'Dear Zahira, With Love' Explores the Human Impact of Partition Through Fiction

PTI, June 29, 2026, New Delhi:  As Imtiaz Ali's "Main Vaapas Aaunga", set amid the upheaval of the 1947 Partition, continues to tug at heartstrings in theatres, author Sachin NG hopes to take the theme forward in literature with "Dear Zahira, With Love", a poignant tale inspired by a true story from the aftermath of Partition.

Told through the lives of protagonists Ghulam Ali and Zahira Raza, the novel, published by Grapevine Books, explores how "love endures across newly drawn borders, bringing to life a deeply human story of separation, longing and hope".

"People think Partition was a one-time event which got over in 1947, but it takes place every day, even now. Every time a sister misses her brother on the other side of the border, that's Partition in action.

"Every time a soldier leaves his house to go to the border to fight for his country, that's Partition in action. Every time India faces Pakistan in the Asia Cup, that's Partition in action," said the author in a statement.

Blending history with deeply human storytelling, Sachin brings to life the story of Ali and Raza, whose lives are torn apart by the events of 1947.

Separated by borders, Ali writes letters from the Hindu refugee camp in Lahore while Raza waits in Lucknow, holding on to hope amid uncertainty.

"Their story is a moving reminder that while borders may divide nations, they cannot always diminish the bonds of love and human connection," reads the description of the book.

Told through a heartfelt exchange of letters, "Dear Zahira, With Love", according to the publisher, brings to life the story of two people whose lives are shaped by the upheaval of Partition.

The book, priced at Rs 295, is currently available for purchase across online and offline stores.