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Ri: Homeland of Uncertainty
Ri- Homeland of Uncertainty is adapted from the National Award Winning Khasi film by the same name.
Trapped in the limbo between ideology and conscience, Manbha finds him himself part of a terror outfit. An unexpected opportunity, anger, squalor and disillusionment - followed by and armed combat and injury lead to the soul- searching that form the substance of this moving tale.
Trapped in the limbo between ideology and conscience, Manbha finds him himself part of a terror outfit. An unexpected opportunity, anger, squalor and disillusionment - followed by and armed combat and injury lead to the soul- searching that form the substance of this moving tale.
137 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2014
1 person is currently reading
42 people want to read
About the author
Paulami Duttagupta
18 books20 followersBorn in Shillong, many moons ago, with schooling at Loreto Convent, and an English Honors from St. Edmunds College, Paulami Duttagupta started her career with All India Radio Shillong. She had written and also given her voice to a few shows there. Later she came down to Kolkata and got a post graduate degree in Comparative Literature from Jadavpur University. She had also taken up a fancy to learning Spanish, but today confesses that she has forgotten most of it.
She has written for ‘The Times of India’ in the ‘Guwahati-Shillong plus Edition’ and also ‘The Shillong Times’. Television had always attracted her and was connected to the Bangla TV industry for about 6 years. She was associated with ETV- Bangla, Akash Bangla and Sony Aath in this period.
Having left her day job in 2012, Paulami took up full time writing. Her first novel, “Pinjar” released in early 2012.
Her second novel “Unplanned Destinty” released in 2014. She is also the screenplay writer of the national award winning Khasi film – “Ri Homeland of Uncertainty”.
“Ri” has been adapted into a novel and is releasing in Spetember’14.
She is currently working on her next project as movie script writer.
Apart from writing full length novels, she has written several short stories and articles. She has also contributed to the “Minds@work Anthology” and the “Family Matters International Anthology” in 2013.
Recently she has contributed to the “Learning and Creativity Anthology” , “Her Story Anthology”, and “Celebrating India – Love across Borders Anthology”.
When she is not writing or watching movies, Paulami is either reading biographies or classic pieces of literature. Cricket, food, cinema, books and music are an integral part of her life.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 15, 2014
I surely liked the message. Story is small, but brings the message straight forward into our heart. Characterization is good. S P Kyndiah's character, his commitment and his feeling when he loses his loyal colleagues in firing operation is depicted very well. Emika, who is a journalist wins our heart for her bravery by handling the situation well when she knows that a terrorist is hiding in his home. Manbha's character is the best as it shows varied emotions throughout. Even though he is a terrorist, he is a man with heart and he doesn't want to kill innocent people. Writing style is good and flow is smooth between different incidents in different places.
September 17, 2014
ISBN- 978-81-928937
Title- Ri - Homeland of Uncertainty
Author- Paulami DuttaGupta
Publisher- Fablery (Fablery's Ri, isn't that musical?)
Cover design- Sunill Kaushik (Yes, Sunil with two L's)
Price- Rs 150
Pages- 127
I was contacted by the author to review her book which is based on the National Award winning movie by the name of Ri. It won the Rajat Kamal award and was in Khasi language.
About the author-
The author has written the screenplay for the movie Ri and is an author and journalist. She started her career with All India Radio and has had formal education in English. She has worked with Times of India and has contributed to novels and anthologies along the course of her career.
About the cover-
The cover paints an eerie picture of the violence-ravaged North-east of India. It is themed in black with sad faces marking the conflict through their expressions. It has tempted me to watch the movie and actually gain a view of what the landscape looked like. It turns out that the cover has been taken from the movie poster itself and the faces of the artists playing characters of the movie adorn the book cover.
About the book-
The book is fairly short and can be finished in one or two sittings. It is thrilling and the violence is shown with a humane side to it so that Indians who are not really aware of what a local goes through in the areas struck with terror can read a close account of the situation. The language is lucid and there is no ambiguity in the plot. There is no desperate attempt to build up a suspense or any inappropriate attempt to justify war or crime. The pages are nice and the book is error free. Congratulations to the publishers for that.
