These stories of chivalry and romance that cover several centuries are based both on history and the epic poetry of the great bards. Great literature enhances the appeal of history and the bards gave complete freedom to their fervid, imaginative verse about war, bravery, love, great deeds, glory, sacrifice and death. The historical events and bardic legends in these vignettes relate generally to Rajasthan, central and western India, but some cover a larger geographical canvas of the country. In this saga of the heroic men of history and legends, which often converge, you also meet fascinating women like the Rani of Jhansi, the beautiful Mastani and the Ranis and Begums of Bhopal. The author’s approach in this book makes us revisit the turning points in Indian history that add to our rich heritage and culture.