About the Book

Book: In Pursuit of Democracy: Beyond Party Lines

Author: Najma Heptulla

Publisher: Rupa Publications

Price: Rs 695

If you are looking for an interesting book on Indian politics and curious about stories behind the headlines, In Pursuit of Democracy by Najma Heptulla is the book for you. Heptulla, a veteran politician, shares her experiences from her four-decade-long career, giving readers a close look at key moments in India’s democratic journey.

The book isn’t just another dry political memoir. It’s full of stories about her interactions with major political figures, from the strong presence of Indira Gandhi to the charm of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Najma Heptulla’s autobiography is not just about her life in politics but also about her personal life, balancing her political career with motherhood, love and loss. Her narrative is enriched with personal anecdotes and emotional events. She addresses controversies too, like her decision to move from Congress to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)- a switch that sparked plenty of debate.

Heptulla’s writing style is direct and conversational. It feels like she is talking to you, recounting her life over a cup of tea. She avoids heavy political jargon, making the book a breeze even if you’re not well-versed in politics. The narrative flows smoothly between her professional milestones and personal reflections, making it engaging and balanced. This blend of warmth and clarity makes the book as much about Najma as person as it is about her as a politician.

What stands out in this book is how Heptulla personalises her experiences. She is not just recounting political events; she is showing how they shaped her life and decisions. Whether you are a political junkie or someone interested in peeking behind the curtain of Indian politics, this book offers a thoughtful mix of history and heartfelt storytelling.

Through her candid, no-nonsense style, Heptulla gives us an insider’s view of what it is like to be a woman navigating Indian politics. Her journey from Congress to BJP and the challenges she faced along the way provide a unique perspective on party dynamics and leadership in India.

The book also touches on broader issues in Indian politics, such as the trust deficit between Sonia Gandhi and herself, and the treatment of figures like  PV Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh by the party bosses. By sharing these personal stories, Heptulla humanises the political landscape, making it easier to understand the complex relationships and motivations that shape decision-making at the highest levels.

In Pursuit of Democracy Heptulla offers more than just political memoirs; she provides a nuanced, first-person account of her time in power, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that often go unnoticed.

Whether you’re a seasoned observer of Indian politics or someone who wants to understand the forces shaping the country’s democratic processes, this book is a compelling read. It is not just about politics; it is about the life of a woman who has lived through some of the most transformative moments in Indian political history.