Set in the
backdrop of Hindu mythology, Kavita Kane has fictioned an alluring ode to
Sita's sister, Urmila.
This book is about Urmila. A lesser known character in Indian mythology,
who is mentioned mostly as Lakshman’s wife or as Sita’s younger sister. But the
book for the first time takes the reader through the happenings in the lives of
the four sisters & the royal family of Ayodhya from the point of view of
Urmila.
A woman of immense strength and conviction, stands out in this tableau
of tears and tragedy - Urmila, whose husband, Lakshman, has chosen to accompany
his brother Ram to the forest. She could have insisted on joining Lakshman, as
did Sita with Ram, but she did not. Why did she agree to be left behind in the
palace, waiting for her husband for 14 painfully long years? This novel aims to
tell her story.
Kane refers to Urmila who was wise beyond her years, she is this strong
lady who faces each problem coming her way very bravely. She speaks her mind
freely without being disrespectful. She doesn’t tolerate injustice. She isn’t
just a wife. She is a painter & a scholar. When Lakshman leaves her behind
to follow his brother into exile she is strong enough to overcome her pain and
continue living her life. While she certainly loves him she doesn’t waste her
life pining for him. While he is constantly in her thoughts, her life doesn’t
stop without him.
One does not need to know the background, one can enjoy the story as the
style is simple and easy on the eye. Closing the evening with reading from the
book, Kane certainly has piqued the interest of the audience and hopes that
there will be more to be captivated by.
Reported by Seema Chinchore
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