A review by chetanaa_
Immortal India: Articles and Speeches by Amish by Amish Tripathi

5.0

'Immortal India' is the first non-fiction written by the author of bestseller fictions, Amish. His previous books include five bestselling fictions of The Shiva Trilogy and Ramchandra Series. All his works reflect his knowledge of Indian history and mythology as well.

As the title of the book suggests, 'Immortal India' explains the captivating amalgamation of the past and the present of the world's largest democracy. The book is essentially a collection of articles by Amish published on various newspapers, speeches that he made, debates and interviews that he participated in. The book presents before the reader a beautiful picture of the ancient Indian culture from a modern point of view. The book throws light on a wide range of subjects which affect the modern Indian society.

The book is split into four sections, namely, δΈ€ Religion & Mythology, Social Issues, History, and Musings. The chapters under 'Religion & Mythology' depicts the depth of the author's rich religious and mythological knowledge and understandings. Under 'Social Issues' - from Section 377, Uniform Civil Code to Religious Violence - almost every social issue affecting modern India has been discussed. The section 'History' is my favourite, especially the chapter ' The Myth of Aryan Invasion Theory' is brilliant. This chapter shook my belief on what I was taught in my history lessons at school.
"I, for one, tend to agree with what a European friend once remarked. The Aryan Invasion Theory is the greatest piece of fiction concocted by Europeans since the ethereal plays of Shakespeare. Perhaps it's time to close the book!"
The above lines are an excerpt from the book. This article points out the fact how distorted versions of history are taught to the modern generation, as a result of colonial hangover. Even the chapter on 'Divide and Rule Laws in Modern India' is eye-opening. It puts before us the absolute about divide and rule laws in India which is still very much effective now. The chapter on Wajid Ali Shah also brings to light how the British distorted this image.
The chapters under 'Musings' are a few accounts from the author's personal life experiences.

The narrative language of the book is lucid and limpid. The chapters are short and crisp which keeps the readers hooked to the book. All the views of the author are supported by proper explanations and statistical information too. This makes it easier for the reader to understand the subject. The way Amish the present and the past is commendable.

'Immortal India' is a must-read for all, especially Indians and for people who are interested to know about the rich heritage of the country.