The Last Hindu Emperor: Prithviraj Chauhan and the Indian Past, 1200–2000

by Cynthia Talbot

This fascinating new study traces traditions and memories relating to the twelfth-century Indian ruler Prithviraj Chauhan; a Hindu king who was defeated and overthrown during the conquest of Northern India by Muslim armies from Afghanistan. Surveying a wealth of narratives that span more than 800 years, Cynthia Talbot explores the reasons why he is remembered, and by whom. In modern times, the Chauhan king has been referred to as 'the last Hindu emperor', because Muslim rule prevailed for centuries following his defeat. Despite being overthrown, however, his name and story have evolved over time into a historical symbol of India's martial valor. The Last Hindu Emperor sheds new light on the enduring importance of heroic histories in Indian culture and the extraordinary ability of historical memory to transform the hero of a clan into the hero of a community, and finally a nation.

Genres: History, India

325 pages, Hardcover

First published December 31, 2015

Reviews

[Maria Uzma Ansari · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book is a priceless read - it is equivalent to striking gold.

[Jay Vardhan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upto Chapter -6 the book is a delight to read. After that, the last two chapters are not worth the trouble. Feels like you're reading a boring Academic article.

[Dvtgff · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book is spreading wrong knowledge about hindu rulers and their history.

If chauhan was the last ruler than what about shivaji maharaj , shambha ji maharaj & maharana pratap