The Shadow of the Great Game: The Untold Story of India’s Partition by Narendra Singh Sarila

Description

“The Shadow of the Great Game: The Untold Story of India’s Partition” is a book written by Narendra Singh Sarila. The book delves into the complex historical context surrounding the partition of India in 1947. The partition led to the creation of two independent nations, India and Pakistan, and marked a pivotal moment in South Asian history.

The “Great Game” mentioned in the title refers to the geopolitical rivalry and maneuvering between the British Empire and the Russian Empire in Central Asia during the 19th century. The term is often used to describe the strategic and political interactions between these two imperial powers in their quest for influence and control over the region.

Narendra Singh Sarila, the author, was an Indian civil servant and diplomat. He served as the ADC (Aide-de-Camp) to Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, during the crucial period leading up to the partition. Given his close proximity to the events and key individuals involved, Sarila offers a unique perspective on the political and diplomatic negotiations that took place behind the scenes, contributing to the decisions that ultimately led to the partition.

In “The Shadow of the Great Game,” Sarila sheds light on the lesser-known factors and motivations that influenced the partition process. He explores the roles played by various political leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and Lord Mountbatten, as well as the involvement of other international actors in shaping the destiny of the Indian subcontinent.

The book provides insights into the power dynamics, strategic considerations, and personal ambitions that contributed to the partition. It challenges conventional narratives and highlights the complexities of the partition’s origins, often emphasizing the interplay between global politics, imperial interests, and local aspirations.