The continual tussles over Bhagat Singh's identity, even more amplified
of late, are a testament to the heroic status the man continues to hold
in the annals of the Indian freedom struggle. Despite him having
addressed his views on religion, politics and activism, there are many
willing to forge completely new narratives of his life, and many more
willing to believe them.
A timely antidote, this meticulously researched biography is an
expansive foray into the life of Bhagat Singh. The volume deliberates
upon his family from before when he was born, examining along the way
the role that various episodes, policies and people played in shaping
the identity of a legendary revolutionary, while also delving into his
opinions on important questions of the time. It shines a bright light on
the oft-ignored personal influences that made Singh who he was, along
with the issue of his contested identity in today's politics. This is
the definitive Bhagat Singh biography of our times.