Bridging Identities, Building Democracy

A chronicle of India's political landscape over the last several decades as experienced from within the halls of power

- By SOUMYA BHOWMICK

r Najma Heptulla's autobiography, In Pursuit of Democracy, offers an intimate, profound-ly reflective account of her life, navigating the inter-wined paths of personal identity, political evolution, and public service. This book is more than a memoir; it is a vivid chronicle of India's political landscape over the last several decades, as experienced from within the halls of power. Through Dr Heptulla's lens, readers gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of maintaining democratic ideals in an evolving and often turbulent political environment.

Dr Heptulla's journey from young dreamer in Bhopal to one of India's most prominent Muslim women in politics is inspiring and thought-provoking. Born into a distinguished Muslim family in Bhopal, Dr Heptulla's lineage includes Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India's first education minister and a towering figure in the country's freedom struggle. She remembers him fondly: "Dada Abba always said, 'Whatever trade you take up, make yourself the best at it so that you are known for your trade and not your family'." Her heritage, combined with the strong women in her family, imbued her with the values of education, pluralism, and gender equality.