Book Title: Era of India
Author: Minhaz Merchant
Publisher: Vintage Books
Number of Pages: 544
ISBN: 0143478478
Date Published: Jan. 26, 2026
Price: INR 652 / $40
Book Review
Minhaz Merchant’s “Era of India” is a provocative analysis of global history, power dynamics, and economic transformation, asserting that history is returning to Asia after centuries of Western dominance. The book argues that the West’s exceptional period of influence, driven by colonialism and industrial advancement, will give way to a new era dominated by Asian powers, particularly India and China. Merchant draws on various domains, including economics and geopolitics, to support his thesis.
Inside the book the author examines Asia’s historical leadership across various fields, noting its decline after 1800 due to Western dominance, particularly following the Industrial Revolution. He anticipates transformative technological developments by 2050 that could reshape global relations. The text identifies a geopolitical framework led by the US, China, and India, implying Europe’s decline due to fragmentation and weakened transatlantic ties. Merchant critiques Western progress for its ethical dilemmas linked to colonial violence while recognizing its cultural contributions. He evaluates China’s economic reforms and governance under Xi Jinping, contrasting this with India’s rise as a non-colonial power rooted in democratic values and economic cooperation.
Further, he calls for a reevaluation of Western narratives to include non-Western contributions and acknowledge the negative impacts of Western expansion. The book is presented as a reinterpretation of history, articulating that nations rise and fall to their natural levels, with the tide of Western hegemony receding. “Era of India” subsequently traces India’s economic journey since 1947, assessing its trajectory towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, while discussing the historical impact of colonialism, modern infrastructure initiatives, and geopolitical relations.
Overall, it is a deeply researched work that provides a comprehensive look at India’s past and its implications for the future global order.
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