The book “Roses in December” was authored by Mahomedali Currim Chagla (1900–1981), former Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court and a diplomat. The book is a narrative of his life and experiences, encompassing his distinguished legal and diplomatic career.

About the book “Roses in December”

The title Roses in December is taken from a beautiful quote by J.M. Barrie: "God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December." For M.C. Chagla, "December" refers to the late stage of his life, and the "roses" are the precious memories he can look back on. He feels that even though he is in the winter of his life, these memories of his hard work, his time on the bench, and his service to the country stay fresh and fragrant like roses. It’s a way of saying that a life spent with purpose provides comfort and happiness even when one grows old and is no longer in power.

The book offers a fascinating account of Chagla’s life and career, including his experiences as a judge during India’s independence and partition, his role in the creation of the Indian Constitution, and his service as India’s ambassador to the United States. The book also paints a vivid picture of Indian society and politics in the mid-twentieth century.

Overall, “Roses in December” is a must-read for anybody interested in Indian history and politics, as well as the life of one of the country’s most illustrious jurists and diplomats.