[Book] Aurangzeb - Sir Jadunath Sarkar

 I read "Aurangzeb" by Sir Jadunath Sarkar. 

Apart from chronicling the life of this last true Mughal emperor in complete detail, the book provides a comprehensive insight into political, social, economic, cultural, and geographical aspects of life and times of people during his reign. 
I have some reservations about the tone of language at a few places, especially in relation to Marathas, but it cannot be denied that this a well-researched book based on a huge number of original, authentic sources.

Incidentally, the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) has undertaken a project to translate major historical treatises into Indian languages, and under this scheme, this book has been translated to Marathi by Professor Kolarkar.

Operation Blue Star - The True Story - Lt. Gen. K S Brar

Last weekend, I started (and finished!) reading "Operation Blue Star - The True Story" by Lt. Gen. K S Brar. 

Written by the commander who spearheaded this mission, this book is perhaps the most comprehensive and authentic account of one of the most important and unfortunate events of post-Independence era. The author provides details about the rise of Bhindranwale, failure of state and central governments to control his menace, reasons for military action, strategic and tactical planning, the actual commando attack and the aftermath. 

The text is direct, matter-of-fact and candid, and it is well-supplemented by over a dozen photographs and maps.

A Marathi translation of this book is also available.