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Anarkali

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The mystifying presence of Anarkali has loomed large in history and in folklore. Only a handful of dubitable details mark her story, the most legendary among which remains the tragic end that her life and love for Prince Salim, the son of Emperor Akbar, met. In Anarkali, Sumant Batra ventures to piece together the puzzle that surrounds this woman whose silhouette is all that we have known, giving her an identity, a name, a family, and a life beyond the tragic love affair she has come to be identified with. What comes forth is a saga, fresh and compelling, reflecting the experience of a woman navigating social structures in the Mughal Empire and bearing the consequences of asserting her desires. At the same time it honours the romance that originally earned Anarkali her name in history and in myth, inspiring within the narrative a treatise on a love earnest and pure, all-consuming and transcendental.

280 pages, Kindle Edition

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Sumant Batra

4 books1 follower

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Shravani Sawant.
190 reviews
June 17, 2025
Slowly learning that I enjoy historical fiction + have barely touched the surface of amazing contemporary Indian authors out there. Well-written!
Profile Image for Tarini.
145 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2024
I've known about Anarkali and her story only through the narrative of Mugh-le-azam. But in the book written by Sumant Batra, he's given Anarkali a personality of her own and we read the story from her POV. All the challenges that she faced just because she fell in love with the prince broke my heart and I almost cried reading the story. It's good to be reminded of the rich history India holds and I'm glad I picked this up!
Profile Image for Shweta.
686 reviews26 followers
January 8, 2024

I was enthralled with this book as soon as I saw its cover. It sparked the imagination of the melodious sounds of ghungroos when I first saw the image of Anarkali exuding beauty with only a half-profile of her face visible and captured in the midst of a graceful dance.

Anarkali's character is known to most of us as a heroine from the grand 1960 film Mughal-e-Azam, which depicted the romance between Prince Salim, the son of Emperor Akbar, and Anarkali, a dancer in his court.

But in the historical context, Anarkali is a character steeped in mystery and legends despite the fact that her story is connected to the renowned Mughal King Akbar and his son Prince Salim, who went on to become emperor Shah Jahan himself.

The life and love of Anarkali are explored in a compelling and thought-provoking way in Sumant Batra's book.The story dives deeply into the Mughal Empire's historical background and combines well-researched details of Anarkali's life with popularly known information to create a gripping portrait of her.

In this book, Anarkali has a presence and an identity that goes beyond her tragic love story. She is granted a voice, a family, and a status. Its also a glimpse into the difficulties faced by a woman attempting to make her way through a society that limited her choices and desires.

Sumant Batra pays enchanting tribute to the deep and all-consuming love that Anarkali had with Prince Salim and which elevated Anarkali to the status of an iconic individual. He

The richness and magnificence of the Mughal Empire, along with Sumant Batra's meticulous attention to historical detail, gives the narrative depth and authenticity while fully engrossing readers in the sights, sounds, and customs of the time.

With every word and sentence I read in this book, especially her fateful performance in the mirrored hall of Akbar's court, I could feel the rhythm and passion of her kathak (indian classical dance) through which she told her own story and connected to her divine.

