My favourite medium viz: books is simply one of the best ways to gain knowledge. This Republic Day introduce your kids to the multifarious facets of our beautiful nation- India, with our specially curated children’s literature. Discover art, culture, monuments, and much more with these lovely books about India, which also include topics around history, mythology etc. There are selections for all age groups of children ensuring that every child is covered and will find something enjoyable as well as learn from.
- 1. A Children’s History of India by Subhadra Sen Gupta
This book for children gives an overview of ancient Indian history. The beautiful illustrations and simple language make learning history both engaging and fun. Different periods of Indian history are divided into different chapters, thereby providing a clarity of events around that time period.
There is a brief explanation of the political, social events and the lifestyle of the people. Several facts are included that will prove beneficial as an academic study and help enhance knowledge of children. If your child is above 10 years of age and interested in learning history, this book is a must-have.
- 2. We the Children of India by Leila Seth and illustrated by Bindia Thapar
Seth’s book, which has amazing illustrations by Bindia Thapar, explains the Preamble of our Constitution to India’s youth. This book, which is packed with fascinating facts and rare images, is sure to be a hit in the classrooms too.
Some notable pictures from the India International Centre Library and the Nehru Memorial Museum in New Delhi are also included in this book. If your child is 8+ years and you want to foster patriotism in him, this is a good book to start with.
- 3. Let’s go Time Travelling: Life in India through the Ages written by Subhadra Sen Gupta and illustrated by Tapas Guha
Perfect for your 10-year-old child. This book delves deep into the time-traveling realms, leading youngsters on a journey through history that is both intriguing and furthers their curiosity. From the Harappans to the Mauryan, Mughals to the British, it’s almost like taking a step back in time. Explore the vibrant culture of India and gain an insight into some of the country’s most fascinating facts.
Most history books deal with the hard facts that are required for answering exam papers without explaining the whys and wherefores of everyday life. But this book is both instructive and amusing, with comic images that appeal to today’s children, occasionally touching on current Indian political events that everyone is aware of.
- 4. Little Indians written by Pika Nani
This book is a collection of fascinating facts and interesting stories from the different parts of the Indian continent. Discover the lives of many little Indians (child protagonists) as you travel through 15 different states of the country.
Within each story, the writer has spun fascinating facts and fictional tales. Explore the pages to find answers to the many questions woven in each chapter. There are many innovative stories, each of them connecting perfectly with the unique regions of this vast nation. This book is recommended for children between the ages of 9 to 12 years.
- 5. Jawahar Lal Nehru – The Jewel of India by Aditi De
The author recounts the life of one of the leading figures of India. She discusses his thoughts and actions, describes his interest in the subjects like science and books, his time in England as a student, and his involvement in the Indian Independence Movement. In addition, she details how he helped shape the new democratic Republic of India.
Through this book, the young ones (9+ years old) can gain an insight into the life of the first Prime Minister of India and the events that shaped it.
Fun Fact: On August 14, 1947, at 12 a.m., Jawaharlal Nehru stood to address the newly independent India as its first Prime Minister. He was clad in a pale cream achkan and wore a white khadi hat.
- 6. Amazing India: A State-by-State Guide by Anita Vachharajani
Providing an impressive tour of the Indian States, this book is a fascinating read for children between 9 to 12 years. It focuses on the different states of India. There is extensive information about the languages, cultures, and fine arts of each state. A perfect book for children to read and learn at the same time. This book includes colorful illustrations that can keep children actively engaged.
- 7. Mahatma Gandhi – The Father of the Nation by Subhadra Sen Gupta
This book by Gupta is an inspiring narrative about a brave freedom fighter and a lauded visionary. Using Mahatma Gandhi’s journey and his struggles as a model, the book explores the real life of this great Indian leader. The author discusses Gandhi Ji’s efforts and dedication to free our country from the tyranny of British rule.
The perfect book to introduce your children (aged 10 years and above) to his history and legacy.
Fun Fact: Nelson Mandela refers to him as a “holy warrior,” while others refer to him as “the spinning wheel’s saint,” and we now refer to him as our “Father of the Nation.”
- 8. Subhas Chandra Bose – The Great Freedom Fighter by Anu Kumar
Netaji was a brilliant political theorist and radical nationalist who was highly engaged in India’s political life. During World War II, he was a leader of the Indian National Congress (INC) in the 1930s and the Indian National Army (INA). This gripping history is ideal for kids aged 7 to 12 years andprovides fascinating insights about Netaji’s illustrious life, and sheds light on his enigmatic death in 1945.
Netaji continues to inspire young readers even today with his skills like leadership, honesty, integrity, and courage.
To Conclude–
As a parent, is there anything more rewarding than seeing our child read and learn at the same time?
It’s our responsibility to make sure we don’t miss out on teaching-learning opportunities. With books (especially history books) that have interesting narratives, fascinating facts and intriguing illustrations, we can instill a love of learning in our children and help them develop a sense of pride in our country, heritage and eventually make them responsible citizens who will willingly go all-out to make the nation better.
Here are a few other interesting facts about Republic Day
- On 26th January 1950, “The Constitution” came into effect in India. That’s why this day is known as Republic Day.
- Every year, a parade is held at Rajpath.
- Dr Rajendra Prasad was sworn in as the first President of India.
- Writing the constitution took 166 days, spread over 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days.
- There are two handwritten copies of the Indian Constitution preserved in cases filled with helium at the Parliament of India.
