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2019: How Modi Won India
On 23 May 2019, when the results of the general elections were announced, Narendra Modi and the BJP-led NDA coalition were voted back to power with an overwhelming majority. To some, the numbers of Modi's victory came as something of a surprise; for others, the BJP's triumph was a vindication of their belief in the government and its policies. Irrespective of one's political standpoint, one thing was beyond dispute: this was a landmark verdict, one that deserved to be reported and analysed with intelligence - and without bias. Rajdeep Sardesai's new book, 2019: How Modi Won India, does just that. What was it that gave Modi an edge over the opposition for the second time in five years? How was the BJP able to trounce its rivals in states that were once Congress bastions? What was the core issue in the election: a development agenda or national pride? As he relives the excitement of the many twists and turns that took place over the last five years, culminating in the 2019 election results, Rajdeep helps the reader make sense of the contours and characteristics of a rapidly changing India, its politics and its newsmakers. If the 2014 elections changed India, 2019 may well have defined what 'new India' is likely to be all about. 2019: How Modi Won India takes a look at that fascinating story, which is still developing.
- GenresPoliticsNonfictionIndia
392 pages, Hardcover
Published November 25, 2019
117 people are currently reading
346 people want to read
About the author
Rajdeep Sardesai
13 books28 followersRajdeep Sardesai is an Indian news anchor and author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 22, 2019
Rajdeep's strengths are his access to leaders and reportage. That,combined with a page-turning narrative, makes this book a topical read for followers of Indian politics. The drawback, as in other Rajdeep's books, is that his capacity to debate and analyse ideas is nowhere near to his flair for describing events. Also, he writes this on Amit Shah : "The truth, as often is the case, could lie somewhere in between deifying him as the ultimate election guru and demonizing him as a roguish villain". Not being able to take a clear stance on someone as polarizing as Amit Shah is a crime even for a college student, let alone a journalist with 30 years' experience.
December 1, 2019
This is a decent read but the way Mr Sardesai has depicted the BJP leadership is with utter disdain. Even though he’s appreciating the mechanism BJP has created, his tone is very diminutive of their stature.
I had liked his 2014 gossip book. The political gossip is totally missing in this version which is very clear as to how the government has kept media at bay.
I had liked his 2014 gossip book. The political gossip is totally missing in this version which is very clear as to how the government has kept media at bay.
December 23, 2019
An intricate and enthusing account of the 2019 general elections and many state elections between 2014 and 2019.
The book gives a micro account of how Modi-Shah duo carved out the BJP juggernaut, through an unparalleled election machinery, and rehashed Indian political arena into a new ‘one-party system’. It highlights why and how other major parties including INC were left behind in 21st century highly competitive politics.
However, unfortunately, it misses out on detailing political and electoral happenings of the periphery - rise of BJP in North East such as Arunachal Pradesh and the inability of BJP to penetrate Southern shell. It does not contain information on what went behind selection of Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates in 2017. Other major state elections/politics largely missed include: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha.
That said, for aspiring politicians, it provides an electoral play book (dos and don’ts - both good and bad - for electoral success). For those interested in Indian elections, the book gives a detailed picture of political actions behind the curtain, usually not seen in media. The statistics in the Appendix provide a definite fodder for political parties and political scientists to brood over.
Irrespective of ideological inclinations and priorities, those who enjoy Rajdeep Sardesai ji’s electoral coverage will love this book even more. The book reflects his penchant for coverage of electoral politics and his efforts in careful chronicling of political and electoral events.
Overall a very great read :) For me, it created an impatient wait for the next one in the series, obviously scheduled for 2024.
The book gives a micro account of how Modi-Shah duo carved out the BJP juggernaut, through an unparalleled election machinery, and rehashed Indian political arena into a new ‘one-party system’. It highlights why and how other major parties including INC were left behind in 21st century highly competitive politics.
However, unfortunately, it misses out on detailing political and electoral happenings of the periphery - rise of BJP in North East such as Arunachal Pradesh and the inability of BJP to penetrate Southern shell. It does not contain information on what went behind selection of Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates in 2017. Other major state elections/politics largely missed include: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha.
That said, for aspiring politicians, it provides an electoral play book (dos and don’ts - both good and bad - for electoral success). For those interested in Indian elections, the book gives a detailed picture of political actions behind the curtain, usually not seen in media. The statistics in the Appendix provide a definite fodder for political parties and political scientists to brood over.
Irrespective of ideological inclinations and priorities, those who enjoy Rajdeep Sardesai ji’s electoral coverage will love this book even more. The book reflects his penchant for coverage of electoral politics and his efforts in careful chronicling of political and electoral events.
Overall a very great read :) For me, it created an impatient wait for the next one in the series, obviously scheduled for 2024.
February 5, 2020
A good one for those who don't know anything about how an election drive could mess all the political scenario,if it's hyperlink to nationalism.
This book also depicts how dangerous can Modi-Shah be to this country, constantly attacking the Democratic/independent institution of this country,which before no one ever dared to, except in Indira's regime.
4🌟 because the author Rajeep Sardesai could kept it Shorter rather than in long hysterical illustrations.
This book also gives some insights,that how the BJP media team works on such intense platforms,
in contrary that a single spark is need to loft a controversy on social media.Its member based merit management to booth level to Kendra Pramukhs, Karyakarta assigned to spread P.M's policies achievements,even getting a signed letter of P.M modi's to the availed beneficiaries of the central government schemes.
Indeed a good one but perplexed..
This book also depicts how dangerous can Modi-Shah be to this country, constantly attacking the Democratic/independent institution of this country,which before no one ever dared to, except in Indira's regime.
4🌟 because the author Rajeep Sardesai could kept it Shorter rather than in long hysterical illustrations.
This book also gives some insights,that how the BJP media team works on such intense platforms,
in contrary that a single spark is need to loft a controversy on social media.Its member based merit management to booth level to Kendra Pramukhs, Karyakarta assigned to spread P.M's policies achievements,even getting a signed letter of P.M modi's to the availed beneficiaries of the central government schemes.
Indeed a good one but perplexed..
March 17, 2020
This book is almost like a sequel to Rajdeep’s very first book, which he wrote after 2014 General elections. Titled ‘2014: The Election That Changed India’, it was engrossing from start to finish, peppered with personal anecdotes not just about that election but around events that happened right from the time he started his journalistic career way back in the 90’s. So, it is with heightened expectations that one sat down to read this new book to gain insights into the 2019 elections, hitherto not seen in public domain. At the onset, after finishing the book, I must say that I was not disappointed.
As introduction, Rajdeep gives an overview of how Modi managed to win India in 2019. He attributes the victory to 13 Ms (Modi, Machine, Media, Money, Messaging, Marketing, Mobile, Middle Class, Millennials, Majoritarianism, Muscular Nationalism, Masood Azhar and Mahagathbandhan), 2 Ws (Welfarism and WhatsApp) and a GK (Gharib Kisan). Frankly, I think that many of the factors here are double counted and one can actually put it down to set of fewer unique Ms. For example, Messaging is part of Marketing. Welfarism is linked to Gharib Kisan. Muscular Nationalism can be clubbed with Masood Azhar. Mobile and WhatsApp are basically the same.
