Book discussion on role of INA trials in Indian independence in Bengaluru

Team Metrolife

An overlooked chapter in Indian history, often relegated to a footnote or a few pages, is what revived the Indian freedom movement in 1945. It is this episode that author Ashis Ray explores in his latest book, ‘The Trial That Shook Britain — How A Court Martial Hastened Acceptance of Indian Independence’. 

From 1939 to 1945, the Indian freedom movement had virtually come to a standstill, Ray notes. In 1945, after the end of World War II, public anger grew when they learnt of the efforts of the Indian National Army to liberate India.

It exploded when three officers who had defected from the British-commanded Indian Army were put on trial at the Red Fort. The book offers a blow-by-blow account of the trial, the arguments presented and its repercussions.

London-based Ray will be in Bengaluru on Thursday to discuss the book. 

January 8, 6.30 pm. At Bangalore International Centre, Domlur. For details, visit bangaloreinternationalcentre.org