Book Talk

 God Of Small Things by Arundhati Roy 

"The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy is a literary masterpiece that takes readers on a complex and emotionally charged journey through the lives of the members of the Ipe family in Kerala, India. This novel weaves a captivating narrative of love, loss, societal norms, and the ever-present undercurrents of social injustice in post-colonial India.

Arundhati Roy's writing is nothing short of poetic. I remember reading this book during my 10th board and even the fear that boards could not overtake my interest in reading this masterpiece. Her prose is richly textured and filled with vivid descriptions of Kerala's lush landscapes, which starkly contrast the dark secrets hidden within the Ipe family. Roy's keen attention to detail and her ability to evoke sensory experiences make the setting come alive, immersing readers in the region's sights, sounds, and smells.

One of the novel's most remarkable aspects is its character development. No matter how minor, each character is meticulously crafted, with unique struggles, desires, and motivations. Estha and Rahel, in particular, are portrayed with a depth that makes them feel like real people, and their bond as twins is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching.

"The God of Small Things" also delves into themes of caste, class, and gender inequality in Indian society. It exposes the harsh realities the lower castes face and the oppression they endure, shedding light on the deeply ingrained prejudices that persist even after India's independence. It also shows the growth of the communist movement in Kerala. 

Many also try to find an autobiographical link between the story and the author's life. The reason is that in the story, there are few parrels with her life like that of her own Syrian Christian and Hindu lineage; the divorce of her parents when she and her brother were very young; her return to the family home in Ayemenem after her mother's divorce; and the hostility between her mother and brother which led to the famous Mary Roy case. 

"The God of Small Things" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that explores the intricate web of human relationships and the societal forces that shape them. Arundhati Roy's compelling characters make this a literary work worth savouring, even if it demands a patient and attentive reader. It is a poignant reminder that even in the smallest of things, profound truths and hidden complexities can be found.

PS:  I really wanna see the novel becoming a movie. 

2 States by Chetan Bhagat 

2 States" by Chetan Bhagat is a delightful exploration of love, marriage, and cultural diversity in contemporary India. The novel is a rollercoaster ride that takes the reader on a humorous and heartwarming journey through the complexities of intercultural relationships.

The story revolves around Krish Malhotra, a Punjabi boy from Delhi, and Ananya Swaminathan, a Tamilian girl from Chennai, who fell in love during their MBA program from IIM. The catch? Their families belong to different states, speak different languages, and have vastly different cultural backgrounds. As Krish and Ananya decide to get married, they embark on a mission to convince their parents that their love can bridge the cultural divide.

The narrative is peppered with humour and light-hearted banter, which keeps the mood of the book engaging and enjoyable. Bhagat effectively uses humour to highlight the stereotypes, prejudices, and misconceptions that often arise in intercultural relationships.

The novel also sheds light on the complexities and challenges of navigating a multicultural society like India, where regional identities and customs play a significant role in people's lives. Bhagat skillfully addresses these issues, portraying the clash of cultures without resorting to stereotypes or clichés.

While "2 States" is primarily a light-hearted romantic comedy, it also touches upon some serious issues, such as the importance of parental approval in Indian marriages and the need for individuals to assert their independence while respecting their family traditions. These themes add depth to the story, making it more than just a typical love story.

Along with these, the story also, in a subtle way, talks about the issue of alcoholism and abusive family relations through the parents of Krish. Krish's father used to abuse his mother, and under a patriarchal society, the mother used to say silent against all the ill-treatment. 

However, the book is not without its flaws. Some readers might find the plot a bit predictable, and the resolution of the conflict between the families may come across as overly simplistic. Additionally, the book's focus on the upper-middle-class urban Indian experience might not resonate with all readers.

"2 States" is a humorous and entertaining read that offers valuable insights into the complexities of intercultural relationships in India. Chetan Bhagat's knack for storytelling and relatable characters make this book an enjoyable journey into the world of love, family, and cultural clashes. If you're in the mood for a light-hearted romance with a dose of humour and cultural exploration, "2 States" is definitely worth picking up.

PS: Usually, I am not fond of books becoming movies, but I loved the movie adaptation also just due to the phenomenal acting by Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor.