Library Journal Review
Master photographer Khullar's book is as bright, beautiful, and glorious as the country he depicts. His inclusive look at every region of this awesome subcontinent examines both ancient and modern times, covering 5000 years of its many-layered history and culture. The book's nine chapters, contributed by eminent historians and scholars, cover topics from nature and people to art/architecture, music/dance, and spirituality. The narrative is replete with detailed descriptions of finer cultural points, often opaque to Westerners, such as a discussion of the Indian woman's layered clothing (names included) or of the importance of eyes, face, and hands in conveying meaning in classical dance. The writers note that all castes and classes in India are often brought together by shared religious celebrations, explaining the country's success in harmonizing its diverse population. A description of the Taj Mahal illustrates this point, calling it a teardrop on the cheek of time because "art, craft and architecture are all merged into a seamless whole which is far greater than the sum of its parts. Variations are not a cause for alarm but spur the artist to further flights of imagination." This gorgeous and poetically written book is a must for medium and large libraries and all collections with an emphasis on India.-Susan G. Baird, Chicago (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.