
- Book title: “90 Days: The True Story of the Hunt for Rajiv Gandhi’s Assassins”
- Author: Anirudhya Mitra
- Publishers: HarperCollins India Publications India
- Publishing Year: 2022
- Reading Year: 2023
- Rating: 4.5/5 stars
“90 Days: The True Story of the Hunt for Rajiv Gandhi’s Assassins” is a captivating non-fiction book that delves into the investigation and eventual capture of the killers of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Written by journalist Anirudhya Mitra, who covered the story as it unfolded, the book provides a detailed and insightful analysis of the events leading up to the assassination and the subsequent 90-day manhunt that ensued.
Mitra provides a unique perspective on the investigation, drawing on his personal experiences and interviews with key players involved in the case. He presents a comprehensive overview of the political and social context that led to the assassination, as well as the complex web of conspiracies and cover-ups that followed.
What sets “90 Days” apart from other true crime books is Mitra’s ability to humanize the story. He delves into the personal lives of the assassins, revealing their motivations and the factors that drove them to commit such a heinous act. Mitra also sheds light on the impact of the assassination on the victims’ families and the wider Indian society.
Mitra’s book is an impressive work of investigative journalism, offering a comprehensive and nuanced account of the events leading up to and following the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. His writing style is clear and engaging, drawing readers into the story and allowing them to feel as if they are a part of the investigation themselves.
One of the strengths of Mitra’s writing is his ability to humanize the assassins, providing insight into their motivations and thought processes. He also provides a detailed account of the political and social context surrounding the assassination, highlighting the complex web of conspiracies and cover-ups that followed. His attention to detail and deep knowledge of the subject matter make for a compelling read.
As for suggestions for the author, one area where Mitra could have delved further is the impact of the assassination on Indian society as a whole. While he does touch on this topic, it would have been interesting to explore it in greater depth. Additionally, Mitra’s focus on the investigation and capture of the assassins means that he only briefly touches on Gandhi’s life and legacy. A more in-depth exploration of Gandhi’s political career and the impact of his assassination on the political landscape of India would have added to the book’s overall depth and complexity.
Overall, “90 Days: The True Story of the Hunt for Rajiv Gandhi’s Assassins” is a well-written and thoroughly researched account of a tragic event in Indian history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, political history, and the intricacies of investigative journalism.
