Independence A Novel
Independence A Novel by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2023, presents a poignant narrative set during the tumultuous period of India’s partition in 1947. This 288-page novel explores the lives of three sisters in a rural Bengal village, each with distinct aspirations and challenges as they navigate a society fraught with upheaval. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a nation in crisis, highlighting the sisters’ unbreakable bond and their individual struggles amidst the chaos surrounding them.
Readers will find a rich tapestry of historical and biographical elements woven into the narrative, as the sisters confront personal and societal conflicts. Priya, Deepa, and Jamini each embody different facets of womanhood and cultural heritage, facing the harsh realities of their time while striving for their dreams. As the political landscape shifts, their paths diverge, leading to heart-wrenching choices that test their loyalty and resilience. This edition offers an insightful look into themes of friendship and family against the backdrop of a pivotal moment in world literature, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of identity and belonging.
Official synopsis Publisher
“Divakaruni tells the story of India’s independence through the eyes of three sisters, each of whom is uniquely different, with her own desires and flaws. I cheered for them and cried with them as they move through the history of their country that is at once devastating, inspiring, and triumphant. You will, too.”– Lisa See, #1 New York Times bestselling author
Set during the partition of British India in 1947, a time when neighbor was pitted against neighbor and families were torn apart, award-winning author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s novel brings to life the sweeping story of three sisters caught up in events beyond their control, their unbreakable bond, and their incredible struggle against powerful odds.
India, 1947.
In a rural village in Bengal live three sisters, daughters of a well-respected doctor.
Priya: intelligent and idealistic, resolved to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a doctor, though society frowns on it.
Deepa: the beauty, determined to make a marriage that will bring her family joy and status.
Jamini: devout, sharp-eyed, and a talented quiltmaker, with deeper passions than she reveals.
Theirs is a home of love and safety, a refuge from the violent events taking shape in the nation. Then their father is killed during a riot, and even their neighbors turn against them, bringing the events of their country closer to home.
As Priya determinedly pursues her career goal, Deepa falls deeply in love with a Muslim, causing her to break with her family. And Jamini attempts to hold her family together, even as she secretly longs for her sister’s fiancè
When the partition of India is officially decided, a drastic–and dangerous–change is in the air. India is now for Hindus, Pakistan for Muslims. The sisters find themselves separated from one another, each on different paths. They fear for what will happen to not just themselves, but each other.
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni outdoes herself with this deeply moving story of sisterhood and friendship, painting an account of India’s independence simultaneously exhilarating and devastating, that will make any reader–new or old–a devoted fan.
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