Nov 19 2024 to Nov 19 2024 6:30 p.m.
7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071
Cauldron, Sword and Victory: The Rise of the Sikhs by Sarbpreet Singh brings to life the turbulent history of the 18th-century Indian subcontinent in a captivating narrative. Singh’s work unfolds in a red-hot crucible of empires, from the Delhi emperors to the ambitious conqueror Nadir Shah. This discussion will take us across Asia, from Delhi to Punjab, as we explore the battles and alliances the Sikhs forged with the British, Marathas, Jats, and Rohillas.
The event will highlight key historical figures, including Guru Gobind Singh, and examine the intricate interplay of schemes, mysticism, and alliances that defined the Sikh people during this transformative period. Drawing on a wealth of historical sources and poetic translations from Persian, Braj, and Punjabi, Cauldron, Sword and Victory offers a vivid and compelling look at a people forged in the flames of struggle and resilience.
Author Sarbpreet Singh will be in conversation with Soni Wadhwa and Karthik Venkatesh, followed by a Q&A session with the audience.
Speakers
Sarbpreet Singh
Author
Sarbpreet Singh is the author of the acclaimed bestsellers The Camel Merchant of Philadelphia, The Night of the Restless Spirits: Stories of 1984, The Sufi’s Nightingale and The Story of the Sikhs: 1469-1708. His history podcast, The Story of the Sikhs, has listeners in 90 countries. His work has been featured on the BBC and National Public Radio and his commentary has appeared in publications in the US, India and Pakistan. He is also the founder of The Gurmat Sangeet Project, dedicated to the preservation of sacred Sikh music.
Soni Wadhwa
Archivist
Soni Wadhwa teaches Literature Studies at SRM University, Andhra Pradesh. Her digital archive PG Sindhi Library is dedicated to post Partition Sindhi writing in India. She is a regular contributor to Asian Review of Books.
Karthik Venkatesh
Author & Executive Editor, Penguin Random House India
Karthik Venkatesh grew up in Bangalore, speaking Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, English, Dakhani and Hindi. He tried to learn French but failed. He did learn Punjabi though. Once an MBA, he later studied education and taught English and History in a school. He now edits for a living and writes whenever the fancy strikes him. Karthik lives in Bangalore with his wife Amarinder, children Geet and Neil, and dog Norah. He has plans to adopt another dog and have a mini aquarium. On weekday mornings, he often runs. On weekends, he naps.