Book Review #62 The Palace Of Illusions: Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Blurb:

The Palace of Illusions takes us back to a time that is half-history, half-myth, and wholly magical; narrated by Panchaali, the wife of the five Pandava brothers, we are -- finally -- given a woman's take on the timeless tale that is the Mahabharata Tracing Panchaali's life -- from fiery birth and lonely childhood, where her beloved brother is her only true companion; through her complicated friendship with the enigmatic Krishna; to marriage, motherhood and Panchaali's secret attraction to the mysterious man who is her husbands' most dangerous enemy -- The Palace of Illusions is a deeply human novel about a woman born into a man's world -- a world of warriors, gods and the ever manipulating hands of fate. ‘A mythic tale brimming with warriors, magic and treachery’ Los Angeles Times ‘A radiant entree into an ancient mythology . . . Charming and remarkable’ Houston Chronicle ‘A woman’s look at crime and punishment, loyalty, promises, love and vengeance . . . With The Palace of Illusions, Divakaruni has proven that her storytelling talents put her right up there with the best’ Miami Herald

My Take:

Mahabharata, an epic book most of us know the story and now many authors write about the characters and their point of view. But for me, the first author to write from Draupadi's point of view a story is Chitra Banerjee.

She has written this ground breaking Draupadi's point of view in the said book. Also known as Panchali, she is a strong lady, with a mind of her own. This book traces her journey, her childhood, her relationship with her husbands and Krishna. A complex character that she is,the author has explained her personality very well in a layman's language. The highlight for me is her relation with Krishna, a platonic relation but the most important one. 

When I read this book the first time, I was surprised. Surprised that no one had taught that way. She is the one blamed for the Mahabharata and destruction. But is she the one?? Was she the reason??  She was attracted to one of her husband's nemesis. But she made a choice that she regretted, of not allowing her heart to lead. A bold yet very riveting take on the famous epic.

I have read this more than once and every time I learn something new, find something new to ponder about.  The book now has completed a decade. I guess the success itself speaks volumes about this book and the author. Now a review would not do justice to this amazing book.

My Take:

Hats off Chitra and here's wishing you all the bery best for all ypur future books and yes waiitng to lay my hands on The Forest of Enchantments. I am sure you would have woven magic with the story of Sita too.

Grab a copy if you still haven't, this one is gold and classic. You can buy the book here.