About the plot-
The characters of Emika and Manbha stand out as the two main characters of the plot. The terrorists are shown to be working on Meghalaya's independence and seemingly intelligent conversations in the form of debates constitute the later part of the novella which is the backbone of the whole story. The characters although introduced only in passing, evoke sympathy. The police officer named Kyndiah is the protagonist waging lone war against the terrorists. His character is also defined nicely. The encounters have not really been elaborated and there has not been any attempt to stretch out any particular sequences which makes the book realistic and believable.
It is an earnest attempt and such books deserve to make headway in the mainstream market so that empathy and brotherhood among our countrymen can prevail.
I will give the book 3 stars out of 5.
Title- Ri - Homeland of Uncertainty
Author- Paulami DuttaGupta
Publisher- Fablery (Fablery's Ri, isn't that musical?)
Cover design- Sunill Kaushik (Yes, Sunil with two L's)
Price- Rs 150
Pages- 127
I was contacted by the author to review her book which is based on the National Award winning movie by the name of Ri. It won the Rajat Kamal award and was in Khasi language.
About the author-
The author has written the screenplay for the movie Ri and is an author and journalist. She started her career with All India Radio and has had formal education in English. She has worked with Times of India and has contributed to novels and anthologies along the course of her career.
About the cover-
The cover paints an eerie picture of the violence-ravaged North-east of India. It is themed in black with sad faces marking the conflict through their expressions. It has tempted me to watch the movie and actually gain a view of what the landscape looked like. It turns out that the cover has been taken from the movie poster itself and the faces of the artists playing characters of the movie adorn the book cover.
About the book-
The book is fairly short and can be finished in one or two sittings. It is thrilling and the violence is shown with a humane side to it so that Indians who are not really aware of what a local goes through in the areas struck with terror can read a close account of the situation. The language is lucid and there is no ambiguity in the plot. There is no desperate attempt to build up a suspense or any inappropriate attempt to justify war or crime. The pages are nice and the book is error free. Congratulations to the publishers for that.
About the plot-
The characters of Emika and Manbha stand out as the two main characters of the plot. The terrorists are shown to be working on Meghalaya's independence and seemingly intelligent conversations in the form of debates constitute the later part of the novella which is the backbone of the whole story. The characters although introduced only in passing, evoke sympathy. The police officer named Kyndiah is the protagonist waging lone war against the terrorists. His character is also defined nicely. The encounters have not really been elaborated and there has not been any attempt to stretch out any particular sequences which makes the book realistic and believable.
It is an earnest attempt and such books deserve to make headway in the mainstream market so that empathy and brotherhood among our countrymen can prevail.
I will give the book 3 stars out of 5.
September 30, 2014
Ri – Homeland of Uncertainity by Paulami Duttagupta is an adaptation of the movie Ri. ‘Ri’, is a Khasi word, which means country or say, homeland. This novel is a story about journey back to homeland.
Based on the backdrop of terrorism in north eastern states and set in 2000s, the book makes an intelligent start with an introduction to the very concept of ‘north eastern sates’. The author sets the mood and tone of the story with a beginning laced with familiarizing the readers with the region; its geographical and cultural aspects – both beautiful and majestic. Then, she makes a twist and directs the attention towards a social menace – ‘Terrorism’.
The author makes an attempt to highlight the plight (the uncertainty) of people in north east states through the story of Kyndiah (SP in Policeforce) and Manbha (a ‘so-called’ freedom fighter). She sensitizes on the aspect that how war, which the people claim to fight, becomes senseless, thus, seeking freedom from undesired bondage.
Read the story to learn how these issues affect the lives of the commons and the culprits alike and how the author suggests an alternate approach in the voice of Emika! Who is she? A Freedom fighter or a terrorist? The uncertainty prevails!!!
Source: http://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/2...
Based on the backdrop of terrorism in north eastern states and set in 2000s, the book makes an intelligent start with an introduction to the very concept of ‘north eastern sates’. The author sets the mood and tone of the story with a beginning laced with familiarizing the readers with the region; its geographical and cultural aspects – both beautiful and majestic. Then, she makes a twist and directs the attention towards a social menace – ‘Terrorism’.
