Prakash Books - The Long Strider in Jehangir’s Hindustan
Product details
Overview: The Long Strider in Jehangir’s Hindustan is a unique travel memoir that intertwines two distinct yet connected journeys. The primary narrative chronicles the life and ventures of Thomas Coryate, a 17th-century English wanderer who trekked over 5,000 miles from England to India to witness the grandeur of Jehangir’s court. His path, motivated by fame and love, is echoed by the contemporary journey of the book’s authors, who retrace Coryate’s steps through India, offering insights into the places he once explored. The book merges travel, history, and biography, providing a multi-dimensional view of Coryate’s experiences and the lasting impact of his journey.
Key Themes:
-
Historical Exploration and Adventure: Coryate’s expedition from England to India captures the indomitable spirit of early European travelers and their drive to chronicle foreign lands despite the daunting risks involved.
-
Unfulfilled Aspirations and Disillusionment: The book reflects on Coryate’s tragic end—after all the trials he endured, he found disappointment at the heart of Jehangir’s court, where he felt his dreams mocked rather than realized.
-
Cross-Cultural Encounters: Both Coryate’s reactions to India’s wonders and the modern-day authors’ observations highlight the enduring cultural contrasts and universal struggles of travelers in foreign lands.
-
India Then and Now: Through the authors’ journey across the same landscapes, the book examines how India’s essence remains resilient across centuries, capturing both the timeless and the transformative.
Writing Style: The prose is elegant, detailed, and laced with wit, bringing Coryate’s story to life with humor and empathy. The authors’ own observations are layered and sensitive, capturing the landscapes and cities of both historic and modern India with a keen eye. Their historical narrative is enriched with anecdotes, cultural reflections, and a respectful portrayal of Coryate’s quixotic vision.
Impact and Relevance: This book highlights the human desire for adventure, validation, and understanding of the “exotic,” while also illustrating the inherent misunderstandings and disappointments that accompany such pursuits. Coryate’s story is an emblem of the era’s adventurous spirit and is particularly fascinating for those interested in early travel narratives and the British encounter with India.
Conclusion: The Long Strider in Jehangir’s Hindustan is a layered, captivating read that juxtaposes the past and present. By tracing the routes of Thomas Coryate, the authors not only honor a unique historical figure but also illuminate the ongoing allure and mystery of India as seen by foreign eyes. This book will captivate those interested in history, travel, and the human experience of bridging worlds.