Having set the context, the usual method is to go about detailing all these factors one by one. Thankfully, Rajdeep avoids that route as that would have been less interesting and by now, we have read quite a bit about most of these factors. Instead, Rajdeep chronicles in detail, with back stories, the key events right from the swearing in ceremony in 2014 leading up to the last day of polling in 2019, which had some impact on how Modi eventually won India in 2019. I liked the way Rajdeep segues from one chapter to another with a hook to end the chapter to the upcoming topic, a style which he used very well in his first book as well!
In his 2014 book, Rajdeep had shared many conversations which he had with political leaders including Narendra Modi when he was the Gujarat Chief Minister throughout his career, to drive home his points. However, this book is less anecdotal and more of research and reportage. It has very few references of conversations with leaders from the current political regime except for late Arun Jaitley with whom the author enjoyed good chemistry. Rajdeep makes it a point to inform us that in spite of being a leading prime time anchor, he still spends the mornings often at the Parliament and so one did hope to read more personal anecdotes and conversations with key players. But that is not to be.
The author himself admits with a tinge of regret that he has not been able to speak to the Prime Minister since May 2014 and probably he is now become a persona non grata in the current regime. This sort of re-affirms the now touted model of media management of the Modi regime. That of cultivating its own set of favourites and maintaining a report card on “positive” and “negative” journalists. Rajdeep says this is very much akin to the “Big Boss” TV Serial style where everything and anything is watched and accounted for. Being tight lipped and catching the media unawares of what’s in the offing, most of the time is also part of this method.
As an example, on Demonetisation, Rajdeep candidly admits that he and his team did not have a whiff of what the Prime Minister was going to address the nation on 8th November, 2016. He had actually lined up a few defence experts for the prime time discussions assuming that the address was related to some strike on Pakistan! There have been other instances too where, the media did not get a wind of what’s cooking within the Modi Sarkar.
In a chapter wholly on media titled ‘Prime Time Prime Minister’, in addition to detailing how Modi and the government ensures maximum eye balls for themselves, Rajdeep also turns into a strident media critique, a hat we see him don often these days! Rajdeep tears apart his own fraternity which he feels has lost its moral compass and yearns for a time when media would not just be a lap dog for the government in power.
If 2014 was all about a one man army called Modi, in this book, Rajdeep makes a distinction. BJP is now not just about Modi but, Modi and Amit Shah, the Jodi No.1 of Indian politics. Even the cover design of this book drives this point featuring both Modi and Shah prominently.
The author credits the messaging strategy of BJP as one of the key elements that drove its victory. Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar! So we should take it that BJP’s messaging was on point. However, I thought that compared to 2014 when a single point message of Abki Baar Modi Sarkar was flogged and many micro campaigns were woven around this central message, in 2019, BJP dabbled with different messages lime Modi hai to Mumkin hai, Main bhi Chowkidar and so on even till the initial rounds of elections till it boiled down on Phir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar theme.
In the book, Rajdeep claims that the Prime Minister who has a penchant for coming up with interesting acronyms had come up with another one – JAM to convey the coming together of Jan Dhan Yojana, Aadhar and Mobiles. As per me, the phrase ‘JAM trinity’ was first used by the then Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian in the Economic Survey report of 2014-15. This was then widely adopted by the Government and the media to talk about this phenomenon which was bringing a huge change in the livings of the marginalised.
If you were Rajdeep and one who felt that you have fallen out of favour with this regime, you would be tempted to write a book that is more of an eulogy of the current regime and in particular of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. After all, Modi, Shah and the BJP did win the elections with an emphatic margin and there were enough reasons to talk high of. To his credit, Rajdeep does a fine balancing act, commending BJP, Narendra Modi and other leaders where required and equally being critical where he feels so. In fact, you get the impression that he has tried hard to present himself as a “Neutral” journalist, a species which is almost extinct these days. So, in the entire book, the writing yo-yo’s between “on the one hand, on the other hand”, “this and having and said that” format!
Far away from what is shown on TV and social media, the book gives fascinating insights of how the BJP election machinery works. The many faceless back room boys who take up tasks in mission mode and ensure they are accomplished, the many micro programmes which the party undertook at booth level and so on to win the 2019 elections emphatically have been outlined in detail. It is clear that it is these micro tactics more often than not are missed by journalists when they do ground reports during election times because of which they get the extent of the ‘hawa’ wrong.
While on this, I would have liked if Rajdeep had spent a chapter on the whole business and dynamics of opinion/exit polls in India. These continue to be an enigma. Even in the run up to the 2019 polls, media kept saying that it was a “wave less” election and it being “a sum total of 545 individual battles”! Most of the opinions based on ground reports suggested that BJP would be short of majority and have to tie up with new allies to form the government. What happened eventually though was a bigger win than 2019 for BJP and NDA which none predicted!
If you are a news buff and a current affairs watcher, ‘2019 How Modi Won India’ is a must read for not just the political stories but the granular detailing on what goes behind an election win in India!
Post Script: While talking of the many M’s that mattered, Rajdeep prefaces this book with the narration of another M – Madison Madness. It’s more like the author’s Mea Culpa (there you go, another M!) for what happened way back in September 2014 when he got involuntarily involved in fist fights with frenzied Modi supporters in Manhattan! (The “M” Madness doesn’t seem to end!)
As introduction, Rajdeep gives an overview of how Modi managed to win India in 2019. He attributes the victory to 13 Ms (Modi, Machine, Media, Money, Messaging, Marketing, Mobile, Middle Class, Millennials, Majoritarianism, Muscular Nationalism, Masood Azhar and Mahagathbandhan), 2 Ws (Welfarism and WhatsApp) and a GK (Gharib Kisan). Frankly, I think that many of the factors here are double counted and one can actually put it down to set of fewer unique Ms. For example, Messaging is part of Marketing. Welfarism is linked to Gharib Kisan. Muscular Nationalism can be clubbed with Masood Azhar. Mobile and WhatsApp are basically the same.
Having set the context, the usual method is to go about detailing all these factors one by one. Thankfully, Rajdeep avoids that route as that would have been less interesting and by now, we have read quite a bit about most of these factors. Instead, Rajdeep chronicles in detail, with back stories, the key events right from the swearing in ceremony in 2014 leading up to the last day of polling in 2019, which had some impact on how Modi eventually won India in 2019. I liked the way Rajdeep segues from one chapter to another with a hook to end the chapter to the upcoming topic, a style which he used very well in his first book as well!
In his 2014 book, Rajdeep had shared many conversations which he had with political leaders including Narendra Modi when he was the Gujarat Chief Minister throughout his career, to drive home his points. However, this book is less anecdotal and more of research and reportage. It has very few references of conversations with leaders from the current political regime except for late Arun Jaitley with whom the author enjoyed good chemistry. Rajdeep makes it a point to inform us that in spite of being a leading prime time anchor, he still spends the mornings often at the Parliament and so one did hope to read more personal anecdotes and conversations with key players. But that is not to be.
