This book explores the complex linkages between state, society, and culture in medieval and modern India. It discusses issues like secularism, composite culture, pluralism, historiography, and the use of sources.

Written over the past decade, this collection of essays explores the complex linkages between state, society, and culture in medieval and modern India. It discusses various ideas under the wider rubric of historiography, history writing, and the use of sources. The author examines secularism, composite culture, and pluralism in both medieval and modern India, linking them to politics, society, and the economy. The Mughal policy of subjugation and assimilation, Rathor War, rise of the Marathas, jagirdari crisis, and the Mughal agrarian system have been discussed in detail. The book sheds light on unknown aspects of many historical figures-like Akbar, Jodha Bai, and Rana Pratap-as well as makers of modern India-like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sir Sita Ram.