This book by one of the most accomplished sociologists working on contemporary Indian society explores the intersections between secular changes in the wider polity and economy of India and beyond. Using the lives of villagers as they progress through the "domestic cycle" in an area of western Uttar Pradesh, north India as case study to examine key changes in the political, economic and social environment, the authors analyse the impact of these changes at grass-root level. Based on original reserach over twenty years, pre and post liberalisation, this unique book provides a thorough analysis of India's changing environment.