A History of Burning

"A History of Burning" traces the century-long saga of an Indian family profoundly impacted by British colonial rule and the tumultuous journey across continents. Beginning in early 20th-century India with Pirbhai, a young man taken to labor on the East African Railway, the narrative follows his descendants as they navigate life in British colonial Uganda, endure Idi Amin's brutal regime and the South Asian expulsion, and eventually seek refuge in Toronto. This multi-generational story explores the lasting legacy of a single act of survival and the weight of inherited silence, as a family scattered across the globe confronts their past and redefines their future.
Why You Should Read?
Experience a sweeping multi-generational saga against the backdrop of significant historical events.
Explore themes of colonialism, displacement, identity, and the enduring power of family secrets.
Gain insight into the East African Indian diaspora and the impact of political upheaval in Uganda.
Discover a compelling narrative of survival, resilience, and the search for belonging across continents.