Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History

by Vikram Sampath, Anuj Datta (Narrator)

Fifteen Brave Men and Women of Bharat, who
Never Succumbed to the Challenges of Invaders

But Lost and Forgotten in the Annals of History

This is the Story of these Bravehearts,
who Fought to Protect their Rights, Faith and Freedom

History has always been the handmaiden of the victor. 'Until the lions have their own storytellers,' said Chinua Achebe, 'the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter!' Exploring the lives, times and works of long-forgotten and mostly neglected fifteen unsung heroes and heroines of our past, this book brings to light the contribution of the warriors who not only donned an armour and burst into the battlefield but also kept the flame of hope alive under adverse circumstances.

Narrating the tales of valour and success that India, as a nation and civilization, bore witness to in its long and tumultuous past, the book opens a window to the stories of select men and women who valiantly fought against invaders for their rights, faith and freedom.

From Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Jai Singh of Manipur, Lalitaditya Muktapida of Kashmir, Chand Bibi of Ahmednagar, Lachit Barphukan of Assam, Begum Hazrat Mahal of Awadh to Rani Abbakka Chowta of Ullal, Martanda Varma of Travancore, Rani Rudrama Devi of Warangal, Rani Naiki Devi of Gujarat and Banda Singh Bahadur, among others, are some of the 'bravehearts' who fought to uphold the tradition and culture of their land.

Pacy and unputdownable, Bravehearts of Bharat chronicles the stories of courage, determination and victory, which largely remained untold and therefore unknown for a long time.

11 hrs. 47 min

Genres: History, Nonfiction, India, Politics, Biography, War, Indian Literature

12 pages, Audible Audio

Published August 25, 2023

About the author

Born and raised in Bangalore, Vikram Sampath completed his schooling in Bangalore at the Sri Aurobindo Memorial School and Bishop Cotton Boys' School. He thereafter obtained a Bachelors in Engineering in Electronics and a Masters in Mathematics from one of India's most reputed schools, BITS-Pilani. He then went on to obtain an MBA in Finance from S P Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai. Vikram has worked in many leading multinational firms like GE Money and Citibank and currently is a Team Leader with a information technology company in Bangalore.

His first book, Splendours of Royal Mysore: The Untold Story of the Wodeyars has been widely acclaimed across India, and has been termed as one of the most definitive accounts on the Mysore royal family in recent times. His second book "My Name is Gauhar Jaan!" - The Life and Times of a Musician is the biography of Gauhar Jaan, India's first classical musician to record on the gramophone. The book has been hailed by several luminaries in India and abroad, and has also won the prestigious ARSC (Association of Recorded Sound Collections) International Award for Excellence in Historical Research - the first Indian book to have ever won this honour. Vikram's third book Voice of the Veena: S Balachander - A Biography narrates the story of eminent Veena maestro late Padmabhushan Dr. S Balachander.

Vikram has been a Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study (Wissenschaftskolleg) in Berlin, Germany (for 2010-11) where he studied the early gramophone recordings of Indian music. He has also established the Archive of Indian Music (AIM) as a private Trust that seeks to digitize and preserve old gramophone recordings of India.

Vikram publishes regularly in leading Indian dailies and magazines on a wide array of topics. In addition, Vikram is also a serious student of Carnatic Classical vocal music and has been training under various eminent practitioners of the art form. Subjects related to history, music, art and culture are close to his heart.

Reviews

[Ganesh V · Rating 5 out of 5]

History is filled with multiple stories of quite well known personalities. However, there are quite a large number whose stories are not widely known to the general populace. This anthology of 15 such Bravehearts tries to bridge this vacuum to some extent. Beautifully curated accounts of 15 personalities across geography and time, with quite a equanimous representation of women, this book gives a crisp into the background, lives and contributions of these personalities in the annals of Indian history.

While there are some known personalities, one does learn more about lesser known personalities. For example, one learns more about Lalitaditya Muktapida of Kashmir in detail. Some of the personalities like Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Jai Singh of Manipur were quite new to me and his contribution to the Manipuri art forms were quite enriching to learn about.

Some of the accounts have overlap with other pieces of history, some of which is captured in greater detail like Invaders and Infidels.

While personalities like Raja Raja Chola, Rajendra Chola and Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar may warrant dedicated volumes for their contributions, the author has done a fine justice by providing equal prominence to each of the personalities. The book, quite fittingly, ends with an anecdote from V.D.Savarkar.

This is MUST have book in everyone’s collection & all impressionable minds should definitely read about these role models from our rich history.

[Dinesh Vijayakumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for anyone who wants to know about the true history of India. That the nation is not a land of pacifists but valiant fighters who defied all odds to fight the enemies. Banda Bahadur's story literally got me into tears. Such brutality could only be inflicted by the islamic jihadist forces who ruled the country. Unknown names like Rani Abakka, Kanhoji Angre, Maharana Kumbha have accomplished miraculous feats in their life in vanquishing the invaders.

[Lasic · Rating 5 out of 5]

We need more such books. Thank you Vikram sir for writing this book.

[Adarsh ಆದರ್ಶ · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating:3.5/5

Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History by Vikram Sampath contains 15 stories.

