In the Permanent Way

"In the Permanent Way" by Flora Annie Steel is a story set in 19th-century India that blends culture, religion, and the impact of colonial rule. It tells the story of Deen Mahomed, an elderly Muslim watchman tasked with guarding a church that used to be a tomb. As he juggles his identity between two religions, he faces both social challenges and personal struggles. The story begins when his grandson, Rahmut, is tragically injured in an accident. This tragedy forces him to explore his beliefs more deeply amidst the turmoil of colonial India. Through the lives of its characters and the historical tensions they face, the novel paints a vivid picture of identity, faith, and the lasting effects of colonialism.