With a population that would make it the fifth most populated in the world if it were a country, Uttar Pradesh has undoubtedly been India's most politically important state since Independence. It sends the highest number of Lok Sabha members to Parliament and has the biggest legislature in the country. It also has to its credit the highest number of prime ministers and powerful political dynasties.

Yet it has been behind several states, despite being home to bastions of some of the biggest names in Indian politics. With its clear and decisive imprint on national politics, UP also reflects some of its worst ills: from casteism and using religion as a political plank to manoeuvring for power.

From Lucknow to Lutyens tells the fascinating story of UP in post-Independence India and the intertwined fortunes of the two.