I recently read “Aagol” by Kabilan Vairamuthu, first in Tamil and then the English translation by Meera Ravishankar. Both versions were equally compelling and well-executed.
Set in 2032, “Aagol” follows Nithilan, a vulnerability analyst working on India’s Adayal project, similar to Aadhaar. The story blends themes of identity theft, digital apocalypse, metaverse, time travel, and politics. A historical subplot involves the 1920 Perungamanallur riots, where villagers were forced to submit fingerprints under the Criminal Tribes Act.
The plot centers on a data breach in 2032, prompting Nithilan and his team to time travel back to secure the stolen data. The narrative effectively merges past and future, highlighting issues of digital feudalism and data privacy.
The book’s rich characterization, especially the relationship between Nithilan and Senganthal, and its unique names, add depth to the engaging story. It explores socio-political implications of technology, making it relevant and thought-provoking.
Overall, “Aagol” is an exhilarating read that combines historical fiction with futuristic speculation, providing a thought-provoking commentary on modern-day issues. Kabilan Vairamuthu’s meticulous research and narrative skill make it a must-read for anyone interested in science fiction, historical events, and the intersection of technology and society.
For those looking to experience a blend of history, technology, and thrilling storytelling, “Aagol” is a highly recommended read. The English translation captures the essence of the original, making it accessible to a broader audience.