Bhumika: Book Review



Title: Bhumika
Author: Aditya Iyengar
Genre: Mythology

What if? A question that haunts many of us as we tend to ruminate about certain events in our life. What if we had taken a different path in life? What if we had made a different choice?  Would we have been happier? 

Bhumika is a book that attempts to answer an interesting question. What if Sita had not married Rama? 

Sita is seen spending her twilight years in the forest. During these days, several thoughts swirl in her mind.  What if she hadn't married Rama? What if she hadn't accompanied him on the exile? What if she hadn't returned to Ayodhya? Nursing such thoughts and bitter feelings of being banished, she confides in Sage Vishwamitra. The sage shows her that she might have been Bhumika-the feisty Queen of Mithila who defied traditional norms. 

Written from the first person narrative of Sita, the story cruises through the life of Bhumika and how she reigns Mithila. The author in his lucid style of writing attempts to showcase Ramayana in a new light. It is interesting to observe the stark contrast in the personalities of Sita and Bhumika. As docile, subservient and meek Sita is, Bhumika is equally feisty, headstrong and independent. 

He manages to touch upon themes of loneliness, happiness,loyalty, loyalty, freedom and power. It also focuses on the choices women want to make and their willingness to take responsibility for the same. The author manages to address the patriarchal mindset that stereotypes women into certain roles. 

Bhumika is a powerful and thought provoking read.  The underlying themes and messages can resonate with many generations ahead. 


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