As we culminate India’s 72nd Republic Day celebrations, we must take a moment to reflect on the significance of the day – which marks the historic moment in 1950 when the Constitution of India came into force. One way to commemorate the ideals set forth in the Constitution is to explore the idea of India by delving into the history of the subcontinent and understanding the events and people who have shaped its present.
The Discovery of India by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
From 1942-1946, Nehru was imprisoned at Ahmednagar Fort for his participation in the Quit India Movement. He dedicated this time towards working on a rich and textured account of India’s storied history, inspiring philosophy, and vibrant culture. Tracing the developments thst took place within the subcontinent from ancient times to the British Raj, this masterful work offers deep insights into the origins of independent India, and the collective struggle for freedom.
The Argumentative Indian: Writings on Indian History, Culture and Identity by Amartya Sen
In this collection of 16 essays, the Nobel prize-winning economist elaborates on the themes that define India’s past and present. By outlining the intellectual discourse that has influenced the nation’s political trajectory, he makes a case for adhering to the democratic tradition of opposition, debate and discussion – thus presenting solutions for finding a measured resolution to the conflicts that continue to plague the country till date.
Incarnations: A History of India in 50 Lives by Sunil Khilnani
With ‘Incarnations’, noted academic Sunil Khilnani illuminates the multi-layered history of India across centuries, by highlighting the lives of 50 Indians – from the ancient era to modern times – whose lives echoed, and often triggered, the transformations that unfolded in the chapter of history that they inhabited. He underlines the contemporary relevance of these personalities, and takes the reader on a journey through time – with some of the most fascinating characters to have trodden this great land.
