Welcome to Litsy!

This turned out to be my first short story collection of the year. Shekhar, with his incisive strokes, manages to reveal a world that's brutal yet full of laughter and humanity. A world that's often ignored by politicians and general public alike and is forced to subside on the margins. He brings this world and its inhabitants into sharp focus and claims that "The Adivasi will not dance". He tells the stories of aboriginals and their plights.

?

Every story in this book makes you take off your rose coloured glasses. Reality hits you where it hurts the most, and the pain is as visceral as it can be.

What a great collection of stories from the margin, giving voice to a people who are rarely represented in mainstream Indian writing, in any language. Loved the socio-political commentary laced with characters who are vulnerable, oppressed, marginalised; who may have little control over their circumstances but they're never presented as mere victims. Their inner lives are rich and empowered. Absolutely adored all the women in these stories.

👏Out of the rut with this one! Bought it as soon as I read the word 'BANNED'. Then I went back to finding out why - the Jharkand Govt. feels this collection offends the Santhal woman's dignity. 🤦🏾‍♀️1 more instance of men telling what women should feel. 1 story down, and boy, is it riveting!

In this slim volume of ten short stories, Shekhar deftly packs in a wide range of characters and experiences. Very matter-of-fact writing with subtle socio-political commentary on the lives of Adivasis in contemporary India.

#nowreading #boutofbooks