The author makes an attempt to highlight the plight (the uncertainty) of people in north east states through the story of Kyndiah (SP in Policeforce) and Manbha (a ‘so-called’ freedom fighter). She sensitizes on the aspect that how war, which the people claim to fight, becomes senseless, thus, seeking freedom from undesired bondage.
Read the story to learn how these issues affect the lives of the commons and the culprits alike and how the author suggests an alternate approach in the voice of Emika! Who is she? A Freedom fighter or a terrorist? The uncertainty prevails!!!
Source: http://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/2...
October 10, 2014
Before penning down my take on this book, let me ask you something; have you ever heard about ‘Naxals’. You might have heard a lot about ‘Terrorists’ but Naxals are all together a different group. Cutting it short, Naxals develop within the state whereas Terrorist is a national issue. Presently if you are residing in the north-eastern part of the country or in the states like Odisha, Bihar, Chattisgarh, you must be aware of this Naxals.
Now speaking of the book, this book speaks the real truth. The protagonist Manbha is brave, angry but has a sensitive heart. The Author has given many examples where you can easily know what type of person Manbha is. It would be completely wrong if I call him a terrorist, he is just like any other freedom fighter deviated in wrong doings in the name of freedom. Manbha wanted freedom for his state Meghalaya but not on the cost of the innocent peoples residing in the state. So how Manbha would get freedom or will he die as a freedom fighter?? What this whole conception of freedom Manbha speaking?? To know, you have to read the book.
To read my complete review, click here: http://sp-fadinghues.blogspot.in/2014...
Now speaking of the book, this book speaks the real truth. The protagonist Manbha is brave, angry but has a sensitive heart. The Author has given many examples where you can easily know what type of person Manbha is. It would be completely wrong if I call him a terrorist, he is just like any other freedom fighter deviated in wrong doings in the name of freedom. Manbha wanted freedom for his state Meghalaya but not on the cost of the innocent peoples residing in the state. So how Manbha would get freedom or will he die as a freedom fighter?? What this whole conception of freedom Manbha speaking?? To know, you have to read the book.
To read my complete review, click here: http://sp-fadinghues.blogspot.in/2014...
October 27, 2014
‘Ri – Homeland of Uncertainty’ is the adaptation of the national award winning film Khasi flim RI, written by Paulami Dutta Gupta. This book has no desperate attempts to make it entertaining and the authoress has concentrated on maintaining the theme strictly.
The cover has been taken from the movie poster where the faces of the main two leads with their uncertain impression indicate the dark content. The whole black color on the cover creates the perfect atmosphere for the reader to start a book like that. The word ‘Ri’ is a Khasi word, which means Homeland and this book says only about it. Nothing can suit the book better than this name.
The book is small and can easily be completed in one go. It starts very wonderfully with the description of the North east which maximum of us are still unaware of. From the beauty of the states in the north eastern region to the growing amount of terrorism in those states gives the book a head start. The book tells about a character Manbha, a talented young blood, who is leading a terrorist group for a mission which is assigned to him by his boss Steve, to free Meghalaya as a separate state from India. There is one more character Kyndiah, a dedicated police officer, who has sacrificed his family to serve his country.
Framed in the backdrop of a terror struck Meghalaya and the Bangladesh-India border, this story goes around the contradiction on the philosophy of Manbha and that of Emika, a journalist, in whose house Manbha was hiding after getting ditched by one of his team mates. The way the author has written the whole conversation is commendable. This book will force the readers to think from a terrorist’s point of view. The readers will certainly find their answers at the end which might throw them in a state of shock and will love the message lying inside the story.
The narrating style is lucid and effortless. Though I feel, some more descriptions at a few scenes will make this book more interesting. The chosen words are effective yet simple and helps to maintain the flow.
I loved the characterizations that will definitely take this story to a new level. But I felt that the author could have concentrated more on describing the characters. Those who have not seen the movie would surely face a hard time visualizing Manbha, Kyndiah or Emika. Though their characteristics are very much visible from their ongoing conversations which is a sign of a matured writer. The rich content will undoubtedly reach the hearts of the readers but the to the point descriptions might not entertain the mass.