2 stories Out of which are of worthless invaders who happens to be from the same community that ravaged or still ravaging this civilization to this day. Inclusion of these two in between the great Hindu kings is a injustice in itself. Looks more like al taqiyya by the author.
Adding a dreaded invaders queen which was responsible for the massacre and destruction of one of the greatest and the richest empire Vijayanagara is what i detest the most.

13 stories mentioned here needs standalone books as mere few pages wouldn't justify the read.

Every King or Queen where they once honestly ruled is now either in a despotic or dire situation.
Be it Kashmir where once Samrat Lalitaditya ruled and thwarted earlier invasions, Punjab, Manipur or Gods own country they call. Colonial Brown Sepoy syndrome has taken over and roots have been severed to the extent where invaders are cheered as champions of humanity.

But i appreciate the effort in introducing the unsung heroes of our past. Omitting the two stories it’s really worth the read.

[Ujjwala Singhania · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History by Dr Vikram Sampath is my second book by the same author. It's a book on fifteen fearless women and men who gave the invaders/ enemies of their time the toughest battle of their lives, who won against great odds and fought to protect their kingdom, their nation and their people.

Dr Sampath has chosen fifteen stalwarts, men and women, from across the four corners of Bharat and span of centuries (till 1858), brave warriors whom our history and "historians" have never remembered. With these fifteen stories, he has tried to put history to right and give them their due place in national consciousness. The stories also rebut the age-old narrative that India didn't exist before colonization, the patched-up land of kingdoms had indolent Hindu kings and princes who didn't give any meaningful fight to the invaders and/or colonizers. With one book, the author has made a mockery of these set narratives and raised a question in the readers' minds, "how many more such Bravehearts are there in the lost pages of time who are waiting for their stories to be told?".

I bought this book as a gift for my sister, and honestly, I wasn't planning to read it (at least not now). I thought I know about most of these heroes, barring a few details here and there, what more could be there that I would find new and informative. And boy, was I wrong?

Reading this book on the heels of Dr Sampath's debut book, The Splendors of Royal Mysore, I could appreciate the maturity the years and multiple books to his credit has gained him, but also could see how he has kept honest to his unique style of crafting the narration. Each story was a delight to read with the added layers of the history of the kingdom/dynasty, the early life of the Braveheart, the tumultuous times and the changing landscape of the time, the history of the enemy and the various other key participants, etc. He not only gives us the story of the wars the protagonists fought and won, but also write beyond it to show the visions, the administrative capabilities, strategic thinking of these warrior, their contribution to socio-economic-culture-art that has left a lasting legacy. In essence, detail composites of the fifteen sons and daughters of Bharat. And I spent a weekend just soaked up in it.

This book is to read and recommend. It will also make a beautiful gift for our fellow readers and especially the young ones to get them curious about our history and be proud of it.

[Apratim Mukherjee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is written about 'Indians' who were at the helm of affairs whilst resisting a foreign oppressor, may it be British, Dutch, Afghans or any other threat to 'their' kingdom.
Though, I think the writer is wrong in writing again and again that these people have been forgotten, he has done quite a commendable job to pick these stories from all parts of India.
The two problem this book has are:
1.Partial whitewashing of characters (every ruler has a dark side)
2.Boring narrative to begin with at times and then losing the way into jingoism
The book is a basic (and quite good enough) introduction to all the characters and the bibliography helps in further reading too. I think it is a good book for those interested in medieval and modern Indian history.

[Sunny]

Good book

[Aditya Kulkarni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good book which covers those who have been ignored by the popular historians of the day. Hope to see a sequel for this.

[Preetam Chatterjee · Rating 5 out of 5]

#79th Indian Independence day

“History is after all the handmaiden of the victor. We had been handed down our understanding of our own past from our erstwhile colonial masters, which we had then further perfected with our own set of biases, political expediency and ideological tilts. As Nigerian author Chinua Achebe said in ‘Chinua Achebe, The Art of Fiction No. 139’1 (1994): ‘Until the lions have their historians, the history of the hunt shall always glorify the hunter.’ This African proverb metaphorically describes how dominant groups inscribe power through historical narratives. The very foundation on which historical writing has been based is a legacy that promoted European and western ethnocentrism, in which the tales of the subjugated, be it in India, Asia, Africa or Latin America would hardly find a voice of their own. In India’s case, we have sadly gone several steps ahead of even our colonizer in deriding our own past and identity, plagued with a constant sense of apologia about our history. While it is certainly not a historian’s task to create a sense of pride (often bordering on the slippery slope of jingoism), the converse too holds that it is not her task to merely induce a sense of shame and guilt over perceived past excesses and omissions…” (Prologue)

Vikram Sampath’s Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History is an invigorating and meticulously researched anthology that sheds light on fifteen exemplary figures whose courage and leadership have often been overlooked in mainstream historiography.

First published in November 2022, the book is a deliberate corrective to the “Delhi-centric” view that dominates Indian history education, and it succeeds in both reclaiming and celebrating the rich, diverse legacies of India’s regional powers and heroic individuals.

