Bhumika
By Aditya Iyengar
Bhumika
The way the author Volga redefined and refined feminism in her book Liberation of Sita has become a benchmark which continues to inspire writers and authors all across. The book has fired the reimagination of the story of Ramayana especially the retelling from Sita’s perspectives. The creative juices are flowing freely and the authors are now retellings epics to put forward feminist point of view keeping modern scenario in mind. Bhumika by Aditya Iyengar is one such attempt.
Sita and Ram are considered an inseparable couple. One cannot be imagined without another. In spite of Ram and Sita’s separation, they are always looked upon as an ideal couple. But what if Sita and Ram’s path never crossed. They never met. Then how would have been Sita’s life. Aditya Iyengar in his latest book Bhumika imagines the life of Sita without Rama.
Your life is determined by your choices. There are always two choices. Whichever path you choose, based on that your future shapes. The author Aditya Iyengar has used this philosophy in his book to tell the story of Bhumika which was the alternate life of Sita, where Ram and Sita doesn’t get married.
I really don’t want to go into the storyline. It is best you discover how the story of Bhumika unfolds. The author has molded the story in a way to bring out a very crucial message keeping the current situation in mind. Every woman will resonate with both the characters of Sita and Bhumika, whether you are a homemaker or a working woman. I am telling this because when I was a homemaker people were judging me for wasting my talent. Now being a working mother, I have been judged for not being invested in home and child.
Through the story of Sita and Bhumika, the author conveys a woman shouldn’t regret or feel pity for herself based on others comments about her choices. Working or not working, it's her choice and in both the ways a woman can live a fulfilling and satisfying life. The only condition it should be her choice and not the decision of others imposed on her.
So in other words, you can be Sita or Bhumika, be happy with your choice of life. The book is a kind of peace giver, soul soothing and thought provoking. As a woman I loved the book.
As a reader, I think the first half of the book was a tad boring. It was the same repetition of Sita's story and slow read. But my senses awaken as soon as Bhumika’s story begins and the last part was actually the best part of the book where the author pours his heart out.
Would I recommend this book?
Yes. Definitely yes. It may not be a literary charm, but like Liberation of Sita, raises a valid point and also comes to the conclusion which will arouse an abundance of emotions and thoughts. The book illuminates and encourages the positive aspects of feminism.
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Aditya Iyengar
Aditya Iyengar is known for his unconventional narrative of mythology and history presenting it relatable to present time. His books includes
- The Thirteenth Day
- Palace of Assassins
- The Conqueror
- A Broken Sun
