Tarnish every person, institution, period from which people may derive pride, confidence; ascribe tolerance, magnanimity to the intolerant; portray the inclusive, open tradition as the one out to swallow others, and the exclusives; totalitarian ideology as the ideology of broad - mindedness, of peace, tolerance / denounce as `communal' anyone who demands proof / blame victims for the consequences of the ideology of the oppressors / suppress the role of comrades in aiding imperial rulers / tarnish leaders, reformers who led the national movement / all the while control institutions, hog patronage, exercise power, and have a good time...that seems to be the role that most modern Indian historians play. Author Arun Shourie in this controversial picture of new age historians rips the facade off the creation of what is acceptable history and uncovers how historians can distort, destroy and mutilate history.

Arun Shourie is one of India's best known commentators on current and political affairs. He has been an economist with the World Bank, a consultant to the Planning Commission and Editor of The Indian Express. His writings have gained him a vast following across the country, as well as several national and international awards.