Final Words: The author has done a creditable job in highlighting the life in the north eastern region and have penned down a gripping tale which will leave a lasting message amongst the readers.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
The cover has been taken from the movie poster where the faces of the main two leads with their uncertain impression indicate the dark content. The whole black color on the cover creates the perfect atmosphere for the reader to start a book like that. The word ‘Ri’ is a Khasi word, which means Homeland and this book says only about it. Nothing can suit the book better than this name.
The book is small and can easily be completed in one go. It starts very wonderfully with the description of the North east which maximum of us are still unaware of. From the beauty of the states in the north eastern region to the growing amount of terrorism in those states gives the book a head start. The book tells about a character Manbha, a talented young blood, who is leading a terrorist group for a mission which is assigned to him by his boss Steve, to free Meghalaya as a separate state from India. There is one more character Kyndiah, a dedicated police officer, who has sacrificed his family to serve his country.
Framed in the backdrop of a terror struck Meghalaya and the Bangladesh-India border, this story goes around the contradiction on the philosophy of Manbha and that of Emika, a journalist, in whose house Manbha was hiding after getting ditched by one of his team mates. The way the author has written the whole conversation is commendable. This book will force the readers to think from a terrorist’s point of view. The readers will certainly find their answers at the end which might throw them in a state of shock and will love the message lying inside the story.
The narrating style is lucid and effortless. Though I feel, some more descriptions at a few scenes will make this book more interesting. The chosen words are effective yet simple and helps to maintain the flow.
I loved the characterizations that will definitely take this story to a new level. But I felt that the author could have concentrated more on describing the characters. Those who have not seen the movie would surely face a hard time visualizing Manbha, Kyndiah or Emika. Though their characteristics are very much visible from their ongoing conversations which is a sign of a matured writer. The rich content will undoubtedly reach the hearts of the readers but the to the point descriptions might not entertain the mass.
Final Words: The author has done a creditable job in highlighting the life in the north eastern region and have penned down a gripping tale which will leave a lasting message amongst the readers.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
October 21, 2014
I have started falling in love with novellas. They are short, to the point and convey a lot. This novella by Paulami is no exception. Wonderfully written with a crisp storyline Ri is a delight.
While I know the North-Eastern states on India, I admit my knowledge beyond their names and capitals is minimal. I have always wanted to visit the region and hopefully someday I will.
The story follows an insurgent group planning an attack in Shillong and how the police inspector Kyndiah tracks them down. Manbha is one of the protagonists and his changing emotions as he leads the insurgent group into India and later hides in the home of a journalist is well-captured.
The one thing I wish the author had written about was the beauty and bleakness of the land where the story lies. There are few descriptions here and there and they want me to experience the area through Paulami's words.
I received a free copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
While I know the North-Eastern states on India, I admit my knowledge beyond their names and capitals is minimal. I have always wanted to visit the region and hopefully someday I will.
The story follows an insurgent group planning an attack in Shillong and how the police inspector Kyndiah tracks them down. Manbha is one of the protagonists and his changing emotions as he leads the insurgent group into India and later hides in the home of a journalist is well-captured.
The one thing I wish the author had written about was the beauty and bleakness of the land where the story lies. There are few descriptions here and there and they want me to experience the area through Paulami's words.
I received a free copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
November 3, 2014
Ri Homeland of Uncertainty is well written/edited, concise and racy. The story revolves around the life of Manbha, a naxal from Meghalaya and how he turns over a new leaf. The ending is not very convincing, yet the style of writing has the momentum to keep the reader turning the pages to discover what happens next.
July 11, 2020
What an apt title for the story!
The whole story revolved around how Shillong and Meghalaya faced terrorism every day.The very first introduction part was interesting enough to make one sit and continue reading it. One can actually visualize the actual Shillong in the words. Words are magical enough to make you grow attached to Shillong and its beauty without even visiting it. The storyline was appropriately carried out. Nothing lacked or gone overboard..every incident moved so smoothly that at one point of time I actually thought, that I am watching whole scenario taking place in front of my eyes.
