In the days of the Raj when maharajahs were richer than entire countries and gora sahibs ruled, fact and folklore often became one. One such story is that of Sultana Daku, a bandit who roamed the jungles and ravines of then United Provinces; looting and plundering and often murdering with impunity, he was terrifying figure for the people of those times. Finally, captured by British Police officer Freddie Young sometime in the early 20th Century, he was incarcerated in Najibabad fort and later hanged to death. Due to his sterling achievement, Young was feted by the people as the hero of the Rohilkhand region.
Re-interpreted
Sujit Saraf, the best selling author of “The Peacock Throne” recently unveiled his second book called “The Confession of Sultana Daku.” The IIT-educated author known for his powerful storytelling and in-depth knowledge of the Indian psyche has sought to re-interpret and re-tell the story of Sultana Daku. The book is a fictionalised account of the dacoit's life written in the form of a letter from Sultana to his son, which is being dictated by Sultana to a Gora sahib on the final night of his life when he is to be hanged. Talking about the inspiration for the book, Sujit says that he “stumbled upon” the incredible story of Sultana, while researching for another book. He adds that “it was Sultana's unshakeable belief in his destiny as a bandit, that drew me to his story” referring to his difference with the likes of Phoolan Devi and Nirbhay Gujjar who became dacoits to avenge the humiliation that they suffered.
