Authored by Marya Shakil and Narendra Nath Mishra
India on the Move co-authored by acclaimed journalists Marya Shakil and Narendra Nath Mishra, is a compelling exploration of India’s evolving political and social era. This book investigates the intersection of nationalism, identity, and dissent, capturing the pulse of a rapidly changing nation. Through engaging narratives and balanced analysis in India on the Move, the authors delve into critical issues like the influence of caste, religion, regional politics, and socio-economic transformations, providing an insider’s perspective on pivotal events that have shaped modern India.
The title India on the Move itself reflects a nuanced dialogue between the two dominant narratives in contemporary Indian politics religious identity (“Jai Shree Ram”) and patriotic fervour (“Bharat Mata Ki Jai”). By intertwining these ideas, the authors highlight the dual forces driving India’s socio-political discourse. Their focus extends to examining how these slogans represent much more than phrases; they symbolize competing visions of India’s future. The book India on the Move also sheds light on the rising tide of dissent and activism, portraying how ordinary citizens are engaging with power structures in unique and unprecedented ways.
Written in accessible and thought-provoking prose, India on the Move balances rigorous analysis with the simplicity needed to appeal to a broad audience, including both experts and casual readers. With its timely publication, the book aims to encourage constructive debates about India’s challenges and aspirations, offering a roadmap for understanding the complexities of the world’s largest democracy.
Publication and Availability
Published by Ebury Press on 15th October 2024, this 200-page hardcover explores India’s socio-political era over the last decade, offering a neutral yet compelling narrative. Priced at ₹457.00, it is available in Kindle and hardcover formats on platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Goodreads, and bookstores nationwide. The book’s straightforward language and intrinsic narratives make it an accessible and valuable read for both seasoned political enthusiasts and casual readers.
Themes Explored in India on the Move
The book India on the Move by Marya Shakil and Narendra Nath Mishra explores the interplay between religion, politics, and nationalism in contemporary India. Here are the central themes of book:
- The Role of Dissent and Democracy: The protests at JNU following the judicial hanging of Afzal Guru and Maqbool Bhat are used as a central point to discuss the broader questions of nationalism. The authors present the tension between blind conformity and the democratic values of dissent and diversity, painting a poignant picture of India’s ideological divide.
- Farmers’ Protests and Regional Movements: The book India on the Move details the rise of regional movements like the farmers’ protests, showcasing the deep-seated issues of caste and regionalism. The authors analyse how these events symbolize the aspirations and struggles of India’s marginalized communities while questioning the socio-economic policies that fuel these movements.
- A Decade of Political Evolution (2014–2024): Through vivid storytelling and thorough research, India on the Move encapsulates key events like the Balakot strikes and the COVID-19 pandemic. These events are interwoven with the narrative to demonstrate how they influenced political discourse and shaped public sentiment.
- Intersection of Religion and Politics: The book India on the Move discusses how traditional slogans like Jai Shree Ram and Bharat Mata Ki Jai, which were initially religious and patriotic expressions, have been politicized and became political tools. These phrases have become rallying cries for competing ideological narratives, often shaping political discourses and public sentiment in India.
- Rise of Polarized Nationalism: The book India on the Move critiques this transformation and explores its impact on the concept of nationalism in India. The narrative delves into the evolving definitions of nationalism, focusing on how cultural identity, religious beliefs, and political ideologies contribute to the current understanding of what it means to be a nationalist in India. It critically examines whether this nationalism is inclusive or exclusionary.
- Youth and Political Activism: The book sheds light on the role of student movements, particularly referencing events like the protests at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). It highlights how students transitioned from academic life to becoming labeled as “anti-nationals” or “radicals,” reflecting larger societal tensions.
- Polarization and Identity Politics: India on the Move discusses how polarization based on religious and regional identities influences electoral politics and public discourse. This theme reflects the authors’ effort to unpack the ways’ identity politics has reshaped India’s democratic framework.
- Media and Public Perception: The authors also critique the role of media in framing public perception, particularly during protests and political movements. Media narratives are analysed for their part in shaping societal divisions and amplifying ideological clashes.
- Social Justice and Marginalized Voices: The book India on the Move emphasizes how socio-political shifts have impacted marginalized communities and minorities. It advocates for understanding these changes to foster a more equitable society.
This book India on the Move is a critical examination of contemporary India, blending historical contexts with recent political developments. By focusing on cultural slogans and their adoption into political agendas, it offers readers insights into the ideological and societal shifts shaping the nation today.
About the Author: Marya Shakil & Narendra Nath Mishra
Marya Shakil is a distinguished Indian journalist with over 18 years of experience in political reporting. She is currently the Political Editor and Anchor at CNN-News18, where her in-depth analysis and ground reporting have garnered her widespread recognition. Her notable achievements include winning the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award twice, in 2012 and 2014, for her insightful coverage in the Politics and Government category.
