Book excerpt: This book looks at madrasas and educational institutions run by Muslim communities in India focusing on the history, social relevance and importance of these institutions. It provides a sensitive and in-depth analysis of the push and pull of tradition, religiosity and modernity within these establishments. The book studies several institutions in Kozhikode, Surat, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Barak Valley in Assam, Ladakh, Delhi and several cities in Uttar Pradesh and examines new initiatives, curricula, models of education and professional training being offered. It contextualises educational reforms in madrasas in response to changing policies and larger socio-economic realities in contemporary India. It also interrogates stereotypes associated with Islam and madrasa education, paying particular attention to their syllabi and desired outcomes. This book also looks at the roles and positions of women in these institutions. Emphasising the long and complex history of Muslim communities and madrasas, the book showcases the remarkable diversity of approaches and pedagogical practices which combine deeni and duniyadi education across India today. This book will be of interest to students and researchers of the history of education, religious education, comparative education and sociology. It will also be useful to people working with NGOs and policymakers in the field of educational reform and planning.