Book Review#58 Kaikeyi: The Mother of a God : Suresh Kala

Blurb:

Kaikeyi is considered the source and causal factor of Ramkatha, the story of Ram. In the novel, Kala has explored machinations of Kaikeyi's mind to present before you a comprehensive narrative loaded with meaning. He has successfully brought to fore the dimensions and sensitive aspects of the character. In this work, Kaikeyi addresses the emotional issues relevant even today, inspiring one to see the Ramkatha in a new light. This is a work brimming with possibilities. The way the writer has found new possibilities and potential directions for the narrative is highly praiseworthy. This story forges a new connection with the reader- a highly significant and interesting one. He comes face to face with the pages of Ramkatha that had never been turned before. Suresh Kala is an accomplished writer, who has an equal command over the language and the style. Not only does his language touch the very soul of the subject, it also establishes a rapport with it. The language, through a slow process brings to life argument for the subject in a way that no dimension remains untouched. His imaginative flights have made the subject very arresting. Giving a midas touch to contemporary realities, the novel becomes a vitally significant piece of work. I have full faith that Sri Kala's work shall prove to be a new, engaging experience for the readers.

My Take:

Mythology, I feel is a genre that hasn't been explored much. I love reading about mythological tales that are said from a point of view. Now we all know Mahabharata and Ramayana as it is shown or read. All spiritual books give us the gist. But narrating a story from a certain point of view is what making the reading more interesting.

Kaikeyi is one of the most controversial characters of Ramayana. A strong lady queen, mother, warrior who had her mind of own and the courage to stand by it.. A lot of emotions run through her, she has shades of grey. The way this story moves ahead from her point of view makes it more challenging and interesting. Hats off to the author for being able to pull off. We all know Kaikeyi as a mother turned villain, there's no much respect given to her in the versions written so far. She is a very strong woman and the way she takes things to her stride when she is blamed for all the unfortunate incidents  is very commendable.

A book sharing her point of view is a novice idea. I liked the way her character has shaped up and the shades of grey, we all have them and this is what makes her character more relatable. This story begins with the death of Sriram and Lakshman and a trial is done against Kaikeyi in an isolated forest. She is being blamed for the death of Dashratha , Sriram and Lakshman. Everyone has already pronounced her guilty and punished her in their mind. This book talks about the way she fights for her own self. Whether she is convicted or not is for you to find out. Grab a copy now to find out Why she did , what she did.

Rating: 

I would rate his 4.5/5 .

I received a copy in exchange of a honest review. This book enriched me as a person and also has presented Kaikeyi in a different light. My respect for her has grown manifolds.  Great job Mr Suresh Kala, hats off to the thought process of writing Kaikeyi different yet refreshing.

2019 has begun with a bang. Hope to come across many such beautiful stories.

You can buy the book here.