First published 2019
Ruchir Sharma examines the state of democratic governance across India's diverse political terrain. The author travels through various regions, observing how democratic institutions function at ground level in different communities and constituencies. Sharma investigates the gap between democratic ideals and practical implementation, analyzing how local politics shapes national outcomes. He documents encounters with voters, politicians, and civic leaders to understand how democracy operates beyond Delhi's corridors of power. The book reveals the complex relationship between India's democratic aspirations and the realities citizens face in their daily political lives. Through field observations and political analysis, Sharma presents a comprehensive view of Indian democracy in action. The work offers readers an insider's perspective on how democratic processes unfold across India's varied social and economic landscapes, providing insights into both the strengths and vulnerabilities of the world's largest democracy.
Genres: political-science, politics, non-fiction, 21st-century, india, academic
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: insider-perspective, on-the-ground-reporting
Setting: India
Period: 21st-century
304 pages · Paperback · PENGUIN INDIA