'Independence' by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a historical fiction novel that delves into the lives of three sisters during the pre-independence era of India. The book intricately weaves together the stories of these sisters as they navigate through the turmoil and challenges of the time period, set against the backdrop of India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Divakaruni's writing style masterfully incorporates cultural richness, historical accuracy, and emotional depth, capturing the essence of sisterhood, love, and sacrifice.
The novel portrays the individual paths of the three sisters, each with a unique personality and story, beautifully depicted by the author. As the narrative unfolds from 1946 to 1954, the sisters face personal struggles, heartaches, and dreams while being bound together by the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. Through the incorporation of Bengali language, old songs, and verses, Divakaruni adds layers of cultural nostalgia and authenticity to the story, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include graphic depictions of violence, particularly related to the partition of India, which may be disturbing for some readers.
Has Romance?
The book has moderate romantic elements intertwined with the overarching narrative of independence and personal growth.
From The Publisher:
"Divakaruni tells the story of India's independence through the eyes of three sisters, each of whom is uniquely different, with her own desires and flaws. I cheered for them and cried with them as they move through the history of their country that is at once devastating, inspiring, and triumphant. You will, too."- Lisa See, #1 New York Times bestselling author
Set during the partition of British India in 1947, a time when neighbor was pitted against neighbor and families were torn apart, award-winning author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's novel brings to life the sweeping story of three sisters caught up in events beyond their control, their unbreakable bond, and their incredible struggle against powerful odds.
India, 1947.
In a rural village in Bengal live three sisters, daughters of a well-respected doctor.
Priya: intelligent and idealistic, resolved to follow in her father's footsteps and become a doctor, though society frowns on it.
Deepa: the beauty, determined to make a marriage that will bring her family joy and status.
Jamini: devout, sharp-eyed, and a talented quiltmaker, with deeper passions than she reveals.
Theirs is a home of love and safety, a refuge from the violent events taking shape in the nation. Then their father is killed during a riot, and even their neighbors turn against them, bringing the events of their country closer to home.
As Priya determinedly pursues her career goal, Deepa falls deeply in love with a Muslim, causing her to break with her family. And Jamini attempts to hold her family together, even as she secretly longs for her sister's fiancè
When the partition of India is officially decided, a drastic-and dangerous-change is in the air. India is now for Hindus, Pakistan for Muslims. The sisters find themselves separated from one another, each on different paths. They fear for what will happen to not just themselves, but each other.
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni outdoes herself with this deeply moving story of sisterhood and friendship, painting an account of India's independence simultaneously exhilarating and devastating, that will make any reader-new or old-a devoted fan.
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