This short novel deals with the colossal tragedy which befell the rich and happy state of Punjab when Independence came to India in 1947. The communal instinct of leaders led to the dismemberment of Punjab. In the inter-communal violence which broke out, one million human beings were slaughtered, hundreds of thousands of women were abducted and raped, properties worth billions of rupees were looted and twenty million people were torn from their roots. The novel depicts a realistic picture of the politician-made calamity, which has been largely obfuscated. It also gives a peep into the life and psyche of a community that has, throughout its existence, faced endless ordeals with courage and strength which flow from its religious faith.