Tinderbox by M.J. Akbar

Among many recent books on Pakistan, Mr Akbar's stands out … It is a lively read; Mr Akbar is a stylish writer – The Economist

M.J. Akbar takes an enchanting journey through history to trace the origin and evolution of Pakistan … [A] wellwritten, clearly argued and historically grounded work – India Today

Indians and Pakistanis are the same people: why then have their nations moved on such different trajectories since freedom in 1947? Pakistan was the culmination of a search for what might be called Muslim space that began during the decline of the Mughal Empire. Mohammad Ali Jinnah wanted a secular nation with a Muslim majority, just as India was a secular nation with a Hindu majority. The father of Pakistan did not realize that there was another claimant to the nation he had delivered: Maulana Maududi, founder of the Jamaat-e-Islami, the godfather of Pakistan.

In Tinderbox: The Past and Future of Pakistan, M.J. Akbar embarks on a historical whodunnit to trace the journey of an idea, and the events, people, circumstances andmindset that divided India. He brings an impressive array of research, perception and analysis to solve this puzzle with a fluent, engaging narrative style, making a difficult subject deceptively accessible. There could be no better guide to the subcontinent s past, and a glimpse into its future.

About The Author :

M.J. Akbar is the editorial director of India Today and Headlines Today and editor of theSunday Guardian. He is also an internationally published columnist and has authored several books. He lives in Delhi.