Mandu: The City of Joy, penned by G. Yazdani, offers a comprehensive exploration of the history and monuments of Mandu, enriched with numerous photographs and architectural plans.Mandu, presently known as Mandav, was historically celebrated as Shadiabad, which translates to City of Joy. The city is situated approximately 35 km from Dhar in the Madhya Pradesh region of northern-central India. The city, fortified since 600 BC, rose to significance under King Bhoj and later thrived under Muslim rule. The hill on which Mandu is located rises 633 m above sea level. Mandu is endowed with attractive natural scenery, which is best seen during the rainy season. The area is green, with a number of brooks and torrents. The beauty is enhanced by about a dozen lakes and ponds interspersed on its top.

The book provides a clear and detailed historical account of Mandu and its monuments. It helps readers understand the city's rich past, its architectural heritage, and its cultural significance. With photographs and architectural plans, the book serves as a comprehensive guide to Mandu's historical and architectural treasures.

Historical Narrative: The book focuses on providing a clear historical narrative of Mandu, including its rulers, dynasties, and important events. Architectural Description: It highlights the various monuments and architectural structures in Mandu, describing their design, construction, and historical significance. Cultural Synthesis: The book showcases Mandu as a city where Hindu and Islamic cultures intersected and influenced its architecture and society.

Mandu is known for the love story of Baz Bahadur and Rupmati. The city represents a blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Despite being in ruins today, Mandu remains a specimen of Afghan architecture in India.

G. Yazdani's work in documenting Islamic, Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain sites in the Hyderabad state was instrumental in preserving India's cultural heritage. His archaeological surveys, published as Annual Reports of the Archaeological Department of His Exalted Highness the Nizam's Dominions, have contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation of India's rich history.