MISFORTUNE’S FAVOURITE: The Tragic End of Dara Shukoh

A very readable, and well researched book, give you an insight into the ethos of the cultural of 17th century Mughal times. Dara Shukkoh who was a scholar and a liberal, fell short of the strategy of his crafty brother Aurangzeb.Sheila Ghatate

Writing historical fiction is a fine art -- to remain true to history, but present events in fictional form. It calls for both precision and imagination. SR Adige possesses this in abundance, as his earlier writings have shown. A rewarding read!

Author has made the book very interesting and engrossing . Look forward to more such books.

Book Review: Misfortune’s Favourite : The Tragic End of Dara ShukohAuthor: Srinivas Rao AdigePublishers:Points: 5/10“Whatever reverses you might face, your fate will be to reign over the hearts of all communities in this vast and varied land in your quest to seek common ground in different religions, while that of your brother is conquer territories shedding torrents of blood with the force of arms. Yes, he may wear the crown and the sceptre for a while, but that will end with his lifetime, but you, Dara, will live in the annals of Mughal history and be remembered till the end of time as the Prince of Peace", said astrologer Alima Mooltani to Dara Shukoh, the unfortunate Mughal prince who tried to find common grounds in different religions, and the history of India was much less cruel if he was made the mughal emperor instead of his cruel fanatic brother Aurangzeb.So, this fast paced historical novel tells us the story of the unlucky Mughal prince whose fortune traited him again and again. The novel starts at Agra fort, where Dara and his companions were set to flee from his rebel brothers Aurangzeb and Murad after their defeat on a battle. After their fleeing, Aurangzeb captured Agra fort and stopped the water supply to Agra fort. A raged emperor Shahjahan said that he was more fortunate if he was a born Hindu, because Hindus offer water to their ancestors even after their death.Then the story continues with the fleeing of Dara's band helplessly from here and there and his plans were going fruitless one after another. Bit the hopeful Dara made his forces to face Aurangzeb, but his troops were vanquished by Dara's misfortunes and traits and at last Dara was captured by traitors. But he still remains living in our Hearts. That’s why today our government has launched a mission to find Dara’s tomb and paying the respect he deserves, so the prediction of Alima comes true.The tragic end hurts us with all it’s worst. What I liked is the fast pace of this novel. What I disliked is that Dara was confuse, because his son was in custody of a non-believers king, which is hardly possible for a tolerant man like Dara. So, it is an average read for me.