Unraveling India’s Ancient Identity: How Nationalist Narratives Contrast with British Conquest Strategies – Insights from Sam Dalrymple

Sam Dalrymple is currently in the UK, where he reflects on his debut book, Shattered Lands. This work explores the history of the Indian Empire and its partitions from 1937 to 1971. He highlights how Indian connections persisted in regions like Dubai and Yemen, where Indian rupees once circulated, and loyalty to the British Viceroy extended far and wide.

Dalrymple, who grew up in Delhi, studied Persian and Sanskrit at Oxford. He speaks Hindi and Urdu fluently and explores themes like migration in his work across different media.

His surname may sound familiar because he is the son of William Dalrymple, a well-known historian. In a recent chat with The Indian Express, he shared insightful thoughts on borders, national identity, and family histories.

What drew you to subcontinental history?

A visit to Afghanistan’s Bamiyan Buddhas at just 16 sparked his interest. But a project called Project Dastaan really inspired him. It aimed to reconnect families separated by Partition using Virtual Reality. He recalls the story of Iqbal, who wanted to find his childhood friend Narendra Singh. Their journey led them to Narendra’s family in India, where bonds were rekindled.

What inspired Shattered Lands?

This project showed Dalrymple how Partition severed deep connections. He wanted to explore how the borders that divided people were formed. It’s a story not just about 1947 but about all the partitions that disturbed the Indian Empire.

How did the British define ‘India’ back then?

The British had a particular definition laid out in the Interpretation Act of 1889. It included not just British India but also princely states and territories. An Indian passport was once issued to a Yemeni Jewish woman seeking to migrate, highlighting the once-unified regions of the Empire.

Why do so few recognize the Indian Empire’s scope?

Most histories present India as a consistent entity, overlooking the British conquests for economic gain. The British often separated regions based on political needs, disregarding historical connections. For example, many historians don’t explore how Yemen and Burma were once perceived as part of India.

What role did Jinnah play in these events?

Jinnah’s journey is multifaceted. Initially a proponent of unity, he faced disillusionment, which shifted his political stance. By the 1940s, he became a central figure in advocating for Pakistan, though earlier he showed a lot of promise for interfaith harmony. His acceptance of a plan which kept Pakistan as a part of a united India could have changed the course of history.

How did Hindu nationalism influence the partitions?

Nationalist sentiment from various groups played a role. Hindu nationalism sought an India that reflected a specific identity, often overlooking the diverse connections that existed. Despite resistance, some in regions like Burma wished to remain linked to India, while rising nationalism led to fragmentation.

Did your father offer advice during your writing process?

William Dalrymple encouraged Sam to transform his documentary idea into a book. He read two drafts, but Sam credits his mother for her meticulous editing. While his father’s work spans early modern history, Sam emphasizes oral histories to illuminate Partition experiences.

Can academic and social media histories coexist?

Absolutely! While academic historians delve deep into research, accessible popular history can bring those insights to a wider audience. Sam’s book combines academic rigor with storytelling, revealing new perspectives on regions like Burma and Dubai.

In this way, history continues to reshape our understanding of national identities and their turbulent pasts. The story of the Indian Empire is not just a relic; it impacts conversations about identities today.

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