The author himself admits with a tinge of regret that he has not been able to speak to the Prime Minister since May 2014 and probably he is now become a persona non grata in the current regime. This sort of re-affirms the now touted model of media management of the Modi regime. That of cultivating its own set of favourites and maintaining a report card on “positive” and “negative” journalists. Rajdeep says this is very much akin to the “Big Boss” TV Serial style where everything and anything is watched and accounted for. Being tight lipped and catching the media unawares of what’s in the offing, most of the time is also part of this method.
As an example, on Demonetisation, Rajdeep candidly admits that he and his team did not have a whiff of what the Prime Minister was going to address the nation on 8th November, 2016. He had actually lined up a few defence experts for the prime time discussions assuming that the address was related to some strike on Pakistan! There have been other instances too where, the media did not get a wind of what’s cooking within the Modi Sarkar.
In a chapter wholly on media titled ‘Prime Time Prime Minister’, in addition to detailing how Modi and the government ensures maximum eye balls for themselves, Rajdeep also turns into a strident media critique, a hat we see him don often these days! Rajdeep tears apart his own fraternity which he feels has lost its moral compass and yearns for a time when media would not just be a lap dog for the government in power.
If 2014 was all about a one man army called Modi, in this book, Rajdeep makes a distinction. BJP is now not just about Modi but, Modi and Amit Shah, the Jodi No.1 of Indian politics. Even the cover design of this book drives this point featuring both Modi and Shah prominently.
The author credits the messaging strategy of BJP as one of the key elements that drove its victory. Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar! So we should take it that BJP’s messaging was on point. However, I thought that compared to 2014 when a single point message of Abki Baar Modi Sarkar was flogged and many micro campaigns were woven around this central message, in 2019, BJP dabbled with different messages lime Modi hai to Mumkin hai, Main bhi Chowkidar and so on even till the initial rounds of elections till it boiled down on Phir Ek Baar Modi Sarkar theme.
In the book, Rajdeep claims that the Prime Minister who has a penchant for coming up with interesting acronyms had come up with another one – JAM to convey the coming together of Jan Dhan Yojana, Aadhar and Mobiles. As per me, the phrase ‘JAM trinity’ was first used by the then Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian in the Economic Survey report of 2014-15. This was then widely adopted by the Government and the media to talk about this phenomenon which was bringing a huge change in the livings of the marginalised.
If you were Rajdeep and one who felt that you have fallen out of favour with this regime, you would be tempted to write a book that is more of an eulogy of the current regime and in particular of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. After all, Modi, Shah and the BJP did win the elections with an emphatic margin and there were enough reasons to talk high of. To his credit, Rajdeep does a fine balancing act, commending BJP, Narendra Modi and other leaders where required and equally being critical where he feels so. In fact, you get the impression that he has tried hard to present himself as a “Neutral” journalist, a species which is almost extinct these days. So, in the entire book, the writing yo-yo’s between “on the one hand, on the other hand”, “this and having and said that” format!
Far away from what is shown on TV and social media, the book gives fascinating insights of how the BJP election machinery works. The many faceless back room boys who take up tasks in mission mode and ensure they are accomplished, the many micro programmes which the party undertook at booth level and so on to win the 2019 elections emphatically have been outlined in detail. It is clear that it is these micro tactics more often than not are missed by journalists when they do ground reports during election times because of which they get the extent of the ‘hawa’ wrong.
While on this, I would have liked if Rajdeep had spent a chapter on the whole business and dynamics of opinion/exit polls in India. These continue to be an enigma. Even in the run up to the 2019 polls, media kept saying that it was a “wave less” election and it being “a sum total of 545 individual battles”! Most of the opinions based on ground reports suggested that BJP would be short of majority and have to tie up with new allies to form the government. What happened eventually though was a bigger win than 2019 for BJP and NDA which none predicted!
If you are a news buff and a current affairs watcher, ‘2019 How Modi Won India’ is a must read for not just the political stories but the granular detailing on what goes behind an election win in India!
Post Script: While talking of the many M’s that mattered, Rajdeep prefaces this book with the narration of another M – Madison Madness. It’s more like the author’s Mea Culpa (there you go, another M!) for what happened way back in September 2014 when he got involuntarily involved in fist fights with frenzied Modi supporters in Manhattan! (The “M” Madness doesn’t seem to end!)
June 18, 2021
Crossposted from medium: https://mbashiyer.medium.com/demystif...
I generally refrain from reading books on politics as they don’t provide a good bedtime read. Politics is associated with deceit and manipulation; and politicians often employ unethical tactics to seek and retain power. Unsurprisingly, Rajdeep Sardesai’s (RS) 2019: How Modi Won India had all the above-mentioned elements. Yet, I must confess that I enjoyed it.
The book describes the political ascent of Modi and friendship with his most trusted lieutenant, Amit Shah; politically savvy campaigns orchestrated by the BJP to win elections; and shortcomings of Rahul Gandhi and Congress. Further, RS documents the ground-zero reaction by interacting with the public after big events like demonetization, GST, Balakot. My favorite part, however, is his brief (more on this later) yet insightful conversations with Amit Shah, late Arun Jaitley, Nitin Gadkari.
But first, PM Modi or I should say, TIMO (There Is Modi Only). The book describes the administrative style of Modi as centralized, technocratic, and bureaucratic-driven. All key decisions are made by Modi, often bypassing the Cabinet. For example, in one of the earliest meetings with all the Chief Secretaries, Modi shares his email-id and phone number with everyone and asks them to contact him directly if needed.
Second, technology plays an important role in Modi’s administration. One example is how Modi would organize monthly video conferences (pre-Covid times) where chief secretaries from each state would present progress reports on central schemes. Third, Modi trusts bureaucrats more than politicians. Several pages in the book are devoted to key personnel like Ajit Doval (NSA), AK Sharma (Secretary, MSME), Nripendra Misra (former Principal Secretary to the PM), PK Mishra (current Principal Secretary to the PM) — with the latter duo described as the “admin’s eyes and ears.”
The book also touches on the early days of Modi as a BJP worker, his sartorial preferences and his love for fanciful gadgets.
If Modi is a protagonist, then Amit Shah is the director. Amit Shah is shown as a combative, tenacious, shrewd politician who has mastered the art of winning an election, one way or another. Three things on Amit Shah stood out for me. First, Amit Shah has an indefatigable lust to win elections, big or small. This is exemplified in the 2018 assembly elections in Tripura — a state most Indians would even struggle to locate. Politically speaking, Tripura only sends two Lok Sabha seats, and BJP has a limited presence. Yet Amit Shah devised a detailed strategy from rallies to campaigns — dubbed Mission Tripura — to win the state (eventually BJP won 36 out of 60 seats).
Second, the book presents examples of Amit Shah’s political acumen and shrewdness. During an assembly election in Gujarat, Amit Shah realizes that the opposition leader has given up. To ensure his supporters don’t decide to stay at home in response to no opposition, Amit Shah asks his workers to put posters of the opposing leader. Third, RS gives a first-hand example of Amit Shah’s tireless work ethic. After checking-in into the same hotel as Amit Shah, RS sees him return to the hotel late night, with more meetings scheduled until midnight. The next morning, RS knocks on the door of Amit Shah at 7 am to talk to him. Instead, he is told that Amit Shah left for the airport an hour back. RS concludes Shah practices politics 24x7; and for Shah and Modi, “politics is not just a career choice; it’s a way of life.”