Sampath, already renowned for his biographies and cultural histories such as Splendours of Royal Mysore, My Name Is Gauhar Jaan, and his two-volume work on Savarkar, demonstrates in this volume his gift for narrative history: weaving scholarly research with compelling storytelling that captures the imagination while remaining academically grounded.

The premise of the book is clear from the outset. Sampath identifies a glaring lacuna in the way history is taught and understood in India, where dynasties and rulers from regions far from Delhi are either fleetingly mentioned or completely ignored, while ephemeral sultans and short-lived dynasties of Delhi are accorded disproportionate attention.

Through the prologue, Sampath questions the assumption of what constitutes “central” and “regional” history, arguing persuasively that empires such as the Vijayanagara, the Karkotas of Kashmir, and the Ahoms of Assam are no less central to the story of Bharat than the Delhi Sultanate. He underscores that this selective historical coverage has created a skewed understanding of India’s past, where children can recite the lineages of certain dynasties yet remain ignorant of the Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, Satavahanas, Cholas, Pandyas, or the Maratha Empire.

The northeastern kingdoms—from the Ahoms of Assam to the Meitei rulers of Manipur—suffer a similar neglect. Sampath’s aim is to restore these narratives, ensuring that the stories of rulers and the ruled across the subcontinent find a rightful place in India’s collective memory.

The anthology’s fifteen profiles span from the eighth century BCE to the mid-nineteenth century, deliberately stopping short of post-1858 figures to distinguish these earlier heroes from the colonial and freedom struggle era. This periodization allows Sampath to explore pre-British India in all its complexity, capturing the stories of rulers and leaders whose bravery and strategic acumen were decisive in shaping their regions and, by extension, the broader subcontinent.

By including figures such as Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Jai Singh of Manipur, Lalitaditya Muktapida of Kashmir, Chand Bibi of Ahmednagar, Lachit Borphukan of Assam, Begum Hazrat Mahal of Awadh, Rani Abbakka Chowta of Ullal, Martanda Varma of Travancore, Rani Rudrama Devi of Warangal, Rani Naiki Devi of Gujarat, and Banda Singh Bahadur, Sampath presents a panoramic view of courage that is geographically and culturally diverse.

What is particularly striking is the balance between men and women: eight of the fifteen profiles feature women, signaling a conscious effort to foreground female agency in a historiography that has often marginalized it.

The book’s narrative is rich, accessible, and unputdownable. Sampath avoids dry cataloging of dates and battles; instead, he contextualizes each figure’s life within the political, social, and cultural currents of their time. Chand Bibi, for instance, emerges not merely as a warrior defending Ahmednagar against Mughal expansion but as a shrewd stateswoman navigating complex diplomacy.

Lachit Borphukan is celebrated not only for his tactical brilliance in the Battle of Saraighat but for embodying the spirit of regional autonomy against larger imperial ambitions. Rani Abbakka Chowta’s resistance against Portuguese colonizers is placed within the framework of Ullal’s local governance and trade dynamics, giving readers a layered understanding of why her defiance was historically significant. Even civilizational warriors such as Rajarshi Bhagyachandra and Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, who may not have donned armour, are depicted as indispensable preservers of culture, faith, and political stability under adverse circumstances. Sampath’s storytelling ensures that each life, while stand-alone, contributes to a coherent tapestry of India’s diverse historical valor.

A central strength of the book lies in its commitment to decolonizing the dominant historiography. Sampath repeatedly challenges the framing of regional histories as peripheral, illustrating how the neglect of vast areas—from Odisha and Bengal to the entire northeastern corridor—has produced an incomplete understanding of the Indian past.

By reclaiming these stories, he not only restores the importance of these regions but also underlines the multiplicity of India’s civilizations and the enduring resilience of its peoples. This approach resonates with contemporary historiographical efforts to move beyond monolithic narratives and to appreciate the pluralistic and decentralized nature of India’s historical experience. The prologue itself reads like a manifesto, arguing that history should encompass dynastic achievements alongside the social, cultural, and civilizational contexts that produced them.

Sampath invokes Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, emphasizing that history, in its classical Indic formulation, is a narrative of the past (puravruttam) that imparts instruction (upadesha) across the four aims of life—dharma, artha, kama, and moksha. This philosophy guides the book’s structure, rendering it as much a moral and intellectual exploration as a chronicle of heroism.

Sampath’s methodology balances narrative readability with rigorous scholarship. Each profile is underpinned by extensive research and engagement with primary sources, yet the writing avoids alienating the general reader. Maps, genealogies, and contextual notes enhance comprehension without disrupting the narrative flow.

While some chapters are necessarily brief—given the constraints of a fifteen-person selection—the succinctness does not diminish the impact of the stories; rather, it invites readers to pursue further exploration independently. The inclusion of lesser-known dynasties and regions is particularly valuable for students and enthusiasts who wish to move beyond the standard curriculum, offering fresh perspectives on India’s precolonial history. Moreover, the book’s emphasis on women’s leadership—spanning warriors, administrators, and civilizational custodians—fills a longstanding void in the representation of female agency in historical discourse.

