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Sun & Shadow: Jeevan Ho Gham Chaya
"A complete masterpiece that touches the life of a Dalit woman to the fullest..." Samata Foundation, Nepal
Durga and Prabesh, a young intercaste couple from Nepal, are discovered having a secret affair. The threat of violent reprisal prohibits any hope of staying together, and they are forced to follow very different paths. This is their story.
In a remote Himalayan village where casteism is rife and poverty is endemic, teenaged Durga does her best to accept her karma, and her hastily arranged marriage to a violent alcoholic. Durga’s only joy is the secret knowledge that Prabesh is her son’s father, and she nurtures hope that one day they will be reunited through their son, and they will all escape to Kathmandu together.
But there is no escape in sight. Instead, Durga is continually brutalised by her alcoholic husband and forced to endure daily discrimination because of an unfair caste system. She tries hard, but it is a struggle to accept that this is her karma. When she discovers the local community is outraged at her because she did not give birth in the squalid and unhygienic communal hut – and that her husband has stolen her meagre savings to go on a drinking binge, Durga has finally had enough. Violence, injustice, discrimination, poverty. The time has come to rebel – to fight for a better life for her children, for her neighbours, for herself. But defying age-old traditions and ingrained prejudices – by one who is the most oppressed – is an intimidating journey. Durga must find the courage – and her voice – before she can succeed.
In Durga’s home village, schoolteacher Prabesh believes it was not karma but deep-rooted discrimination – and the threat of violence – that prevented he and Durga from being together. As a high caste, Prabesh comes from privilege. His life as a respected teacher in rural Nepal is idyllic by comparison. He has never been hungry and has never wanted for anything. The only infringement on Prabesh’s rights come from his overly meddling mother, and his shamelessly bigoted and corrupt father. Angry at his inability to defy his father and marry Durga, Prabesh sets up a social work program to assist the impoverished children in his village. For Prabesh, the program has special significance. It targets children from the same caste as Durga, and their families are mostly victims of his father's corrupt practices. Prabesh's dislike for his father continues to increase the more he discovers the extent of the poverty, and it is difficult not to be overwhelmed. But he perseveres, and his dedication arouses both sympathy and donations from overseas. Prabesh's father, upon hearing of the donations, insists on becoming involved in the program, and his greedy machinations force Prabesh to confront both ethical and moral dilemmas. The only way to keep the project alive, and help all those children, is for Prabesh to find his voice, and the courage to defy his father.
Durga and Prabesh, a young intercaste couple from Nepal, are discovered having a secret affair. The threat of violent reprisal prohibits any hope of staying together, and they are forced to follow very different paths. This is their story.
In a remote Himalayan village where casteism is rife and poverty is endemic, teenaged Durga does her best to accept her karma, and her hastily arranged marriage to a violent alcoholic. Durga’s only joy is the secret knowledge that Prabesh is her son’s father, and she nurtures hope that one day they will be reunited through their son, and they will all escape to Kathmandu together.
But there is no escape in sight. Instead, Durga is continually brutalised by her alcoholic husband and forced to endure daily discrimination because of an unfair caste system. She tries hard, but it is a struggle to accept that this is her karma. When she discovers the local community is outraged at her because she did not give birth in the squalid and unhygienic communal hut – and that her husband has stolen her meagre savings to go on a drinking binge, Durga has finally had enough. Violence, injustice, discrimination, poverty. The time has come to rebel – to fight for a better life for her children, for her neighbours, for herself. But defying age-old traditions and ingrained prejudices – by one who is the most oppressed – is an intimidating journey. Durga must find the courage – and her voice – before she can succeed.