While Modi-Shah play a starring role, it is at the expense of Rahul Gandhi. Rahul Gandhi is described as kind, sensitive, and very intelligent but a reluctant politician. His inner circle of advisors conforms to the stereotype of “well-born, English-speaking, well-educated (in several instances with foreign degrees), ideologically sharply left young men with strong NGO affiliations, but lacking the political bandwidth.”
The book does a great job of contrasting Gandhi’s personality and attributes to that of Modi. Gandhi is media-shy, eschews technology, admires smooth talkers, and tries to build consensus among the party members. In contrast, Modi is shown as a camera-friendly technocrat, who is decisive and autocratic, and prefers doers to talkers. The chasm between the two leaders is reflected in their party’s approach, described as “a divide between an anglicized, Nehruvian elite and the new, saffronized India.”
There are many tidbits in the book that I enjoyed while reading the book such as the cold war between Arun Shourie and Arun Jaitley that led to the former being overlooked for a cabinet position, how Yogi Adityanath gained Amit Shah’s trust, how Ahmed Patel won the Rajya Sabha seat by fooling two gullible MLAs among others.
While RS ensures his personal opinions don’t cloud the analysis, he candidly admits his one big disappointment — lack of journalistic access to the PMO. He describes how during the Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh years, journalists would spend hours with politicians discussing national issues. Now, journalists don’t have access to the PMO, and RS himself has become persona non grata.
The book certainly had moments that made me jump out of my seat (or bed) by some tactics employed by BJP to gain political leverage. But there were also a few instances when I was impressed by the design, sophistication, and functioning of the BJP machine, masterfully navigated by charismatic yet polarizing Modi-Shah duo to win elections.
The book’s last chapter is appropriately titled: “Modi Hai Toh Mumkin Hai ”. The author, somewhat begrudgingly, accepts this new norm after the landslide victory of BJP in 2019. Many journalists, political analysts, psephologists were dumbfounded by the magnitude of the victory. Perhaps, a better title for the chapter (and the book) would have been “Modi-Shah hai toh mumkin hai.” That pretty much sums up the book.
I generally refrain from reading books on politics as they don’t provide a good bedtime read. Politics is associated with deceit and manipulation; and politicians often employ unethical tactics to seek and retain power. Unsurprisingly, Rajdeep Sardesai’s (RS) 2019: How Modi Won India had all the above-mentioned elements. Yet, I must confess that I enjoyed it.
The book describes the political ascent of Modi and friendship with his most trusted lieutenant, Amit Shah; politically savvy campaigns orchestrated by the BJP to win elections; and shortcomings of Rahul Gandhi and Congress. Further, RS documents the ground-zero reaction by interacting with the public after big events like demonetization, GST, Balakot. My favorite part, however, is his brief (more on this later) yet insightful conversations with Amit Shah, late Arun Jaitley, Nitin Gadkari.
But first, PM Modi or I should say, TIMO (There Is Modi Only). The book describes the administrative style of Modi as centralized, technocratic, and bureaucratic-driven. All key decisions are made by Modi, often bypassing the Cabinet. For example, in one of the earliest meetings with all the Chief Secretaries, Modi shares his email-id and phone number with everyone and asks them to contact him directly if needed.
Second, technology plays an important role in Modi’s administration. One example is how Modi would organize monthly video conferences (pre-Covid times) where chief secretaries from each state would present progress reports on central schemes. Third, Modi trusts bureaucrats more than politicians. Several pages in the book are devoted to key personnel like Ajit Doval (NSA), AK Sharma (Secretary, MSME), Nripendra Misra (former Principal Secretary to the PM), PK Mishra (current Principal Secretary to the PM) — with the latter duo described as the “admin’s eyes and ears.”
The book also touches on the early days of Modi as a BJP worker, his sartorial preferences and his love for fanciful gadgets.
If Modi is a protagonist, then Amit Shah is the director. Amit Shah is shown as a combative, tenacious, shrewd politician who has mastered the art of winning an election, one way or another. Three things on Amit Shah stood out for me. First, Amit Shah has an indefatigable lust to win elections, big or small. This is exemplified in the 2018 assembly elections in Tripura — a state most Indians would even struggle to locate. Politically speaking, Tripura only sends two Lok Sabha seats, and BJP has a limited presence. Yet Amit Shah devised a detailed strategy from rallies to campaigns — dubbed Mission Tripura — to win the state (eventually BJP won 36 out of 60 seats).
Second, the book presents examples of Amit Shah’s political acumen and shrewdness. During an assembly election in Gujarat, Amit Shah realizes that the opposition leader has given up. To ensure his supporters don’t decide to stay at home in response to no opposition, Amit Shah asks his workers to put posters of the opposing leader. Third, RS gives a first-hand example of Amit Shah’s tireless work ethic. After checking-in into the same hotel as Amit Shah, RS sees him return to the hotel late night, with more meetings scheduled until midnight. The next morning, RS knocks on the door of Amit Shah at 7 am to talk to him. Instead, he is told that Amit Shah left for the airport an hour back. RS concludes Shah practices politics 24x7; and for Shah and Modi, “politics is not just a career choice; it’s a way of life.”
While Modi-Shah play a starring role, it is at the expense of Rahul Gandhi. Rahul Gandhi is described as kind, sensitive, and very intelligent but a reluctant politician. His inner circle of advisors conforms to the stereotype of “well-born, English-speaking, well-educated (in several instances with foreign degrees), ideologically sharply left young men with strong NGO affiliations, but lacking the political bandwidth.”
The book does a great job of contrasting Gandhi’s personality and attributes to that of Modi. Gandhi is media-shy, eschews technology, admires smooth talkers, and tries to build consensus among the party members. In contrast, Modi is shown as a camera-friendly technocrat, who is decisive and autocratic, and prefers doers to talkers. The chasm between the two leaders is reflected in their party’s approach, described as “a divide between an anglicized, Nehruvian elite and the new, saffronized India.”
There are many tidbits in the book that I enjoyed while reading the book such as the cold war between Arun Shourie and Arun Jaitley that led to the former being overlooked for a cabinet position, how Yogi Adityanath gained Amit Shah’s trust, how Ahmed Patel won the Rajya Sabha seat by fooling two gullible MLAs among others.
While RS ensures his personal opinions don’t cloud the analysis, he candidly admits his one big disappointment — lack of journalistic access to the PMO. He describes how during the Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh years, journalists would spend hours with politicians discussing national issues. Now, journalists don’t have access to the PMO, and RS himself has become persona non grata.
The book certainly had moments that made me jump out of my seat (or bed) by some tactics employed by BJP to gain political leverage. But there were also a few instances when I was impressed by the design, sophistication, and functioning of the BJP machine, masterfully navigated by charismatic yet polarizing Modi-Shah duo to win elections.
The book’s last chapter is appropriately titled: “Modi Hai Toh Mumkin Hai ”. The author, somewhat begrudgingly, accepts this new norm after the landslide victory of BJP in 2019. Many journalists, political analysts, psephologists were dumbfounded by the magnitude of the victory. Perhaps, a better title for the chapter (and the book) would have been “Modi-Shah hai toh mumkin hai.” That pretty much sums up the book.
