The Golden Pigeon

The story opens on a foggy morning in March 1950, when a mother runs back to her home in Old Delhi, unable to leave for Lahore. Her husband inadvertently boards the train to Pakistan with only one of their twin sons. The boys grow up mirroring the division of their nations. Uniquely, the spirit of Emperor Babur hovers over the narrative, longing for a reunited India

Shahid Siddiqui is an illustrious journalist, political activist, and former member of the Rajya Sabha (2002–2008). He grew up in the culturally rich lanes of Old Delhi and has edited prominent publications like Nai Duniya. While he has written extensively across English, Hindi, and Urdu media, The Golden Pigeon marks his debut fiction novel in English

The core of the book explores the deep psychological and physical divides created by the Partition through the eyes of the twin brothers, Shiraz and Aijaz. As one grows up in Ballimaran (Delhi) and the other in Lahore, their destinies unfold beyond their control. Described as both philosophical and unabashedly passionate, the book acts as a subtle commentary on the invisible forces that tear communities apart while celebrating the enduring bond of family