Hello Bibliophiles
Pankaj Kapur is the name that needs no introduction. An acclaimed Indian theatre, television and film actor and director who has won three National Film awards, he is one of the most talented and versatile actors in Indian film industry.
Yet I was unaware of his writing skills until I stumbled upon a short novella written by the man himself, titled Dopehri.
A simple premise
Dopehri is the story of Amma bi, is 65 year old widow who lives in husbands Lal Haveli, an ancestral property which she is finding harder and harder to maintain. Many people are eyeing her Haveli as it is a prime property, as Amma Bi struggles with her finances. At the behest of an old family friend, she finally agrees to put a portion of it on rent and in comes Sabiha. How the arrival of a young, independent girl changes the life of Amma Bi, is what Dopehri is all about.
A story that connects
Dopehri is a simple story where every chapter induces warmth, with its cosy old city setting. The characters are well etched, and their interactions really feel everyday human.
But what makes this novel brilliant is that beneath the veneer of simple story lies a deep message about women empowerment and self-identification. The climax is bound to leave the reader with a deep sense of gratification and motivation.
Final Verdict
Published by Harper perennial, this book is a must read especially for those who are struggling with identity crisis.
