'Ahalya' by Koral Dasgupta – A Feminist Retelling or a Misguided Attempt?

Ahalya, a name synonymous with purity and victimhood in Indian mythology, has been reimagined countless times. Koral Dasgupta’s take on this timeless tale is bold, provocative, and undeniably thought-provoking. But does it succeed in its ambitious endeavor to subvert the original narrative?

Source - Amazon

The novel opens with a contemporary Ahalya, a successful architect grappling with her past and the shadows it casts. Dasgupta’s prose is lyrical and evocative, painting vivid pictures of both the mythical world and the modern one. The author seamlessly weaves together ancient mythology and contemporary issues, creating a tapestry of complex characters and moral dilemmas.

Ahalya’s journey is one of self-discovery and reclamation. The once passive victim is transformed into a woman of agency, challenging societal norms and confronting her own demons. Dasgupta’s portrayal of Ahalya is refreshing, offering a nuanced perspective on a character often reduced to a symbol of purity or victimhood.

However, the novel is not without its flaws. While the feminist lens is commendable, at times, it feels forced and heavy-handed. The author’s eagerness to subvert the original myth occasionally overshadows the development of the characters and the story itself. Some readers might find the constant references to gender politics and societal structures to be overwhelming.

Furthermore, the novel's pacing is uneven. There are stretches of lyrical prose interspersed with sections that feel rushed and underdeveloped. This inconsistency disrupts the overall flow of the narrative.

Despite these shortcomings, Ahalya is a thought-provoking read that invites discussion and debate. Dasgupta’s courage to challenge a revered myth is commendable, even if the execution is not flawless. The novel raises important questions about gender, power, and the complexities of human nature.

Ultimately, whether Ahalya is a feminist triumph or a missed opportunity is subjective. It is a book that demands to be read, analyzed, and debated. It is a book that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page.

Written by - Anushka Dabhade 

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