In Durga’s home village, schoolteacher Prabesh believes it was not karma but deep-rooted discrimination – and the threat of violence – that prevented he and Durga from being together. As a high caste, Prabesh comes from privilege. His life as a respected teacher in rural Nepal is idyllic by comparison. He has never been hungry and has never wanted for anything. The only infringement on Prabesh’s rights come from his overly meddling mother, and his shamelessly bigoted and corrupt father. Angry at his inability to defy his father and marry Durga, Prabesh sets up a social work program to assist the impoverished children in his village. For Prabesh, the program has special significance. It targets children from the same caste as Durga, and their families are mostly victims of his father's corrupt practices. Prabesh's dislike for his father continues to increase the more he discovers the extent of the poverty, and it is difficult not to be overwhelmed. But he perseveres, and his dedication arouses both sympathy and donations from overseas. Prabesh's father, upon hearing of the donations, insists on becoming involved in the program, and his greedy machinations force Prabesh to confront both ethical and moral dilemmas. The only way to keep the project alive, and help all those children, is for Prabesh to find his voice, and the courage to defy his father.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 19, 2024
Sun and Shadow is an incredibly significant book. It goes beyond being just a love story hindered by the caste differences between the main characters. Instead, it delves into the intricacies of their lives and the consequences of belonging to a particular caste. The book can be seen as a flourishing of various elements: love, revolution, and individuality. Above all, it showcases the flourishing of Prabesh and Durga's sense of self despite disgrace, injustice, and inequality.
The author skillfully weaves together the intertwined and meandering narratives of each character, starting from the buds of their particular tragedies. As the story progresses, their journeys unfold outwardly, exploring their experiences with the collective while allowing for deep introspection from each character. This shift from the internal to the external does not diminish the profound and transformative reflections on their individuality.
Furthermore, this flourishing occurs amidst the harsh realities that the characters face, especially Durga as a Dalit woman. The book tackles heavy themes such as alcoholism, domestic violence, marital rape, and extreme poverty. Be aware that these topics can be triggering for some readers. However, Sun and Shadow manages to ignite curiosity about Nepal, its history, and its social system.
One aspect that initially got me confused is the absence of a specific year in the story. At first, it may seem like a tale from a distant past as it depicts rural Nepal, but then references to cyber cafes, email, and computers emerge. Additionally, I had the misconception that the start of the revolution through the People's Party coincides with the revolution in the West. However, it became clear to me that this political movement arrived in Nepal more recently. While these timeline gray areas do not detract from the plot, it would be interesting to have a precise understanding of the era to better contextualize the story.
In the author's note at the end of the book, Manandhar assures readers that the story has been meticulously checked for cultural sensitivity and accuracy. This is particularly noteworthy as the author is a foreign writer delving into the rich tapestry of Nepalese culture. It is reassuring to know that the author has taken great care to present the culture in a respectful and authentic manner.
Sun and Shadow is a story that encompasses both sadness and devastation, but also hope. It left a lasting impact on me, and I am grateful to have received an advanced copy from its author, NH Manandhar. The book is a touching and beautifully written tale that I thoroughly enjoyed. From the moment I picked up the book, I was completely captivated.
The author skillfully weaves together the intertwined and meandering narratives of each character, starting from the buds of their particular tragedies. As the story progresses, their journeys unfold outwardly, exploring their experiences with the collective while allowing for deep introspection from each character. This shift from the internal to the external does not diminish the profound and transformative reflections on their individuality.
Furthermore, this flourishing occurs amidst the harsh realities that the characters face, especially Durga as a Dalit woman. The book tackles heavy themes such as alcoholism, domestic violence, marital rape, and extreme poverty. Be aware that these topics can be triggering for some readers. However, Sun and Shadow manages to ignite curiosity about Nepal, its history, and its social system.
One aspect that initially got me confused is the absence of a specific year in the story. At first, it may seem like a tale from a distant past as it depicts rural Nepal, but then references to cyber cafes, email, and computers emerge. Additionally, I had the misconception that the start of the revolution through the People's Party coincides with the revolution in the West. However, it became clear to me that this political movement arrived in Nepal more recently. While these timeline gray areas do not detract from the plot, it would be interesting to have a precise understanding of the era to better contextualize the story.
