Since its first publication in 1985,

has received wide critical acclaim. The temporal setting of the text – from 1932 to the mid 1970s – weaves together critical moments in Indian history: the Freedom struggle, the Partition, the Indian Independence and its aftermath, the Emergency (1975-1977) being the pivotal point in the text. Although Sahgal is closely related to the illustrious Nehru family, in

she impugns the dynastic politics of her first cousin Indira Gandhi through an examination of the Emergency and its implications for Indian democracy. The Emergency, Indira Gandhi’s brainchild, is projected as “a thinly disguised masquerade, preparing the country for family rule” (Sahgal 1987: 29).

Rich Like Us pursues the ramifications of the Emergency

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Citation: Silva, Neluka. "Rich Like Us". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 09 May 2003 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/sworks.php?rec=true&UID=12222, accessed 21 November 2024.]