Critically, Sampath is mindful of potential pitfalls. He acknowledges the risks of being labeled “revisionist” or accused of indulging in nationalist nostalgia. By maintaining a sober, middle-ground approach, he celebrates valor and resistance without lapsing into exaggeration. This is evident in his treatment of figures like Rani Rudrama Devi and Martanda Varma, where achievements are neither inflated nor diminished; instead, Sampath emphasizes the historical context and the strategic, cultural, and administrative ingenuity that underpinned their successes. The anthology, therefore, is neither hagiographic nor polemical but a measured and insightful account that illuminates the multiplicity of India’s heroic traditions.

Sampath’s selection criteria are thoughtful and deliberate. The book deliberately pre-dates British colonialism to highlight resistance and valor in the subcontinent before the imposition of external rule. This is significant because it situates India’s bravery within a homegrown framework of political, military, and civilizational achievement, rather than solely through the lens of anti-colonial struggle. Furthermore, the curation emphasizes a balance of regions, time periods, and gender, ensuring that readers encounter a representative cross-section of the subcontinent’s historical landscape.

Each narrative, while self-contained, is connected by the overarching theme of courage, resistance, and strategic acumen, rendering the anthology cohesive despite the temporal and geographical breadth of its subjects.

The book also makes a compelling case for the continued relevance of historical awareness in contemporary India. By recovering these narratives, Sampath challenges readers to reconsider the construction of national identity and the selective memory embedded in educational curricula.

The anthology encourages a reflective engagement with history, where valor is appreciated not just for its martial dimension but also for its role in sustaining culture, governance, and civilizational continuity. Figures like Rajarshi Bhagyachandra or Devi Ahilyabai Holkar exemplify how leadership and resistance take multiple forms, from battlefield heroics to the protection of societal institutions and cultural norms. In this way, Sampath extends the definition of heroism beyond conventional notions of warfare, encompassing moral courage, administrative brilliance, and cultural stewardship.

Another notable dimension of the book is its accessibility to readers across educational levels. Sampath’s prose is lively and immersive, eschewing overly technical jargon while retaining historical precision. This ensures that complex events, regional dynamics, and genealogical details are comprehensible without diluting scholarly accuracy.

The use of narrative techniques—such as vivid characterizations, anecdotal storytelling, and contextualized conflict—transforms each chapter into an engaging story while preserving its informational depth. Readers can approach the book either sequentially or dip into individual profiles as per interest, a structure that suits both casual readers and those using the book as a reference.

In sum, Bravehearts of Bharat succeeds on multiple fronts: it corrects historical neglect, amplifies the voices of women and regional leaders, and provides readers with an accessible yet deeply researched account of precolonial Indian heroism.

Sampath demonstrates that history is not merely a record of events but a living narrative that educates, inspires, and challenges prevailing perceptions. His anthology reminds us that the story of Bharat is vast, diverse, and deserving of careful, inclusive chronicling, where every region and every valiant individual has a rightful place.

By foregrounding the courage, resilience, and strategic intelligence of its fifteen protagonists, the book expands the conventional understanding of Indian heroism and invites readers to appreciate the multiplicity and richness of the subcontinent’s historical landscape.

Ultimately, Sampath’s work is not just a corrective but an invitation: to engage with India’s past in its full diversity, to question received narratives, and to celebrate the bravery that has long gone unrecognized. Bravehearts of Bharat stands as an exemplary model of narrative history, blending meticulous scholarship with compelling storytelling, and it is likely to remain a touchstone for readers interested in reclaiming India’s regional, gender-inclusive, and culturally nuanced historical heritage.

By capturing lives that spanned centuries, regions, and spheres of influence, Sampath ensures that the anthology resonates far beyond its pages, inspiring reflection on the nature of courage, leadership, and the enduring legacy of India’s unsung heroes.

[Kolkata, August 15, 2025]

[Akash Datta · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Until the lions have their own storytellers, the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter!” – Chinua Achebe.
From the ancient times, our beloved Bharat was in the pick of human civilization. But one after another invasions by cruel invaders made it’s soul damaged. But in spite of these adverse situations, this land of great culture, science, dharma and bravery always produced Bravehearts, who fought the invaders (often successfully), established dharma and saved this land of our ancestors. But, due to leftist conspiracies, the stories of these Bravehearts were hidden from our history books and the Bravehearts were lost in annals of history.
But, in these days of uprising nationalism, many historians are coming with stories of these Bravehearts and they are facing heavy odds from the tukde-tukde gang. So, we, nationalist readers should support them. Such a historian is Dr. Vikram Sampath. In a debate he said that India’s history was always written from the viewpoint of invaders and India should reclaim her history instead of rewriting it. So, this highly readable book is an attempt to this great task. Sampath presented the stories of such 15 Bravehearts.
The first chapter was the story of Samrat Lalitaditya Muktapida of Kashmir. This story completely debunks the claim of the tukde-tukde gang that Kashmir was never an integral part of India, as it has no Hindu history. So, this book achieves intense importance for nationalists. Many fanatic Muslims want to glorify Islamic invaders as they are their co-religionists. To break their myths, Sampath presented the story of Chand Sultana of Ahmednagar who fought bravely against the Mughal emperor Akbar. My favorite chapter was of Kanhoji Angrey. The stories of Banda Singh Bahadur, Chand Sultana and Hazrat Mahal were very tragic and they gave sad impressions in my mind. But the stories of Kanhoji, Maharana Kumbha, Rani Abakka, Lachit made me proud and joyful. Many movies can be made based on these golden chapters.

