A River Sutra came highly recommended by my father - whose recommendations are always worth taking seriously - and by two dear colleagues and friends - both fervent readers and teachers of reading themselves. I had high expectations when opening the front cover and leafing past the first few pages of dedications and publishing details. It can be tricky to have high expectations before stepping into anything... expecting greatness leaves more room for a fall, should there be one.
Gita Mehta's writing did not disappoint. Rich and evocative, full of colour and vibrancy, the text weaves together a number of different short stories, each one layered and complex. The richness of the description- the heartache and ecstasy, pain and pleasure is interwoven with mythology and folklore. Finishing the book was reminiscent of finishing a rich, fulfilling meal. I walked away needing time to digest what I ate, all the while reveling in the deep satisfaction of every mouthful.
An unexpected, and wonderful side effect, of this book was my experience of being submerged in the myths and legends that I grew up with, and have been distanced from, fora very long time. Stories of how knowledge is imparted, the deeply held beliefs of the presence of a higher being, the complex and revered guru- shishya relationship, the might of the female form, the power of music and the purity of true love, the anger of the gods and their whims and fancies… the list goes on. It felt familiar, being immersed in the chaos and colour of my culture.
I would recommend this book for anyone who loves the sub continent. It will stay with you and leave amazed and baffled- the lyricism of her prose like icing on the cake.
Enjoy!
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