Masterji, Nathu, was born in the tiny village of Narangwalin the early twentieth century. His Sansi caste was declared a so-called Criminal Tribe by the British. They were forced to steal or beg for food, money and clothes. As a Sansi, he lived on the outermost fringes of the society being an untouchable. With the British ruling India and the iron-clad caste system firmly in place, he could not have anticipated much more than herding other peoples buffaloes for a living. But by sheer chance, little Nathu was admitted to the local government school. And it changed his life forever. However, the immense struggle that lay ahead of him was only just beginning. This is the story of Nathus incredible journey toward becoming Natha Singh, respected school teacher. The story, told in his own voice, relies on his stupendous memory to recall even minor incidents in his long and eventful life. Filled with descriptions and anecdotes, it paints many unforgettable scenes, and the narration tinged with a dry sense of humour makes for delightful reading. This inspiring and moving saga of courage, perseverance, and sterling integrity is rich in personal, historical and sociological detail. Natha Singh’s lifelong fight, for dignity and against the cruel caste system, is all too relevant in 21st century India.