Sumant Batra's storytelling talent, combined with his meticulous research, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in Mughal history and the enigmatic figure of Anarkali.
Profile Image for Lalitha Ramanathan.
Author 4 books7 followers
February 5, 2024
Sumant Batra’s Anarkali is a riveting historical fiction that delves into the identity of the enigmatic dancer who managed to capture the crown prince’s heart. Through his powerful storytelling, the author attempts to answer the many questions that shroud Anarkali in mystery. The author blends fact and fiction with finesse and sets the tone of what is to follow with a dedication: For all the fateful heartbreaks.
The opulence of the Mughals, the bustling Meena Bazaar, the spirituality of Fatehpur Sikri, the magnificence of the Sheesh Mahal, all come alive through the author’s skilful craft. The research into Mughal history is commendable. The book takes you on a journey of Agra, Lahore, and Fatehpur Sikri, with its vivid descriptions. The Urdu words and couplets make it a very authentic read. Relationships form the core of this story. Emperor Akbar has a troubled relationship with his son Salim, who was born to him after much prayer.
The women are the real heroes of the book. Political strategies are executed from the royal Zenana and from behind veiled curtains. Anarkali’s tragic story has been romanticized by historians, and her personality restricted to that of ‘Salim’s lover’. The author lends her a voice and gives her a chance to tell her story to the world.
This reimagining explores the different facets of her life and pays tribute to her many roles- as a daughter, a sister, a friend, a thinker, a dancer extraordinaire, and a devotee of Krishna. Anarkali channelizes her inner Radha, rendering life to her Kathak performance that mesmerizes the reader and transports them to a realm where art meets spirituality.
The relationship between Anarkali and Salim is shown to be tender and respectful. Her love is pure, her devotion is steadfast, and her passion a madness that shakes the very core of the royal court. However, duty supersedes love, and the future Emperor of Hindustan must abandon the love of his life in the best interests of the empire. Choices are made and ties severed in this saga of sacrifice and duty.
The narrative abounds in divinity, romance, passion, and a haunting melancholy. This book is a must-read for history-buffs!


Profile Image for Prerna  Shambhavee .
750 reviews7 followers
April 27, 2025
"Anarkali" by Sumant Batra is a masterful retelling of a legendary tale, breathing life into the enigmatic figure of Anarkali, a woman whose silhouette has haunted history and folklore for centuries. With only a few scattered details to guide him, he skillfully weaves a narrative that not only gives Anarkali an identity, family, and life but also humanizes her in a way that feels authentic and relatable.

The novel is a testament to the a's meticulous research and imagination, transporting readers to the vibrant world of the Mughal Empire. Anarkali's story unfolds like a puzzle, with each piece carefully crafted to reveal the complexities of a woman navigating the intricate social structures of her time. As she asserts her desires and confronts the consequences, Anarkali emerges as a strong and determined individual, driven by her passions and convictions.

At its core, "Anarkali" is a romance that transcends time and circumstance. The love story between Anarkali and Prince Salim is tender, all-consuming, and ultimately tragic. The auhandles the romance with sensitivity and nuance, making it easy to become invested in the characters' fate. The novel explores the transcendent power of love, which knows no bounds of class, status, or convention.

What sets "Anarkali" apart is its thoughtful exploration of the human experience. The author's writing is evocative and immersive, drawing readers into the world of 16th-century India. The characters are multidimensional and relatable, with Anarkali being a particularly compelling protagonist. Her journey is a powerful exploration of identity, desire, and the human spirit.

The book is also a testament to the enduring power of myth and legend. Batra takes the familiar story of Anarkali and infuses it with new life, making it feel fresh and contemporary. The novel will appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction, romance, and stories about strong women who defy convention.

All-in-, "Anarkali" is a beautifully crafted novel that will captivate readers with its rich storytelling, memorable characters, and poignant exploration of love and identity.
139 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2024
Am intrigue,yet impressively written read that is penned in a magnanimous manner for the reader to enhance their understanding of a character that had left her mark in the history of the Mughal Era.

We all have heard of Anarkali,and never have ever took an effort to build a better understanding of her real character that shows her true being.

Nadira was the eldest daughter of Mustafa Ali and Jahanuma and being the elder one,she always had the quality of appreciating and paying respect to her loved ones.

She was a strong woman of high values since her childhood and was moreover like a great support system for her father.

So how did she met Salim? It wasn't a plan of her father,who wanted her wife and daughter to safely reach Riyaasat-e-Hindustan.
How destiny will change their paths and transform their journey?
Read to find out more...
36 reviews
January 9, 2024
An amazing work of historical fiction narrating the true facts and figures related to the magnificent character of Anarkali known to the real world by one of her admiring phases in history.

No one knew who she eventually was neither any one took up an effort to explore her real identity and well being, until the author took in the command to pen an intricate read that will reveal all the chapters of her life, kept at dismay.

