? UNDER THE LAMPLIGHT-
At the heart of My Beloved Life lies Jadunath Kunwar, an ordinary man born to peasant parents in Bihar, India. We go through Jadu's journey from his humble beginnings to his student days at Patna College, his involvement in political activism, and his eventual career as a history professor. Throughout his life, Jadu encounters a diverse array of individuals, including both famous figures like Tenzing Norgay and J.P. Narayan, as well as anonymous characters who shape his experiences.
Parallel to Jadu's story, the novel also delves into the life of his daughter, Jugnu, who is a journalist based in the US state of Atlanta. Jugnu's narrative provides a more introspective perspective, particularly as she grapples with personal challenges such as a failed marriage and her relationship with Motley, a Black American man whom she fears her father may not accept.
The overarching narrative is punctuated by significant historical events, including the mid-70s state of emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi, the demolition of the mosque at Ayodhya, and the rise of Narendra Modi. These events serve as backdrop against which the characters' lives unfold, highlighting the broader socio-political context of their experiences.Even the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is brought into play, straining the relationship between Jadu and Jugnu, who find themselves separated by continents during the lockdowns.
WHERE TO FIND IT- You can find it on Amazon.