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Didi
Legendary writer Nirupama Devi’s Didi is the story of a diligent, assertive and capable woman who, according to her own admission, loves to be in charge of things. Surama can take responsibilities and deliver on them as creditably as the chief executive officer of a large company. Yet, for her husband, she is only a co-wife. As divorce did not feature as an option (Didi was published in Bengali in 1915, years before divorce was legalized by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955), Surama’s challenge is to lead a fulfilled life within the parameters of her weird circumstances.
To complicate matters, Surama continues to love her husband, though she tries hard to hate him. In fact, there is no villain in the story. Even Amar, who brings home a younger woman as his second wife, is gentle and benevolent. The novelist, very convincingly, makes him a victim of circumstances. The second wife, Charu, a child-woman when the story begins, is extremely fond of her Didi, Surama. The friendship of the two wives of one man forms the fulcrum of the narrative.
Consisting of strong sub-plots, one of which depicts the painful process by which a young widow sublimates her sexuality and submits herself to God, the only way of living allowed to her by the society of her time, Didi is a reminder why society needed to change for women to live their lives with dignity.
To complicate matters, Surama continues to love her husband, though she tries hard to hate him. In fact, there is no villain in the story. Even Amar, who brings home a younger woman as his second wife, is gentle and benevolent. The novelist, very convincingly, makes him a victim of circumstances. The second wife, Charu, a child-woman when the story begins, is extremely fond of her Didi, Surama. The friendship of the two wives of one man forms the fulcrum of the narrative.
Consisting of strong sub-plots, one of which depicts the painful process by which a young widow sublimates her sexuality and submits herself to God, the only way of living allowed to her by the society of her time, Didi is a reminder why society needed to change for women to live their lives with dignity.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1915
2 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Nirupama Devi
2 books2 followersNirupama Devi (Bengali: নিরুপমা দেবী)(7 May 1883 - 7 January 1951) was a fiction writer from Berhampore in Murshidabad district. Her literary pseudonym was Srimati Devi. Nirupama Devi's father was Nafar Chandra Bhatta who was a judicial employee. She was educated at home.
Nirupama Devi received the 'Bhubanmohini Gold Medal' in 1938 and 'Jagattarini Gold Medal' in 1943 from the University of Calcutta in recognition of her contribution to literature.
(from Wikipedia)
Nirupama Devi received the 'Bhubanmohini Gold Medal' in 1938 and 'Jagattarini Gold Medal' in 1943 from the University of Calcutta in recognition of her contribution to literature.
(from Wikipedia)
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 2, 2024
So good! I love how each of the characters starts off young and rash and we see them grow realistically and relatably.
August 22, 2023
You got chemistry, you only need one other thing.
Ted Mosby : What's that?
Robin: Timing. But timing's a bitch.
____
Paired by their elders, Surama and Amar get married without having ever met one another. And within days, circumstances lead to a situation where they are parted for half a year. And during this time, Amar falls in love with a younger woman and marries her.
Shunned by his entire family, Amar continues staying with his second wife, far away, until his father’s demise calls him back home.
Amar’s second wife, Charu, becomes besotted with Surama and they develop a sisterly bond. And now, it is time for the married trio to live together.
Surama is one of the few literary characters that I know I will never forget. Everything about her left me mesmerised- her righteousness, firmness, self-sufficiency, love and most of all, her ability to deny what is THEORETICALLY EMPOWERING and following her heart instead.
This is a story of letting go of ego and giving into love. And I am not merely talking of the love between Surama and Amar, but that between Surama and Charu. She was her arch rival, but Surama treated as her own sister because she knew of Charu’s gullibility.
Oh, how I love being a woman❤️ Experiencing the myriad of emotions, crossing the hurdles and discovering oneself at the end.
Ted Mosby : What's that?
Robin: Timing. But timing's a bitch.
____
Paired by their elders, Surama and Amar get married without having ever met one another. And within days, circumstances lead to a situation where they are parted for half a year. And during this time, Amar falls in love with a younger woman and marries her.
Shunned by his entire family, Amar continues staying with his second wife, far away, until his father’s demise calls him back home.
Amar’s second wife, Charu, becomes besotted with Surama and they develop a sisterly bond. And now, it is time for the married trio to live together.
Surama is one of the few literary characters that I know I will never forget. Everything about her left me mesmerised- her righteousness, firmness, self-sufficiency, love and most of all, her ability to deny what is THEORETICALLY EMPOWERING and following her heart instead.
This is a story of letting go of ego and giving into love. And I am not merely talking of the love between Surama and Amar, but that between Surama and Charu. She was her arch rival, but Surama treated as her own sister because she knew of Charu’s gullibility.
Oh, how I love being a woman❤️ Experiencing the myriad of emotions, crossing the hurdles and discovering oneself at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2024
"Then, Charu, promise me that you will always love me as much as you do in spite of the [...] stigma attached to being a second wife."
Still sobbing, Charu replied, "I promise."
