About the Book

The Courtesan, the Mahatma & the Italian Brahmin opens a vivid window into India’s past through a series of captivating historical essays. From a Maratha prince who parodied caste to a Muslim deity in a Hindu temple, from courtesans who became warrior princesses or gramophone icons to the many contradictions embodied by extraordinary women and men, the book uncovers stories long overlooked or forgotten. With richly textured narrative and sharp insight, the author breathes life into centuries-old characters whose lives were filled with drama, transformation and social complexity. This is history reimagined with flair, depth and a keen sense of the present.

Key Features

• A vibrant collection of essays exploring overlooked and fascinating figures from Indian history.
• Draws on stories of royalty, courtesans, reformers, artists and unlikely cultural icons.
• Explores themes of identity, power, mythology, social change and cultural hybridity.
• Written by the acclaimed author of The Ivory Throne and Rebel Sultans.
• An engaging blend of narrative history and cultural commentary.

Product Details

• Publisher: Context; First Edition (24 June 2019); Westland
• Language: English
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 384
• ISBN-10: 938868978X
• ISBN-13: 978-9388689786
• Item Weight: 100 g
• Dimensions: 14 x 2.5 x 21.6 cm
• Generic Name: Books