Marya is particularly known for her expertise in decoding electoral trends and reporting from the field during elections. Her prime-time show NewsEpicentre has been celebrated as one of the best debate shows in Indian television journalism. Additionally, her participation as a speaker at literary festivals, such as the Jaipur Literature Festival, highlights her versatility as a journalist and public intellectual.
Marya’s work reflects her passion for presenting nuanced perspectives on India’s socio-political era. She continues to influence the field of journalism through her impactful storytelling and critical debates. For more details, you can explore her profile on platforms like CNN-News18 and the Jaipur Literature Festival website.
Narendra Nath Mishra, a seasoned journalist with nearly 20 years of experience in Indian media, is widely recognized for his sharp and insightful coverage of the country’s socio-political developments. His extensive travel across India has enabled him to provide in-depth reporting and nuanced perspectives on various issues, reflecting the pulse of the nation.
Throughout his career, Mishra has held significant editorial roles in prominent media organizations, contributing to both print and digital platforms. His work has earned him national and international fellowships, along with several accolades for excellence in journalism. Known for his ability to connect with grassroots realities, Mishra’s reportage often highlights the complexities and evolving dynamics of Indian society and politics.
His recent work as the co-author of India on the Move: When Jai Shree Ram Met Bharat Mata ki Jai showcases his deep understanding of how cultural and political narratives shape the nation. This book further cements his reputation as a journalist who is not only a keen observer but also an impactful storyteller of India’s changing era.
Publisher’s View on India on the Move
- Slogans, Strikes, and Struggles: How India’s Political Landscape is Redrawn with this Compelling Observation.
Authored by Marya Shakil and Narendra Nath Mishra, the book India on the Move uses slogans and movements as metaphors to highlight the dynamics of a changing India. The authors intricately analyze how the intersection of political ideologies, grassroots activism, and cultural identity has reshaped the nation.
The phrase “Slogans, Strikes, and Struggles” signifies the heartbeat of a nation in flux. Slogans like “Jai Shree Ram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” are not just chants; they represent ideological shifts that mirror the aspirations, challenges, and identity politics of modern India. Strikes and struggles, on the other hand, symbolize the friction between tradition and modernity, reflecting how citizens find ways through economic, social, and cultural changes.
- Offers a compelling time-travelling journey through a decade by Javed Akhtar
This quote concisely captures the essence of India on the Move as it guides readers through the transformative events of the last ten years in India’s political and cultural era. The book by Marya Shakil and Narendra Nath Mishra tries to find the things like a time machine, vividly portraying the shifts in ideology, leadership, and public sentiment that have redefined the nation’s identity. Through its narrative, the authors delve into the evolving dynamics of slogans, movements, and the challenges of modern India, creating a reflective and immersive experience for readers. It is a journey through time that unpacks the complexities of a country constantly in motion.
- An interesting account of events which shaped the 2024 Lok Sabha elections by Sanjay Kumar
This quote highlights the core of India on the Move, where the authors, provide a gripping narrative of the pivotal moments leading up to and defining the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The book dissects the key events, strategies, and slogans that shaped the political climate, offering insights into the forces driving voter sentiment and influencing the electoral outcome. By weaving together political shifts, grassroots movements, and public discourses, the authors deliver a detailed and engaging portrayal of one of India’s most transformative election cycles.
Style of Writing
A Storytelling Approach: The authors use a blend of storytelling and factual reporting to engage the reader. Characters like Atishi a fictitious figure are introduced to articulate hard-hitting truths in relatable discussions. This approach adds a creative touch to the book, making it feel like a documentary of everyday political life.
Neutral and Non-Judgmental Tone: The book India on the Move is written in neutral, easy-to-understand English. While maintaining objectivity, it subtly takes a stand on critical issues by offering a literary interpretation of transformative events. The use of WhatsApp group chats to recreate real-life discussions further enhances the relatability and authenticity of the narrative.
Why You Should Read India on the Move
- Insightful Political Commentary: This book India on the Move offers an in-depth understanding of India’s political evolution over the past decade. It is a must-read for those who want to explore the interplay of religion, identity, and politics in contemporary India.
- Engaging and Well-Researched: With its logical flow and factual accuracy, India on the Move is as engaging as it is informative. The authors have handled sensitive topics gracefully, making it a balanced read that avoids sensationalism.
- Perfect for Understanding Modern India: Whether you are interested in politics, sociology, or history, this book provides a holistic view of India’s societal changes. It brings out the nuances of nationalism, regional movements, and the impact of merging politics with faith.
Final Thought
India on the Move: When Jai Shree RAM Met Bharat Mata KI Jai is a thought-provoking exploration of India’s socio-political era. With its detailed insights into pivotal events, the book is a treasure trove for readers seeking to understand contemporary India. It captures the essence of a rapidly changing nation while highlighting the challenges and aspirations of its people.
If you are passionate about politics or want a deeper understanding of the evolving dynamics in modern India, this book is an essential read. Go ahead, grab your copy, and join the conversation about India on the move!
