Book Review : An Indian Woman In Islamabad

Where do I start? When I started reading this memoir, I wondered if I would get an insight into the condition of Pakistan from someone who has seen Pakistan through their own eyes,someone unbiased in their political and religious beliefs. This book provides just that. It follows the life of Ruchi Ghanashyam who was an Indian diplomat posted in Islamabad for 3 years, between 1997-2000 a tumultuous period for both the countries. Having been in Pakistan during the Kargil war and the hijacking of Indian aircraft IC 814, Ruchi describes how life was in Pakistan. The highs and the lows, and the decline of Pakistan as a nation since independence. You realise how in-adept and rigid Pakistan is, with the Pakistan Army having extreme control over patriarchal and Islamist laws. Far from the vision that Jinnah had of a secular Pakistan, this novel highlights how Pakistan keeps trying to level up to India whilst causing self destruction and harm to its own countrymen. The killings of all minorities, ahmadis, and even Shia Muslims along with rapes being equated to adultery in Pakistan, thus denying women of their rights, shows the regressive society that Pakistan still is. Despite having had a few good moments during her stay in Islamabad, some parts of the memoir will frustrate you, cause you to yell but in the end be thankful for being an Indian. This book provides a perfect foundation to invoke patriotism and be thankful to not be in a nation riddled with insecurity, terrorism and military propaganda.

Rating : 4.5/5 ⭐️