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A NEW HISTORY OF INDIA: From Its Origins to the Twenty-First Century

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A complete one-volume history of India illustrated throughout by maps and photographs in full colour.
The book covers all the major landmarks of Indian history from prehistoric times up to the twenty-first century—starting with the country’s geological origins a few billion years in the past and the migration of Homo sapiens from Africa into the region several millennia ago. It traces the evolution of Indian civilization through a multitude of epochs, personalities, and turning points, including the Harappan Culture, Vedic Society, the age of Mahavira and the Buddha, Ashoka and the Mauryas, the Gupta period, the Delhi Sultanate, major kingdoms in the east, west, and south, the Mughal empire, European incursions into the subcontinent, the British Raj, the freedom struggle led by Gandhi, Nehru, Patel, Bose, Tagore, and others, Independence and Partition, and key developments in the life of the modern republic. Deepening the overarching narrative are essays on archaeology, caste, religion, art, architecture, philosophy, language, culture, the economy, and various aspects of the nation’s plural, diverse society. Written by award-winning historian Rudrangshu Mukherjee along with cultural historian Shobita Punja and photographer-archivist Toby Sinclair, A New History of India brings the story of one of the oldest, most complex countries on earth to vivid life by blending state-of-the-art pictures and maps with a text of depth, clarity, and rigorous scholarship.

458 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 5, 2023

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Rudrangshu Mukherjee

41 books27 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Appu.
228 reviews11 followers
June 23, 2023
A Single volume history works only if at addresses the big questions. A book like Sapiens by Yuval Harari comes to mind. Unfortunately this volume fails in this regard. It sticks to the usual chronological-geneological approach. The big questions of Indian history such as the Aryan non-aryan divide, the emergence of caste, emergence of Hinduism, role of Islam, the legacy of colonial rule, the nature of Indian nationalism are not really addressed. The only redeeming aspect of this book is the wealth of photographs along with detailed narrations about each of the images.
Profile Image for Himadri Bose.
40 reviews2 followers
May 18, 2025
The writers consist of a contemporary historian, an ancient historian, and a visual documentarian. Notably, they do not detail their specific contributions to the book, although their areas of expertise imply where each likely contributed. However, they render this book a collaborative effort by failing to define it in any manner.
The authors provide a detailed account of "India" – detailing its geological developments, the emergence of statehood, the ascent and decline of various states, the onset of colonial influences, and concluding with contemporary political dynamics. The sections are brief and straightforward, enhanced by multiple images and distinct information boxes. One of the most significant advantages of the book is that it is easy to read and engaging because of the pictorial additions. An abundance of visuals provides the reader with an alternative focus aside from the text. Like numerous other books about Indian history, this one is also primarily focused on North India; however, it does feature a considerable amount of South Indian history, particularly in the initial chapters. Certain aspects, such as those concerning Tamil society in Chapter 9, are often overlooked in the broader context.
Nonetheless, certain sections of the book puzzled me – for instance, incorporating geological history into a nation's history, relying on colonial names as benchmarks, or referencing modern cities as geographic markers hundreds of years before they came into being. The story, mainly in chronological order, contains an unexplained interruption in the centre where thematic chapters are presented. Two chapters, focusing on the North-East and "India's" ties to the world, are positioned between the entry of European trading powers and the emergence of the East India Company. An example I wish to emphasise is the section on the North-East. It starts effectively questioning the term but then falters by immediately "othering" the region, claiming, "They behave differently here." Nevertheless, there is an attempt to compensate by providing a concise history of the area, surpassing what most other histories of India offer.
Strangely, in the book's last section, the narrative shifts to a content-rich focus centred around one specific area. While often highly dramatised, the story essentially serves as a history of Bengal and the freedom struggle, centring on particular individuals and occurrences without alluding to a broader historical context. Ultimately, the book transforms into a strictly political, hierarchical account of a specific concept of the Indian state, a narrative that historians have repeated numerous times.
Who is the target audience? The absence of citations and footnotes, clear writing, and a simple vocabulary in the opening chapters indicate a book aimed at an intelligent general readership rather than an academic one. The abundance of images strengthened this idea. The authors provide an expansive canvas by creating a history of all India. The only approach to address this may be to remain straightforward and give a general overview of the history. However, oddly enough, following chapter 18, the book appears to target a different audience, equipped with the understanding necessary to grasp the complex economic and political aspects explored.
Additionally, the writers do not clearly define their notion of "India." They appear to regard the contemporary nation-state, defined by its existing borders, as their primary concern. However, they apply the concept to areas identified through various other methods. Initially adhering to conventional approaches in Indian history writing, the authors then switch to a traditional structure for the modern era, offering a limited account of land settlement, colonial Bengal, and the events of 1857, subsequently limitedly exploring Gandhi and the independence movement while overlooking numerous other elements that have contributed to India's history.
Is the novelty in the broader timeframe addressed here in contrast to most books? If that is true, can 400 pages adequately represent this history? Furthermore, what does it contribute to our comprehension of history? An account of an extensive duration demands consideration of significant ideas and wide-ranging trends. It urges a prospective writer to deliberate thoroughly and to summarise thoughtfully when necessary, selecting the most essential elements. Labelling a book as a "new" history also suggests that this type of work was not created previously. An examination of the bibliography reveals solely secondary sources – the efforts and writings of other authors (it is worth mentioning that it merely compiles the most significant names). Several lines of analysis and the majority of the images provided make this book distinctive. Does this book, then, fulfil its promises? Although it is sometimes successful, it appears to ignore the different histories within the claimed region of "India". In short, a decent primer with a limited lens might be worthwhile for those who want to examine India's history in a restricted sense.
285 reviews5 followers
February 21, 2023
A New History of India: From it's beginning to 21st Century
Author- Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Shobita Punja, Toby Sinclair
My Rating-⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Review-
India is a country which has a great Historical importance in the world and is popular for the Unity in Diversity. When we see the history of India it's full of knowledge, beauty, strength, wealth, chaos, bravery, patriotism and a lot more which are mostly unknown by most of us. Most of us don't even know the origin of our country. Do we??

