Most of us in the Indian society have grown up listening to / watching the epic saga's of Mahabharata and Ramayana in the most sacred manner or should I say interpreted in a certain (same) way. Now imagine, reading the same story but from a completely different perspective. Author Chitra Banerjee has dared to break away from normal and retell the story from the woman's perspective. She doesn't change the story, nor does she provide an alternative ending, but instead she offers a fresh new perspective. Imagine seeing it through Draupadi's eyes - the woman who started it all or through Sita's eyes - the women who gave her all.
So if you are into mythology or are looking for a fresh perspective of life, I would definitely recommend you to read the below books.
1. The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
2. The Forest of Enchantments by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Both the books are a strong comment on duty, infidelity, betrayal and honour and also about women's struggle to retain her autonomy in a world that privileges and honours a man, as Chitra transforms an ancient story into a engaging and contemporary battle of wills.
While the Ramayana & Mahabharata resonate even today, she makes it more relevant than ever, with the main questions in the novel: How should women be treated by their loved ones? What are their rights in a relationship? When does a woman need to stand up and say, 'Enough!'
So, pick up a copy and let me know what you think about these books. Hope you enjoy reading them just as much as I did :)
Tulika Garg
( Singapore )