[E.T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 The historian John Keay who specialised in the history of India (and the South Asia region) remarked in his superb India Discovered : The Recovery of a Lost Civilization that he was not surprised at the scale of destruction of pre-Islamic buildings and culture, he was surprised that anything managed to survive at all !
Years ago, I remember asking the speaker in a discussion on Indian history as to "why we didnt fight back against invaders ?". And he smiled and just asked me to read more history and not from a Leftist ideological lens. This is that book that needed to be read.
Starting with Lalitaditya of Kashmir, the book gives a biographical sketch of 15 Indian kings and queens - both Hindus and Muslims - who not just defended Bharat (or their region) against invaders but also in many cases repelled them but are unknown even to avid readers. How come our history books skipped talking about the Ahoms who ruled over Assam for 600 years ? Or even the mighty Rajendra and Rajaraja Chola about whom I came to know only after reading Ponniyin Selvan (it took me so much effort to acquire all 6 volumes of that epic) a few years ago.
I strongly suspect history was taught to us with an agenda and a POV that needs to be discarded.

[Tarun vikash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever noticed how Indian history is often portrayed as a continuous series of defeats and failures? If so, Bravehearts of Bharat by Vikram Sampath is a must-read—it offers a powerful alternative narrative that highlights the courage and resilience of India's unsung heroes.
This book tells the stories of 15 warriors who, though largely forgotten, made a significant impact on Indian history and helped shape the nation's past in meaningful ways. The book shines a spotlight on unsung heroes—figures who demonstrated courage, leadership, and commitment to the nation but haven’t received their due in mainstream historical discourse. It’s a kind of historical reclamation, giving readers a broader and more balanced perspective on India’s past.
What sets this book apart is its engaging storytelling that brings forgotten heroes to life. Vikram Sampath’s clear and insightful writing makes it accessible to both history buffs and casual readers. From Rani Abbakka of Karnataka to Lachit Borphukan of Assam, each chapter highlights a hero whose legacy deserves recognition.
The only drawback I found in the book is that it occasionally feels a bit lengthy, as it tries to cover extensive historical context. However, this minor flaw aside, it remains a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper, more authentic understanding of India’s past

[Akshat Bahuguna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vikram Sampath’s Bravehearts of Bharat is a refreshing, much-needed excavation of forgotten Indian warriors who deserve national recognition. In a historical discourse dominated by a few elite names, this book shifts the spotlight to 15 unsung heroes who shaped India’s civilisational identity through sheer courage and leadership.

For me, figures like Lachit Borphukan of Ahoms, Rani Naiki Devi of Gujarat, Lalitaditya Muktapida of kashmir, Rani Rudrama Devi of Warangal, and Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Singh of Manipur were standouts. Their stories aren't just inspiring — they’re revealing. Sampath doesn’t just list their feats; he paints their contexts, decisions, and struggles with a narrative that flows more like a compelling story than a textbook.

It challenges the selective memory of our textbooks and invites readers to reconsider what we glorify — and what we’ve carelessly forgotten.

A powerful read for anyone tired of recycled narratives and hungry for a broader, more rooted understanding of India’s past.

[Shailesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book with perfect collection of heroes of Bharat spread across the canvas.
To be honest, I have heard of only Rajraja Chola, Lachit Barphukan & Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. Such is the ignorance is that even being a Gujarati, I didn’t know about Rani Naiki Devi.

I truly want to pranaam Vikram Sampath for this book & educating us of the heros that we had forgotten.

I am simple amazed of the coverage of various female queens like Rani Naiki, Rani Rudrama, Rani Abbakka, Vela Nachiyar & Devi Ahilya bai Holkar.

This book is a multiple times read for sure & very fluidly written.

If the textbook history was written by such authors, then we would have a lot more students taking history as a profession.

[joyous (❁´◡`❁) · Rating 5 out of 5]

thanks mom and dad, lovies ❤️❤️

after so, so many months, i finally finished it.
holidays and the relief of exams being over propelled me to finish this book. and it was worth finishing. SO worth finishing.

the stories about kings and queens and unknown heroes of that time won't inspire you in modern times (i'll be very honest here 😊) but it's very interesting and admirable.
that being said, most people remember the popular personalities of the freedom struggle, like Nehru, Gandhi and Rani of Jhansi, who are all heroes in their own right. but they were not the only ones who brought India to freedom. nope. there were others who also contributed in their own ways but are forgotten and not appreciated enough.

for instance, remember Lalitaditya Muktapida of Kashmir. he brought to the province its Golden Age by building many temples. similarly, Rani Rudramma Devi of Warangal. she is said to have sacrificed her life on the battlefield, bravely, like a woman should!

i love the way the author wrote this book. historical accounts are somewhat unreliable since there are so many sources. it is difficult to rely on one scribe's retelling. however, i feel like i can rely on Vikram Sampath's account.
these stories should never be forgotten again. they must be told to people forever until the sun goes dim.
Vikram Sampath's BRAVEHEARTS OF BHARAT is a beautiful book that was truly enjoyed by me.
5 STARS- TRULY DESERVED ✨

[Devarshi Trivedi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye opener history book!