This book is one of the wonderful books that I've ever read which clearly pictured India right from its origin to present with detailed information and pictures which holds great importance and shows the greatness of India in a beautiful way.

This book started with the formation of Indian Landscape and continued with humans entering this Landscape, the great ages of India and great rulers and Empires right from Ashoka to Mughals , British colonisation, freedom fights, Independence, partition and The present Independent India. Every element is explained very deeply with the pictures, maps and illustrations with wonderful narration skill.

The language of this book is very simple and easy to go through the flow and learn many things about our India in a perfect manner. I must say that this book is a great work of research and narration which made this book wonderful like no other.

We feel reading History is boring but I don't feel any boredom while I'm reading this 450+ pages thick book. In fact I was very curious to know more and more about India and its cultures, transformations, rulers, which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I can say History lovers can definitely love reading this book.

I highly recommend this book to all my bookish friends to read this wonderful book and get to know about the greatness of India. Happy Reading 😊❤️….
27 reviews1 follower
February 27, 2023
Historical Read !!

Book ~ A NEW HISTORY OF INDIA: From Its Origins to the Twenty-First Century

Author ~ Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Shobita Punja and Toby Sinclair

This book comprise of 24 sections altogether lined up with the timetable of the set of experiences from old past to current History. Not just this , middle age history alongside an impact of Workmanship and Culture , social foundation everything is ordered in a comprehensive manner. The book has parcel's of representation and pictures which make it more captivating with the perusers.

The book covers every one of the significant milestones of Indian history from ancient times up to the twenty-first 100 years — beginning with the country's geographical starting points a couple billion years previously and the movement of Homo sapiens from Africa into the district a few centuries prior. It follows the advancement of Indian progress through a huge number of ages, characters, and defining moments, including the Harappan Culture, Vedic Culture, the time of Mahavira and the Buddha, Ashoka and the Mauryas, the Gupta time frame, the Delhi Sultanate, significant realms in the east, west, and south, the Mughal domain, European invasions into the subcontinent, the English Raj, the opportunity battle drove by Gandhi, Nehru, Patel, Bose, Tagore, and others, Freedom and Parcel, and key improvements in the existence of the cutting edge republic.

The Plot is An Intriguing. The Author has Narrated Scenes in a Well - Paced Manner. The Storyline moves Forward with a Fast - Paced Style. The Imagination of the Author Behind the Story is An Impeccable. The Execution of that Imagination is Done by the Author in An Amazing Manner. The Language of the Book Is Lucid. the Writing Style of the Book Is Gripping. the Cover of the Book Is Captivating. the Title of the Book Is an Intriguing.

Highly recommended 💫
796 reviews17 followers
February 20, 2023
"A New History of India: From Its Origins to the Twenty first century" by Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Shobita Punja, and Toby Sinclair is an exceptional one-volume history book on India. It is a comprehensive work that takes the reader on a journey through time, starting from India's geological origins and culminating in the 21st century.

The book stands out for its lucid prose, in-depth research, and high-quality illustrations, which include full-color maps and photographs. The authors delve into the various epochs and turning points in Indian history, tracing the evolution of Indian civilization through various stages, including the Harappan culture, Vedic society, and the Gupta period.

