The quintessential color, customs and contradictions that define India are woven together in a beautifully imaginative novella set against the backdrop of the British Raj. Three generations of women find their footing as they navigate the polarities of gender, tradition and familial duty. The plot revolves around the family of Kishan Chand, the family patriarch, who lifts himself from his humble beginnings to a life of riches and distinction. The sudden death of his beloved wife leaves him shattered and in need of greater purpose which he finds in India’s struggle for freedom. The book’s primary characters, and perhaps co-protagonists, include Kishan Chand’s lively daughter-in-law, Leela, his three sons, and free-spirited granddaughter, Anita. Under Kishan Chand’s tutelage all overcome hardships and rise to greater heights. Raman’s writing is authentic and captures the essence of India. Her description of Dehradun does full justice to this picturesque town on the foothills of the Himalayas. There have been many books that depicted India’s fight for freedom but few that do so with the nuance and poetry that I found in Raman’s ‘The House on Canal Road’.
Neerja Raman
My review – yes, will post 😦
The quintessential color, customs and contradictions that define India are woven together in a beautifully imaginative novella set against the backdrop of the British Raj. Three generations of women find their footing as they navigate the polarities of gender, tradition and familial duty. The plot revolves around the family of Kishan Chand, the family patriarch, who lifts himself from his humble beginnings to a life of riches and distinction. The sudden death of his beloved wife leaves him shattered and in need of greater purpose which he finds in India’s struggle for freedom. The book’s primary characters, and perhaps co-protagonists, include Kishan Chand’s lively daughter-in-law, Leela, his three sons, and free-spirited granddaughter, Anita. Under Kishan Chand’s tutelage all overcome hardships and rise to greater heights. Raman’s writing is authentic and captures the essence of India. Her description of Dehradun does full justice to this picturesque town on the foothills of the Himalayas. There have been many books that depicted India’s fight for freedom but few that do so with the nuance and poetry that I found in Raman’s ‘The House on Canal Road’.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Smita.
LikeLike