[Pramod · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the history book that every Indian needs to read. The fifteen stories of forgotten historic heroes of India shows the richness of our past beyond what is primarily taught in our leftist curriculum. The author has balanced the content by talking about our historic heroes from all parts of the country and also nicely highlighting the men and women of valour. A true gem of a book.

[Ashish Iyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A riveting read. This book was gifted to me by my wife. Vikram Sampath is the epitome of erudition, on his "Bravehearts of Bharat". Time flew as I was reading into the lives of those historical bravehearts. The book reclaims India's great history-one hero/ heroine at a time, bravehearts who served and sacrificed for India but were whitewashed out of our history post Independence. My respect for Sampath have increased many fold. Out of 15, he gave space to 7 women in Bharat bravehearts list. It is necessary actually. This is what we history lovers or students of history have been asking for. For last 70 years, our left historians only focused on men and it was Delhi centric. I am so glad that now Sampath have our heroes and heroines from all parts of Bharat. The stories of the truebravehearts of Bharat should have been featured in our history books long ago, but never found a place in our Macaulized education system. This Genaration needs to know their contribution towards saving the culture and heritage of Bharat varsh. Profound, detailed & enlightening read for all of us.

Do read this brilliant book. Now I am eagerly waiting for his next books on Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Tipu.

[Karthik Govil · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bravehearts of Bharat is a sound historical song on the unsung heroes of Bharatian history, bringing fresh figures to the fore without bringing new perspectives on the given material.

Vikram Sampath is one of my favourite authors and podcast guests since after I read his biography on Savarkar.

In this novel, Vikram Sampath narrates the tales of 15 different Bravehearts from mostly mediaeval history, bringing to attention all the people from across the Bharatian geography; whether it be Manipur (Ching-Thang Khomba), Tulu Nadu (Rani Akkaba's), Kashmir (Lalitaditya), the Seas (Kanhoji Angre), Rajput (), Punjabis (Banda Singh Bahadur), Marthanda Varma of Keralam, etc.

The book is heavy in research. It delves deep into all these characters, as well as the historical events that define them. The narration is so vivid that I can remember the names of almost all the people I have read about, and almost every story gave me a new perspective on Bharatian history. After reading this, I can feel that I have only read a glimpse of the plethora of information on all these historical figures that exist, and each of them could have a book or movie of their own if one desires.

The weakest point of the book is where the narrative shies away from bringing its own perspective. For example, instead of revolving the 1857 battle around Jhansi-Rani, it revolves around Hazrat Begun Mahal and around the same talking points of VD Savarkar 100+ years ago. Same with multiple mentions of "Hindus converting to Sikhism" when they're merely separate paths.

It would be a lot cooler if he stuck to the name "Ching-Thang Khomba" for ""Jai Singh "" or the Indic or regional names; to give everyone a sense of truer belonging.

I also believe that Anirudh Kanisetti's book is a direct reply to this book, calling it the "dharmic narrative" (but Kanisetti failed to set a dharmic reality before deconstructing it).

Overall, this book is a very definitive collection of unsung heroes who haven't been mentioned in the NCERT or in history. Their stories deserve textbook pages, and the poeticism with which the narration is given works wonders. But I am surprised how safe Vikram Sampath plays for this book narrative-wise. If narratives have to be re-set, we have to think slightly more "hatt ke" with labels and nomenclature, beyond the stories themselves.

Considering the Indic renaissance happening today, this book will be stuck in time in a few decades; it will be a potpourri of history in Modis Bharat; long after Modi will be but one in a list of many Indic Decolonial rulers. This 'stuck in time"ness of the movie is what holds it back, and keeps it from being the perfect book of this era from one of the finest authors of this generation.

But it's a must read. Please do go and buy a copy. It clearly is setting a narrative that would be relevant for the next 30 years to come; for sure.

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[yoursbibliophilic · Rating 5 out of 5]

"As long as lions do not have the storyteller, history will always glorify the hunter” , (Loc: 75-76 ) an old adage from Africa that holds true when we talk about India’s ‘written’ past. In the initial period, British wrote our history to suit to their bigger agenda of keeping us slaves, later after independence, propaganda of left liberal educationist has carry forward the same. The result of which we read right from our school days is a series of failure. We were taught that we never fought any winning battels and are constantly repeated ‘ad nauseam’ till we have been made to believe that this is true. While the real truth is rather different compared to so-called historians who exalted foreign invaders and given them the stature of heroes.

