This books is more of a tragedy opera than a real life memoir. From the time he crossed Narmada, destruction followed him and whatever they earned, was lost. The language is innocent(author's or the translators?) and the books is a very good read in all angles, the best chapter being that on Jhansi. There are some important facts which we learn from this book and which are completely hidden from history, and consequently, this book takes an eminent position in Indian history, primary one bein...

Heart-wrenching story about day to day struggle of poor Indian subject under British rule & violent struggle of Indian fighters under most adverse conditions. This book not only depicts Uprising of 1857 but also shows us glimpses of common life that was full of adversity. Most of the social rituals have been proved to be serious evils like the one in case of author when he took a lot of loan just to entertain the guests at his home. He was almost penniless but could not stop himself taking cr...

This is a mind blowing true story of two simpletons who found themselves in north India just as the 1857 revolt got underway. A beautiful picture of the times then, the despair and lack of opportunities in a British Indian village even for a relatively well educated young boy.
Reading between the lines, it tells you that the 1857 war was not an accident but was well planned and the Brits just about managed to get on top after brutally suppressing it.
The two men wrote this book after miracu...

What a fantastic book it is. Very well narrated story by Vishnu Bhatt Godse Veraikar and superb translation by Mrinal Pande. If any one wants to know about 1857 Uprising through the perspective of a common man, this is the book for him. Very interesting and clears the picture about the mutiny.
Highly recommended for those who are interested in History.

It is a must read for those who underestimate the rich culture of country. It has something we don't find in other books. Everything about 1857, rani jhansi, kalpi and other things. I liked it so much that end up reading it in one go ... Read it if you want to know about our rich and courageous past and mistakes made by people.

Vishnubhat Godse's writing is like a fresh breeze into the torrid field of historical studies often spoilt by the vested interests , especially the marxists. Now, we can see a beautiful India, blossoming even in the turmoil of 1857, its people as industrious, knowledgeable , wise, and full of bhakthi.

Most of the happenings in the book is Vishnubhat's first hand experience- The Jhansi siege, and its devastation, Kalpi's fall and Kota fall all are graphically explained by him. His experienc...

Probably the only Eye account surviving,giving an exclusive reportage on some of the incidents during the 1857 Mutiny.Totally devoid of bias and usual glorificaton of heroes which plays into present political narratives.A must read for book lovers!

Well written first hand eyewitness account.

really this is the only true account of the great first independence movement. that too in the eyes of a commoner. also it gives insight to the social structure and work at that time. more than story.