And that's how the story of Didi begins... Written by Nirupama Devi and translated by Alo Shome, Didi is a deep, complex potpourri of relational emotions. It's set in pre-independence Bengal of India.
It's the story of Surama, married to a zamindar's son Amar. However, unknown to them, Amar's friend Deven has made a promise to an ailing mother to get Amar to marry her pre-teen daughter Charu. Unknowingly.
Surama is married to Amar and Amar is married to Charu. Charu, however, accepts Surama as her elder sister (didi), without understanding the complexity of the relationship.
And they all are living their life, sometimes together, sometimes away.
The novel, however, is narrated only around the life of Surama, her inner conflicts and outer difficulties. And it has done well in binding the story.
Honestly, I was wary if I'm gonna like Didi. I haven't been a fan of classics. Their writing style seem to bore me to sleep.
I loved Didi though.
The writing is concise, dialogues are short and the scenes ever-changing (naturally). There are no prolonged monologues like many "classics" tend to have.
Now, I'm not sure if the writing style of the actual book is as contemporary as this translation or if the translator has taken some creative liberty to make the novel crisp... this was a good translation.
As the story develops, you love Surama for her boldness, hate her for her arrogance, and sympathise with her for her devotion.
I loved how the translator has kept many regional terms and phrases instead of translating them all literally.
And I loved how the book has managed to show the nuances of the life of married women, unmarried girl kids and orphan girls from that time.
I didn't skip reading anything in the book... except for a few passages towards the end. You skip, you miss the development in the story.
That's how a thrilling family story Didi is. Definitely a recommendation from me.
Still sobbing, Charu replied, "I promise."
And that's how the story of Didi begins... Written by Nirupama Devi and translated by Alo Shome, Didi is a deep, complex potpourri of relational emotions. It's set in pre-independence Bengal of India.
It's the story of Surama, married to a zamindar's son Amar. However, unknown to them, Amar's friend Deven has made a promise to an ailing mother to get Amar to marry her pre-teen daughter Charu. Unknowingly.
Surama is married to Amar and Amar is married to Charu. Charu, however, accepts Surama as her elder sister (didi), without understanding the complexity of the relationship.
And they all are living their life, sometimes together, sometimes away.
The novel, however, is narrated only around the life of Surama, her inner conflicts and outer difficulties. And it has done well in binding the story.
Honestly, I was wary if I'm gonna like Didi. I haven't been a fan of classics. Their writing style seem to bore me to sleep.
I loved Didi though.
The writing is concise, dialogues are short and the scenes ever-changing (naturally). There are no prolonged monologues like many "classics" tend to have.
Now, I'm not sure if the writing style of the actual book is as contemporary as this translation or if the translator has taken some creative liberty to make the novel crisp... this was a good translation.
As the story develops, you love Surama for her boldness, hate her for her arrogance, and sympathise with her for her devotion.
I loved how the translator has kept many regional terms and phrases instead of translating them all literally.
And I loved how the book has managed to show the nuances of the life of married women, unmarried girl kids and orphan girls from that time.
I didn't skip reading anything in the book... except for a few passages towards the end. You skip, you miss the development in the story.
That's how a thrilling family story Didi is. Definitely a recommendation from me.
August 25, 2023
Name : Didi
Author : Nirupama Devi
Translated by : Alo Shome
Genre : Translated Bengali fiction
Dignity. That's what this book taught me.
I had picked this book up since it's #WomenInTranslation month. And also because I faintly remember reading about Nirupama Devi's 'Didi' and other works while cramming for my Bengali literature final during school days.
I had a fair idea what the story is about from the blurb at the back cover. So I had surmised it would be about the co-wives blooming sisterhood, overcoming the social norms of competing for a common husband. But it was not just that. Surama herself IS the embodiment of this story. Even though we get to read from the pov of other characters as well, she owns the story throughout.
I am not going to do a feminist rant about the 2 wives situation, because polygamy was prevalent in those days and women were treated as household objects. That's a fact and there's nothing I can say that will re-write the past, despite my anger. Since this book is written by a female author of that time, you will understand how normal this whole situation was at that time and you won't feel any rage, unless you draw comparison with modern times. Male members were treated as the guardians, even though there is an older woman in the same family. Girls' marriagable age was around 10, just at the cusp of puberty. Now, imagine a girl getting widowed at that age and societal norms state that she has to devote her whole life to God now. That's Uma Rani, in this book. I felt, that she didn't even understand what kind of life she was deprived of because of her widowhood. Everyone cried for her and she was bewildered at that. Her character and her bond with her Ma Surama are very precious to me.
Charu, the second wife, is one of the purest characters I have ever read. You can't help but love her, such was her sincerity in every word and action. No wonder, she was the only one to break through Surama's pride right at the beginning of the story. The very last page of the book told me how unconditionally she loved Surama, her 'Didi'.
