Peter Frankopan

The Antique Lands

Srinath Raghavan

A majestic narrative on the Silk Roads retells global history where West and Central Asia form the axis of power play. The historian as a captivating storyteller is less convincing when he turns prophetic. The roads may not rise again

A Fine Balance

Rajni George

The eighth Jaipur Literature Festival featured fewer superstars but sustained its literary value. Also, a swansong for a great writer—and another way of festival life