Hindustaan by Mainak Dhar

"Hindustaan" by Mainak Dhar.

This book is published by Vitasta Publishing Pvt Ltd in 2011 and has 296 pages. 

This is a fiction that explores alternative reality that Mughals never lost the throne. They won against British. They still rule the country called Hindustaan. Its 1857, Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar is expected to make an announcement of his successor on the occasion of 100th anniversary of victory over British. He is assassinated. Ranveer, adoptive son of, Amir-e-Azam Shameem Qureshi is caught in the thick of action and battle of succession. A mysterious Englishman, Theo, is also in the mix. So are Nanasahab Peshwa, Tatya Tope and Rani of Jhansi.

Who is battling for succession? What role does Ranveer play? What will be the future of Hindustaan?

This is a historical fiction that explores an alternative reality. A 'what if' situation that Hindustaan was still ruled by Mughals in 1857. The country was still called Hindustaan! Hindus and Musalmaans lived in harmony. 

Bahadur Shah Zafar's son usurps power with his Afghan army. In order to ensure that he is not challenged he has given a call of jihad with the help of a fanatic moulavi. Hindu Maughal officers are given a choice to convert or die. Similar fate awaits civilians and the kingdoms attacked by Afghans.

Author has used names of places from Mughal times. So Delhi is Dilli. Yamuna is Jumna etc. Real characters like Bahadur Shah Zafar, Mirza Ghalib, Rani Laxmibai, Tatya Tope, Nanasahab Peshwa play a role in the story. It lends authenticity to the story. 

Author has also used historical events intelligently for the story. He uses proclamation by Rani of Jhansi 'Meri Jhansi nahi dungi', her death, rumour that the cartridges were dipped in animal fat etc. in the story. The use is so perfect that they don't seem like an appendage. Credit to author!

One thing that stands out in this novel is author's authentic description of wars. It is excellent, realistic, stirs emotions and is immersive. Readers live the war with the author. 

At the end, author analyses the changed situation in Hindustaan. This analysis should get a special mention.  Although the things apparently look all well, these are troubled times. Everything is not back to normal. 

Character of Theo is a special one.  He is outspoken, multi talented, speaks fluent Hindustaani, knows Chinese martial arts. He is like a mini super hero. His being a firangi helps in many situations. 

Author has written a very good novel. Characteristics of this novel are: Use of alternative reality, use of historical events and characters, sprinkling of romance, fierce wars, a lot of bravery, fluid story and excellent narration.

Why did I read this book? Blurb and title. 

What I didn't like?  Use of Cigars.

What did I like? Everything else.

A very good book. Recommend reading.