William Dalrymple is a distinguished Scottish historian and art historian based in India, renowned for his extensive contributions to literature and the arts. As a co-founder and co-director of the Jaipur Literature Festival, the world’s largest writers’ festival, he has played a pivotal role in promoting literary culture. His literary works, including award-winning titles such as “White Mughals” and “The Last Mughal,” have garnered numerous accolades, including the Wolfson Prize for History and the Duff Cooper Memorial Prize, showcasing his expertise in the historical narratives of India.

Dalrymple’s impact extends beyond writing; he is a celebrated broadcaster and curator. His BBC documentary series, “Indian Journeys,” which includes the acclaimed episode “Shiva’s Matted Locks,” won the Grierson Award for Best Documentary Series at BAFTA in 2002. His curatorial work includes significant exhibitions like “Princes and Painters in Mughal Delhi” and “Forgotten Masters: Indian Painting for the East India Company,” further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the art historical community.

In addition to his literary and curatorial achievements, Dalrymple has held prestigious academic positions, including Visiting Fellowships at Princeton and Brown University. His contributions to the humanities were recognized with the President’s Medal from the British Academy in 2018, and he was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2023 for his services to literature and the arts.

Dalrymple continues to influence contemporary thought through his writings and public engagements, regularly contributing to esteemed publications like The New York Review of Books and The Guardian. His recent works, including “The Anarchy,” have been critically acclaimed, further establishing him as one of the foremost historians of his generation, with a commitment to exploring the rich tapestry of India’s past and its global connections.