Kannada Literature
Kannada literature, often referred to as Kannada Sahitya, boasts a rich and diverse tradition that spans over a thousand years. It has a long list of renowned authors who have made significant contributions to the literary world. Writers like Kuvempu, D.R. Bendre, Shivaram Karanth, Masti Venkatesha Iyengar, and U.R. Ananthamurthy are celebrated for their innovative works and profound insights
Today I would like to discuss about one of S.L. Bhyrappa’s novel “Aavarana: The Veil” which garnered significant attention for its bold exploration of religious and historical themes.
Aavarana : The Veil
Aavarana: The Veil” is a thought-provoking novel written by renowned Kannada author S.L. Bhyrappa, which has been translated into English by Sandeep Balakrishna.
The Plot
The novel follows the journey of Lakshmi, a spirited and independent filmmaker, defies her conservative father’s wishes and marries Amir, the man she loves. Despite her initial reluctance, she agrees to convert to Islam and take on the name Razia as a gesture of love and compromise. However, after their marriage, Lakshmi discovers that Amir’s family expects her to adhere strictly to the traditional tenets of their faith, which clashes with her progressive beliefs. Feeling disillusioned and trapped, Lakshmi embarks on a personal journey to uncover the complexities of India’s religious, caste, and societal dynamics.
As Lakshmi delves into India’s history, she uncovers parallels between past and present, recognizing that many issues of religious intolerance, societal expectations, and patriarchal norms persist despite centuries of change.She discovers hidden truths about the historical atrocities committed by Islamic rulers in India, particularly during the Mughal era, which were often whitewashed or ignored in mainstream narratives.
As Lakshmi grapples with the revelations about her own cultural heritage and the oppressive nature of the religion she adopted, she confronts the concept of “Aavarana,” or the veil of ignorance that obscures historical truths and perpetuates religious dogma.
What is unique about this book?
1. Controversial Subject Matter
2. Exploration of Historical Truth
3. Interplay of Fiction and Non-Fiction
4. Critique of Religious Doctrine
5 . Provocative and Thought-Provoking
Why should one read this book?
The novel offers a thought-provoking critique of historical narratives, Through the protagonist’s journey, the book delves into themes of identity, belief, and cultural heritage It prompts readers to reflect on the complexities of personal and collective identity in the context of religion, tradition, and societal expectations. While rooted in the Indian context, “Aavarana” addresses universal themes such as truth, justice, freedom, and the search for meaning.
My Verdict
“Aavarana” is a thought-provoking novel that challenges mainstream narratives of history and religion, prompting readers to confront uncomfortable truths and explore the complexities of identity and belief.
About the Author
S.L. Bhyrappa, whose full name is Santeshivara Lingannaiah Bhyrappa, is one of the most acclaimed and widely-read authors in contemporary Kannada literature. He was born on July 26, 1934, in Santeshivara, a small village in Karnataka.
Some of Bhyrappa’s most famous works include “Vamshavruksha” (The Family Tree), “Tantu” (Thread), “Sakshi” (Witness), and “Parva,” an epic retelling of the Mahabharata from a different perspective.
Why this post?
As a Bangalorean, I’ve always felt a strong connection to Kannada literature. Our authors have woven such rich and captivating stories, and I believe everyone should have the chance to experience them. That’s why I want to encourage people to explore translated books. These works offer a gateway into the world of Kannada literature, allowing readers from all backgrounds to discover the brilliance of our authors. So, if you’re curious about kannada culture and heritage, pick up a translated book and embark on a journey through the vibrant narratives and profound insights of Kannada literature. You won’t be disappointed!
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘BookishCafeBloghop2024’ hosted by Rakhi Jayashankar and Samata Dey Bose
Genesis of Passion 
“Echoes Across Cultures: Translated Tales of Transformation” delves into the profound impact of translating literary works from one language to another. This process of translation not only preserves the essence of the original text but also breathes new life into it, allowing diverse audiences to experience the narratives in a new cultural context. Such translations which I believe bridge geographical and cultural divides, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of different societies and their stories.
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This one seems to be an interesting book. It touches topics which are still very prevalent in our society in spite of all the talks we hear around us. We are still not able to shake off these restrictive practices. Thank you for the recommendation.
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It’s always nice to be introduced to a new author, especially someone writing in their native language, as I am primarily an English reader. I would surely check the book out, as it seems to touch upon deep issues which shape our ideology and society.
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