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What comes to mind when you think of India? The mesmerising Taj Mahal? Huge elephants and agile monkeys, shimmering silks and spicy food? India is all these things and many others. Its sights, smells, wealth and poverty have fascinated visitors for hundreds of years. Its history is one of trade and invasion – from the Aryans to the British Raj. Each has left its mark, adding to India’s extraordinary diversity.

In 2022, it is 75 years since India gained independence from its latest conquerors – the British. Today, India is the world’s largest democracy with a burgeoning economy, and active technology, space and nuclear programmes. Tradition still co-exists alongside modernisation, giving a tantalising mix of old and new.

This book for children age 9+ charts the history of India, from the extraordinary Indus Civilisation of 2500 BCE to the present day, interspersed with glimpses of Indian life and culture in its people, places, food, clothing, religions, festivals, languages and stories.

It includes some activities such as how to wear a sari, make a vegetable curry and build your own puppet theatre.

Illustrated with a mix of photos and artwork, this book is a beautiful celebration of Indian landscapes, people and history.