This book “Bravehearts of Bharath” brings “Fifteen different lives, from various parts of India and varied time spans, but united in the theme of courage, resistance and bravery against all odds that stood them apart. Notably, half the number selected is that of women.” (Loc: 125-127 ) Even though these heroes have been virtually unreported in mainstream historiography and many “…. may have been eclipsed in our historiography, their heroism lives on in ballads, folk songs and folk memory, even as they are immortalized and worshipped as gods in temples built for them by villagers. Where popular historiography failed them, folk memory redeemed this lapse and kept them alive till date.” (Loc: 4661-4664 ) Hence, Sampath has to travelled across the country on this fact-finding mission and tried to piece this history of forgotten heroes from literature of regional languages, folklore and oral storytelling.

The main aim of the book is to “bring to the fore some of these long-forgotten, neglected, unsung heroes and heroines of our past.” (Loc: 123-124 ) so that many would follow and re-discover our glorious past, after all we are the only living civilization despite so many invasions; on the other hand most of the civilizations that started off with us are non-existent.

To conclude, if one has to read a depressing lies and mis-representation of facts of our history, one many read NCERT history books. On the other hand, if one is interested to read a book which exposes the lies in these NCERT book, one may read the book “Brainwashed republic” by Neeraj Atri et al. But to know true valor of our heroes who did not shy away from their dharma and karma even though they were facing adverse situations, then this is the book for you.

[Srinivas Thiagarajan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a must read because it covers the lives of people we need to know about but don’t or throws new light on the lives of people we know about. And it does it in a very structured and succinct way
The story of Lalitaditya Muktipada of Kashmir will always remain close to my heart because I have visited Kashmir and seen the ruins of the Martand temple built by him. One of the most magnificent structures of its time but destroyed as usual by the Muslim invaders. Even worse, no one around had any idea about the temple and its glorious history. Equally importantly, in our history books, we read about South and West and North Indian empires. It is though the book that I found that Muktipada’s empire was the largest of its time in India
I re-learnt about the Cholas, their great navy, their great temples and of course their empires including Maldives, Sri Lanka et el.
The story of Rani Naiki Devi was another eye opener because it showed me that unlike what our history books teach us, Mahmud of Gazni didn’t always have it easy. He in fact had lost battles in India and would have been destroyed had the Indian chieftains not followed a code of conduct – that of never attacking a fleeing enemy.
Another example was Rani Rudaramma whom I hadn’t heard of. She in fact created a mode of empire administration that was copied by Krishnadeveraya centuries later.
The Ahilya Bai Holkar story stands out because it is one of the few stories that don’t dwell too much on her exploits in battle but in the great, inclusive empire she built – how she ensured the well being of her people, her donations to temples across the country etc.
One word of caution. There are fifteen stories. So finishing the book will sometimes need patience!

[Preetisagar Talukdar · Rating 5 out of 5]

India is filled with Bravehearts. With its long history and civilization many have gotten lost in the ethos of time. The history is filled with many personalities. Some are lesser known to the masses some are known and are held in high regards by the people of this country. Through this book, the author has tried to provide a seek peak into the life and unknown deeds of these Bravehearts. The author has collected these personalities along with there stories from different times and region of India. Along with the person’s story. The author has tried to give an account of the region and cultural heritage the personalities belong too. Some of the Bravehearts deserves books to be written on them entirely. This book serves as a prelude to a greater book with more details. Hope the author someday decides to write such books.
The author has written a beautiful and intriguing book, it is thoroughly researched and details with facts. The writing style helps is arising the readers curiosity. The author has carried a huge burden by trying to bring froth the stories of the Bravehearts. By a huge margin he has done justice to the personalities and have successfully paid rich tributes to them through his writing and this book. The Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History is a must read book for all ages. This book must be introduced to the youth at an early age so that curiosity arises in their mind to know more about the great and brave personalities of India. It is a book that will leave a deep influence on the readers mind.

[_booksagsm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vikram Sampath is a renowned historian and author, known for his extensive works on Indian history. Sampath's previous works include Splendors of Royal Mysore and biography of Veer Savarkar.
On our 78th Independence Day, I wanted to talk about the book Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History. In this book, Sampath continues his discussion to unearth and present the omitted or overshadowed historical narratives.

'Until the lions have their own storytellers,' said Chinua Achebe, 'the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter!' Bravehearts of Bharat offers a collection of 15 vignettes, each dedicated to a different figure from India's history ranging from queens and kings to military leaders who stood for their lands and cultures against various enemies and invaders. If someone has already read Sampath, they will understand that Sampath's narration is both engaging & accessible, with each a blend of historical facts and vivid storytelling.

One of the most commendable aspects of this book is its inclusivity. Sampath focusses equally on well known figures as well as introduces readers to lesser known heroes eg: Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Jai Singh of Manipur or Rani Abbakka Chowta of Ullal. This is a compelling read for anyone interested in Indian history. The book does educate but also inspires, leaving readers with a sense of pride in India's past. It is a valuable additional to my book shelf and is a must read for those who wish to explore the untold stories of India's courageous heroes.

