Saran questions, among other things, the Chinese claim that it was the most important and influential civilization of the ancient world, arguing that it was India who played that role.

As a work of history, How China Sees India and the World is superb and tells its story not just in big, bold strokes but also through entertaining nuggets such as the spread of the chopstick, or how the word ‘zen’ arose from ‘dhyan’.

As a work of political analysis, especially of contemporary China and India, it is erudite, acute and strongly argued, based on close readings of contemporary Chinese scholarship, CCP leadership speeches and writings, and through Saran’s own experiences as diplomat and Foreign Secretary. Utterly compelling, How China Sees India and the World is a masterpiece – a work that will become a classic.