Insights Into History and Culture
A Thought-Provoking Book by Mahmood Hassan, IAS
A reflective journey through history, culture, secularism, and civilizational dialogue—rooted in scholarship, governance, and lived experience.
About the Author
Mahmood Hassan is an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, historian, and acclaimed writer whose career bridges scholarship, governance, and cultural discourse. He hails from North Lakhimpur in Assam’s Lakhimpur district and holds a strong academic foundation in History.
He completed his graduation in History (Honours) from Ramjas College, University of Delhi in 1989, followed by a Post-Graduation in History with specialization in Medieval Indian History from the Faculty of Arts, Delhi University in 1991. While pursuing his M.Phil. in East Asian Studies, he was selected for the Assam Civil Services in 1992.
Over the years, Mr. Hassan has held several key administrative positions in the Government of Assam, including:
Director, Char Areas Development, Assam
Director, Assam Minorities Development Board
Additional Secretary, Environment & Forest Department
Secretary, Administrative Reforms & Training, Pension & Public Grievances Department
He was promoted to the rank of Commissioner & Secretary and subsequently inducted into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) cadre in 2025, where he currently continues to serve as Secretary.
Alongside his administrative career, Mahmood Hassan is a well-known columnist who regularly contributes to The Assam Tribune, The Sentinel, and other reputed periodicals. He is also the author of the travel book Enchanting Bhutan, reflecting his keen observational eye and cultural sensitivity.
About The book
The essays explore a wide spectrum of themes, including:
The Sufi and Bhakti movements and their civilizational impact
Positive developments within the Islamic world
The need to curb rising jihadi terrorism
Misrepresentation of medieval Indian history in media and textbooks
Contributions of British historians during the colonial period
Discourses on communalism and secularism
Special emphasis is given to Assam’s history, including its literary renaissance, cultural efflorescence, and the urgent need for conservation of archaeological and historical heritage. The book balances academic rigor with accessibility, making complex historical narratives relevant to contemporary readers.
Why Read This Book
- Historically Grounded
Written by a trained historian with deep specialization in Medieval Indian History. - Balanced & Thoughtful
Offers reasoned perspectives on sensitive issues like religion, communalism, and secularism.
- Relevant to Today
Connects historical understanding with present-day socio-political realities. - Focus on Assam’s Heritage
Provides rare insights into Assam’s cultural, literary, and historical evolution. - Accessible Essays
Ideal for scholars, students, civil service aspirants, and informed readers alike.
Book available on
Get in Touch with the Author
Mahmood Hassan welcomes engagement from readers, scholars, students, and institutions interested in history, culture, governance, and social harmony.
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