THE BROKEN SCRIPT by Swapna Liddle [Hardcover]

Unveiling a Forgotten Era: The Broken Script by Swapna Liddle [Hardcover]

Step into a fascinating chapter of Indian history in The Broken Script by Swapna Liddle. This captivating work of narrative history delves into the tumultuous yet dynamic period following the Mughal Empire's decline and the rise of the British East India Company in Delhi.

The Broken Script is more than just a chronicle of political change.  It's a rich tapestry woven from the perspectives of Delhi's residents, both ordinary and extraordinary.  Here's what awaits you:

A Power Struggle on Two Fronts: Witness the complex interplay between the waning Mughal authority, clinging to its symbolic power, and the burgeoning might of the British East India Company.

A City on the Cusp of Modernity: Explore the profound social, economic, and cultural transformations that swept through Delhi during this "hybrid half-century."

A Celebration of Unsung Heroes: Meet the people who shaped Delhi's trajectory, from the renowned poet Ghalib to the forgotten mathematician Ram Chander.

The Broken Script sheds light on various facets of this pivotal era:

The Flourishing of Urdu: Discover the vibrant Urdu literary scene, even as efforts to use it for scientific education faced challenges.

A New Model of Education: Delve into the groundbreaking story of the Delhi College and its impact on Indian higher education.

The Birth of Modern Journalism: Explore the rise of Urdu newspapers and printing presses, exemplified by publications like the Dehli Urdu Akhbar.

The Seeds of Modernity: Examine the blossoming of institutions like the Archeological Society, reflecting a society grappling with Western influences while retaining its own intellectual heritage.

The narrative doesn't shy away from the turning point of 1857.  The Broken Script offers a nuanced analysis of the Sepoy Mutiny and its aftermath, using diverse sources like Urdu poetry, trial proceedings, and news reports.  It challenges simplistic narratives and reveals the human cost of this rebellion.

Swapna Liddle's masterful storytelling combined with meticulous research makes The Broken Script an exceptional read.  This book is a treasure trove for anyone interested in:

Indian history, particularly the early modern period
The social and cultural transformation of Delhi

The complex relationship between British colonialism and Indian society
Order your copy of The Broken Script today and embark on a captivating journey through a forgotten era!