Nehru: The Debates That Defined India

Shashi Tharoor's book 'Inglorious Empire' explores the ideology of Nehru and his contemporaries, examining the debates that laid the foundations of the Republic and the impact of Nehru's ideas on contemporary India. The book explores Nehru's encounters with key contemporaries, such as Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, Sardar Patel, and Mohammad Iqbal, to evaluate the views that were in circulation during the country's formative years of independence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Delving into the most significant ideological battles of the era, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the thinking and dialogue that shaped the foundations of the Republic and continue to be highly relevant and contentious today. Authored by Shashi Tharoor, the book offers a profound historical account of Jawaharlal Nehru, delving deep into the debates of his era to understand his ideology and that of his contemporaries and opponents. By examining the interactions between Nehru and key figures such as Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, Sardar Patel, and Mohammad Iqbal, the book sheds light on the prevailing views and ideologies that shaped post-independent India.

The correspondence and interactions between Nehru and these key personalities provide a unique insight into the vision and aspirations of post-independent India. It explores the founder of Pakistan, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, and his efforts to promote Hindu-Muslim unity. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, a prominent Hindu Mahasabha leader, is examined for his unwavering defense of the constitution and his fierce opposition to communalism. Sardar Patel, a Congress leader who often disagreed with Nehru on the issue of China, is also explored, highlighting their complex relationship and the challenges they faced during India's formative years.

Furthermore, the book delves into the life and work of Mohammad Iqbal, a poet and politician who played a significant role in shaping Muslim solidarity in India. Iqbal's letters, often written from a prison cell, expressed his vision for a united and inclusive India, advocating for the rights and dignity of Muslims.

Through this comprehensive examination of Nehru's encounters with these key contemporaries, the book offers a valuable perspective on the ideological battles of the era and their enduring impact on India's political landscape. It sheds light on the complex web of ideas and beliefs that shaped post-independent India and highlights the enduring relevance of Nehru's ideas and legacy.

Weight: 200g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008463861