For William Dalrymple, the secret to his extraordinary success lies in a simple yet profound philosophy: “Doing what I love.” The 59-year-old British historian and author, now based in India, credits his passion for history and storytelling as the driving force behind his numerous achievements.
Despite an impressive career spanning decades, Dalrymple remains grounded. “It doesn’t feel like I’ve accomplished everything,” he says. “Each project has taken years of dedication and effort.”
A Legacy of Accolades
Dalrymple’s work has earned him widespread acclaim and prestigious awards, including the Wolfson Prize for History, the Duff Cooper Memorial Prize, and the Arthur Ross Medal from the United States Council on Foreign Relations. He was also honored with the British Academy’s President’s Medal for his contributions to the humanities and, in 2023, was named a Commander of the Order of the British Empire for his services to literature and the arts.
Beyond his books, Dalrymple is a prolific contributor to publications like The Guardian and The New Yorker. He is also a co-founder of the globally renowned Jaipur Literary Festival and an accomplished broadcaster, art historian, and photographer.
When you’re passionate about what you do, work turns into a joy,” he explains. “It’s not only the pathway to success but also the essence of a truly fulfilling life.
Challenges of the Writing Process
Despite his passion, Dalrymple is candid about the challenges of writing. “Starting a book is always the toughest part,” he admits, comparing the initial stages to climbing a steep hill. “But once you find your rhythm, the process becomes rewarding.”
This perseverance has led to the creation of numerous celebrated works, including The Last Mughal, White Mughals, and his latest release, The Golden Road: How Ancient India Transformed the World.
Exploring India’s Legacy
In The Golden Road, Dalrymple explores ancient India’s profound influence on global civilization. The book delves into the spread of Buddhism, Hinduism, and the country’s revolutionary advancements in mathematics and astronomy.
“Not many people realize that the numeric system we use today, including the concept of zero, originated in India,” he shares. “These contributions are a testament to the country’s incredible intellectual legacy.”
Balancing Work and Life
Dalrymple’s love for history extends beyond his writing. He enjoys traveling to historic sites like Angkor Wat and Borobudur, experiences that inspire his work. Recently, he ventured into podcasting with Empire, which now boasts nearly 900,000 weekly listeners.
When not traveling, Dalrymple resides on a self-sufficient farm near New Delhi with his wife and children. There, they grow vegetables, produce honey, and rear goats—a lifestyle he found particularly valuable during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Looking Forward
Currently promoting The Golden Road across the globe, Dalrymple is also contemplating future projects, including a book on the Opium War. “It’s a dark yet fascinating chapter of history that deserves deeper exploration,” he says.
For Dalrymple, success is about more than accolades or recognition. It’s about staying true to his passions, embracing challenges, and continuously seeking inspiration. His journey serves as a testament to the power of doing what you love and the rewards it brings.