The story that began with the outlook of a family legacy, left Saima wondering of what secrets her family was deemed to guard. But her curiosity to knew the reality hidden in the ivory box, left her speechless at the very sight of the same.
Enter this world of hidden secrets and family legacies that will make you time-travel to Riyaaasat-e-Hindustan.
28 reviews
January 9, 2024
Nothing was normal or ordinary about her life.
When she was born,a fortune teller had predicted that she'll be blessed with the best.
Although Mustaffa Ali had always loved his wife Jahanuma but the moment he held Nadira,he was overwhelmed with emotions like never before.

The impressive writing style made the book an enlightening work that showed the shades of history in the most vivid and vibrant manner.

Enter the tale of Anarkali and know her more better since the time of her existence.
From being the first child of her parents,she had always been a symbol of strength and power that always walk in line with her father and became an inspiration for many.

But that wasn't all, there's much more to explore in the chapters of history that cannot be matched in reality.
114 reviews1 follower
January 9, 2024
Some characters of history have always been fascinating enough to hold to the reader's attention.

And this book caters to put light into one such characters whom I wished to know more.
I guess it was the sole reason,that amongst many other books narrating an introspective outlook on the character,I chose this one that attracted me from top to bottom.

Anarkali,is a name known in every Indian household. But what's her reality,that is always kept in the dark. Her individuality had been always quoted to be the beloved of Mughal Ruler,Salim.

But what's hers real life and how she became,what she is known for now?
This tale on historical data and a genuine work of literary fiction,will try to calm your curiosity of the same.
79 reviews
January 9, 2024
Anarkali,my recent read that began on the last week of the year 2023,was expected to be the last one of the year.
But with its flawless and engaging story,it turned out to be one of the best read that I savored from top to bottom.

This read is a chapter in the life of a the historical character of Anarkali,whom many think was just a mythological one rather than having any connections with the real world.

But the moment I had this read, I developed a more in-depth understanding of this character whose identity had often been confined to just one phase of her life.

An incredibly well delivered read that each one of every age will enjoy to the fullest. One of the best reads based on historical times.
75 reviews
January 9, 2024
The moment I started reading this work of historical fiction that is penned with excellence and elegance,I found myself sinking into the times when Anarkali marked it's existence.

I guess that's the result of an overpowering read,that it gives the reader the possibility to live the story penned in the pages of their book.

Anarkali,a character of history that had been always confined to be the love interest of Salim,had been a more vibrant and vivid lady of exquisite charm. And this book will give one the privilege to enhance one's understanding of the same.

Loved the story and enjoyed the flawless narrative that began on the warmth of a granddaughter and an aging grandmother who soon leaves for heaven.

Experience the legacy that follows...
210 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2024
A great work penned after intense research for sure to make the reader fall over for the character who had been restricted to a mere instance of history.
Beginning in the streets of London, this book showcases a legacy handed over by an aging grandmother to her only family,i.e. her granddaughter.
The book, inked with purity of thoughts and expression, is a wonderful blend of fiction and reality based on the insightful research done by the author.
The captivating writing style enhanced the interest of the reader in the book, making it a remarkable chapter in Indian history. Who was actually Anarkali? What made her indifferent one?

The answers to the above and many more will be revealed by the end of this dynamic read.
147 reviews
January 27, 2024
Anarkali,was often considered to be a historical figure that had been kept as a mythical character.
But when I read this book,I personally could feel the story and found myself perfectly indulged in the magnanimous read.

The writing style and the presentation of the book,every title soothing enough to mark a marvellous spell on one's mind that you couldn't easily overcome.

I loved it because of the simplicity with which it was delivered and knew it has more secrets to reveal than I had expected.

The author penned this real our of curiosity and the urge to let the world know that the identity of Nadira wasn't confined only on being the love interest of Prince Salim,but to much more.
218 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2024
A great work of historical fiction, that had endless surprises with the flip of every page.
Anarkali by Sumant Batra is an introspective read, narrating the unknown tale of Nadira who had been said to be the fortunate one.

Although she had her own journey to prevail, but history and events of her life confined her and displayed a totally different frame.