Amar, the husband of the story, was portrayed with as much innocent light as possible by the author. Each and every of his wrong decision was meticulously justified by the author as if to tell us that it was his fate, whatever happened to him, not his choices. But it was the latter. But then, that world was literally a man's world, so I felt, after a certain point, he did what he thought was right.
Surama, the hero of the story, is the elusive first wife. The way she held herself in SUCH a tumultuous situation, which wrecked her life, she quickly made herself my favourite literary character. My mother used to tell me that no matter what happens in life, never lose your self respect. Surama showed me how. She broke EVERY one of her time's rules and lived her life with pride and dignity and with SO MUCH kindness and love for others, even at the cost of her own happiness, but not once losing her face and respect. Hell, she commanded respect. She was the manager and caretaker, i.e. the matriarch, of every house she lived in. I have lost count of how many characters called her 'Ma' (mother) in this story out of love and in response to her love. Her inner strength reminded me of how I imagined goddess Parvati to be when I was little. I will carry her with me forever.
Even though the translator author says Surama did what she did at the end to bend to society's rules, I felt just the opposite. To me, that was the first time she did what SHE wanted to do, selfishly even, to finally take what's rightfully HERS. Oh God! I am still reeling from the depth of her varied emotions.
Apart from these main characters, I liked Prakash's friendship with Surama. It's been so long since I read a friendship as pure as theirs. Manda, though introduced much later, brought her own flavour to the story, she almost reminded me of Surama herself, always making the best of her current, however difficult, situation.
There is a reason why I don't read Bengali literature much despite being a Bengali myself. Every single of my culture's stories will break your heart deeply, multiple times, within the span of a few pages. I remember I had cried a river after reading just a 20 page story by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. Something about reading characters from your hometown and in your mother tongue cuts you in deep. After that incident I avoided Bengali books like anything. I found my solace in happy western literature. But I think, after reading this book, I feel ready to complete my Sarat Chandra collection, gifted by my mother so many years ago. I think my heart has been hardened by circumstances enough to enjoy my culture's literature, rather than get heartbroken by it. Because right at this point in my life, I realise, no matter what generational difference between Surama and I, feelings and emotions transcend all. So, one day or the other I have to be ready to face it. This is life.
Author : Nirupama Devi
Translated by : Alo Shome
Genre : Translated Bengali fiction
Dignity. That's what this book taught me.
I had picked this book up since it's #WomenInTranslation month. And also because I faintly remember reading about Nirupama Devi's 'Didi' and other works while cramming for my Bengali literature final during school days.
I had a fair idea what the story is about from the blurb at the back cover. So I had surmised it would be about the co-wives blooming sisterhood, overcoming the social norms of competing for a common husband. But it was not just that. Surama herself IS the embodiment of this story. Even though we get to read from the pov of other characters as well, she owns the story throughout.
I am not going to do a feminist rant about the 2 wives situation, because polygamy was prevalent in those days and women were treated as household objects. That's a fact and there's nothing I can say that will re-write the past, despite my anger. Since this book is written by a female author of that time, you will understand how normal this whole situation was at that time and you won't feel any rage, unless you draw comparison with modern times. Male members were treated as the guardians, even though there is an older woman in the same family. Girls' marriagable age was around 10, just at the cusp of puberty. Now, imagine a girl getting widowed at that age and societal norms state that she has to devote her whole life to God now. That's Uma Rani, in this book. I felt, that she didn't even understand what kind of life she was deprived of because of her widowhood. Everyone cried for her and she was bewildered at that. Her character and her bond with her Ma Surama are very precious to me.
Charu, the second wife, is one of the purest characters I have ever read. You can't help but love her, such was her sincerity in every word and action. No wonder, she was the only one to break through Surama's pride right at the beginning of the story. The very last page of the book told me how unconditionally she loved Surama, her 'Didi'.
Amar, the husband of the story, was portrayed with as much innocent light as possible by the author. Each and every of his wrong decision was meticulously justified by the author as if to tell us that it was his fate, whatever happened to him, not his choices. But it was the latter. But then, that world was literally a man's world, so I felt, after a certain point, he did what he thought was right.
Surama, the hero of the story, is the elusive first wife. The way she held herself in SUCH a tumultuous situation, which wrecked her life, she quickly made herself my favourite literary character. My mother used to tell me that no matter what happens in life, never lose your self respect. Surama showed me how. She broke EVERY one of her time's rules and lived her life with pride and dignity and with SO MUCH kindness and love for others, even at the cost of her own happiness, but not once losing her face and respect. Hell, she commanded respect. She was the manager and caretaker, i.e. the matriarch, of every house she lived in. I have lost count of how many characters called her 'Ma' (mother) in this story out of love and in response to her love. Her inner strength reminded me of how I imagined goddess Parvati to be when I was little. I will carry her with me forever.
Even though the translator author says Surama did what she did at the end to bend to society's rules, I felt just the opposite. To me, that was the first time she did what SHE wanted to do, selfishly even, to finally take what's rightfully HERS. Oh God! I am still reeling from the depth of her varied emotions.
