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A Melody in Mysore
Mysore, 1932
The rest of India is ablaze with the fervour of the freedom movement, but Mysore remains tranquil under the maharaja’s benevolent rule. For twelve-year-old Leela, the movement feels distant, just words in the pages of newspapers—until Malathi Akka moves into her neighbourhood, bringing with her thrilling ideas, new perspectives, and . . . a gramophone!
As Leela gets swept up by the winds of change, it dawns on her that participation in the freedom struggle can take on forms she hasn’t even imagined . . .
The Songs of Freedom series explores the lives of children across India during the struggle for independence.
The rest of India is ablaze with the fervour of the freedom movement, but Mysore remains tranquil under the maharaja’s benevolent rule. For twelve-year-old Leela, the movement feels distant, just words in the pages of newspapers—until Malathi Akka moves into her neighbourhood, bringing with her thrilling ideas, new perspectives, and . . . a gramophone!
As Leela gets swept up by the winds of change, it dawns on her that participation in the freedom struggle can take on forms she hasn’t even imagined . . .
The Songs of Freedom series explores the lives of children across India during the struggle for independence.
144 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
August 9, 2024
It is 1932 and twelve-year-old Leela is being raised by her Ajji in the well-governed, prosperous Mysore kingdom, free of British interference, under the rule of the Wodeyars. Leela hears snippets of information about Gandhi and the independence movement sweeping through the country from her Shivappa Meshtru and whispered conversations at home, but she is desperate to know more. Her wishes come true when she meets Malathi Akka who moves into the neighbourhood, and exposes her to new ideas, poetry and music, through a gramophone. Rao’s story explores the role of music as a medium through which ideas of freedom and revolution were subversively spread, hidden between the lines of religious songs and poetry.
Leela and her cousin Subba, on the cusp of adolescence, want to be taken seriously, and contribute to the movement. Shruthi Rao highlights how little deeds or as the book calls them, alilu seva often go unnoticed but are of great importance.
I loved so many things about this book, the way Shruthi weaves in poetry, music, and highlights the role they played in the Indian freedom struggle and the weaving in of the changing attitudes to the education of women.
The Songs of Freedom is a wonderful set of books that tell the story of India's freedom struggle through the eyes and experiences of children.
Must read.
Leela and her cousin Subba, on the cusp of adolescence, want to be taken seriously, and contribute to the movement. Shruthi Rao highlights how little deeds or as the book calls them, alilu seva often go unnoticed but are of great importance.
I loved so many things about this book, the way Shruthi weaves in poetry, music, and highlights the role they played in the Indian freedom struggle and the weaving in of the changing attitudes to the education of women.
The Songs of Freedom is a wonderful set of books that tell the story of India's freedom struggle through the eyes and experiences of children.
Must read.
August 14, 2024
A Melody in Mysore is the latest addition to the 'Songs of Freedom' series. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed most of the books in the series, some more than others. Set in different parts of the country in the first half of the twentieth century, each book is a snapshot of what it might have been like to be a child during the independence struggle.
Growing up in Mysore, Leela is relatively cocooned from the British rule. Under the Maharaja, many feel safe. The British struggle isn’t relevant to their lives. But as the freedom struggle sweeps across the nation, questions emerge. How long will they be sheltered? And if Leela wants to join the movement, how can she?
The answer is in the title itself: through music. Music isn’t for everyone, but Leela discovers just how powerful it can be. Leela’s bond with music emerges right through the story, as she sings, learns new pieces, and ultimately finds a way to join the freedom movement through song.
What I liked most about A Melody in Mysore is the use of Kannada words right through. Some words are familiar; others not so much. But all of them add to the rhythm of the story. Phrases like alilu seve – squirrel service – are powerful and bring texture to the story. Or, to stay within the metaphor of music, they make the story sing. Nuggets of commentary enrich the book further. For instance, I completely agree with Leela’s conviction that women are given anklets and bangles to wear so that you always know where they are! While the story begins slowly, it picks up pace as Leela discovers what is secretively happening around her, and what she can do to pitch in.
Growing up in Mysore, Leela is relatively cocooned from the British rule. Under the Maharaja, many feel safe. The British struggle isn’t relevant to their lives. But as the freedom struggle sweeps across the nation, questions emerge. How long will they be sheltered? And if Leela wants to join the movement, how can she?