[ShiVam MisHra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bravehearts of Bharat: Vignettes from Indian History" by Vikram Sampath is a masterfully crafted collection of stories that shatter the biased narrative prevalent in our country. With meticulous research and captivating writing, Sampath brings to light the valiant efforts of India's unsung heroes who fought to defend their motherland and civilization.
One of the most inspiring stories is that of Lachit Barphukan, the brilliant commander from Assam who led the Ahom army to a glorious victory against the Mughal forces in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671. Lachit's strategic genius, courage, and leadership skills are beautifully captured by Sampath, who highlights the significance of this triumph in Indian history. Alongside Lachit's story, Sampath also shares the tales of other bravehearts like Lalitaditya of Kashmir, Maharana Kumbha of Mewar, Rani Naiki Devi of Gujarat, and Rani Abbakka Chowta of Ullal, among many others. These unsung heroes fought against all odds to protect their kingdoms, culture, and way of life.
Sampath's writing is engaging, and his dedication to uncovering the truth is evident throughout the book. By sharing these vignettes from Indian history, he corrects the prevailing narrative and honors the memories of those who fought with pride, honor, and respect. "Bravehearts of Bharat" is a must-read for anyone interested in Indian history, seeking to understand the true spirit of Bharat and its people. Sampath's work is a tribute to the brave hearts who shaped India's past and continue to inspire its future

[S P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vikram Sampath is a really good writer. In this book he was able to narrate almost a century of Indian Royals, their work, their lives & he has picked his subjects from all over India. Its a pity that we grew up without knowing most of these names. Such stalwarts deserve more respect but they have been long forgotten, sometimes even in their own regions. I was especially curious about the story of Lalitaditya Muktapida and it did not disappoint. While I had expected more in-depth information on Rajaraja Chola, sadly the chapter on the Cholas covered both him & his son meaning information was less on both. Nevertheless it was still an interesting read. Brave women like Velu Nachiyar & her woman commander, Rani Abbakka Chowta & Naiki Devi left me in awe. And what to say of Lachit Borphukan & Rajarshi Bhagyachandra whose life journey will be an endless source of inspiration to whoever reads it. A must read book for every history lover & also a good book to begin your journey into learning Bharat's history.

[Sanjeev Saraswat · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Bravehearts of Bharat" by Vikram Sampat is a historical narrative that delves into the lives of fifteen often-overlooked and forgotten heroes and heroines from India's past. The book sheds light on the untold stories of these brave individuals who valiantly fought against invaders, upholding their rights, faith, and freedom. The author emphasizes the importance of recognizing these unsung warriors and their contributions to India's history and civilization. A Must Read

The narrative explores the tales of valor and success that have shaped India as a nation and civilization over its long and tumultuous history. Through the stories of Rajarshi Bhagyachandra Jai Singh, Lalitaditya Muktapida, Chand Bibi, Lachit Barphukan, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Rani Abbakka Chowta, Martanda Varma, Rani Rudrama Devi, Rani Naiki Devi, and Banda Singh Bahadur, the book highlights how these individuals not only fought on the battlefield but also maintained hope under adverse circumstances.
Very readable book. Be sure to teach this to your children

[Girish · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Independence, entire Indian history has been in the clutches of Leftists/Radical Islamists who have left no stones unturned to promote only specific people in our history books.

In all this noise, it is refreshing to have this book from Vikram Sampath sir.

15 individuals, selected from the length and breadth of this nation, having their stories told in such a lucid way that you end getting inspired from everyone of them(and wonders that why you didn't know about them earlier)

Not going into spoilers, this is a must read for every Indian who wants to know more about the history and what all we have done in this past. If you are building a library for yourself, this is a must add for it.

The only request I have is that this book shouldn't be the last one. Vikram sir should start a series in this book and educate us about 100s of unsung heroes.

[Düsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I see a new Sampath book, I buy it blindly. Because given the atrocious scrutiny he is put under, one can be assured of the fact that his research is throughly unquestionable. This is the book that parents should gift to their children. In fact this should be included in school curriculums around the country.

Vikram has dug deep with this one and pulled out stories that even tenured history buffs will not be aware of. The references are a-plenty and he ties everything together nicely with his own touch of 'kavya-ras'.

If you are interested in Indian history, especially the untold history that has persisted as a civilizational memory, then just buy this book. I also hope that he will write a second part to this.

[Khyati · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it comes to the non-fiction history genre, I’ve often noticed people say they need time to prepare before picking up such books. But when these books are written to highlight the unwavering strength and inspiring valour our own people displayed in the face of foreign powers, I believe they deserve our time and attention. We can surely pause our reading, working, or even doing-nothing routines to engage with them—because these life stories truly deserve it.

The book does not attempt to justify the outcomes of the wars that were fought; instead, it lays out the factual circumstances that shaped those results. It debunks the long propagated perception of "Indians never fought back, together".

Highly recommend.

[Pritish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a student of a curriculum which has indoctrinated a white-washed history resting upon a substratum of inflated personalities and biased imposing perceptions - knowing about the Bravehearts who were equally instrumental to our quest for sovereignty but not as widely celebrated is truly awakening. My favourite chapter is about Rajaraja Chola. The thought that these heroes were not a part of our history texts besieges me. I felt the characters, though deserving of their own distinct tales, were not well connected with the remaining characters well enough to construct a beautiful necklace of narration.