This year’s winning book, Sooraj Dee Akh (Sun’s Eye), is a work of historical fiction by Baldev Singh Sadaknama from Moga, Punjab, India. The novel explores the life and times of the legendary hero of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. This brilliantly written saga of the meteoric rise of Ranjit Singh and his Kingdom is based on four years of research by the author. The portrayal of key events and relationships of Ranjit Singh shine light on the depth and complexity of this larger than life leader under whose rule Punjab experienced a period of relative peace and prosperity. Ranjit Singh’s political intelligence, military strategies, diplomatic skills, and an inclusive approach to leadership and governance are unparalleled in the history of the region. The author does not eschew any words in depicting Ranjit Singh’s luxurious life-style and his love for many women. Tragically the illustrious empire collapsed shortly after his death in 1839 largely due to the infighting, conspiracies and sabotage of his successors and the colonizing powers.
