The palace of illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
The palace of illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Couldn't load pickup availability
Book Summary
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s novel is a bold and immersive reimagining of the Indian epic Mahabharata, told from the perspective of Draupadi (Panchaali), a woman born of fire. From her unconventional election at the swayamvara, through marriage to the five Pandava brothers, and the devastating exile in a mystical palace, Draupadi's story unfolds with passionate introspection. The narrative explores her complex relationships—with her husbands, her deep and enigmatic bond with Krishna, and her hidden love for Karna. As she witnesses betrayal, grapples with power dynamics, and confronts the fallout of the great war, Draupadi’s voice offers poignant commentary on fate, agency, gender, and destiny within a patriarchal world .
About the Author –
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni (b. 1956, Calcutta) is an Indian‑American award‑winning author, poet, activist, and Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Houston . After moving to the U.S. in 1976, she completed her BA, MA, and PhD in English, funding her education through various jobs like baking and babysitting . She writes across fiction, poetry, and children’s literature, often blending mythology, immigration, feminism, and magical realism. Her major works include Arranged Marriage, Mistress of Spices, Sister of My Heart, and The Forest of Enchantments .
Divakaruni’s writing has earned her numerous honors such as the American Book Award, PEN Josephine Miles Award, and Italy’s Premio Scanno, with her works translated into nearly 30 languages and adapted into films, plays, and operas . Her commitment to women’s empowerment and social justice is visible in her long-term association with NGOs like Maitri and Pratham
Product features
Product features
✅ 100% Original Books
Every book is authentic and sourced responsibly—no pirated or photocopied material.
🔍 32-Point Quality Check
Each book undergoes a detailed inspection for pages, cover, binding, and readability.
📚 Wide Range of Genres
From fiction and self-help to academic and non-fiction—something for every reader.
💸 Budget-Friendly Prices
Get great books at unbeatable prices—perfect for students, readers, and collectors.
✨ Pre-Loved, Not Worn Out
Books are gently used, clean, and in good readable condition.
🌱 Eco-Friendly Choice
Buying used books helps reduce waste and promotes sustainable reading.
🚚 Pan-India Shipping
Fast, reliable delivery to every corner of India, with tracking and support.
💬 Customer Support
Responsive customer service to help with any order or book-related query.
Materials and care
Materials and care
📚 Materials
– Gently used, original print books.
– No photocopies or pirated prints—100% original.
– Checked for legibility and intact spines.
– Some books may contain light pencil notes or highlights.
🧼 Care Instructions
– Keep books away from moisture and direct sunlight.
– Use a bookmark to maintain page quality.
– Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe dust from covers.
– Preserve the pages and cover from smudges or stains.
– Prevent warping by storing books upright on shelves.
Merchandising tips
Merchandising tips
🛍️ Tips for Buying Used Books on BestofUsedBooks.com
✅ Check the Book Condition
Look for labels like “Like New,” “Good,” or “Readable” to know exactly what to expect before buying.
📚 Explore Curated Collections
Browse through themed bundles like “Top Self-Help Reads” or “Fiction Under ₹299”—perfect for discovering hidden gems.
💡 Read Descriptions Carefully
Each product page lists key details like page quality, binding condition, and possible markings—take a quick moment to review.
🎁 Buy More, Save More
Take advantage of bundle deals and discounted packs to build your library while saving big.
🌱 Choose Sustainability
Buying pre-loved books is a smart, eco-friendly choice—reduce waste and support circular reading!
🔍 Use Search & Filters
Use filters by genre, author, or condition to find exactly what you're looking for, faster.
📦 Track Your Order
Once placed, every order comes with trackable shipping—so you always know where your next read is!
Share
- 32 Points Quality Check
- 100% Original Products
- 1.2 Million + Happy Customers
the best reads ever. MUST READ
The Palace of Illusions
The Palace of Illusions
Very impressed with the quality of books.
I always shop from this store.
Book quality is quite good but as they mentioned I didn’t receive any bookmark. Hope they’ll deliver it soon

Other Best Sellers
-
The 7 habits of highly effective people by Stephen R.Covey
5.0 / 5.0
(2) 2 total reviews
Regular price Rs. 150.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 599.00Sale price Rs. 150.00Sale -
The girl in room 105 by Chetan Bhagat
5.0 / 5.0
(2) 2 total reviews
Regular price Rs. 99.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 199.00Sale price Rs. 99.00Sale -
The subtle art of not giving a f*ck by mark manson
5.0 / 5.0
(1) 1 total reviews
Regular price Rs. 150.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 499.00Sale price Rs. 150.00Sale -
The quest for paradise- the return to the kingdom of fantasy by Geronimo Stilton [hardcover]
5.0 / 5.0
(1) 1 total reviews
Regular price Rs. 299.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 499.00Sale price Rs. 299.00Sale -
The dragon prophecy [hardcover] by Geronimo Stilton
4.5 / 5.0
(2) 2 total reviews
Regular price Rs. 299.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 499.00Sale price Rs. 299.00Sale -
Everything is f*cked by Mark Manson
Regular price Rs. 199.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 499.00Sale price Rs. 199.00Sale -
Cat and mouse in a haunted house 3 by Geronimo Stilton
Regular price Rs. 150.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 299.00Sale price Rs. 150.00Sale -
Don't sweat the small stuff by Richard Carlson
Regular price Rs. 399.00Regular priceUnit price / perRs. 999.00Sale price Rs. 399.00Sale