History's Angel by Anjum Hasan
The Power of History and The Struggle for Identity and Belonging
Anjum Hasan's book "History's Angel" takes readers on a poignant journey through the worries and daily struggles of Alif, a gentle Muslim schoolteacher and his family. Set in Delhi in 2019, the book explores the profound impact of India's rising tensions and uncertainties on individuals and communities. The book highlights the disturbing times that Muslims in India are living through, shedding light on the complexities and anxieties of being a minority in a country grappling with its own identity crisis.
Alif is anxious and fearful about the current situation in India, where the government passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) that granted citizenship to non-Muslim immigrants from neighbouring countries. The CAA sparked widespread demonstrations and violence across the country, especially among the Muslim community, which felt threatened and discriminated by the law.
Amidst the chaos, Alif turns to history to make sense of the increasingly perilous present. He finds comfort in the stories of medieval heroes and draws parallels between their struggles and the challenges faced by his community. History becomes a tool for Alif to understand his identity and his role as a member of a marginalised community in a society that has shifted towards majoritarian and sectarian ideologies.
Anjum Hasan  is not afraid to voice her thoughts about the problems and challenges that India faces in the 21st century. The book can be seen as a critique of the country's turbulent political and social climate, as well as a warning about the dangers that divisive ideologies pose to the democratic and secular values enshrined in India’s constitution. All these elements combine to make History's Angel a compelling and meaningful read.
"History's Angel" is also a testament to the power of compassion and empathy. Through her characters, Hasan invites readers to step into the shoes of those who are often overlooked or misunderstood. By shedding light on the struggles of marginalized communities, she encourages society to embrace diversity and foster a sense of inclusivity. Fostering a greater understanding of the challenges faced by minority groups in India, Hasan's insightful and compassionate approach prompts us to question our own biases and prejudices.