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BOOK REVIEW

TRAIN TO PAKISTAN
BY KHUSHWANT SINGH

Train to Pakistan is a novel about the partition
of India and the aftermath caused due to huge
displacement of people regardless of their family,
property and history. Here, Khushwant Singh
writes about a ctitious village, Mano Majra, situ-
ated in the Punjab province of un-partitioned
India.The story revolves around a few pivotal
characters: Government servants, religious
preachers or a common thug, and the e ect the
sudden announcement of a new state has on
them. Although, Mano Majra is a peaceful village
with both Muslims and Sikhs living in harmony, they are split in half because of
the ongoing riots and pillage. Some are forced to become refugees eeing for
their lives on “Train to Pakistan” where thousands are murdered, daily.

Partition of India is one of the saddest events in world history and in “Train to
Pakistan”; the reader comes across the plight of its victims. Apart from a historical
aspect, this book provides an insight into the human character. Author keeps stressing
on the innate love and respect Indians have for each other, despite di erent beliefs.
This book is an inspiring read because as the charac-
ters unfold, we come across their faiths, their anguish
and their ght to overcome the external, discord caus-
ing agents. My outlook regarding our cultural diversity
has broadened, my appreciation for small achieve-
ments in life has increased and this story gave and will
continue to give goosebumps as I read about the
sacri ce and sel essness of our brothers and sisters.
This book has had a signi cant impact on me, and it
will always be one of my top recommendations.

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