In the author's note at the end of the book, Manandhar assures readers that the story has been meticulously checked for cultural sensitivity and accuracy. This is particularly noteworthy as the author is a foreign writer delving into the rich tapestry of Nepalese culture. It is reassuring to know that the author has taken great care to present the culture in a respectful and authentic manner.
Sun and Shadow is a story that encompasses both sadness and devastation, but also hope. It left a lasting impact on me, and I am grateful to have received an advanced copy from its author, NH Manandhar. The book is a touching and beautifully written tale that I thoroughly enjoyed. From the moment I picked up the book, I was completely captivated.
November 7, 2023
"If you have ever been to Nepal or are planning to go there please do yourself a favour and read this book, whilst it is fictional story, the book completely resonated for me. I have been to Nepal twice the first time during a civil war and the second time when the country was politically more stable.This book does shines a spot light on many contemporary issues facing Nepalese communities who have rudimentary access to education, water, employment, health and legal facilities. This book includes various elements and belief systems based on Nepalese cultural beliefs, some of these beliefs can have significant ramifications for the most vulnerable cohorts particularly women.
Sun & Shadow completely transported me back to Nepal, I could feel the fresh air of the Annapurna Himalayan mountain range, see the rice or millet fields on the sheer
mountains slopes. I could see the housing made up of old and run down buildings that represented a local community, with the locals milling about and children walking to school. Sun and Shadows emphasises a range of critical social justice issues that occur in Nepal and we must not turn a blind eye to these injustices that unfortunately continue today. Poverty is insidious and alcoholism, poverty, caste systems, traditions, mental health, gender barriers to education and family violence are all interconnected. Lack of access to education and health care systems and the injustices faced by the Dalits. I was heartened and pleased to read how the Krantikari Aama Samuha meetings were gathering strength to empower the most vulnerable women in rural Nepal"
Sun & Shadow completely transported me back to Nepal, I could feel the fresh air of the Annapurna Himalayan mountain range, see the rice or millet fields on the sheer
mountains slopes. I could see the housing made up of old and run down buildings that represented a local community, with the locals milling about and children walking to school. Sun and Shadows emphasises a range of critical social justice issues that occur in Nepal and we must not turn a blind eye to these injustices that unfortunately continue today. Poverty is insidious and alcoholism, poverty, caste systems, traditions, mental health, gender barriers to education and family violence are all interconnected. Lack of access to education and health care systems and the injustices faced by the Dalits. I was heartened and pleased to read how the Krantikari Aama Samuha meetings were gathering strength to empower the most vulnerable women in rural Nepal"
November 5, 2023
I was thrilled to be asked to be an advanced reader for this new book.
Please read this book - it is a very special story. I was looking forward to reading Sun & Shadow by N. H. Manandhar very much and was delighted with it, though I found more shadow than sun. Under the upper and lower caste system operating in Nepal, it isn't so happy-go-lucky, as Nepal always had appeared. Nicki and her husband, do much to try and relieve problems through their good work. It is a well written book and I couldn't put it down to do anything else. Just had to read on. I had hoped a happier outcome for Durga & Prabesh. I disliked the awful character Ram and his treatment of the crippled child brought tears to my eyes. So realistic it was I almost felt what the child was suffering and the comparison between the Nepali children and American Haley was significant due to availability of education. It is evident how discussion can sort out such problems. The author understands finance well enough to be able to help us to follow Prabesh's methods of assistance. It is a truly devastating reality we can now understand & try to help.
I was amazed at the lack of internet places and much travel to use one. Much local colour takes us from the generally better known Himalayan mountains which seem pristine beside the squalor of village life. This book elucidates the problems of life in rural Nepal and makes for engaging reading and will have a special place on my bookcase.