Delivered in an intricate manner, the book narrates the story of Anarkali by keeping in synd a legacy that had been revolving around the family Saima was born and brought up in.
The vivid language and the vibrant expression; made the book a wholesome work of literary excellence taking us on an adventurous journey which would be remembered for a lifetime.
174 reviews
January 9, 2024
If you love to read historical fiction and is awestruck your own self to the beauty of Anarkali, at one point or the other; this one should be the next read in your list.

Penned with perfection and delivered with elegance and expertise;made this book a genuine effort of the author to deliver one such phase of history that had been hardly known to people and often limited to the same.

This read will take you back in time to the Mughal Era, where Nadira got a title of 'Anarkali' that completely transformed her existence. But who she really was? Is a question of each one's interest and the same is nailed well by the author in this phenomenal read.
184 reviews
January 9, 2024
What had been limited to a tragic love affair of the Mughal Era, is delivered in a compelling manner for the reader to live the depth of emotions in the most appealing manner.

Frankly, my knowledge of Anarkali just made me go back in the lanes of Indian Cinema, where the character had been brought into camera by the means of the charming, Madhubala. And trust me, she took my heart by her realistic charm and beauty.

The impact of the above had influenced me to get a read that will give a more elaborate picture of who she actually was and what made her a remarkable character in the Mughal history. One of the best love stories delivered in the form of this mesmerising book.
190 reviews3 followers
January 9, 2024
A chapter of history delivered in a simplifying manner for the reader to admire a glimpse of the past in the most soothing and appealing manner.

Anarkali by Sumant Batra is a work of great literary fiction that narrates the tale of history heard by many but known by only a few.
This read is an eye-opener towards the magnificent figure of Anarkali, known to the real world by the help of the Indian Cinema.

This book is an effort of the author to deliver her reality in the most influential manner, for the reader to have a closer view to Nadira, an epitome of real beauty and strength, confined to the world as 'Anarkali'.
41 reviews
January 9, 2024
My recent read was non fiction read delivered in a fictional form showcasing the beauty of Anarkali that had been penned in the most impactful and engaging manner.

We have known Nadira,as Anarkali just because of her impact on Prince Salim,but that's not the only chapter which needs to be known to the world.

I personally felt her to be an epitome of strength and beauty,compiled by the almighty.

This book will show you the varying facets of this legendary beauty in the most mesmerizing manner,leaving the reader astonished and speechless on knowing her better.

The language and the narrative improvised the delivery of this read,making it a phenomenal work to look forward to.
76 reviews
January 9, 2024
Your character is your real identity. And limiting one's beauty to a role or phase of history is never an acceptable approach on my end.
That's the reason, this week while searching for a new book I found this amazingly well-penned read revolving around the character of 'Anarkali'.

You'll definitely develop a better understanding of this character that had been applauded for her beauty and charm. The book that begins in the streets of London takes you to Kabul and then Riyaasat-e- Hindustan.
The enlightening history the book offers made it a perfect blend of history and even geography. You'll find yourself mesmerized by the story and the way it is told.
190 reviews
January 21, 2024
I love books and my reach to find one after another often leads me to varying genres and distinct stories that leave me speechless.
My recent read by Sumant Batra was a plethora of emotions weaved in a mesmerizing tale like no other.

The flawless narrative and the impressive language, enhanced the quality of the read; making it a perfect one to explore a phase of Mughal history that wasn't discussed much.

What began as a legacy led to the revealing of secrets that weren't known to many of us. The book is dedicated to the character of Anarkali, helping people understand her real personality, her family, her background, etc. in an intricate manner. You'll personally admire this read.
214 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2024
History had always been a subject that enhances one's knowledge and that's the reason my curiosity to know more often leads to books that make me fall over for getting to know characters of the past, a little better.

My recent read, was not about a dynamic historical personality but one such vivid woman whose role had been confined to one instance of her life; limiting people's understanding of her existence.

The moment I think about Anarkali, I often misunderstand her character to be a love interest of Prince Salim, but I would really recommend people to read this book that shows the extent of her charismatic identity, that made her what she really was.
Profile Image for Anurag Kumar.
733 reviews8 followers
January 21, 2024
A story that will ignite your senses and enhance your imagination to who really Anarkali was.