The answer is in the title itself: through music. Music isn’t for everyone, but Leela discovers just how powerful it can be. Leela’s bond with music emerges right through the story, as she sings, learns new pieces, and ultimately finds a way to join the freedom movement through song.
What I liked most about A Melody in Mysore is the use of Kannada words right through. Some words are familiar; others not so much. But all of them add to the rhythm of the story. Phrases like alilu seve – squirrel service – are powerful and bring texture to the story. Or, to stay within the metaphor of music, they make the story sing. Nuggets of commentary enrich the book further. For instance, I completely agree with Leela’s conviction that women are given anklets and bangles to wear so that you always know where they are! While the story begins slowly, it picks up pace as Leela discovers what is secretively happening around her, and what she can do to pitch in.
September 19, 2024
But, Akka, what does a gramophone have to do with the freedom movement.
Swatantra Sandesha, she said.
It spreads the message of freedom. Through music.
____
#plot
Year, 1932.
Twelve year old Leela is obsessed with Gandhiji. She wished she could listen to Gandhiji speak. But whenever she would ask her Ajji something about freedom movement or Gandhiji, Ajji would divert the topic. Leela would read articles and also ask her teacher Shivappa about Gandhiji. When she comes to know that Malathi Akka has heard Gandhiji speak, she rushes to her house to know how does it feels. There she comes across gramophone and learns about its use in freedom struggle. From hereon her visits to Malathi Akka's house became very often. Little did she know that these visits will make her a part of freedom struggle in an indirect manner.
Read the book to know how Leela contributes to the freedom struggle in her own sweet way.
#bookreview
This is such a sweet story which explores Leela's life during the struggle for Independence. In this book the author highlights how music was used in the freedom movement to unite the people against the British. I absolutely enjoyed reading this. It was gripping all throughout. Ajji's and Leela's conversations were so fun to read and not to forget Leela's character which is very well built by the author. The overall environment created by the author in the story is amazing. Children will surely enjoy this read. This is a good book to introduce and teach children about the Historical events during the freedom struggle. At the end there is a note on Historical characters and events.
Altogether a great engaging and entertaining read.
Swatantra Sandesha, she said.
It spreads the message of freedom. Through music.
____
#plot
Year, 1932.
Twelve year old Leela is obsessed with Gandhiji. She wished she could listen to Gandhiji speak. But whenever she would ask her Ajji something about freedom movement or Gandhiji, Ajji would divert the topic. Leela would read articles and also ask her teacher Shivappa about Gandhiji. When she comes to know that Malathi Akka has heard Gandhiji speak, she rushes to her house to know how does it feels. There she comes across gramophone and learns about its use in freedom struggle. From hereon her visits to Malathi Akka's house became very often. Little did she know that these visits will make her a part of freedom struggle in an indirect manner.
Read the book to know how Leela contributes to the freedom struggle in her own sweet way.
#bookreview
This is such a sweet story which explores Leela's life during the struggle for Independence. In this book the author highlights how music was used in the freedom movement to unite the people against the British. I absolutely enjoyed reading this. It was gripping all throughout. Ajji's and Leela's conversations were so fun to read and not to forget Leela's character which is very well built by the author. The overall environment created by the author in the story is amazing. Children will surely enjoy this read. This is a good book to introduce and teach children about the Historical events during the freedom struggle. At the end there is a note on Historical characters and events.
Altogether a great engaging and entertaining read.
September 14, 2024
1932
Mysore was under the rule of Nalvadi Krishnaraj Wodeyar who had acted like a shield between his kingdom and the atrocious British Empire.It had in a way made Mysore complacent but for how long.One cannot sit over the fence and watch the house burning.There were acts of resistance no matter big or small .
Leela lived with her Ajji in Mysore.She was always a free soul like a little sparrow jumping around.She was intrigued by the movement ,curious to know about Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.The story takes a turn when Malathi Akka arrives in town carrying along seeds of movement,resistance and a Gramophone.
Music played a pivotal role in spreading the movement but the British government left no stone unturned to quash it.Any music or recording they thought seditious was destroyed.If you are intrigued do look up #Azadinama on YouTube and enrich yourself on the role music played in our freedom struggle.
We are a big fan of Songs of Freedom series and this one is another gem added to the lot.
