The Crooked Timber of New India is a sharp and thought-provoking collection of essays that examines the political, social, and cultural transformations shaping contemporary India. Parakala Prabhakar analyzes the rise of majoritarian politics, the shifting role of institutions, and the changing nature of public discourse with clarity and intellectual rigor. Drawing on history, philosophy, and current events, the book questions popular narratives around nationalism, democracy, and identity. The writing is analytical yet accessible, encouraging readers to think critically rather than accept simple explanations. It highlights the tensions between power, ideology, and constitutional values in modern India. Insightful and unapologetically reflective, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding India’s present—and its possible futures.