Firstly,I got myself glued to this read by the flow that hooked all my imagination and kept me wondering about all the misconceptions I had hold on to since mh childhood about the same.

The story of Anarkali,her origin,her identity and most of all her individuality that had been shadowed by her love affair,made the book a unique work of its kind.

The narrative is supported by simple language that made the reading journey smooth and flawless. You'll be awestruck on knowing many kore fascinating facts about the protagonist which were totally unknown to the world.
147 reviews
January 27, 2024
Anarkali,one of the best reads I had ever read,is a chapter of history that had been unknown to many of us. And therefore,a read that shows us reality,like no other.

A chapter that had been penned with genuineness and intensity of emotions in the most alluring manner.

The secret that had been saved by the family since years is finally in hands of Saima.
She respected and loved her grandmother but keeping oneself in the dark from the secret she had been handed over,had made it a situation moreover like an upheaval.

Finally she decided to open the ivory box that had left her in thoughts that were left unexplained.
201 reviews
January 27, 2024
Great work by the author that opened a enormous world that was hidden behind the reality of Anarkali.
Penned in an intricate manner,made the book a heart touching read,that will show you different shades to match up the traits of reality.

The engaging plot and the genuine story ,made me go back in times when the beauty was hidden and love was defined via means of the eyes.

The author, Sumant Batra,wrote this one to enhance the understanding of the reader limited to what had been delivered since a long time.
The book is definitely worth reading and the presentation of the book made it a wonderful endeavour.
212 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2024
The moment you'll start reading this historical fiction, you'll find your senses ignited by the beauty this book in totality is.
The story that had been kept aloof,is brought into life in the most amazing manner.

Anarkali, a name known to many but most of us aren't aware about her real identity.
Keeping all the facts and figures in mind,the author after a deep research penned this read to help the reader understand the real woman,Nadira known to the world as Anarkali.

The smooth flow of the read made it a flawless reading experience for one and all.

So if you love historical fiction,this one will definitely leave you perplexed.
224 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2024
A book holds the power to convey stories and life journey in the most entertaining manner.
This one will take you on a ride through time to find out the real identity of the well known historical character of Anarkali.

Limiting her to a particular phase of her life wasn't ever an applaudable gesture.
But when I got my hands of this,I realised the true shades of her life and her individuality that made her to be an indifferent one.

Loved the read and was glued to the fullest of its capacities that made it a complete masterpiece. The language and the narrative was kept simple to soothe readers of every age group.
231 reviews1 follower
January 27, 2024
The impressive writing and the intensity of delivery made the book a perfectly well written work of historical fiction.
The story penned in an intricate manner,made the book a perfect read.

I took Anarkali, fascinated by the name and the book cover,that left me wondering of what the book will hold,and truly I was awestruck by the in-depth work the author has done to complete the mystery that had been lingering around the same.

We all have our own take of Anarkali and this one will give all the answers we have been craving for to know the beauty at its real state.
The flow of the read will give you an enlightening experience.
Profile Image for Khushi  Kumar.
179 reviews2 followers
January 21, 2024
Anarkali,a character which many still assumed to be more of a fictional one was a real being who had a more vivid personality than one has expected her to be.

We all have heard her to be a maid at the court of Akbar and a much highly proclaimed love interest of Akbar's son,Salim.
But little we knew of how her existence was not what merely had been put into the frame.

The book had much more taking us back into the time of Mughal Era and experiencing India before Independence. The story has enough turns to keep your mind twisted with the read and it's fascinating facts that followed.
Profile Image for Gooogleion.
207 reviews1 follower
August 8, 2025
In the era of tinder and bumble, I feel like the idea of true love is almost mythological. The depth of feelings and thoughts are nonexistent. Nobody knows how important it is to take love and romance seriously. People are self absorbed. The only time they are not thinking about themselves is when they’re asleep. So when someone talks about Anarkali, it is like talking about hygiene in a slum area.
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