This book is a collection of 99 selected stories both from fictional and nonfictional genres, printed over a period of time. The 99 chapters represents 99 years of this dynamic writer's life, starting from his birth at Hadali in Pakistan till he passed away in 2014, at the age of 99 years in Delhi, the city he adored. The book has many stories from his personal life, his family and friends. One intriguing thing is the dilemma the writer always finds himself in, is about religion. He brazenly talks about being an atheist but doesn't shied away from praying, which is strange and self contradictory. He argues about his non compromising attitude towards growing communalism in the country as he himself has witnessed the horrors of partition.
The book showcases the versatility and vast knowledge of the Khuswant Singh. He openly reasons about the circumstances for the creation of Pakistan, dives further to reveal the juicy gossips and weaknesses of Pakistan as it seems, he has unlimited access to important dignitaries there. He had a long carrier as a journalist in India and book contains many political encounters of his time. He was biased towards Congress and shamelessly supports it while propagating high morals to others. He was strong witted and didn't shy away from chiding Khalistan terrorists. The writer also dwells on his personal life touching sensitive subjects of sex, unfaithfulness,humor etc.
This book is a wonderful collection of various topics about author's life, a colorful tribute to one of the finest writers of India, which was published on the anniversary of Khushwant Singh’s birth. I believe this book is thought provoking and a must read for everyone.
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Readers can write to me at - garv560@gmail.com
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