The heritage walk with the author, through the lanes and history of the city is astonishing. So much is already written about the city, but the interesting little details added about the places and people, could be done only by a local.
I enter into the book through a door at Panchganga Ghat, sketched by James Princip in 1820's The stairs are seen, on which Kabir touched Guru Ramanand's feet and attained enlightenment.
The Nath of the city is Lord Vishwanath, where Ramayan was composed by Goswami Tulsidas on its Ghats. The famous Ramleela was played even before he wrote Ramcharitmanas. Before it was for educated class, afterwards masses also enjoyed it.
The life and times of the giants of Hindi literature like Bhartandu Harishchand, Jaishankar Prasad. Ramchandra Shukl, 'Hariaudh', Premchand is engaging, informative and a delight to read.
The journey of tabla maestros like Gudai Maharaj, Kishan Maharaj, Lachhu Maharaj and renowned musicians like Pt Ravi Shankar, Chunnulal Mishra captivates throughout.
The book leaves many pictures in the mind i.e. ever-loving Bismillah Khan's lying in the charpaye
smoking, or playing shehnai while leading the Muharram procession.
The language may be difficult at certain chapters, but it never slows down the flow.
I recommend this book to all my friends for an informative and delightful reading.