November 30, 2019
Just summary of all the big events of last 5 yrs
Not worth the price. Just watch is promotions and you will know everything about the book. If you follow news regularly you will not enjoy the book that much.
Rajdeep should focus on content and not write just for the sake of it. Rajdeep should take cue from Saba naqvi's book.
Not worth the price. Just watch is promotions and you will know everything about the book. If you follow news regularly you will not enjoy the book that much.
Rajdeep should focus on content and not write just for the sake of it. Rajdeep should take cue from Saba naqvi's book.
July 28, 2020
“With 2019 General elections, line between government & party and between politics & business has been blurred”
Election in India are alike festivals - old wive tales, though it is now gambit of seeking apex power, fighting over 542 seats of varied region, religion, caste, race, language or dialect. Narendra Modi emerged as lone power for PMO consecutively in 2014 & 2019. Book has covered journey of PM Modi from 2014 onward as saw turning general election into ‘Modi Wave’.
“Modi could teach you all you need to know about marketing that they won’t teach you at business schools”
Three initial chapters, book talks immensely on Modi mania, portraying Modi as fascist with ‘saffron’ fuelled visions, mascot of BJP, somewhat justifying the title of book- its Modi who drew massive votes for BJP.
Book may be a reckoning reference for Psephologists decrypting well oiled vote harnessing machinery of BJP, team work of revered minds behind branding omnipresent Modi.
Book too has drawn blunt comparison between ‘Paralysed policies’ of UPA vis-a-vis ‘Diaspora diplomacy’ of NDA. Also, has expedited the strategy of various contenders for throne. Although book terms ‘Modi’ govt’s promoting stint as ‘event driven’ by relishing catchy acronyms, overshadowing cyber space, sangh ideologies, puritanical means of propagandas, minting votes from military actions. However, author Rajdeep Sardesai remained impartial towards pliable media houses for pseudo or staged journalism by flooding newsrooms with ‘TsuNamo’.
Book is not exhaustive with minute details or figures or facts but with repetitive paras zeroing onto same comparison between Modi and Rahul Gandhi strategies - may be comparison was never there or merely an another prime time debate. Readers if not drawn into the comparative study drawn, may takeaway ‘pearls of wisdom’ for running any governance.
Modi in his Prime Minister stint has taken initiatives for Low Income Groups, dropped 30-40% sitting MLAs in his regimented cabinet, facelifted modus of governance from file pushers to e-samiksha, effective feedback mechanism. Modi knows how to turn the tide of criticism in his favour and his willingness to walk extra mile for garnering even single seat. Footage hunger & omnipresence in all sort of medias may be neglected as these are merely his survival skills in colosseum of politics.
Books however is well researched and no apocryphal inputs are forced on reader.
Election in India are alike festivals - old wive tales, though it is now gambit of seeking apex power, fighting over 542 seats of varied region, religion, caste, race, language or dialect. Narendra Modi emerged as lone power for PMO consecutively in 2014 & 2019. Book has covered journey of PM Modi from 2014 onward as saw turning general election into ‘Modi Wave’.
“Modi could teach you all you need to know about marketing that they won’t teach you at business schools”
Three initial chapters, book talks immensely on Modi mania, portraying Modi as fascist with ‘saffron’ fuelled visions, mascot of BJP, somewhat justifying the title of book- its Modi who drew massive votes for BJP.
Book may be a reckoning reference for Psephologists decrypting well oiled vote harnessing machinery of BJP, team work of revered minds behind branding omnipresent Modi.
Book too has drawn blunt comparison between ‘Paralysed policies’ of UPA vis-a-vis ‘Diaspora diplomacy’ of NDA. Also, has expedited the strategy of various contenders for throne. Although book terms ‘Modi’ govt’s promoting stint as ‘event driven’ by relishing catchy acronyms, overshadowing cyber space, sangh ideologies, puritanical means of propagandas, minting votes from military actions. However, author Rajdeep Sardesai remained impartial towards pliable media houses for pseudo or staged journalism by flooding newsrooms with ‘TsuNamo’.
Book is not exhaustive with minute details or figures or facts but with repetitive paras zeroing onto same comparison between Modi and Rahul Gandhi strategies - may be comparison was never there or merely an another prime time debate. Readers if not drawn into the comparative study drawn, may takeaway ‘pearls of wisdom’ for running any governance.
Modi in his Prime Minister stint has taken initiatives for Low Income Groups, dropped 30-40% sitting MLAs in his regimented cabinet, facelifted modus of governance from file pushers to e-samiksha, effective feedback mechanism. Modi knows how to turn the tide of criticism in his favour and his willingness to walk extra mile for garnering even single seat. Footage hunger & omnipresence in all sort of medias may be neglected as these are merely his survival skills in colosseum of politics.
Books however is well researched and no apocryphal inputs are forced on reader.
February 7, 2020
The best biographies of politicians are written by generous political foes who try to understand what we can learn from people they dislike but, despite themselves, still respect.
This book is also written by a Modi's foe, but its author doesn't really try to understand Modi. It's not a book on how Modi won, it's a book on how everybody else lost. Of the ten chapters of the book one is dedicated to the principal Modi's political opponent Rahul Gandhi, but we learn about him much more than we learn about Modi. On top of that the book lacks rigor and focus, the author can't concentrate on one topic for more than three pages. After reading this book, I know a lot of new random facts about India and its political system, but about its main topic, Modi, I know very little, not much more than I knew when I first opened it.
This book is also written by a Modi's foe, but its author doesn't really try to understand Modi. It's not a book on how Modi won, it's a book on how everybody else lost. Of the ten chapters of the book one is dedicated to the principal Modi's political opponent Rahul Gandhi, but we learn about him much more than we learn about Modi. On top of that the book lacks rigor and focus, the author can't concentrate on one topic for more than three pages. After reading this book, I know a lot of new random facts about India and its political system, but about its main topic, Modi, I know very little, not much more than I knew when I first opened it.
August 9, 2023
In the spring of 2019, the world witnessed an electoral phenomenon that captivated both political pundits and the common man alike. It was an election that would shape the destiny of a nation and redefine its political landscape. At the heart of this seismic shift in power was one man: Narendra Damodardas Modi. In "How Modi Won India," acclaimed journalist Rajdeep Sardesai takes us on an enthralling journey behind the scenes, unravelling the strategies, triumphs, and controversies that marked this extraordinary electoral campaign.
In a world beset by political turmoil, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty, India found itself at a crucial crossroads. The people yearned for a leader who could restore faith in the nation's potential, provide stability, and steer the country towards progress. As the nation grappled with these challenges, the stage was set for a historic battle that would test the mettle of both the political class and the electorate.
"2019 How Modi Won India" promises to offer a comprehensive and incisive account of the factors that propelled Narendra Modi to an unprecedented victory. This book goes beyond the realm of mere political analysis, delving deep into the pulse of a nation and examining the aspirations, fears, and hopes that influenced the outcome of this historic election. It sheds light on the strategies employed, the masterful communication techniques employed, and the groundswell of support that propelled Modi to a second term as the Prime Minister of India.
