Occasionally, one reads a book that would leave a deep impact on the reader’s mind. Dr. S. L. Bhyrappa is writer par excellence whose works have been widely acclaimed. When I picked up this book, rarely did I imagine that I would be left haunted, my inners churned and totally disturbed at the end of the book. This review is perhaps written and rewritten in the mind before putting into words on a paper / notepad. Considered as one of the classics of SLB, this book is quite an emotional, psychological and philosophical journey which could perhaps comes across differently to different readers. Here’s my review of the one of the most revered works in Kannada literature.
Gruhabanga is the story of a village, of many women characters with various shades, of a Jangama, of Plague, of Life, of unanswered questions. This is easily one of the most darkest (in terms of psychological impact) books I have read. I wouldn’t be surprised if many readers have shed tears as they witness the journey of Nanjavva, her trials and tribulations in the society set in 1900 - 1940 timeline. Now, the first thought is about who is the protagonist and antagonist of this novel? This would be a very difficult choice indeed. While Nanjavva would stand out as the lead character, one could look at the novel from an entirely different perspective of Ayyanovru too or consider this as a prelude to Vishwa’s journey. For the latter one, there are enough characters who could claim their right including the Plague. However, for this review, the protagonist and the antagonist is the LIFE which holds the narrative through out. It may come across as a weird view, but there is no one stand out differentiating character which makes a stronger appeal compared to all others. This is entirely due to the genius of SLB.
Gruhabanga - Destruction of a house. What could cause this? Is it the lack of empathy of the male members who refuse to take responsibility for their actions and family? Or is it lack of culture of the mother who brings up her children to be absolute wastrel? Or is it Plague whose hunger is not satiated until it consumes the very essence of the house? Quite difficult to comprehend that one single reason which leads to the destruction of a life carefully and painstakingly constructed.
Nanjavva is the central character with whom many can relate to in the modern society as well as the era gone by. A lady who tries to win against odds, who fights against the societal norms, endures the trials and tribulations of life sans the support from anyone else. As a daughter to a strong headed person to a loving sister, a caring mother, empathetic leader of society and abuse tolerating wife, she dons multiple hats across various scenarios. In every single interaction, she would evoke the deepest sympathy one can have for a human being. Her constant endurance to provide for a better life against all odds is beautifully and excruciatingly etched out by the master story teller. However, the tragic fate that befalls on her was quite unexpected when everyone expected a happy ending. Nanjavva epitomises the Bharatiya Naari, one who erodes herself like a sandal piece, but gives the beautiful fragrance of sandal to her family and society.
The book though has some interesting characters. Narsi is one another complex character. While one could paint her with a single blasphemous brush due to the era this story is set in, the author has added other shades to her character including one of a motherly instinct. The reviewer is left with an unanswered question: Why did Ayyanovru decide against Narsi taking care of Vishwa? Perhaps, there is a deeper philosophical meaning to the same, but to the common reader, she could have lived the words that Nanjavva would have uttered when Narsi would have cared Vishwa back to health. Perhaps, the biases took more precedence compared to a more humane approach.
However, the one character that stands out is Ayyanovru - The conscience of the novel. As a sanyasi, he observes as an impartial observer, yet is drawn into the spirals of the samsara, when he develops affection for Nanjavva and her family. As a constant support character with impeccable integrity, he provides a fine example on how one can be attached, yet detached. He provides ample feedback, yet shows immense restraint when certain eventualities are revealed. One could make peace that he decides to entangle himself and become the caretaker of Vishwa, yet his decision of not entrusting the youngster to Narsi is thought provoking. Ayyanovru has a unique poise, yet demonstrates the humane behaviour when he is hurt by the words of few. Could he have done more than what he tried to do? This question will definitely haunt the reader for sometime.
There are many characters who lend a supporting hand, representative of the Bharatiya culture where the ecosystem becomes part of one’s life. One can’t help but grieve for the 2 children, specially Ramanna who was on his way to a better life. Why? Just why did he have to face the eventuality hurts maximum. The language is strong - Its part of the context and hence, one shouldn’t take offence. The English translation is quite good, but the translation of swear words at times is hilarious.
On an ending note, one needs to ponder over the name of the novel. Just what is broken? Is it human relationships? Or is it human will? Or is it ego which doesn’t allow the human to transcend over the veil of ignorance? Or is it the unmissable, but the ever impactful presence of life? Or is the house the metaphor for the will of Nanjavva which gave up finally? Was it Plague that consumed her or she had enough and decided not to battle one more. I wouldn’t be surprised if the reader feels broken at the end of the novel.
An invigorating, thought provoking novel. MASTERPIECE. Highly recommended read.
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