History, geography, religion and culture have bound Nepal and India into an extraordinary relationship. While many Nepalis actively participated in India’s Independence movement, New Delhi too has played an important role in the political evolution of its landlocked northern neighbour. These elements of affinity, exacerbated by asymmetries in area and population are, however, responsible for the rancour underlying the uneven relationship. Many Indians, like most Nepalis, are also exasperated by the resentment this proximity has produced. Preconceived notions and outright prejudices have tightened this embrace of estrangement. New Delhi’s ‘big brother act’ has been stifling for many Nepalis. This was more pronounced when Nepal got painted red with the incessant battering of the Maoist rebels and was split between monarchy and republicanism. This book takes an unconventional approach to India-Nepal relations. Devoid of the abstractions of the academic tomes that fill up bookshelves, this volume also steers clear of the detachment of a historical account. The book draws from a plethora of documents in the public record though it also relies on the author’s personal experience.

The provocative title encapsulates the crisp message: How independent India has virtually adopted British colonial policies towards Nepal. By elucidating the misgivings and follies that have long constrained the relationship, the book sets out to explore the inherent possibilities.

About the Author

Sanjay Upadhya is a Nepalese journalist specializing in the country’s politics. Raised and educated in the United States, Thailand, India and Nepal, Upadhya was a Fulbright Scholar at New York University from 1993 to 1996.In a career spanning over two decades, Upadhya has worked for, among other organizations, The Rising Nepal, The Times (London), Inter Press Service and Khaleej Times (Dubai) and has reported from United Nations headquarters in New York City. Upadhya, who holds masters degrees in journalism and business administration, has appeared frequently on BBC World Service television and radio as a commentator on Nepalese political affairs. Author of hundreds of commentaries and analyses in English and Nepali, Upadhya contributed a widely quoted chapter on Nepal’s political evolution to “State of Nepal,” published in 2002 by Kathmandu - based Himal Books. He also wrote a chapter on Nepal-India relations in the context of South Asian political and security dynamics for The India Doctrine, published in 2006 by Dhaka-based Bangladesh Research Forum.