Book Summary:
The Great Indian Novel is a satirical, fictional reimagining of India's history, combining mythology and politics in a uniquely creative way. The novel is a retelling of India's journey from colonialism to independence and beyond, framed through the lens of the epic Mahabharata.
The book’s central narrative is the Mahabharata, reinterpreted in the context of modern India’s political landscape. It is structured like a historical epic, with familiar figures from Indian mythology being recast as real-life political figures from India’s history.
The story is narrated by Vyasa, the legendary sage and author of the Mahabharata, who serves as a commentator on the unfolding events. The novel cleverly incorporates India’s freedom struggle, the rise of political figures, the complexities of partition, and the early years of post-independence India. Through this mythological allegory, Tharoor introduces characters such as Duryodhana (recast as a political leader with questionable ethics) and Arjuna (as a symbolic figure for modern political leaders), among others.
The Great Indian Novel is both a humorous critique and a thoughtful exploration of India’s political evolution. The book mixes fiction with history while exploring themes like power, corruption, family dynamics, and national identity. It is an insightful commentary on the complexities of India’s political, social, and cultural landscapes.
About the Author:
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Shashi Tharoor (born 1956) is an Indian politician, diplomat, author, and public intellectual.
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He is a member of the Indian Parliament and serves as the Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs.
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Tharoor is renowned for his eloquent writing and profound insights into Indian society, politics, and history. He writes both fiction and non-fiction.
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Notable works:
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The Elephant, the Tiger, and the Cell Phone (a collection of essays on modern India)
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An Era of Darkness (a history of British colonial rule in India)
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Why I am a Hindu (a book on Hinduism and contemporary India)
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Tharoor’s works often reflect his deep understanding of India’s past and its complex present, as well as his talent for using humor and satire to tackle serious topics.
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He was a diplomat in the United Nations before entering politics and has been an advocate for reform, progress, and Indian unity.
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The Great Indian Novel is widely considered one of his best literary works and a classic of modern Indian fiction.