Divided into meticulously researched chapters, this book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the corridors of power, the campaign trails, and the battlefields of Indian democracy. It dissects the role of technology, media, and public opinion in shaping the electoral narrative while examining the socio-political fault lines that Modi's campaign tapped into. From the controversial policies that polarized the nation to the populist promises that garnered support, every facet of this historic election is laid bare for examination and understanding.
Rajdeep Sardesai, one of India's most respected journalists and political analysts, brings his vast experience and deep understanding of Indian politics to bear in "How Modi Won India." With a career spanning decades, Sardesai has witnessed firsthand the ebbs and flows of Indian democracy. As a journalist who has covered multiple elections and interviewed political leaders from across the spectrum, his authoritative voice and unbiased perspective make this book an essential read for anyone seeking to comprehend the dynamics of Indian politics.
Through meticulous research, extensive interviews, and unparalleled access to key players, Sardesai provides an insider's view of the Modi campaign, drawing readers into the heart of the political drama. By presenting a balanced narrative that explores both the triumphs and the controversies, this book aims to foster a nuanced understanding of a deeply complex electoral process.
"2019 How Modi Won India" is a gripping tale of ambition, power, and the pursuit of a nation's dreams. It captures the high stakes, the exhilaration, and the nail-biting moments that defined this historic election. The tone strikes a delicate balance between critical analysis and an engaging storytelling style, ensuring that readers are not only informed but also entertained throughout the journey.
As the repercussions of this momentous election continue to reverberate across the political landscape, "2019 How Modi Won India" becomes an indispensable guide to deciphering the present and anticipating the future. It offers valuable insights into the strategies and tactics employed by political campaigns in the digital age, making it relevant not only for students of political science but also for anyone interested in the art of political persuasion.
With its compelling narrative, thought-provoking analysis, and an array of fascinating anecdotes, this book invites readers to explore the complexities of Indian democracy and the fascinating interplay between leaders and citizens. It challenges preconceived notions, sparks debates, and encourages readers to critically examine the factors that shape electoral outcomes.
"2019 How Modi Won India" is a landmark work that will leave an indelible mark on our understanding of Indian politics. By unravelling the layers of an electoral victory that captured the world's attention, Rajdeep Sardesai offers a profound exploration of power, democracy, and the aspirations of a billion people. Prepare to be enlightened, enthralled, and ultimately inspired by this definitive account of a historic triumph.
In a world beset by political turmoil, social upheaval, and economic uncertainty, India found itself at a crucial crossroads. The people yearned for a leader who could restore faith in the nation's potential, provide stability, and steer the country towards progress. As the nation grappled with these challenges, the stage was set for a historic battle that would test the mettle of both the political class and the electorate.
"2019 How Modi Won India" promises to offer a comprehensive and incisive account of the factors that propelled Narendra Modi to an unprecedented victory. This book goes beyond the realm of mere political analysis, delving deep into the pulse of a nation and examining the aspirations, fears, and hopes that influenced the outcome of this historic election. It sheds light on the strategies employed, the masterful communication techniques employed, and the groundswell of support that propelled Modi to a second term as the Prime Minister of India.
Divided into meticulously researched chapters, this book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the corridors of power, the campaign trails, and the battlefields of Indian democracy. It dissects the role of technology, media, and public opinion in shaping the electoral narrative while examining the socio-political fault lines that Modi's campaign tapped into. From the controversial policies that polarized the nation to the populist promises that garnered support, every facet of this historic election is laid bare for examination and understanding.
Rajdeep Sardesai, one of India's most respected journalists and political analysts, brings his vast experience and deep understanding of Indian politics to bear in "How Modi Won India." With a career spanning decades, Sardesai has witnessed firsthand the ebbs and flows of Indian democracy. As a journalist who has covered multiple elections and interviewed political leaders from across the spectrum, his authoritative voice and unbiased perspective make this book an essential read for anyone seeking to comprehend the dynamics of Indian politics.
Through meticulous research, extensive interviews, and unparalleled access to key players, Sardesai provides an insider's view of the Modi campaign, drawing readers into the heart of the political drama. By presenting a balanced narrative that explores both the triumphs and the controversies, this book aims to foster a nuanced understanding of a deeply complex electoral process.
"2019 How Modi Won India" is a gripping tale of ambition, power, and the pursuit of a nation's dreams. It captures the high stakes, the exhilaration, and the nail-biting moments that defined this historic election. The tone strikes a delicate balance between critical analysis and an engaging storytelling style, ensuring that readers are not only informed but also entertained throughout the journey.
As the repercussions of this momentous election continue to reverberate across the political landscape, "2019 How Modi Won India" becomes an indispensable guide to deciphering the present and anticipating the future. It offers valuable insights into the strategies and tactics employed by political campaigns in the digital age, making it relevant not only for students of political science but also for anyone interested in the art of political persuasion.
With its compelling narrative, thought-provoking analysis, and an array of fascinating anecdotes, this book invites readers to explore the complexities of Indian democracy and the fascinating interplay between leaders and citizens. It challenges preconceived notions, sparks debates, and encourages readers to critically examine the factors that shape electoral outcomes.
"2019 How Modi Won India" is a landmark work that will leave an indelible mark on our understanding of Indian politics. By unravelling the layers of an electoral victory that captured the world's attention, Rajdeep Sardesai offers a profound exploration of power, democracy, and the aspirations of a billion people. Prepare to be enlightened, enthralled, and ultimately inspired by this definitive account of a historic triumph.
February 3, 2022
A v.entertaining read on the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Rajdeep Sardesai is a dyed-in-the-wool left-liberal. He is ideologically biased and like all left-liberals thinks theirs is the only and final word on the idea of India and governance. But, he largely stays away from distorting the facts. And in the pre-2014 days, when the godi-media sat in the godi of the Congress and the choice was only between different shades of Left journalists, I liked him. And have continued to read and enjoy books by him.
His prev book on the 2014 elections was better. The occasion was historic in 2014. While the facts and narratives were largely known to me, it was still a good read to fill in the blanks.
PS:- Few examples of ugly biases :-
a) The author described in great detail how Mohammad Akhlaq (and other such cases) was lynched because the majority Hindus suspected him of cow-slaughter. He severely criticised above lynchings and also the murder of rationalists like Dabholkar, Kalburghi who advocated urinating on idols worshipped by Hindus. I was in total agreement with the author on this.
But, when Muslims rioted violently against Hindus in Malda because of blasphemy, the blame was laid on Hindus. Ditto for every such incident in which the Muslims lynched/rioted against Hindus.
Recently, in Jan 2022, repeated incidents of violent attacks by Muslims in Gujarat for blasphemy have occured and there has been silence in the media. We promote false sense of victimhood in the Muslims and a sense of resentment in Hindus by this approach which is neither secular nor fair.
b) On criminalisation of Triple-Talaq, he said it was wrong because it maybe misused. By this logic, dowry too shouldnt be criminalised, right ?
c) When he doubts Election Commissioners in 2019 of favouring BJP, he starts with praise of T.N. Seshan. What of M.S. Gill who was made a Union Minister by the UPA Govt ? While the above 2 points are ideological, this one was just a cheap shot which was unneeded.
