Best history books india

The splendid tapestry of India is dotted with countless events, incidents, and stories that shape its unique identity. Few nations in the world can claim to have as rich and varied a history as India. Therefore, delving into the labyrinth of Indian history through books can be a captivating journey. For those seeking to unravel the mysteries of this glorious past, we present a comprehensive guide to the ‘Best History Books India’.

 

 

The Necessity of Reading History Books

To decode any culture, understanding its history is crucial. As a country of diverse cultures, India’s history acts as an essential link to its vibrant heritage.

• History narrates the story of our ancestors, their wisdom, their follies, and their accomplishments. By exploring this past, we can understand our roots and identities better.
• Knowing the past acts as a key to comprehend the present and foresee future trends. The course of history often repeats itself, and hence knowledge of history helps in making informed decisions in the future.
• Apart from its cognitive benefits, reading history books also provides immense pleasure. The intricate tales they weave, of gallant heroes and conniving villains, of revolutions, wars, and peace treaties, make for riveting reading.

 

List of Top 10 History Books to Read

Here is a curated list of the top 10 history books to read for anyone interested in delving into the rich historical tapestry of India.

1. India’s Struggle for Independence:

Written by Indian historian Bipan Chandra, this book provides a comprehensive account of the struggle for India’s independence. It thoroughly outlines the philosophical, strategic, and organisational principles of the freedom movement.

 

2. India After Gandhi::

Authored by Ramachandra Guha, this book delves into the intricate details of post-independence Indian history, examining the key political, cultural, and intellectual shifts that have shaped modern India’s landscape.

 

3. Freedom at Midnight:

Penned by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre, this novel documents India’s transition from British rule to independence and the traumatic aftermath of partition.

 

4. Ancient India::

Authored by R.C Majumdar, this book is an encyclopedic work on the history of ancient India, documenting from the earliest times to the end of the first millennium AD.

 

5. Medieval India::

Satish Chandra provides extensive knowledge about the medieval period of Indian history in this book, covering political, social, and cultural changes experienced across the subcontinent during this era.

 

6. The Discovery of India::

This book, written by Indian’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru during his imprisonment in 1942–46, is an insightful exploration of the history, philosophy and culture of India, its past and future.

 

7. From Plassey to Partition::

Shekhar Bandopadhyay’s work provides an insightful and nuanced perspective of the colonial period of Indian history.

 

8. The Last Mughal::

Written by renowned author William Dalrymple, this book vividly illustrates the fall of the Mughal Empire and its aftermath in India.

 

9. The Argumentative Indian::

Amartya Sen creatively explores the richness of India’s argumentative tradition and its potential to shape the idea of democracy.

 

10. A History of South India::

K.A. Nilakanta Sastri’s book provides an in-depth exploration of South Indian history from prehistoric times to the fall of Vijayanagar in 1565 AD.

 

FAQs

What are some of the best history books about India?

Some of the best history books about India include “India’s Struggle for Independence” by Bipan Chandra, “India After Gandhi” by Ramachandra Guha, “The Discovery of India” by Jawaharlal Nehru, “Freedom at Midnight” by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre, amongst others. Each of these books offers a unique and insightful look at different periods and aspects of India’s rich historical tapestry.

 

Are these books available online?

Yes, these books are widely available on various online platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and Google Books. Some may also be available in Kindle format for digital readers.

 

Who are some eminent authors of history books in India?

Some eminent authors of history books in India include Bipan Chandra, Ramachandra Guha, Jawaharlal Nehru, Khushwant Singh, and William Dalrymple. Their works are highly regarded in both academic and layman’s circles.

 

Are these books suitable for beginners?

Yes, most of these books are written in a comprehensive manner, making them suitable for beginners who have an interest in learning about India’s history. Some books, like “Freedom at Midnight” and “The Discovery of India”, are narrated in a storytelling format that is easier for beginners to grasp.

 

Can these books help in preparing for competitive exams like UPSC?

Yes, several of these books, notably “India’s Struggle for Independence,” are recommended readings for competitive exams like the UPSC. They provide thorough insights into India’s history, which is a significant part of the syllabus for these exams.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding India’s vibrant and diverse history is pivotal for anyone seeking to understand the country’s present and future. Reading history books is a valuable way to acquire this knowledge. Each book sheds light on a unique period or aspect of the country’s history – be it the struggle for independence, post-independence era, the Mughal Period, or the ancient dynasties. These history books, therefore, are not merely chronicles of the past but immersive experiences that provide profound insights into the rich culture, heritage, and identity of the nation known as India. Taking this journey through the pages of these books will undoubtedly enrich your understanding and appreciation of this fascinating country – India.