Apart from these main characters, I liked Prakash's friendship with Surama. It's been so long since I read a friendship as pure as theirs. Manda, though introduced much later, brought her own flavour to the story, she almost reminded me of Surama herself, always making the best of her current, however difficult, situation.
There is a reason why I don't read Bengali literature much despite being a Bengali myself. Every single of my culture's stories will break your heart deeply, multiple times, within the span of a few pages. I remember I had cried a river after reading just a 20 page story by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. Something about reading characters from your hometown and in your mother tongue cuts you in deep. After that incident I avoided Bengali books like anything. I found my solace in happy western literature. But I think, after reading this book, I feel ready to complete my Sarat Chandra collection, gifted by my mother so many years ago. I think my heart has been hardened by circumstances enough to enjoy my culture's literature, rather than get heartbroken by it. Because right at this point in my life, I realise, no matter what generational difference between Surama and I, feelings and emotions transcend all. So, one day or the other I have to be ready to face it. This is life.
August 21, 2023
“Didi” is a novel written by Nirupama Devi in 1915, which explores the themes of widowhood and polygamy, and portrays the tragedies of womanhood. The novel has been translated into English by Alo Shome. The book explores the theme of gender through progressive elements, radical possibilities, the tragic hold of tradition, and cruelty disguised as social customs. The story follows Surama, a married woman, as she navigates her inner turmoil and dilemmas in a patriarchal society. Her husband, Amar, marries Charu as his second wife when his hidden yearnings become entwined with his unusual circumstances. The novel also touches on the harsh realities of widows in a society that values them. The characters are well-developed and believable, and the writing is beautiful and evocative. “Didi” is a powerful and moving novel that highlights women’s ongoing struggles in their fight for equality.
October 10, 2023
31st Book of 2023
I recently got an opportunity to read a book which was written more than 100 years back in 1915 by Nirupama Devi named “Didi”. It was originally written in Bengali language and is known to be one of its modern classics. I have read its English translation currently which has been translated by Alo Shome. This 232-pages book published by Rupa Publications speaks about the society during that era when there weren’t many legal parameters for the society to maintain good balance with all the parties/genders/people.
In this book, Didi, Nirupama Devi talks about the kind of life few women had to lead due to the issues such as polygamy, widowhood etc. She also speaks about how boys were themselves confused about their personalities as most of them were governed by their father and did what was asked them to do. Author has used three major characters – Surama, Amar and Charu to make us go through the societal dilemma as well as the different state of mind that a human being goes through when they get stuck in a life which is not of their choice.
There are several other supporting characters also who gives story a nice push whenever it moves slow. The plot doesn’t have much but it is still unique as the circumstances keeps changing for all the characters due to unforeseen happenings around them in family and beyond. I liked the shades in the character of Surama – who is basically the protagonist in the story. The way she stays calm even after knowing that her husband is about to bring second wife at home gives you inner strength. Her rebellious nature once she finds another woman under the same roof makes you uncomfortable to see change in her demeanor. Then, the chemistry between both- Surama and Charu, the 2nd wife of Amar, is written so magically that it is what also gives the name to the title of the book- DIDI. I was surprised to read their conversations where Surama regularly guided and helped her on day-to-day basis.
The character of Amar is also dynamic as he ends up getting married for both the times due to pressure and circumstances. He has to deal with the changed attitude of Surama due to his decision of 2nd marriage but he continues to handle the situation without anyone’s support. He loses control on his emotions in between but realizes that he is doing wrong with people in his life. Similarly, the chemistry between Surama and her father-in-law is so beautiful that every girl would want to get married in a home with such an impartial and understanding guardian.
Author has also used the locales and aesthetics of the era beautifully. All those letter scenes are so nostalgic as someone who’s born in 90s, I was able to relate with the curiosity of sending and receiving letters. The temple scenes are nicely described which makes us imagine the whole scenario easily.
Overall, the book helps us understand the challenges of human beings when they are thrown into circumstances they weren’t prepared to handle. I feel that the translation might have taken away a bit of the essence from the story but still, it helps you understand the intent behind the creation of the tale. I give this book 3.5* out of 5.
Thanks!
WRITING BUDDHA
I recently got an opportunity to read a book which was written more than 100 years back in 1915 by Nirupama Devi named “Didi”. It was originally written in Bengali language and is known to be one of its modern classics. I have read its English translation currently which has been translated by Alo Shome. This 232-pages book published by Rupa Publications speaks about the society during that era when there weren’t many legal parameters for the society to maintain good balance with all the parties/genders/people.
In this book, Didi, Nirupama Devi talks about the kind of life few women had to lead due to the issues such as polygamy, widowhood etc. She also speaks about how boys were themselves confused about their personalities as most of them were governed by their father and did what was asked them to do. Author has used three major characters – Surama, Amar and Charu to make us go through the societal dilemma as well as the different state of mind that a human being goes through when they get stuck in a life which is not of their choice.
