Demystifying Democracy in the Digital Age, This graphic novel tackles the complexities of Indian democracy in a clear and engaging way
Sometimes, going back to the basics is the only way to understand the complexity that comes with age. India is 75 years old, but our understanding of democracy and republic is lost in the digital din. This graphic book We, The Citizens: Strengthening the Indian Republic by Khyati Pathak, Anupam Manur, Pranay Kotasthane, is a unique attempt to educate the citizens about the policies that keep a democracy thriving and strengthen the foundations of a republic. It asks pertinent questions that touch every citizen’s life, such as what is a democracy? How is a republic different from a monarchy? How is anti-national different from anti-government?
The authors, a writer-cartoonist, a public researcher and an economics professor, call it an attempt to impart clarity on policymaking and implementation to strengthen the Indian republic. In the preface, the trio state, “We may be the world’s largest democracy, but we still need to work towards strengthening the foundations of our republic. We often find ourselves embroiled in petty debates while the most fundamental questions that affect us remain overlooked. We do not demand more from our legislators because of a lack of understanding on how public policy choices affect all of us.”
Believing in the power of engaged citizenry, they have interspersed the book with pop culture and historical nuances. So, you find Birbal, Rajnikanth and even Louis XIV in the book. And there are no quick fixes, just the desire to ignite the spark to make a change. They talk about the impact of policy in all ways—how it helps and when it doesn’t do good.
The book takes us back to our classrooms, and sensitises us to the news that keeps circulating around us. So, if you have been wondering why a prime minister runs a country but a president is the head of state, then you will get your answers.
The three authors explain the dynamics of state, market and society in every context. The citizens stand at the intersection of these three, yet are unaware of the full implications of these major aspects. They touch upon trade, what it is and how it benefits and when it doesn’t benefit.
Like wise owls, the authors take us through various social and economic dynamics, when the society needs a government to step in or when the market can correct itself. They also give facts and figures of the public expenditure, the facilities available, the need for state and private partnership and the need to evolve along with the times.
What I liked was the fact that they took us to the founding father’s visions, citing the importance of educating ourselves on policymaking and politics. The book achieves the purpose of giving the basics of policymaking. It is interspersed with pros and cons, and opens the mind. A glossary of references for further reading would have been good.
Book Details
Publisher: Penguin Books (Penguin Random House India)
Language: English
Paperback: 240 pages
Price: Rs 499 (Kindle Edition available)
Queen of Treasures 
The book seems to be a nice primer about democracy that teaches the basics, something that every citizen of the country should be aware of. What is nice is that the subject which can be pretty heavy is approached in a lighter manner.
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Yes, the graphic style does make it simple to understand the intricate workings of the government.
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After reading your review I feel this book should be read by all the generations especially kids as they are learning about Indian constitution and civics in school and this can help them to bring more clarity. Would love to read, will grab my copy soon.
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Oh yes, certainly a book that kids would learn easily from. very good graphics.
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I feel that this book should be included in the school syllabi. We Indians need to be reminded of we the citizens of India, have fundamental duties as well. We don’t even use our rights well. We have to make the government be accountable to the citizens. Your review does full justice to the book. I am going to share it with my daughter, Ambica and get her to read it.
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It is imperative that we as citizens should understand the basic tenets of our Constitution, our laws and what goes into forming a government. Investing in this book would definitely be worthwhile. I can read it and then pass it on to my kids for future reference.
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Whatever we read about rich legacy if India, I feel it’s less. Good that this book contains explaination in graphic manner that will keep readers engaged.
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The graphic novel “We, The Citizens” is a brilliant resource for understanding Indian democracy. Its engaging visuals and clear explanations make complex concepts accessible, fostering informed citizenship. A must-read for all ages.
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Nowadays when all ‘information’ and ‘knowledge’ is found only in the form of news channels or opinions from influencers, I’d say a book would be a more reliable source of learning about these things – and everyone should be conversant with these concepts.
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I think this book will be great for students specially who are learning about the constitution. The graphic presentations would be helpful for them too.
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Talking about democracy and making It interesting at the same time is a job wonderfully done by the authors. Democracy is a topic which is not only for adults to understand but also for the youth to grasp as they are the future of the country.
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politics is a subject that I’ve not been very clear about. But looking at the aspect that this is a graphic novel I’m sure that it will make it easier to understand. I’ve always had the doubt why the PM rules when president is the head of state. Will check this out
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