Please read this book - it is a very special story. I was looking forward to reading Sun & Shadow by N. H. Manandhar very much and was delighted with it, though I found more shadow than sun. Under the upper and lower caste system operating in Nepal, it isn't so happy-go-lucky, as Nepal always had appeared. Nicki and her husband, do much to try and relieve problems through their good work. It is a well written book and I couldn't put it down to do anything else. Just had to read on. I had hoped a happier outcome for Durga & Prabesh. I disliked the awful character Ram and his treatment of the crippled child brought tears to my eyes. So realistic it was I almost felt what the child was suffering and the comparison between the Nepali children and American Haley was significant due to availability of education. It is evident how discussion can sort out such problems. The author understands finance well enough to be able to help us to follow Prabesh's methods of assistance. It is a truly devastating reality we can now understand & try to help.
I was amazed at the lack of internet places and much travel to use one. Much local colour takes us from the generally better known Himalayan mountains which seem pristine beside the squalor of village life. This book elucidates the problems of life in rural Nepal and makes for engaging reading and will have a special place on my bookcase.
November 10, 2023
A fantastically written tale filled with hope. A book that brings to light the plight of sections within the Nepalese community but also shows the resilience of these people in the face of unfairness, inequality and injustice. Nicki brings each character to life with both heart wrenching back stories and hope for a better future, yet also creates an engagement that has you rooting for change. Can’t wait for the next instalment and to see what change our hero’s bring! Highly recommend.
November 16, 2023
An exceptional read. The writer tells this story with emotion and poignance. Following a strong, smart Nepalese woman on her journey through love, heartache, and suffering throughout political instability, she is met with so many obstacles. Her undefeatable strength and determination is indeed a testament to humanity. The writer will captivate the reader from the first page!
November 5, 2023
I am reviewing this book as an advanced reader.
Nicki has skillfully captured the real life, culture and struggles of village people in rural Nepal while developing characters who have soul, humanity and real substance. While the story puts a spotlight on the challenges of discrimination, inequality, abuse of the vulnerable and endemic corruption, it also provides optimism on the progress that can be made when good, determined people stand up as a group against injustice.
Nicki has woven some excellent characters into her story to bring out the best and worst of people and to add real depth – no doubt from her firsthand experience, having spent many years in Nepal dealing with rural people, poverty and the caste system. In particular, it was great to see the development of the main characters as the plot unfolded.
Readers who haven't had the privilege of visiting Nepal will obtain real insights into the country, its culture and people.
Nicki has skillfully captured the real life, culture and struggles of village people in rural Nepal while developing characters who have soul, humanity and real substance. While the story puts a spotlight on the challenges of discrimination, inequality, abuse of the vulnerable and endemic corruption, it also provides optimism on the progress that can be made when good, determined people stand up as a group against injustice.
Nicki has woven some excellent characters into her story to bring out the best and worst of people and to add real depth – no doubt from her firsthand experience, having spent many years in Nepal dealing with rural people, poverty and the caste system. In particular, it was great to see the development of the main characters as the plot unfolded.
Readers who haven't had the privilege of visiting Nepal will obtain real insights into the country, its culture and people.
November 28, 2023
If I was asked to recommend a book for someone travelling to Nepal this would be it. While it's a work of fiction, it's not a fairy tale. The unpredictability of real life is captured during recent political events. The content is challenging, but the resilience of the main character provides an antidote to despair. Well worth your time.
July 21, 2024
What an enthralling and sobering read! The author has lived among the Nepalese people and assisted them for years, so this novel is based in real and current life. Do yourself a favour and grab a copy today!
November 25, 2023
A moving account of the forces fomenting before the civil war in Nepal, Sun and Shadow follows the lives of a couple separated by the caste system, and their awakening to its injustice. Caught with her upper-caste lover Prabesh, Durga faces the fate of many poor, lower-caste women; she is married to a brutal, oppressive man she has never met before. Living in squalor, raped and beaten by her husband,
her life is a misery. Within the weave of her story we see the harsh, day-to-day survival the Dalit people endured, and the utter powerless of women when an innocent old woman is fatuously accused of witchcraft and subjected to what Americans would call a lynch party. Durga's difference in her feelings about a son conceived in love with Prabesh and her daughters born of rape are complex, painful studies.
