Broken Threads: My Family from Empire to Independence

In her memoir, Mishal Husain explores the lives of her grandparents who lived through the Raj, World War II, independence, and partition. Using letters, diaries, memoirs, and audio tapes, she traces their lives and the impact of these events on their families. The memoir is praised for its level-headed explanation of partition and its stirring and deeply moving account of one of the most cataclysmic events in South Asia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2024
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

One of the most remarkable memoirs I have encountered in recent years is "SATHNAM SANGHERA." This captivating book, penned by acclaimed author Peter Frankopan, is as moving as it is essential. It delves into the personal and profound journey of a family caught up in the upheaval and transformation of a nation.

The memoir, beautifully written and emotionally charged, takes readers on a journey through the lives of Mishal Husain's grandparents. Set amidst the backdrop of empire, political upheaval, and partition, the story unfolds in a series of fragmented memories and anecdotes. For years, Mishal had only a partial understanding of her grandparents' lives, piecing together bits and pieces of stories passed down through generations.

Decades later, a chance encounter with an old sari sent Mishal on a quest to uncover the full story of her family. Armed with letters, diaries, memoirs, and audio tapes, she embarked on a journey through time, tracing the lives of four individuals who were shaped by the Raj, World War II, independence, and partition.

Mumtaz, the eldest grandson, rebels against the arranged marriage and chooses to forge a life with Mary, a devout Catholic from an Anglo-Indian family. Tahirah and Shahid, his younger siblings, witness the politics of pre-partition Delhi unfold at close quarters, as the nation teeters on the brink of division. As freedom arrives, the bonds between the two couples fray, and communities are torn apart, leaving them to forge new identities while grappling with the shared heritage of the past.

Peter Frankopan's portrayal of partition is noteworthy for its level-headedness and nuanced understanding of the complex events that unfolded. He weaves together personal narratives, historical accounts, and political analysis to present a comprehensive and empathetic portrayal of a pivotal period in South Asian history.

The memoir has received widespread acclaim from critics and readers alike. It has been described as "beautifully written," "emotional," and "deeply personal," yet universal in its appeal. Readers are deeply moved by the story of upheaval and transformation, and the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

SADIQ KHAN, a renowned newsreader and journalist, has praised "SATHNAM SANGHERA" as an extraordinary family memoir. He describes it as a "fascinating and deeply personal account" that sheds light on the lives of Mishal's grandparents and their experiences amidst the empire, political upheaval, and partition.

The book has also been recognized for its meticulous research and storytelling. Mishal Husain has conducted extensive interviews and archival research to piece together the fragmented stories of her family and present them in a coherent and compelling narrative. The result is a rich and immersive experience that transports readers back to a bygone era and allows them to empathize with the struggles and triumphs of the characters.

In conclusion, "SATHNAM SANGHERA" is a remarkable memoir that offers a profound and intimate glimpse into the lives of a family caught up in the tumultuous events of a nation's history. Through the eyes of Mishal's grandparents, readers are transported to a bygone era, where the glimmer of the British Empire fades, and new nation-states are born. The book's level-headed portrayal of partition, combined with personal narratives and historical analysis, makes it a must-read for anyone interested in South Asian history and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.

Weight: 434g
Dimension: 227 x 141 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008531683