Introduction

When Patricia Uberoi handed over the files of Contributions to Indian Sociology (CIS), we found these remarks from contributors and referees embedded in routine discussions about the work at hand. We instantly recognised in them sentiments we ourselves have felt several times over, as colleagues of Patricia, both on Contributions and at the Institute of Economic Growth. Everyone who knows Patricia cherishes her gentle humour, her generosity—especially towards younger colleagues, her selflessness when it came to Contributions and her willingness to push the boundaries of existing research and open up new areas. This collection of essays has been a long time in the making, much before they found a home as part of a special issue of this journal. At the same time, readers will agree, it is especially fitting that these essays be published in CIS, thus continuing the tradition—established by the special issues on/for Louis Dumont and Triloki Nath Madan—of honouring those who have shaped and nurtured Contributions to Indian Sociology.