His prev book on the 2014 elections was better. The occasion was historic in 2014. While the facts and narratives were largely known to me, it was still a good read to fill in the blanks.
PS:- Few examples of ugly biases :-
a) The author described in great detail how Mohammad Akhlaq (and other such cases) was lynched because the majority Hindus suspected him of cow-slaughter. He severely criticised above lynchings and also the murder of rationalists like Dabholkar, Kalburghi who advocated urinating on idols worshipped by Hindus. I was in total agreement with the author on this.
But, when Muslims rioted violently against Hindus in Malda because of blasphemy, the blame was laid on Hindus. Ditto for every such incident in which the Muslims lynched/rioted against Hindus.
Recently, in Jan 2022, repeated incidents of violent attacks by Muslims in Gujarat for blasphemy have occured and there has been silence in the media. We promote false sense of victimhood in the Muslims and a sense of resentment in Hindus by this approach which is neither secular nor fair.
b) On criminalisation of Triple-Talaq, he said it was wrong because it maybe misused. By this logic, dowry too shouldnt be criminalised, right ?
c) When he doubts Election Commissioners in 2019 of favouring BJP, he starts with praise of T.N. Seshan. What of M.S. Gill who was made a Union Minister by the UPA Govt ? While the above 2 points are ideological, this one was just a cheap shot which was unneeded.
April 20, 2023
The book "2019: How Modi Won India" is a riveting account of the political landscape of India from 2014 to 2019. This highly informative and insightful book provides a detailed chronicle of the key events that led to the victory of the incumbent Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the 2019 General Elections.
The author, Rajdeep Sardesai, is a highly respected journalist with a wealth of experience in covering Indian politics. His expertise and deep understanding of the Indian political scenario shine through in this book, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Indian politics.
As I perused the pages of this book, I found myself thoroughly engrossed in the narrative, and it was refreshing to revisit the events of the past with the benefit of hindsight. The author has done an excellent job of capturing all the key events, providing valuable insights into the political strategies and machinations that ultimately led to Modi's victory.
However, I must admit that at certain points in the book, I did sense a tone of bias. As the author himself acknowledges, every individual voter has their own set of political preferences, and when a journalist becomes an author, their views and biases inevitably seep into their writing. Nevertheless, I found myself willing to overlook this minor flaw, as the book's overall value far outweighs any perceived bias.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Indian politics, or anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of how political campaigns are waged and won. With the experience and expertise of Rajdeep Sardesai, I am eagerly anticipating his next book, which promises to be an equally informative and insightful account of the 2024 elections.
The author, Rajdeep Sardesai, is a highly respected journalist with a wealth of experience in covering Indian politics. His expertise and deep understanding of the Indian political scenario shine through in this book, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Indian politics.
As I perused the pages of this book, I found myself thoroughly engrossed in the narrative, and it was refreshing to revisit the events of the past with the benefit of hindsight. The author has done an excellent job of capturing all the key events, providing valuable insights into the political strategies and machinations that ultimately led to Modi's victory.
However, I must admit that at certain points in the book, I did sense a tone of bias. As the author himself acknowledges, every individual voter has their own set of political preferences, and when a journalist becomes an author, their views and biases inevitably seep into their writing. Nevertheless, I found myself willing to overlook this minor flaw, as the book's overall value far outweighs any perceived bias.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Indian politics, or anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of how political campaigns are waged and won. With the experience and expertise of Rajdeep Sardesai, I am eagerly anticipating his next book, which promises to be an equally informative and insightful account of the 2024 elections.
April 18, 2020
While purchasing i thought real insight of voter mind would be reflected in writing. Author mentions about PM cares, or ujjawala , or other schemes but he is not mentioning its impacrs or reach. One thing is clearly understood lot of professional marketing and opinion making companys are getting involved in election. Now a days it is not just the karyakartas and there work.Overall ok book to read.
I expected some facts , figures and data based analysis. But most of the data is given in last apendix and analysis is missing. It is just an information of bjp using M factors but analytical proving is missing.
What you get is feel of complexity of indian election, money power invested in contesting it.
It is mentioned that total cost involved in election is +30 to 50k crore rs. That means that much getting invested will have to be returned back to investors. Sad it on its own creates a minimum guranteed base line for corruption.
Overall authors efforts are comendable for collection of data.
I expected some facts , figures and data based analysis. But most of the data is given in last apendix and analysis is missing. It is just an information of bjp using M factors but analytical proving is missing.
What you get is feel of complexity of indian election, money power invested in contesting it.
It is mentioned that total cost involved in election is +30 to 50k crore rs. That means that much getting invested will have to be returned back to investors. Sad it on its own creates a minimum guranteed base line for corruption.
Overall authors efforts are comendable for collection of data.
January 29, 2021
A decent one for the individuals who know nothing about how a political race drive could wreck all the political scenario,if it's hyperlink to patriotism.
This book likewise portrays how perilous can Modi-Shah be to this nation, continually assaulting the Democratic/autonomous foundation of this country,which before nobody ever set out to, besides in Indira's system.
4🌟 on the grounds that the creator Rajeep Sardesai could kept it Shorter instead of in long insane representations.
This book likewise gives some insights,that how the BJP media group deals with such extraordinary stages,
in opposite that a solitary sparkle is need to hang a discussion on social media.Its part based legitimacy the board to stall level to Kendra Pramukhs, Karyakarta relegated to spread P.M's strategies achievements,even getting a marked letter of P.M modi's to the benefited recipients of the focal government plans.
To be sure a decent one yet confounded..
This book likewise portrays how perilous can Modi-Shah be to this nation, continually assaulting the Democratic/autonomous foundation of this country,which before nobody ever set out to, besides in Indira's system.
4🌟 on the grounds that the creator Rajeep Sardesai could kept it Shorter instead of in long insane representations.
This book likewise gives some insights,that how the BJP media group deals with such extraordinary stages,
in opposite that a solitary sparkle is need to hang a discussion on social media.Its part based legitimacy the board to stall level to Kendra Pramukhs, Karyakarta relegated to spread P.M's strategies achievements,even getting a marked letter of P.M modi's to the benefited recipients of the focal government plans.
To be sure a decent one yet confounded..
Currently reading
May 17, 2021Elections will have to be the only celebration that requires five years worth of preparation and if you don't believe so then this book by eminent journalist Rajdeep Sardesai will make you believe so. The reason I say so is because the book takes one through each and every state dynamics and how did Modi try and leverage, or plant incidents to its benefit for securing the chair again. Now don't get swayed away by the pragmatic sections because even though it is an insightful read and answers the how questions appropriately if not completely, I still think it missed the spark.
The book tell you about how what happened or was made to happen to build the plot for 2019 but it fails to describe how the plot was played next. You will surely understand what lead to the victorious stint of BJP but you won't get the - what next part.
Notwithstanding that, if someone want s a good summary of how the politics looked like post 2014 and how did it help in 2019, the book is a pick.
The book tell you about how what happened or was made to happen to build the plot for 2019 but it fails to describe how the plot was played next. You will surely understand what lead to the victorious stint of BJP but you won't get the - what next part.
