An unparalleled biography of India’s Parliament House and a compelling chronicle of the nation’s democratic journey.
Housing the Republic tells the remarkable story of one of India’s most iconic institutions through the events, personalities and debates that have shaped the country’s past and present. Written by acclaimed journalist Sobhana K. Nair, this captivating work traces the evolution of the Parliament House from 1919, when its designs were first approved, to the inauguration of the new Parliament building in 2023.
As both witness and participant, the Parliament has stood at the centre of India’s democratic life. It has seen the birth of the Republic, landmark constitutional debates, moments of triumph and crisis, and even survived a brutal terror attack. Through vivid accounts of historic parliamentary debates and political turning points, Sobhana chronicles the making and remaking of the Indian nation over nine decades of pre- and post-Independence history.
Interwoven with the story of Parliament is the fascinating evolution of New Delhi—the bustling capital city of the world’s largest democracy. Rich in historical detail and contemporary relevance, this book brings together biography, political history and the story of a nation in constant transformation.
Inside this book, readers will discover:
- The fascinating history of India’s Parliament House from 1919 to 2023
- The making of the new Parliament building and its significance
- Landmark debates and defining moments in India’s democratic journey
- The role of Parliament in shaping the Republic of India
- Stories of leaders, lawmakers and personalities who walked its corridors
- Accounts of historic events, crises and political turning points
- The parallel evolution of modern Delhi as India’s capital city
- A unique blend of biography, history and contemporary politics
Drawing on meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Housing the Republic offers an intimate portrait of India’s most enduring democratic institution and the nation it represents.
Essential reading for anyone interested in Indian history, politics, democracy, constitutional institutions and the making of modern India.