The book argues that "Dharma" (true religion) is beneficial to humanity, while "Kalank" (stigma) refers to the rituals, discrimination, and superstitions that have crept into the faith over centuries. The author posits that Hinduism is currently wrapped in a "black coat" of ignorance, hiding its true "white" nature.
. It is primarily a critical and polemical work that examines the historical and social impacts of Hinduism from a perspective often rooted in Ambedkarite and Dalit social reform.
Critics argue that the book commits the fallacy of presentism (judging ancient texts by modern democratic standards). They claim the book cherry-picks negative verses while ignoring the vast corpus of Hindu literature that advocates equality (e.g., Bhagavata Purana , Tirukkural , and saints like Ravidas and Kabir).
Many Hindus argue that:
The book serves as a sharp, critical examination of the Hindu social order, specifically targeting the caste system ( Varna Vyavastha ) and the historical treatment of marginalized communities. Rather than a theological exploration, it is an ideological critique aimed at dismantling what the author views as systemic injustices embedded in religious traditions. Key Themes
The book serves as a critical examination of Hinduism from a socio-political and Dalit-Bahujan perspective. Its central inquiry revolves around whether historical and contemporary Hindu practices constitute a righteous "Dharma" or a "Kalank" (stigma/blot) on humanity.