Palace of Illusions- chitra Banerjee Divakaruni (Book review )

Published: 1 January 2008

Original language: English

Author:Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Genres: Novel, Historical fiction

The palace of illusions is a 2008 novel by award-winning novelist and poet Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni .The novel is a rendition of the Hindu epic Maharashtra as told from Draupadi’s viewpoint ,namely,that of a woman living in patriarchal world.

If you are looking for a good mythological and women lead books you’ve chosen the right one. This book is one of those books which you can’t keep down and when you have read it twice or thrice you realize you missed this point the first time you read the book.

To all the prospective readers,especially the younger generation, this is a historical fiction that has been written with authenticity, warmth ,affection and deep respect. And for those who want gender equality to be established in the modern age ,get into the root of this book and understand how panchaali first shows its seeds in an age where feminine subjugation was considered a ‘darma’.

It is one such book you binge read this until it’s over in few sittings.Although we are raised with tales of Mahabharata ,this book still keep us engaged with the situations and even the climax.

This book gave voice to the rather celebrated heroine of Mahabharata. Panchaali who was blamed for the craving of vengeance so hard but she equally paid the price of that. Point taken from the story is “no one is completely right” .All have their dark sides .Emotions are beautifully described by the writer.

It is a must read book Though it was through Draupadi’s pov the story didn’t change its course not it was biased. You will feel the emotion turmoil of each character and feel for each one of them.

This book can be read from children who are about 13 years old .

My heartfelt felicitations go to the author for the great service she has rendered for the younger generation;I am sure the book will regenerate interest in the young minds for the greatest epic of the times.

If you want to know how panchaali initiated a trading market for women back in those days in the heart of Hastinapur,or about Yudhisthir’s second life,do read the book.

I hope everyone would enjoy reading it .

THANK YOU 🤩