Petals!

The Last Queen Book Review: An incredibly immersive book, 'The Last Queen' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a detailed story exploring the life of Rani Jindan Kaur, the courageous and last Queen of Punjab. Set in 1839, the iconic era pays the finest attention to historical details as it also marked the glorious rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, known as the 'Lion of Punjab'.  [SUBSCRIBE TO MY WEEKLY NEWSLETTER ON SUBSTACK]   Chitra Divakaruni's The Last Queen: Story of Rani Jindan Kaur A rich detailed account follows to articulate the rise of the beautiful and courageous young girl from a remote village in Punjab who goes on to become the Last Queen. Not only does Jindan use her intelligence to ward off the jealous and menacing moves of the other wives of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, she also wins the loyalty of the Khalsa army and the respect of the powerful nobles.   She makes it her life's mission to fight the deceitful schemes of the British and safeguard the throne ...

The Mughals ruled India for more than 250 years but few of us know about Nur Jahan's remarkable political power and ambition that led to a series of pathbreaking changes in the Mughal Empire. If you enjoy reading historical fiction, grab a copy of Ta nushree Podder's novel, 'Nur Jahan's Daughter'.                                                  (Image: Amazon) This is a fascinating and never-before-told account of Laadli, the reluctant princess who lived in the shadows of the Mughal empire. While her mother ruled Hindustan for sixteen long years through her second marriage with Emperor Jahangir, Laadli remained hidden and almost unknown. Her hatred towards Emperor Jahangir, secret trysts that end in heart wrenching tragedy and her wise counsel to caution her restless, ambitious mother remain unknown to the world. Contrary to public perception, empresses of...