Leela the protagonist is someone I could relate to for the effervescent character she has.Loved her relationship with her grandmother or Ajji who supported her unconditionally though not very vocal about it.Her first act of resistance was quite brave for her age, after all it was in her genes.Coming to genes my great grandfather was involved in freedom struggle and left his lavish life n family behind to join the movement for India's independence and had been sent to jail as well.Well often discussing a story leads to another story being told and digging up family history.
Mysore was under the rule of Nalvadi Krishnaraj Wodeyar who had acted like a shield between his kingdom and the atrocious British Empire.It had in a way made Mysore complacent but for how long.One cannot sit over the fence and watch the house burning.There were acts of resistance no matter big or small .
Leela lived with her Ajji in Mysore.She was always a free soul like a little sparrow jumping around.She was intrigued by the movement ,curious to know about Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.The story takes a turn when Malathi Akka arrives in town carrying along seeds of movement,resistance and a Gramophone.
Music played a pivotal role in spreading the movement but the British government left no stone unturned to quash it.Any music or recording they thought seditious was destroyed.If you are intrigued do look up #Azadinama on YouTube and enrich yourself on the role music played in our freedom struggle.
We are a big fan of Songs of Freedom series and this one is another gem added to the lot.
Leela the protagonist is someone I could relate to for the effervescent character she has.Loved her relationship with her grandmother or Ajji who supported her unconditionally though not very vocal about it.Her first act of resistance was quite brave for her age, after all it was in her genes.Coming to genes my great grandfather was involved in freedom struggle and left his lavish life n family behind to join the movement for India's independence and had been sent to jail as well.Well often discussing a story leads to another story being told and digging up family history.
September 1, 2024
*A Melody in Mysore* transports us to Mysore in 1932—a place untouched by the blazing fires of the freedom movement sweeping across the rest of India. But don't let that serene setting fool you. This book is like a gramophone playing a melody that starts softly but soon swells, filling every corner of your mind.
We follow twelve-year-old Leela, whose life, up until now, has been quiet, just like her city. The freedom movement? It's just ink on paper, distant and impersonal. Enter Malathi Akka—a character who is less of a person and more of a force. With her comes not just a gramophone but the winds of change, fresh ideas, and a perspective that cracks Leela's sheltered world wide open.
What I loved about this book is how it shows that revolution isn't always about marches or loud slogans. Sometimes, it's about the slow burn of realization, the quiet conversations that linger long after they've ended, and the unexpected allies who guide us. For Leela, the freedom struggle becomes more than just a story in the newspapers; it becomes a song she can't stop humming—a melody that calls her to action in ways she never thought possible.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
We follow twelve-year-old Leela, whose life, up until now, has been quiet, just like her city. The freedom movement? It's just ink on paper, distant and impersonal. Enter Malathi Akka—a character who is less of a person and more of a force. With her comes not just a gramophone but the winds of change, fresh ideas, and a perspective that cracks Leela's sheltered world wide open.
What I loved about this book is how it shows that revolution isn't always about marches or loud slogans. Sometimes, it's about the slow burn of realization, the quiet conversations that linger long after they've ended, and the unexpected allies who guide us. For Leela, the freedom struggle becomes more than just a story in the newspapers; it becomes a song she can't stop humming—a melody that calls her to action in ways she never thought possible.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
August 24, 2024
In A Melody in Mysore Shruthi Rao infuses the spirit and energy of India's freedom movement, as seen through the eyes of young Leela. Set in Mysore during the Wodeyar rule, Leela's journey is one of discovery when she learns how music can be such a powerful tool in the fight for independence. The story overflows with the zeal of a changing nation, so full of action that even children could do something meaningful for the movement. The employment of Kannada words such as 'alilu seve' lends an authentic, vibrant texture that enhances the narrative. Leela's relationships,her grandmother Malathi Akka, Subbu are very warm. Their encouragement makes her realize that every little act is indeed a difference, in fact, even through the simplest act of singing itself.
.
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October 3, 2024
review - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2024/1...
Before reading A Melody in Mysore, I had always thought most princely states in pre-independent India struggled either under British rule or due to the British actively suppressing any involvement in the freedom movement, which surged across India in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. I was surprised to learn that Mysore, a princely state, remained relatively unaffected by this turmoil.
A Melody in Mysore follows the story of Leela, a 12-year-old motherless girl living with her grandmother in Mysore. Leela, like me, was curious about the freedom movement and puzzled by how the people in Mysore seemed oblivious to the nationalist fervor sweeping the rest of India.
