Radha

" Radha" is a Nepali novel based on Mahabharat epic and Krishna Lila. It is the juxtaposition of the Hindu mythological story and the physical world. The writer metaphorically portrays the Nepali society through the changes Mathura and Brindaban witnesses.

As the title says, this book is all about Radha, her feelings, her story, her emotions, her love, her commitments, her disappointments and her journey narrated by herself. Unlike in the religious books, this novel is fully plotted on human life and human experiences which means neither sudarshan chakra nor implausible magics of Krishna exists.

The beginning of the novel is filled with romantic aroma with lots of sceneries of affairs between Radha, Krishna and Gopinis. The problem rises when Krishna leads the youth of Brindaban to fight against the unfair King of Mathura, Kansh.

After Kansh is defeated, Krishna builds an entire city called "Nagari" where Radha, on the invitation of Krishna visits and finds out a separate Palace only made for her.  She meets Krishna's wives and talks with them, listens to their stories.  Radha doesn't like the idea of residing there for long and decides to go for pilgrimage.

The setting takes place in Mathura, Brindaban and some parts of Nepal. The plot is based on Krishna Lila and Mahabharat epic. Having said that, is it a religious book? No not at all.

When writing about something related to Radha and Krishna, the romantic element is what everyone expects. I have to say that Krishna Dharabashi didn't disappointment his readers and his approach to compete the hymns and religious stories of love is quite praiseworthy.

Moreover, the book challenges the stereotypical role for men and women. Through out the story, I felt accompanied by Radha in analysing the then society and comparing  with the present one.

The book is both romantic and historic with all the elements on point. I recommend everyone  to read the book no matter of what age or gender. However, I would recommend you to read it in Nepali rather in English so that you can enjoy the book and understand its depth meaning. Believe it or not, the true essence of the words fades away somewhere during the translation.

I am giving full rate to the novel because it was definitely an amazing experience reading this book. Not so important to mention but this  is the first novel I read.

Rate:4.9/5
Author : Krishna Dharabashi