There are several other supporting characters also who gives story a nice push whenever it moves slow. The plot doesn’t have much but it is still unique as the circumstances keeps changing for all the characters due to unforeseen happenings around them in family and beyond. I liked the shades in the character of Surama – who is basically the protagonist in the story. The way she stays calm even after knowing that her husband is about to bring second wife at home gives you inner strength. Her rebellious nature once she finds another woman under the same roof makes you uncomfortable to see change in her demeanor. Then, the chemistry between both- Surama and Charu, the 2nd wife of Amar, is written so magically that it is what also gives the name to the title of the book- DIDI. I was surprised to read their conversations where Surama regularly guided and helped her on day-to-day basis.
The character of Amar is also dynamic as he ends up getting married for both the times due to pressure and circumstances. He has to deal with the changed attitude of Surama due to his decision of 2nd marriage but he continues to handle the situation without anyone’s support. He loses control on his emotions in between but realizes that he is doing wrong with people in his life. Similarly, the chemistry between Surama and her father-in-law is so beautiful that every girl would want to get married in a home with such an impartial and understanding guardian.
Author has also used the locales and aesthetics of the era beautifully. All those letter scenes are so nostalgic as someone who’s born in 90s, I was able to relate with the curiosity of sending and receiving letters. The temple scenes are nicely described which makes us imagine the whole scenario easily.
Overall, the book helps us understand the challenges of human beings when they are thrown into circumstances they weren’t prepared to handle. I feel that the translation might have taken away a bit of the essence from the story but still, it helps you understand the intent behind the creation of the tale. I give this book 3.5* out of 5.
Thanks!
WRITING BUDDHA
September 8, 2023
⏩ your favourite translated read.
📖 "DIDI" BY NIRUPAMA DEVI TRANSLATED BY ALO SHOME is one of the best modern classic books I have ever read.
📖 An expressive cover with a dynamic blurb set through your head , settled in your mind for a while
📖 The moment I read the blurb, I was attracted to the book in seconds - the blurb has its own aura and power.
📖 Imagine a girl hardly nine years old living a life of widow where she has to wear certain dull clothes, have to comb her hair in a certain way, not allowed to laugh, be happy or anything? Seems so unfair, right ?
📖 Imagine a girl stepping into her new home with her husband in a completely unfamiliar atmosphere, trusting her husband to support her ,, turning out her husband got married to another woman ? How does that sound?
📖 The story revolves around Surama, who gets married to Amar as per his father's wish, but they never get to find anything in each other. A silent rift increases slowly and it takes an ugly turn when Amar brings Charu as his second wife after promising his mother to take care of her.
📖 Amar and Deven, friends thick and thin, stumbled upon Charu - an Amar girl completely free, naive and innocent years ago, and that same girl is now Amar's wife.
📖 But Charu was a completely innocent and lovable woman who could win your heart. When Amar's father falls ill and the amar - charu visits the house, three of them are at the point where things are beyond awkward for them.
📖 But Charu's innocent love for her "Didi" Surama won Surama's heart and both of them, despite being co - wives, create a beautiful bond of sisters between them.
📖 Charu, was never able to get "love" of family in her life and found her family in her Didi.
📖 But the rift between Amar and Surama was still there.
📖 Surama is a capable and strong woman, calm and composed and she tries everything to solve the circumstances she faces, be it her husband's second marriage, handling house the hold, taking care of charu and atul or making the right decisions for Uma - Prakash.
📖 The story shows the complexity of human emotions and their relationships, as well as the hard challenges faced by women.
📖 The story reflects upon the dominant culture of society where they decide for women, her well being, her clothes, her ways of styling their hair and what not ?
📖 A culture where women are sinned to have a desire to be happy.
📖 The writing was impactful, how smoothly the author navigates through all the complexities but still presents a strong character of woman.
📖 It's not only a challenge faced by women, but it also shows how women are so influenced by society that they take harsh decisions for other lives too, about just like Suramaa did for Uma.
📖 Surama's character was executed so beautifully - her character has many layers and strong subjects, a sense of calmness
📖 While Charu's character - nothing but a mere innocent girl who needs love, simple.
📖 As the blurb says, no one is a villain here - but the circumstances and baseless rules created by society.
📖 A classic story of womanhood and love !
📖 "DIDI" BY NIRUPAMA DEVI TRANSLATED BY ALO SHOME is one of the best modern classic books I have ever read.
📖 An expressive cover with a dynamic blurb set through your head , settled in your mind for a while
📖 The moment I read the blurb, I was attracted to the book in seconds - the blurb has its own aura and power.
📖 Imagine a girl hardly nine years old living a life of widow where she has to wear certain dull clothes, have to comb her hair in a certain way, not allowed to laugh, be happy or anything? Seems so unfair, right ?
📖 Imagine a girl stepping into her new home with her husband in a completely unfamiliar atmosphere, trusting her husband to support her ,, turning out her husband got married to another woman ? How does that sound?