Her perspective changes when her Malathi Akka moves to the village. Through regular visits, Leela discovers the truth via gramophone records, secret meetings at Malathi Akka’s house, and their conversations. The place she once thought detached from the movement was, in fact, a safe haven for freedom fighters, shielding those fleeing British arrest.
I was fascinated to learn how songs, folk tunes, and gramophone records played a pivotal role in spreading the message of freedom. With India’s vast diversity in languages and a largely illiterate population, newspapers were inaccessible to many, making music an ingenious way to reach the masses.
It was inspiring to see how people gave up their jobs, traveling across regions to educate others about the movement. Their small, consistent efforts soon became so effective that the British began imprisoning them. It was heartbreaking to read how, beyond imprisoning freedom fighters, the British police also ransacked homes, seizing valuables.
Leela’s curiosity, bravery, and intelligence were clear as she sought to be part of the movement. But as a young girl, she was kept at a distance, and it took her time to realize that even teaching songs to young girls was a meaningful contribution. Her love for music, her family, and Malathi Akka was endearing, and I particularly enjoyed how she questioned the lack of female involvement in the movement. The answer she received was both enlightening and empowering.
A Melody in Mysore also beautifully portrayed the unsung role of women. While many men were active in the movement, women at home were equally vital—helping hide valuables, feeding freedom fighters, and offering them shelter. Even the smallest acts of resistance, known as alilu seve in Kannada (a reference to the squirrel story from the Ramayana), made a significant impact. This spirit of collective action, no matter how small, formed the heart of the story.
In the author’s note, I finally understood why Mysore had served as a sanctuary for the movement— After Tipu Sultan’s defeat in 1799, the British appointed high-caliber Indian officials to oversee the kingdom’s administration. Along with the king and an assembly of educated landlords, they established a progressive government. This allowed Mysore’s rulers considerable autonomy, making it one of the earliest democratic organizations in India before independence.
The book’s climax was especially powerful as Leela found her place in the movement. Her growing understanding of her father, Ajji, and the people of Mysore deepened as she recognized the subtle yet crucial ways they resisted British rule.
Overall, A Melody in Mysore is an inspiring and heartwarming historical fiction that highlights the impact and significance of gramophone records in the freedom movement, as well as the quiet courage and unity of those who fought for the nation’s freedom.
Before reading A Melody in Mysore, I had always thought most princely states in pre-independent India struggled either under British rule or due to the British actively suppressing any involvement in the freedom movement, which surged across India in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. I was surprised to learn that Mysore, a princely state, remained relatively unaffected by this turmoil.
A Melody in Mysore follows the story of Leela, a 12-year-old motherless girl living with her grandmother in Mysore. Leela, like me, was curious about the freedom movement and puzzled by how the people in Mysore seemed oblivious to the nationalist fervor sweeping the rest of India.
Her perspective changes when her Malathi Akka moves to the village. Through regular visits, Leela discovers the truth via gramophone records, secret meetings at Malathi Akka’s house, and their conversations. The place she once thought detached from the movement was, in fact, a safe haven for freedom fighters, shielding those fleeing British arrest.
I was fascinated to learn how songs, folk tunes, and gramophone records played a pivotal role in spreading the message of freedom. With India’s vast diversity in languages and a largely illiterate population, newspapers were inaccessible to many, making music an ingenious way to reach the masses.
It was inspiring to see how people gave up their jobs, traveling across regions to educate others about the movement. Their small, consistent efforts soon became so effective that the British began imprisoning them. It was heartbreaking to read how, beyond imprisoning freedom fighters, the British police also ransacked homes, seizing valuables.
Leela’s curiosity, bravery, and intelligence were clear as she sought to be part of the movement. But as a young girl, she was kept at a distance, and it took her time to realize that even teaching songs to young girls was a meaningful contribution. Her love for music, her family, and Malathi Akka was endearing, and I particularly enjoyed how she questioned the lack of female involvement in the movement. The answer she received was both enlightening and empowering.
A Melody in Mysore also beautifully portrayed the unsung role of women. While many men were active in the movement, women at home were equally vital—helping hide valuables, feeding freedom fighters, and offering them shelter. Even the smallest acts of resistance, known as alilu seve in Kannada (a reference to the squirrel story from the Ramayana), made a significant impact. This spirit of collective action, no matter how small, formed the heart of the story.
