While it was August 15, 1947 when India attained freedom from the British Raj, it was two years later on January 26, 1950, when the country officially became a Sovereign, Democratic, and Republic nation and adopted the Constitution. As we celebrate the 74th Republic Day of India today, we caught up with TOI Write India and AutHer Awards winner, Sutapa Basu, who recently published her new book 'The Birth of My Nation' for children. The book gives a brief history of the 28 states and eight Union Territories of India, which makes it an important book not just for kids but also for adults. In this interview, the author shares her inspiration for writing this book, lesser-known anecdotes from the book, and more. Excerpts:
1. What inspired you to write this book?