The book also covers significant kingdoms in the east, west, and south, the Mughal empire, and the British Raj. In addition, the authors explore various aspects of Indian society, including archaeology, caste, religion, art, architecture, philosophy, language, culture, and the economy.

The writing is easy to read and understand, making it an excellent resource for students and general readers interested in Indian history. The book is also suitable for scholars and historians seeking an authoritative overview of Indian history.

Overall, "A New History of India: From Its Origins to the Twenty first century" is an excellent and well-researched book that offers a comprehensive and insightful overview of Indian history. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in understanding the complexities and richness of Indian history.
Profile Image for Partha Pratim.
743 reviews22 followers
February 18, 2023
Congratulations to the author Rudrangshu Mukherjee and other two co authors for writing a wonderful book which will not only keep you hooked till the last page, but also force you towards deep thinking. The concept of the book is interesting, engaging and unique. The way the author created the plots of the story is just amazing. The story and the narration is really fast paced. And the storytelling style is really amazing and it can make the readers totally engaged with the book.

The book consist of 24 chapters in total aligned with the timeline of the history from ancient past to modern History. Not only this , mediaeval history along with an influence of Art and Culture , social background everything is compiled in a holistic way.
The book has lot's of illustration and pictures which make it more engaging with the readers.

Whether you love history or not this is a book which will definitely create your interest and moreover you can learn many things, many unknown incidents from this book .

Overall, I loved the book and strongly recommend fellow readers to give it a try. And lastly, I'd thank the man who edited this cover, else it would have taken more or less months to come across the read, post finishing the other books of my collection.
Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review.
Must recommend.
44 reviews2 followers
February 27, 2023
Good Read !!

Book ~ A NEW HISTORY OF INDIA: From Its Origins to the Twenty-First Century

Author ~ Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Shobita Punja and Toby Sinclair

This book is a well-informed and extensive gathering of our well off legacy for the age to figure out its rich culture and the nuts and bolts of high progress that drove numerous periods. The book begins with brief presentation of different periods or terms utilized in figuring out history.

This book began with the development of Indian Scene and went on with people entering this Scene, the incredible times of India and extraordinary rulers and Realms right from Ashoka to Mughals , English colonization, opportunity battles, Autonomy, segment and The current Autonomous India. Each component is made sense of profoundly with the photos, guides and representations with superb portrayal ability.

The Author has given a huge data about India from its starting till present with delightful pictures and little realities is excellent. The language of this book is exceptionally basic and simple to go through the stream and learn numerous things about our India in an ideal way. The Plot is An Intriguing. The Author has Narrated Scenes in a Well - Paced Manner. The Writing Style of the Book Is Gripping. the Cover of the Book Is Captivating.The Title of the Book is Well - Chosen.

Highly recommended 💫
Profile Image for phasesofhappiness.
140 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2023
'A New History of India: From Its Origins to the Twenty-First Century' is a comprehensive one-volume masterwork that wraps the ultimate history of India along with colorful maps and perfectly shot photographs. It's one of those books which is based on a unique concept with an engaging pattern of composition as well.

Co-authored by award-winning historian Rudrangshu Mukherjee along with cultural historian Shobita Punja, the book unfolds all the crucial landmarks of Indian history from prehistoric times up to the 21st century with so many insights in store. One of the co-authors of the book i.e photographer-archivist Toby Sinclair has illustrated the book so well with all the best resemblances that fit the vision of the book.

The book brings into the limelight the evolution of Indian civilization through several eras, identities, and revolving society. The essays are well-woven, by the authors, along the lines of many notions such as the Indian culture, dialects, ideologies, beliefs, artistry and so much more.

I relished every bit of the book up to the brim. With lots of information and content on Indian history, the book makes it a valuable asset for readers. It's worth giving your time to enrich Indian history through this book.

502 reviews9 followers
February 22, 2023
Ours is a country that is touted to be a land of ancient civilization, and as such, there is no denying the fact that we are blessed with so many different and distinct monuments that make up our nation.

And while there are many books out there which enumerate and study the history, there are very few that have the ability to combine together both the past, and the present.

In such regards, ‘A New History of India’ is a great attempt to bring forth a book that is not only exhaustive and detailed guide of everything and anything that is there to be known of significance, but also has beautiful pictures to keep us engrossed.

And right from the making of our landscape which dates back to millions of years, to the current times where we celebrate our seventy fifth independence day, this novel almost has everything that is there to know and will be required to have a better understanding of our country.