Notwithstanding that, if someone want s a good summary of how the politics looked like post 2014 and how did it help in 2019, the book is a pick.
January 27, 2020
It’s a near impossible task to capture the many nuances of the Indian elections and Rajdeep does a fascinating job of doing justice to the process of documentation one of the most dramatic, and disturbing moments in Indian history. The many anecdotes scattered throughout the book offer revealing insights into a BJP party which has gained phenomenal expertise in every single aspect of a winning election formula. Modi and team’s strategic and marketing genius can put any successful to shame. As India makes its seemingly inevitable transition from a secular country to a Hindu nation, this election is likely to go down in history to mark the moment that legitimised the country’s leaders to make this transformation a reality. This book can help later generations understand how that was made possible
January 30, 2020
Rajdeep has very well described the journey of Indian politics since 2014. The book is very well written and contains different views on how Indian polity works with the onset of BJP juggernaut and its well-oiled election machine compared to the other contemporaries. Rajdeep way of writing is impactful and the book as a whole is a page-turner. What the book lacks is some kind of in-depth analysis which would have helped us to get synthesis of the whole process. Rajdeep being a journalist has reported everything well but missed to provide comparative perspectives and that is why 4 stars for this book which is a must-read for those who is interested in Indian politics.
April 17, 2020
The current dynamics of politics has changed and it isn't what it used to be a decade ago and this book pretty much sums up as to what has brought that change. The book is pretty comprehensive but incredibly interesting too which doesn't bore a reader even once. It's full of political insights which are always fascinating to read. A lot of people will read the book from their political standpoint but it's advisable to stay apolitical while going through it to better understand the landscape of Indian politics. It nicely characterizes numerous reasonings as to what generated the result of the 2019 election. A truly satisfying story.
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May 28, 2020Book #14 A liberal media-man's insights into the election-battle that was fought largely between the image & personas of two politicians who self-admittedly avoid traditional media at all costs. Particularly liked his insights into the media management strategies employed by BJP (the role of ANI, digital media agility, the IT cell operations). An excellent attempt at deconstructing all of BJP's PR successes - from the Modi-Shah duo, faded and jaded names, Doval, all the way to the panna pramukhs. The scathing criticism of Rahul Gandhi and Congress's tactics resonated.
"Indian politicians don't retire, they simply wait in the wings for a next act."
"Indian politicians don't retire, they simply wait in the wings for a next act."
January 30, 2023
As an American living in India (and having tried to follow Indian politics for years now), this book provided an excellent introduction into the 2019 elections. I found the book accessible, critical of both Modi and Rahul. The author makes his biases clear (even though I don't think he was that biased of a reporter at all).
Some of the other reviews accuse Sardesai of bias against the BJP. While it is clear that he does not approve of many of their policies, I came away more sympathetic to the reasons why someone might support the BJP (even if I didn't walk away supporting the BJP more). In other words, I did not find the book to be biased.
Some of the other reviews accuse Sardesai of bias against the BJP. While it is clear that he does not approve of many of their policies, I came away more sympathetic to the reasons why someone might support the BJP (even if I didn't walk away supporting the BJP more). In other words, I did not find the book to be biased.
June 10, 2020
Excellent chronicle
This book gives a glimpse into the election juggernaut of BJP. The unmatched organizational strength of the BJP coupled with expert event management and marketing defines the results of 2019. The book also exposes stark contrast between the BJP and opposition parties on every front. The extent to which the opposition was clueless about the impending results shows their complete disconnect with the ground realities. Must read for everyone who follows Indian politics keenly.
This book gives a glimpse into the election juggernaut of BJP. The unmatched organizational strength of the BJP coupled with expert event management and marketing defines the results of 2019. The book also exposes stark contrast between the BJP and opposition parties on every front. The extent to which the opposition was clueless about the impending results shows their complete disconnect with the ground realities. Must read for everyone who follows Indian politics keenly.
February 11, 2025
Boring. The whole point of picking up this book was to get to know what happens on the inside pf political circles especially the BJP which won. But author has limited access to those who are in power. It feels very biased and one sided and seems to be written from the pov of opposition leaders perhaps since his wife was inclined to TMC when the book was written and is now an official Rajya Sabha member. Neutrality is missing.
It would have been better to instead read newspaper articles of the 5 years.
It would have been better to instead read newspaper articles of the 5 years.
April 5, 2020
The book is a continuation from the authors last book on the election of 2014. It follows the events from the swearing in ceremony onwards to Balakot, telling the tale how 9 Ms and 2 Ws helped Mr. Modi win another term as Prime Minister of India. He starts each chapter with an action and ends with a counteraction and how it affected the results of 2019 election. The book records many twist in tales and must read for all who want to understand the 'Modi-Shah' effect in Indian election.
April 9, 2020
Coming from a respected journalist, it is almost criminal to present the arguments in this manner. The author doesn’t build his arguments, rather presents the points in a critical manner which are sometimes available in public domain or general consciousness. I expected this book to provide some insights and investigative journalism. Unfortunately, the book is reflective of biases. The critique is available though that is too little and too less.
April 15, 2020
Great read! If you have been following the news, many incident described in the book would seem familiar. What Rajdeep does well is string it together beautifully!
And unlike what some commentators have been suggesting, the book is not one-sided. I found it to be pretty balanced in its observations. Rajdeep looks at both BJP and INC objectively to comment on their strengths and weaknesses.
Would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in politics.
And unlike what some commentators have been suggesting, the book is not one-sided. I found it to be pretty balanced in its observations. Rajdeep looks at both BJP and INC objectively to comment on their strengths and weaknesses.
Would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in politics.
March 27, 2021
A good read if you want to understand how the BJP election machine is run. Good insights, in terms of how elections are run. I would have liked for the book to also have a deeper look at some issues around how elections are funded in india. The author from his position in the media is naturally very well connected and often quotes “sources”. Would have been great to have a little bit more information on these sources too. All in all an interesting read.
December 28, 2025
Rajdeep gave many factors that may be Bhakti factor whereby masses worship MODI , TINA Factor as elaborated there is no alternative and weak opposition along with the BALAKOT Operation and role of Saffron . But there are other factors too which is the disciple of the BJP party and their sense of improvisation to perform better day by day and never give up under any circumstances. Weak opposition is an unfortunate situation for the democratic nation but this is prevailing. Jai Hind
January 5, 2020
The writing is great and keeps the reader gripped. Mr. Sardesai takes the reader on India's political journey from 2014-2019. However, for those who feed on political news the book will come feel repetitive with only few parts of it as revealing. But if someone wants to dwell into Indian politics and know how the elections pan out, please go ahead and read the book. You won't regret it.
January 5, 2020
Going by the narration of the events this book takes one along. Story telling has been one of the strengths of Rajdeep and that can be clearly seen in the book. However some more finer details could be included to make it more interesting. Overall this is one of the finest books on the road up to 2019 elections.
January 11, 2020
Though not comparably interesting as his previous effort- The Elections that Changed India- this is an informative book. The reader may have come across much of what he has written in this book. But a very good illustration of what makes the Shah-Modi team so invincible. Supporters of the Congress will despair.
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