an international development agency. He takes this opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes of Bangladesh and learn how the current generation is dealing with the side effects of colonialism while struggling to build a nation. It doesn’t take long for Asif’s hopes of making a difference to be dashed as he delves into the murky world of mistrust, vested interests and personal monetary gains, all in the false name of international development and poverty reduction.
Through the rich colours of Bengali culture, the cleansing relief of monsoons, and the enchanting scent of jasmine, readers will connect with Asif’s story as someone struggling to find their place in a complicated world without compromising what’s most important.
Listen to a podcast where Mustahid discusses some of the issues addressed in this novel
Reviews
The novel reinforces the case that fiction is a powerful source of insight about both the world of development and wider issues of globalization, change and identity. The development novel – though the author might feel that is too narrow a descriptor of this wide-ranging narrative – is a comparatively rare thing. Double Truths is an impressive debut, avoids oversimplifying its complex subject matter, succeeds as an act of critical fabulation and is well worth your time. It’s a very worthwhile addition to a slim ouvre. While the book is an enjoyable read in its own right, it should also be on every university development studies reading list.
Professor David Lewis Professor of Anthropology and Development, London School of Economics
The author’s depiction of contemporary transnationalism exists at the intersection of profound romanticism and dispossession. “Binary [..] and duality” are constantly at odds in this rich narrative, which prompts the reader to question contradictions that are inherent to existing in a world that is messy, raw, and dynamic. The characters’ spiritual journeys in finding comfort in the paradox of existence serve as an intimate reminder that “you can believe two conflicting positions at once”.
Sebastian Kolesar
A luminous, intelligent debut that boldly expands the boundaries of immigrant fiction and development literature alike.
Dilsora Fozilova (PhD)
Much of this industry is populated by the privileged class in the countries where aid is spent.