While the narrative presented in the book follows a chronological line, it is quite evident that a lot of effort has been taken by all of the authors to bring this forth to create a new history of India, thereby focusing on every miniscule details. Hence, I am going to give this FIVE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
24 reviews
February 23, 2023
It's one of the most unique book that i have come across in history. As it holds the history from the timeline of prehistoric to the present, the author wrote the book in such a way that makes history more interesting than ever!
As we always assume history is actually old or something uninteresting but believe me this book would completely change that, and it brings in a new perspective and a different side of the story.
Loved the narration and the way it's written with a very unique way of presenting the history.
The thing that surprised me the most is the way the authors brought the whole history starting from creation to now within 500 pages surprised me a lot became the history was not shallow but instead it holds a lot of information and i could see a lot of research that went behind this book, and my most favorite thing about the book is their unique way of presenting it with maps pictures for the readers to immerse in the history in itself.
Definitely worth a try for anyone who is interested in history or for someone who is looking into a book that would make history interesting.
407 reviews7 followers
February 20, 2023
This is a great book those who loves to read history books. It's very helpful for understanding the Indian history. An exhaustive, one-volume history of India that is fully illustrated with maps and colour images. Beginning with the country's geological origins a few billion years ago and the migration of Homo sapiens from Africa into the region a few thousand years ago, the book covers all the significant historical events of India from prehistoric times up to the twenty-first century. It traces the development of Indian civilization through a variety of eras, figures, and pivotal moments, such as the Harappan Culture, Vedic Society, the age of Mahavira and the Buddha, Ashoka and the Mauryas, the Gupta period, the Delhi Sultanate, significant kingdoms in the east, west, and south, the Mughal empire, European incursions into the subcontinent, the British Raj, the freedom struggle led by Gandhi, Nehru, and Patel. Everything is demonstrated with the help of pictures which you will definitely find it interesting. You must go for this.
270 reviews4 followers
March 1, 2023
The book starts with fast presentation of various periods or expressions utilized in information history.The delightful pictures of various components of records that help you to remember civilisations, caves , imperative landmarks and the related information about it that barely scarcely any people know about it.

Numerous essential periods, periods, and figures have formed India's progress history, for example, the Harappan Culture, Vedic Culture, Mahavira's and Buddha's times, and Ashoka's Maurya Realm. You will find it intriguing in light of the fact that there are pictures showing everything, for example, Gandhi's and Nehru's opportunity battles, and European attacks into the subcontinent

I savored all of the book up to the edge. With loads of data and content on Indian history, the book makes it an important resource for perusers. It merits giving your opportunity to enhance Indian history through this book.

I read this book to give my fair and legitimate audit.
Should suggest.
Profile Image for Mohini Shukla.
431 reviews3 followers
March 4, 2023
When I was a kid, I remember the book which has some original colourful pictures and drawings used to be my favourite book, ironically subject did not matter at that time. As life goes on I was more attracted to numbers in my study but my artistic and curious side always go for some colourful books, even now also.
This book is such a detailed and brief book about Indian History which I have not even studied in my academic. The real pictures with their description make it more interesting to read. The book has described the timeline at the beginning and that was the part where I learnt many things about our country's geographical origin then Chapters of this book are very informative. I think those who are preparing for the entrance exam, must read this book. The names of all Sikh Gurus and their details in between the chapters are one of the best highlights of the book. Many things are there in the book for the readers, so do not wait, just read it today to explore more about our ancient land. I must appreciate the effort behind this book.
Profile Image for Soumya.
648 reviews10 followers
March 11, 2023
A New History of India: From Igs Origins to the Twenty First Century by Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Shobita Punja and Toby Sinclair is a historical non fiction, which as the title suggests follows India's past and provides with an in depth report on what if has been.

I have always been a history buff. And the fact that India has always had this vast every changing past just feeds into the hunger of knowing and understanding the nation.

The text is very well researched and explained in a language which is easy and not complicated. The maps arr accurate and colorful. Honestly colorful maps help me understand better so it was very helpful in that regard.

I enjoyed this so so so much, like I just cannot express it. It follows the vast Indian past and is very thorough in serving up the facts.

Will recommend it to those who enjoy historical non fictions or to those who want to know more about India's ancient, medival and modern history.
Profile Image for Anurag Kumar.
733 reviews8 followers
February 22, 2023
The book A NEW HISTORY OF INDIA: From Its Origins to the Twenty-First Century by Rudrangshu Mukherjee.

The book begins with quick introduction of numerous periods or phrases used in knowledge history.The beautiful images of numerous elements of records that remind you of civilisations, caves , vital monuments and the associated data about it that hardly few human beings are aware of it.