But revolution is fomenting in Nepal. Ideas about resisting the corrupt political system and casteism are in the air, and we share in Durga and Prabesh's gradual awakening. A powerful, beautiful book with the promise of a sequel about characters we want to see more of!
her life is a misery. Within the weave of her story we see the harsh, day-to-day survival the Dalit people endured, and the utter powerless of women when an innocent old woman is fatuously accused of witchcraft and subjected to what Americans would call a lynch party. Durga's difference in her feelings about a son conceived in love with Prabesh and her daughters born of rape are complex, painful studies.
But revolution is fomenting in Nepal. Ideas about resisting the corrupt political system and casteism are in the air, and we share in Durga and Prabesh's gradual awakening. A powerful, beautiful book with the promise of a sequel about characters we want to see more of!
March 10, 2024
I received this book as a gift. Once I started this book, I could not put it down! N.H Manandhar’s 'Sun and Shadow' is an engaging story of the challenges faced by a young woman, whose misfortune was to be born into the poorest of the Nepali castes. The caste system and fear of retribution prevented Durga from marrying her true love, Prabesh. Unable to marry her true love Prabesh, and forced into an arranged marriage with an abusive alcoholic husband, Prabesh demonstrates her tenacity resilience & determination in her pursuit of a better life for herself, her children and other women in her community. The author has conducted extensive research to enable her to write a culturally sensitive story, that depicts real events and experiences of Nepali people. An excellent read, and I cannot wait for the sequel to find out what the future holds for Prabesh and the other key characters in the book.
October 29, 2023
I am providing this review as (privileged!) advance reader.
What a wonderful book. This book gave me new insights into the beliefs and culture in rural Nepal. Whilst I had some knowledge of the issues faced by the women and children, the stories and characters in the book opened my eyes to the extraordinary difficulties faced in an entrenched caste system. Western readers will find some of the attitudes and behaviours of men to be appalling. The book certainly will stir emotions!
Above all it is a great story and a real 'page turner'. There are heroes and villains and the seeds of revolution, set in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas.
I couldn't put it down.
What a wonderful book. This book gave me new insights into the beliefs and culture in rural Nepal. Whilst I had some knowledge of the issues faced by the women and children, the stories and characters in the book opened my eyes to the extraordinary difficulties faced in an entrenched caste system. Western readers will find some of the attitudes and behaviours of men to be appalling. The book certainly will stir emotions!
Above all it is a great story and a real 'page turner'. There are heroes and villains and the seeds of revolution, set in the foothills of the majestic Himalayas.
I couldn't put it down.
October 17, 2023
As an advanced reader I have enjoyed the opportunity to read this book before publication and I loved it!
This book brilliantly delves into the lives of Nepal's poor and marginalized communities, offering a profound perspective on the challenges faced by women in Nepal.
The storytelling is so engaging that I felt a deep emotional connection throughout.
I can't wait to read more of Durga's story.
This book brilliantly delves into the lives of Nepal's poor and marginalized communities, offering a profound perspective on the challenges faced by women in Nepal.
The storytelling is so engaging that I felt a deep emotional connection throughout.
I can't wait to read more of Durga's story.
October 24, 2023
I read this book as an advance reader. It is a book that is both beautiful and challenging. It takes you on a journey that immerses you in everything that is Nepal. It captures the Nepalese culture at the same time as exposing its prejudices and the challenges of women and those of the lower caste. It tells the story of Durga in a way that really connects her with you, the reader and leaves you wanting to know the rest of her story.
November 18, 2023
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of the book. The story flows well; characters, relatable and has the parts where it will make you happy, hopeful sometimes sad and heartbroken as well. Must read for everyone who are thinking of visiting Nepal.
March 26, 2025
A brutal yet powerful portrayal of the deeply-ingrained, discriminatory, caste system of the Nepalese culture. It shows the reader, that even in such adverse circumstances, hopes & dreams never die. A compelling read!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews