This book gives a fairly accurate depiction of the history of Sikhs, and the current strained relationship between the Indian government and people of Punjab. Although not the subject of discussion, I wish the author had spent a bit of time discussing the specific divide and conquer policies that the Indian government borrowed from the British and later, the Soviets, to maintain control of Punjab (and other parts of India) since post-Partition. Specifically the decision to divide Punjab into two parts - Haryana and "new" Punjab based on a language bias, and then re-routing the waters of the Punjab into other neighboring states is a tragedy that has further estranged common brothers. The consequences of the nationalism movement in India that exists today, created to overthrow the British and presently advocated by leaders to construct an "Indian" identity and common enemy in Pakistan, should have been included as well.

In this book, Patwant Singh traces the history of the Sikhs from their beginnings in the teachings of Guru Nanak in the 16th century to the present. This history is in-depth, and written in an easy to read manner.

It must be said that this book was written with a bias, but I found it refreshing and passionate. Admittedly, I have no stake in the religious affairs of India, but I do see how a reader of the Muslim or (more so) Hindu faith might strongly disagree with the author's interpretations.

Therefore, I do give this book a somewhat reserved recommendation.

Patwant Singh's book is an excellent introduction to the Sikh tradition and its history. Sikh philosophy strongly repudiates the highly retrogressive and morally bankrupt institutions that continue to be endorsed, enforced, and encouraged by the Brahminical elements of Indian society. The Sikh religion is opposed to those forces that seek to divide people, and favors the promotion of a world free of caste, gender inequality, and religious intolerance. Read this book.