The tremendous a while of India and wonderful rulers and Empires right from Ashoka to Mughals , British colonisation, freedom fights, Independence, partition and The present Independent India. Every element is defined very deeply with the snap shots, maps and illustrations with superb narration talent.

The writing is straightforward to examine and apprehend, making it an extraordinary resource for college students and standard readers interested in Indian records.

Happy Reading!
Profile Image for Rimi.
685 reviews18 followers
February 24, 2023
Review:
Do you like to read about Indian History?? With lots of pictures and Illustrations???

This one is The Book for you then.
In the book the author starts Indian History from 4.5 billion years ago– when Earth formed or India's landscape made till 15 AUGUST 2022: India celebrates seventy-five years of Independence.

Then the author gives us extensive information on the changes that happen in each era, in the culture, society, caste, religion, architecture, language, economy, etc through thorough research and beautiful pictures to everything from excavation sites to recent pictures of the places mentioned and also maps.

And what makes the book more accessible, easy to understand is the simple, lucid prose.

So definitely a compelling book for all the history lovers or genuine enthusiasts.
Profile Image for Sanchana.
42 reviews2 followers
February 23, 2023
History that will enrich you with new information.
The book comprise of 24 sections altogether lined up with the course of events of the set of experiences from antiquated past to present day history. Not just this , middle age history alongside an impact of workmanship and culture , social foundation everything is gathered in a comprehensive manner.
I realize individuals frequently think about history as an exhausting subject yet trust me this book will make all aspects of it exceptionally thrilling and amazing.

The book has parcel's of outline and pictures which make it more captivating with the perusers.
Generally speaking, I cherished the book and firmly prescribe individual perusers to check it out. Also, ultimately, I'd thank the one who altered this cover, else it would have required pretty much months to go over the read, post completing different books of my assortment.
Surveys. I read this book to give my unprejudiced and legit audit.
Must recommend.
Profile Image for Jenny Writes.
1,294 reviews17 followers
March 4, 2023
History is one such a vast field that opens multiple dimensions of knowledge and depth. And getting to know more about the same always have my heart.

To one such fascinating read,which definitely had me glued was 'A New History Of India'.
The books covers almost all aspects of history in a vibrant manner.

The book is a result of hardwork and dedication of the author that led to the success of the book. From Aurangzeb to Rabindranath Tagore,the books covers all great personalities who had influenced the nation immensely.

Study about the story of what made our country India by indulging into this amazingly written book. Enjoyed reading it !!!
138 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2023
A detailed account of the history of India and its legacy that will keep you engrossed, 'A New History of India' helps us discover new aspects about India , our motherland. A truly engaging non-fiction that explores our heritage, the authors have done a splendid job in weaving the multiple lines of storylines into a single book.
Profile Image for Sanjay Banerjee.
541 reviews12 followers
May 20, 2023
A one-volume history of India - from Prehistoric times upto the 21st century. The book blends state-of-the-art moas and photographs with a text of depth, clarity and fairly rigorous scholarship till India’s Independence. The narrative after Independence is sketchy and especially so for the 21st century upto present day.
Profile Image for Dipra Lahiri.
800 reviews52 followers
July 16, 2023
An excellent introduction to the history of India in one volume. Mukherjee does the bulk of the writing, easy to read, flowing prose. Punja (who sadly passed last month) pitches in with sections on art, and Sinclair contributes the bulk of the photographs. Unlike most history books which have photo plates, this one has printed pictures on every other page, which greatly enhance the experience.
Profile Image for Sadiq Kazi.
266 reviews7 followers
May 22, 2023
In a little over 400 pages is chronicled the history of the nation. There are more misses than hits here. But what makes this book unique is the bouquet of photographs illustrating the text throughout.
356 reviews3 followers
December 29, 2025
Another history about India. Nothing really new here. It's an interesting read but no better or worse than other books about the history of India. I read it to get an overview of the history of India through the ages.
Profile Image for Saswata Guha.
9 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2023
A good recap with more facts and less judgements. Worth the time, effort and money.
42 reviews
August 12, 2025
Not bad. Wish it had a bit more of the cultural aspects.
Profile Image for Arun Unni.
11 reviews3 followers
December 12, 2025
It would have been 4 stars except for the last chapter which turned into opinion and the usual bashing of Modi and nonsense about “intolerance of minorities”. Otherwise a decent book.
Profile Image for Danial Yazdani.
157 reviews8 followers
March 26, 2024
A super late review of a really comprehensive book that covers every inch of Indian history. I did get tired and had to push through the ancient stuff (a me problem), but overall fascinating to learn about a country I visited for 3 weeks.
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