Preface to

the Second Edition

 

When KF Rustamji agreed to hand over his papers to me, he seemed doubtful whether a biography based on his diaries and articles would be popular with the readers. However, he repeatedly exuded confidence in his diaries that they would interest people as they concern men and matters of his age and reflect the spirit of his times. I was sure that a book on Nehru, based on the writings of a person who was in the constant company of the Prime Minister as his Chief Security Officer for six long years and, who recorded faithfully his observations and experiences in minute detail, would be an invaluable addition to existing Nehruana.

The first edition of this unique narrative proved an instant hit. It was reviewed widely and also figured on the bestsellers’ list for some weeks.

This second edition has been brought out in paperback, in the hope that a wider section of the audience would get to read an authentic first-person account of one of India’s greatest sons.