📖 The story revolves around Surama, who gets married to Amar as per his father's wish, but they never get to find anything in each other. A silent rift increases slowly and it takes an ugly turn when Amar brings Charu as his second wife after promising his mother to take care of her.
📖 Amar and Deven, friends thick and thin, stumbled upon Charu - an Amar girl completely free, naive and innocent years ago, and that same girl is now Amar's wife.
📖 But Charu was a completely innocent and lovable woman who could win your heart. When Amar's father falls ill and the amar - charu visits the house, three of them are at the point where things are beyond awkward for them.
📖 But Charu's innocent love for her "Didi" Surama won Surama's heart and both of them, despite being co - wives, create a beautiful bond of sisters between them.
📖 Charu, was never able to get "love" of family in her life and found her family in her Didi.
📖 But the rift between Amar and Surama was still there.
📖 Surama is a capable and strong woman, calm and composed and she tries everything to solve the circumstances she faces, be it her husband's second marriage, handling house the hold, taking care of charu and atul or making the right decisions for Uma - Prakash.
📖 The story shows the complexity of human emotions and their relationships, as well as the hard challenges faced by women.
📖 The story reflects upon the dominant culture of society where they decide for women, her well being, her clothes, her ways of styling their hair and what not ?
📖 A culture where women are sinned to have a desire to be happy.
📖 The writing was impactful, how smoothly the author navigates through all the complexities but still presents a strong character of woman.
📖 It's not only a challenge faced by women, but it also shows how women are so influenced by society that they take harsh decisions for other lives too, about just like Suramaa did for Uma.
📖 Surama's character was executed so beautifully - her character has many layers and strong subjects, a sense of calmness
📖 While Charu's character - nothing but a mere innocent girl who needs love, simple.
📖 As the blurb says, no one is a villain here - but the circumstances and baseless rules created by society.
📖 A classic story of womanhood and love !
September 21, 2023
Didi by Nirupama Devi
Translation by Alo Shome
Genre - Novel / Domestic novel
Rating - 4/5
Have you ever felt inclined towards a book just because you read the author's life story? Because this author's life is no less than a shadow of a novel, I felt an urge to read this novel.
Nirupama Devi was part of a new breed of women writers who were winning the hearts of leaders in the late 19th century Bengal, Her most productive years as a writer were between 1913 and 1927.
Nirupama Devi was a childhood widow at the age of 14. Her father was a highly educated person, a judicial officer, but very orthodox and patron of Purdah still he allowed, and, Nirupama's mother motivated her to forget the past, to read and write. Her brothers have also been inspiring her to enter in literary world. Even Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay praised Nirupama's work. Isn't it fascinating how Nirupama became a novelist? She lived a restrictive widow's life to please a loving father still she was a progressive person at her heart and mind.
Unexpectedly though, the plot of Didi ends with the protagonist's admission that women's place is always beneath a man; at once you can suspect that the only reason for the novelist to give such a sorry turn to a bright principal character was to conform to the social demands of her time.
The researcher Aparna Bandyopadhyay further informed us that writing about those days of social friction in the Bengali Hindu colonial context was an utmost difficult and complex process, and the concern to adhere to the demand of gender ideology of the time was at times in conflict with a spirit of interrogation and defiance reading this novel leaves an impression of an uneasy ambivalence of creativity plagued by delay mass and contrary pulls.
I have already read this book ages ago and so I read this book once again. It's the story of Amar, who brings home a younger woman as his second wife, but he is truly gentle and benevolent. The novelist, very convincingly, makes him a victim of circumstances. The second wife, Charu, a child-woman when the story begins, is extremely fond of her Didi, Surama. The friendship of the two wives of one man forms the fulcrum of the narrative. Surama the first wife, can take responsibilities and deliver on them as creditably as the chief executive officer of a large company. Yet, for her husband, she is only a co-wife. As divorce did not feature as an option (Didi was published in Bengali in 1915, years before divorce was legalized by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955), Surama’s challenge is to lead a fulfilled life within the parameters of her weird circumstances. Consisting of strong sub-plots, one of which depicts the painful process by which a young widow sublimates her sexuality and submits herself to God, the only way of living allowed to her by the society of her time, Didi is a reminder of why society needed to change for women to live their lives with dignity.
I read it again and really good translation by critically acclaimed writer, poet, and translator Alo Shome. Go for it.
Translation by Alo Shome
Genre - Novel / Domestic novel
Rating - 4/5
Have you ever felt inclined towards a book just because you read the author's life story? Because this author's life is no less than a shadow of a novel, I felt an urge to read this novel.
Nirupama Devi was part of a new breed of women writers who were winning the hearts of leaders in the late 19th century Bengal, Her most productive years as a writer were between 1913 and 1927.
Nirupama Devi was a childhood widow at the age of 14. Her father was a highly educated person, a judicial officer, but very orthodox and patron of Purdah still he allowed, and, Nirupama's mother motivated her to forget the past, to read and write. Her brothers have also been inspiring her to enter in literary world. Even Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay praised Nirupama's work. Isn't it fascinating how Nirupama became a novelist? She lived a restrictive widow's life to please a loving father still she was a progressive person at her heart and mind.
