Independence Day 2024: Books that capture important events
India's enduring fight for freedom imparts multiple lessons. Right from the valor of our freedom fighters to the strength of unity in diversity, the essence of nationalism, and the power of intellect, several factors paved the country's way to independence, which you can find chronicled in various texts. This Independence Day, read these books to familiarize yourself with the events that unfolded back then.
'Jallianwala Bagh, 1919: The Real Story' by Kishwar Desai
This book captures the horrific Jallianwala Bagh massacre that left the country in a state of grief and still does when it is talked about. Written by Kishwar Desai, it explores many aspects of this incident including how this became a turning point in India's struggle, why the Britishers impose martial law in Amritsar, and why incidents of public torture have been hidden.
'The Indian War of Independence' by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar
Published back in 1909, this book was written by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar who was the first Indian ever to call the mutiny of 1857 a 'War of Independence.' Legends have it that this print became the "Bible for Indian revolutionaries" as Savarkar's wise take on politico-military aspects became highly coveted, leading to a ban on this book.
'An Era of Darkness' by Shashi Tharoor
In this book, author Shashi Tharoor presents explosive facts about British Raj, which have been backed by intensive research and acuity. It reveals that India's GDP was 23% back in the day after Mughal rule, which came down to 3% after the Britishers left since they robbed the country of its national resources. The book is beautifully narrated, which evokes a feeling of patriotism.
'Remnants of a Separation' by Anchal Malhotra
Remnants of a Separation revisits the history of partition through material memory. It captures the essence through everyday objects that were carried across the border - a string of pearls, a collection of poems, and a refugee certificate - and a million things that were left behind. It is a tale of struggle and sacrifice that makes it a must-read on Independence Day.
'Train to Pakistan' by Khushwant Singh
Train To Pakistan memorizes the Partition of India in 1947 when a train carrying about 10,000 dead bodies reached Pakistan. It talks about the religious disparity that continues to remain intact in the country, despite so many people sacrificing their lives in changing this ideology. All in all, the book is a blend of honor and horror. Check out more such book recommendations.
