Salman Rushdie: Touchstones with Razia Iqbal

The novel tells the story of Saleem Sinai, who is born at the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, the moment of India's independence from British rule. Saleem's life is intricately linked with the history of India, and he possesses telepathic powers that allow him to communicate with other 'midnight children' born between 12 a.m. and 1 a.m. on that date. Each of these children has unique magical powers, and Saleem acts as a conduit to connect them. The story spans various historical events in India, including the partition, wars, and the Emergency declared by Indira Gandhi. It explores themes of identity, history, and the fragmented nature of a newly independent nation[1][3][4].

In 'The Idea of India', Sunil Khilnani delves into the rich historical, cultural, and political tapestry of India, examining the various ideas and ideologies that have shaped the nation's identity. The book covers India's journey from ancient civilizations to its modern challenges, highlighting its diverse cultures, religions, and languages. Khilnani explores themes such as democracy, diversity, identity, and globalization, offering insights into how India has managed to endure as a democratic nation despite numerous challenges.

Dubliners is a collection of short stories by James Joyce, first published in 1914. The stories are arranged to track the lives of Dubliners from childhood to old age, exploring themes such as the 'paralysis' of Irish society, the desire for escape, and the intersection of life and death. Each story features a different plot and characters but is connected by the theme of epiphany, where characters experience life-changing moments of revelation. The collection is known for its realistic portrayal of Dublin life, highlighting issues such as alcoholism, religious tension, and political concerns of the time[1][3][4].