Unexpectedly though, the plot of Didi ends with the protagonist's admission that women's place is always beneath a man; at once you can suspect that the only reason for the novelist to give such a sorry turn to a bright principal character was to conform to the social demands of her time.
The researcher Aparna Bandyopadhyay further informed us that writing about those days of social friction in the Bengali Hindu colonial context was an utmost difficult and complex process, and the concern to adhere to the demand of gender ideology of the time was at times in conflict with a spirit of interrogation and defiance reading this novel leaves an impression of an uneasy ambivalence of creativity plagued by delay mass and contrary pulls.
I have already read this book ages ago and so I read this book once again. It's the story of Amar, who brings home a younger woman as his second wife, but he is truly gentle and benevolent. The novelist, very convincingly, makes him a victim of circumstances. The second wife, Charu, a child-woman when the story begins, is extremely fond of her Didi, Surama. The friendship of the two wives of one man forms the fulcrum of the narrative. Surama the first wife, can take responsibilities and deliver on them as creditably as the chief executive officer of a large company. Yet, for her husband, she is only a co-wife. As divorce did not feature as an option (Didi was published in Bengali in 1915, years before divorce was legalized by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955), Surama’s challenge is to lead a fulfilled life within the parameters of her weird circumstances. Consisting of strong sub-plots, one of which depicts the painful process by which a young widow sublimates her sexuality and submits herself to God, the only way of living allowed to her by the society of her time, Didi is a reminder of why society needed to change for women to live their lives with dignity.
I read it again and really good translation by critically acclaimed writer, poet, and translator Alo Shome. Go for it.
September 6, 2023
Reading 'Didi' is an exercise in disappointment and wonderment. Disappointment not because of the skills of the writer as Nirupama Devi but the unfortunate conditions the female protagonists of the story find themselves in. The time, almost an age has gone by since then, doesn't allow the women to even imagine a situation where they can allow themselves a hope for redemption.
In Didi, Surama Devi is married off to Amaranth who then marries a young girl Charu, daughter of a widow entrusted in his care.
In spite of this unfortunate situation, Charu's affections lie wholeheartedly with Surama, who's 'Didi' to her, a term attributed to the first wife of a man in patriarchal settings.
Depsite Surama Devi's efforts to put her husband in his place, when he suddenly overcomes his infatuation for Charu and develops emotion for Surama, she's disgusted and stops his advances at once. Amar, for her now, is like a brother in law, husband to her younger sister.
Nirupama Devi writes: ‘For, he was her dearest sister’s husband – entitled only to the kindness due to a brother-in-law...Charu had a right over Surama’s heart. For, was not she her younger sister? And Amar was now that younger sister’s husband. How can she ever fall for him?’
She returns to her father's house where she takes Uma, her widowed niece, in her care. Uma has completely accepted her widowhood, and doesn't even have a thought for a life where she can be in an improved station.
This is what Uma feels: “The girl’s beautiful eyes filled with tears as she expressed her dismay. “Why, Ma? What is so sad about it? It doesn’t make me sad. The word ‘widowhood’ doesn’t disturb me at all.”
Nirupama Devi herself was widowed at a young age and used to write with a pseudonym of 'Srimati Devi'. Her works were appreciated by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. She spent her last days in Varanasi as her father was against widow remarriage.
In Didi, Surama Devi is married off to Amaranth who then marries a young girl Charu, daughter of a widow entrusted in his care.
In spite of this unfortunate situation, Charu's affections lie wholeheartedly with Surama, who's 'Didi' to her, a term attributed to the first wife of a man in patriarchal settings.
Depsite Surama Devi's efforts to put her husband in his place, when he suddenly overcomes his infatuation for Charu and develops emotion for Surama, she's disgusted and stops his advances at once. Amar, for her now, is like a brother in law, husband to her younger sister.
Nirupama Devi writes: ‘For, he was her dearest sister’s husband – entitled only to the kindness due to a brother-in-law...Charu had a right over Surama’s heart. For, was not she her younger sister? And Amar was now that younger sister’s husband. How can she ever fall for him?’
She returns to her father's house where she takes Uma, her widowed niece, in her care. Uma has completely accepted her widowhood, and doesn't even have a thought for a life where she can be in an improved station.
This is what Uma feels: “The girl’s beautiful eyes filled with tears as she expressed her dismay. “Why, Ma? What is so sad about it? It doesn’t make me sad. The word ‘widowhood’ doesn’t disturb me at all.”
Nirupama Devi herself was widowed at a young age and used to write with a pseudonym of 'Srimati Devi'. Her works were appreciated by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. She spent her last days in Varanasi as her father was against widow remarriage.
August 12, 2023
Didi is a literary triumph that encapsulates the struggles and aspirations of women in a bygone era.
