The Saffron Tide: The Rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party, a book by Kingshuk Nag, provides a captivating examination of the BJP’s evolution from a minor participant in Indian politics to a formidable power. This review explores the book’s strengths and weaknesses, emphasizing its valuable insights into Indian politics.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has established itself as a powerful entity in Indian politics, enjoying widespread support and a dedicated following. The Saffron Tide, a book by Kingshuk Nag, delves into the history of the BJP, offering a thorough examination of its ascent and the obstacles it has encountered.
About The Author
Kingshuk Nag, a well-known Indian author and editor at The Times of India, has a distinguished career that has been characterized by insightful reporting. Recipient of the prestigious Prem Bhatia Award, Nag’s work spans pivotal events like the Gujarat riots and Telangana agitation, showcasing his unwavering commitment to fearless journalism. With extensive experience in economic analysis and political reporting, Nag continues to shape India’s media landscape with his profound insights and courageous storytelling.
A Balanced and Informative Account of the BJP’s History
Nag’s book is a balanced and informative account of the BJP’s history, from its origins in the Bharatiya Jana Sangh to its present-day dominance. The author provides a detailed analysis of the party’s ideology, its evolution, and its role in Indian politics. The book is particularly strong in its examination of the BJP’s early years, the period of the Janata Party, and the emergence of the BJP in its present avatar.
The BJP’s Struggle for Power
One of the book’s key strengths is its exploration of the BJP’s struggle for power. The author highlights the party’s early struggles, its first taste of power in 1998, and its subsequent rise to dominance. The book also discusses the BJP’s tenure in the Opposition and its return to power in 2014.
The BJP’s Image and Ideology
The book also delves into the BJP’s image and ideology, particularly its association with the pro-Hindutva agenda. Nag provides a nuanced analysis of the party’s ideology, its evolution, and its impact on Indian politics.
The BJP’s Future Course
In the final section of the book, Nag crystal-gazes to estimate the course that the BJP will chart for itself in the coming years. The author provides a thought-provoking analysis of the party’s future, taking into account its current dominance and the challenges it may face.
Conclusion
The Saffron Tide is a timely and informative biography of the BJP. The book is balanced, informative, and thought-provoking, providing a comprehensive analysis of the party’s history, its struggles, its ideology, and its future course. While the book could have delved deeper into the 2009-2014 period and the relationship between Modi and Advani, it is nonetheless a valuable contribution to the understanding of Indian politics.
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