#Review: Submerged Worlds by Vaishali Shroff

Rivers are not just water bodies; they are lifelines, storytellers, and witnesses to history. This book takes readers on an evocative journey through India’s rivers, weaving together their ecological, cultural, political, and economic significance. It is both an ode to the life-giving force of rivers and a stark reminder of the dangers posed by human interference.

From the fragile glaciers that feed these rivers to the bustling cities that exploit them, the book unpacks critical issues such as urban flooding, sand mining, dam construction, and river interlinking. Each chapter brings forth stories of those whose lives are inextricably linked with these water bodies—farmers facing droughts, communities battling displacement, and environmentalists striving for river revival.

What makes this book stand out is its seamless blend of research and storytelling. It does not merely present data on climate change and water scarcity but humanizes these crises, making them deeply relatable. The narrative is both urgent and poetic, compelling readers to listen to the rivers’ gentle yet desperate calls for restoration.

For anyone interested in environmental studies, history, or simply understanding India through its waterways, this book is a must-read. It is a poignant and necessary reminder that the fate of our rivers is, ultimately, the fate of our people.

An insightful and moving tribute to India’s rivers, their past, and their uncertain future.

Find this book here.