Published in 1915, Didi ingeniously navigates the limitations imposed by the era, where divorce was yet to be an option. The story artfully delves into Surama's pursuit of fulfillment within the eccentric boundaries of her life.
Nirupama Devi's prose is a masterclass in storytelling. Her vivid descriptions transport readers to early 20th-century Bengal, and her characters, rich in complexity, resonate with authenticity. The narrative deftly mirrors the era's dichotomies, where women of strength were confined within traditional roles.
The central conflict is multi-layered, compounded by Surama's enduring love for her husband, despite her earnest attempts to despise him. The absence of a clear antagonist is an intriguing facet, as even Amar, Surama's husband, who introduces a younger wife into their lives, emerges as a character shaped by circumstance rather than malice.
What sets "Didi" apart is the profoundly tender bond between the co-wives, Surama and Charu. As the narrative evolves, Charu's growth from a childlike figure to a woman entwined in the complexities of Surama's world forms the story's heart.
Published in 1915, Didi ingeniously navigates the limitations imposed by the era, where divorce was yet to be an option. The story artfully delves into Surama's pursuit of fulfillment within the eccentric boundaries of her life.
Nirupama Devi's prose is a masterclass in storytelling. Her vivid descriptions transport readers to early 20th-century Bengal, and her characters, rich in complexity, resonate with authenticity. The narrative deftly mirrors the era's dichotomies, where women of strength were confined within traditional roles.
The central conflict is multi-layered, compounded by Surama's enduring love for her husband, despite her earnest attempts to despise him. The absence of a clear antagonist is an intriguing facet, as even Amar, Surama's husband, who introduces a younger wife into their lives, emerges as a character shaped by circumstance rather than malice.
What sets "Didi" apart is the profoundly tender bond between the co-wives, Surama and Charu. As the narrative evolves, Charu's growth from a childlike figure to a woman entwined in the complexities of Surama's world forms the story's heart.
September 19, 2023
Nirupama Devi's "Didi" is a captivating portrayal of Surama, a woman of remarkable strength and determination, navigating the complexities of her life at a time when societal norms constrained her choices. Surama's ability to shoulder responsibilities rivals that of a corporate CEO, yet she finds herself relegated to the role of a co-wife in a marriage where divorce is not an option.
What makes "Didi" stand out is its absence of villains; even Amar, who introduces a second wife into the equation, is depicted as a victim of circumstances. Charu, the second wife, forms a deep and unexpected bond with Surama, adding a unique layer of complexity to the story.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
What makes "Didi" stand out is its absence of villains; even Amar, who introduces a second wife into the equation, is depicted as a victim of circumstances. Charu, the second wife, forms a deep and unexpected bond with Surama, adding a unique layer of complexity to the story.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
September 15, 2023
Didi (which is a word used in reference to बड़ी बहन -elder sister in Hindi.)
This book orginal belongs to Bengali literature. I have read this one which is translated by Alo Shome. (Didi was published in Bengali in 1915, years before divorce was legalised by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955).
Lately I've been reading translated works, which I am glad I allowed myself to explore.
This is a story of a hardworking, confident, and capable lady who, by her own admission, enjoys being in charge. Surama can accept and fulfil obligations with the same credibility as a huge corporation's CEO.
However, she is simply a co-wife to her husband. Surama's challenge is to live a meaningful life within the constraints of her unusual circumstances, as divorce is not an option.
To make matters worse, when Amar brings home his new wife, Surama still loves her spouse despite her best efforts to loathe him.
A novel that skillfully weaves the shades of love, sacrifice, and the finding of pursuit of dignity and redemption.
This book orginal belongs to Bengali literature. I have read this one which is translated by Alo Shome. (Didi was published in Bengali in 1915, years before divorce was legalised by the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955).
Lately I've been reading translated works, which I am glad I allowed myself to explore.
This is a story of a hardworking, confident, and capable lady who, by her own admission, enjoys being in charge. Surama can accept and fulfil obligations with the same credibility as a huge corporation's CEO.
However, she is simply a co-wife to her husband. Surama's challenge is to live a meaningful life within the constraints of her unusual circumstances, as divorce is not an option.
To make matters worse, when Amar brings home his new wife, Surama still loves her spouse despite her best efforts to loathe him.
A novel that skillfully weaves the shades of love, sacrifice, and the finding of pursuit of dignity and redemption.
October 24, 2023
It was ok. I think I was expecting much more drama to be honest.
I didn't like Charu at first cause she was the reason for a strife between Amar and Surama. But also Amar wasn't behaving like a Saint. He just sort of expected Surama to take the role of a sister wife and Surama eventually begins to feel like an outsider in her own home. It was kind of sad.
I didn't like Charu at first cause she was the reason for a strife between Amar and Surama. But also Amar wasn't behaving like a Saint. He just sort of expected Surama to take the role of a sister wife and Surama eventually begins to feel like an outsider in her own home. It was kind of sad.
January 19, 2024
The ending was too submissive for my liking. Otherwise a good read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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