In the author’s note, I finally understood why Mysore had served as a sanctuary for the movement— After Tipu Sultan’s defeat in 1799, the British appointed high-caliber Indian officials to oversee the kingdom’s administration. Along with the king and an assembly of educated landlords, they established a progressive government. This allowed Mysore’s rulers considerable autonomy, making it one of the earliest democratic organizations in India before independence.
The book’s climax was especially powerful as Leela found her place in the movement. Her growing understanding of her father, Ajji, and the people of Mysore deepened as she recognized the subtle yet crucial ways they resisted British rule.
Overall, A Melody in Mysore is an inspiring and heartwarming historical fiction that highlights the impact and significance of gramophone records in the freedom movement, as well as the quiet courage and unity of those who fought for the nation’s freedom.
October 2, 2024
A story set in Mysore during the freedom movement. A well-written story about a girl who tries her best to contribute to the movement. Music is part of the story.
August 7, 2024
Rating 4.5 stars
Review - “Every war, every revolution, is full of unsung heroes.” And every single contribution towards a greater cause, however minor, matters. Shruthi Rao's A Melody in Mysore takes us back in time to 1932 to Mysore ruled by Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, mostly untouched by the fervor of the Indian independence movement. For people here, cushioned from the British atrocities, thanks to the Raja’s benevolence and efficient administration, the demand for complete self-rule, rapidly gaining momentum in other parts of the country, was yet to turn urgent.
Leela, a 12 yr old girl, who lives with her Ajji (grandmother) begins to understand the freedom movement and its seriousness with the arrival of her relative Malathi who introduces our wide-eyed Leela, an excellent singer, to gramophone player & records and says - “Songs inspire. And there are some messages that you can get across more effectively through songs. After all, not many people can read. And how many will be willing to step away from their work-work that feeds families - and pay attention to speeches?” , thereby underscoring the importance of music - songs and poems that convey patriotic messages, clear for an alert listener without being framed as seditious by British officers.
Music is the cornerstone of this slim book that ends with an insightful historical note. As Leela earnestly chips in her bit for the freedom movement, she learns hitherto unknown facts about her dead mother. The friendship and family ties, so beautiful and uncomplicated, without spite or doubt, are absolutely heartwarming to read.
With poems by Kuvempu and Da Ra Bendre that instill pride, with a generous sprinkling of Kannada terms that lend authenticity (young readers, I am sure, will resort to Google translate even before we adults point out the lack of a glossary), lip-smacking moments when akki roti and doddapatre tambuli are prepared, an intelligently done cover that reflects many objects central to the story, Shruthi Rao’s A Melody in Mysore is a lovely addition to the Songs of Freedom series that explores lives of children across India during the struggle for independence.
Review - “Every war, every revolution, is full of unsung heroes.” And every single contribution towards a greater cause, however minor, matters. Shruthi Rao's A Melody in Mysore takes us back in time to 1932 to Mysore ruled by Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, mostly untouched by the fervor of the Indian independence movement. For people here, cushioned from the British atrocities, thanks to the Raja’s benevolence and efficient administration, the demand for complete self-rule, rapidly gaining momentum in other parts of the country, was yet to turn urgent.
Leela, a 12 yr old girl, who lives with her Ajji (grandmother) begins to understand the freedom movement and its seriousness with the arrival of her relative Malathi who introduces our wide-eyed Leela, an excellent singer, to gramophone player & records and says - “Songs inspire. And there are some messages that you can get across more effectively through songs. After all, not many people can read. And how many will be willing to step away from their work-work that feeds families - and pay attention to speeches?” , thereby underscoring the importance of music - songs and poems that convey patriotic messages, clear for an alert listener without being framed as seditious by British officers.
Music is the cornerstone of this slim book that ends with an insightful historical note. As Leela earnestly chips in her bit for the freedom movement, she learns hitherto unknown facts about her dead mother. The friendship and family ties, so beautiful and uncomplicated, without spite or doubt, are absolutely heartwarming to read.
With poems by Kuvempu and Da Ra Bendre that instill pride, with a generous sprinkling of Kannada terms that lend authenticity (young readers, I am sure, will resort to Google translate even before we adults point out the lack of a glossary), lip-smacking moments when akki roti and doddapatre tambuli are prepared, an intelligently done cover that reflects many objects central to the story, Shruthi Rao’s A Melody in Mysore is a lovely addition to the Songs of Freedom series that explores lives of children across India during the struggle for independence.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews