A book that takes you back to 1950s India, an unforgettable tale about self-discovery and the sacrifices one must make out of familial love. The portrait of a woman who is strong and fearless, fighting to fulfill her dream of a comfortable life. The door opens and we dive into a story like no other, falling in love with the Indian culture and its never-ending allure.
Synopsis:
Lakshmi, the heroine of the story, escapes an abusive marriage and runs to Jaipur. There, she becomes a henna artist, providing her services to wealthy women belonging to the upper class. Many ladies confide in her, and she gets to hear a lot of secrets. She works hard to achieve the dream of having her own house but her journey to the life envisioned becomes perilous. Jealous gossip hurts her reputation and the appearance of her husband, along a sister she did not know to exist, will throw her off track. How will things turn out for Lakshmi? You will have to read the book to find out!
Review:
Alka Joshi wrote this novel, as she wanted to present her mother’s life and how different things would have been, if she did not enter an arranged marriage at the age of 18. I found this book to be rich in detail, and I loved how easily the author introduces the reader to 1950s India and how difficult life was for women back then.
Lakshmi wants to be her own person, and have the freedom to decide on her life. Throughout the book, it becomes obvious how Indian women struggled, and probably still do, to reach their dreams into a society where the traditional and modern blend in a confusing way. Alka Joshi has created a powerful character, giving her the strength to pursue her own path in life.
Even though Lakshmi is at the center of the story, one cannot help noticing how tight people in India hold on to outdated beliefs. The caste system decides everything and arranged marriages are common, even if there are several decades between the bride and the groom. It is refreshing to see Lakshmi fighting for her dreams, overcoming both prejudice and discrimination.
I have always admired authors who are able to create a strong female character, concentrating not only on stereotypes but also on the features a determined woman might present. Lakshmi is also equipped with a native intelligence, doing much more than paint the hands and feet of her ladies. Thanks to her mother-in-law, she has learned all about medicinal plants and herbs. Her knowledge will come in handy but it will also cause her to come close to losing everything.
There are few books out there that make you feel like you are really where the action takes place. While I diving further and further into the story, I could almost taste and smell the Indian spices. I loved the Indian words and phrases dispersed throughout the book, and the helpful glossary at the end of the books. You will also find a delightful story on how henna is applied, some notes on the caste system and even recipes belonging to Indian cuisine.
Verdict:
A beautiful book, with a unique glimpse into the Indian culture and the fight between traditional and modern beliefs. The reader gets to walk side-by-side Lakshmi, and see her journey of self-discovery from up close. It is impossible not to admire her toughness and, throughout the book, you will often find yourself cheering her own. I loved the richness of detail, and the permanent connection to senses, tastes and textures. Very much like a painting, you are drawn inside, discovering a magical world.
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