Beautiful portrayal of characters. Mr.Kyndiah was a great leader as well as emotionally attached with his teammates. His every move and dialogues depict power, authority yet a sensitivity. He was a dedicated police officer for whom nation and its security comes first.
Janet – the reporter, she is curious and always ready on feet to write the police department. for her police is doing nothing but misusing their powers. she seemed to be a sweet girl, but an attitude to match kyndiaah. she seemed to have the crush on kyndiah that’s why she was so much interested in him.
Emika- a headstrong girl who lives with her son and paralyzed father. she is brave, polite and selfless.loved the way she faced manbha despite knowing he can kill them. Even after knowing he is also a part responsible for his brother’s death and dad’s condition, she tried her best to show Manbha right path of surrendering.
Manbha- my most loved character( well his name adds to my liking too :-P) Brave, anger always at peak, knows what to do and when to do. A terrorist oops no he was a freedom fighter 😉 with a heart. He wanted freedom for his state but not on the stake of innocents life. He has an outbound hatred for police and government because of his past. Misguided by his officials, gone on a wrong path. when others celebrated on the stake of people’s life, he questions and fights. what I loved most in him was his love for his state and respect for innocent lives. He felt guilty for creating the mess in emika’s home. Helped Noah in his homework, saved emika’s dad’s life.He was a mixture of attitude that can kill with a scoop of honey.
Apart from them others character like Ibrahim, George,kyrmen, bahduh, carl were equally good at their part. George was sarcastic yet brave to enter in offset and gt to know their plans. Ibrahim was smart to know whom to bribe and when to bribe.Overall, the whole story line was very much eye catchy and interesting enough to make one read it again and again.
Again a great piece of writing by you Paulami. Every time I read your work, I think nothing can come better than this, but that comes your new peice to take me by surprise. Just hatss off to you girl for this. I know shillong plays a great part in your life and how much you love shilllong. And, you just proved your love to shillong through this write-up. It’s just outstanding…I don’t have words in my vocabulary to praise it.
Would like to Extend my Warm Wishes to Paulami for her future endeavours
The whole story revolved around how Shillong and Meghalaya faced terrorism every day.The very first introduction part was interesting enough to make one sit and continue reading it. One can actually visualize the actual Shillong in the words. Words are magical enough to make you grow attached to Shillong and its beauty without even visiting it. The storyline was appropriately carried out. Nothing lacked or gone overboard..every incident moved so smoothly that at one point of time I actually thought, that I am watching whole scenario taking place in front of my eyes.
Beautiful portrayal of characters. Mr.Kyndiah was a great leader as well as emotionally attached with his teammates. His every move and dialogues depict power, authority yet a sensitivity. He was a dedicated police officer for whom nation and its security comes first.
Janet – the reporter, she is curious and always ready on feet to write the police department. for her police is doing nothing but misusing their powers. she seemed to be a sweet girl, but an attitude to match kyndiaah. she seemed to have the crush on kyndiah that’s why she was so much interested in him.
Emika- a headstrong girl who lives with her son and paralyzed father. she is brave, polite and selfless.loved the way she faced manbha despite knowing he can kill them. Even after knowing he is also a part responsible for his brother’s death and dad’s condition, she tried her best to show Manbha right path of surrendering.
Manbha- my most loved character( well his name adds to my liking too :-P) Brave, anger always at peak, knows what to do and when to do. A terrorist oops no he was a freedom fighter 😉 with a heart. He wanted freedom for his state but not on the stake of innocents life. He has an outbound hatred for police and government because of his past. Misguided by his officials, gone on a wrong path. when others celebrated on the stake of people’s life, he questions and fights. what I loved most in him was his love for his state and respect for innocent lives. He felt guilty for creating the mess in emika’s home. Helped Noah in his homework, saved emika’s dad’s life.He was a mixture of attitude that can kill with a scoop of honey.
Apart from them others character like Ibrahim, George,kyrmen, bahduh, carl were equally good at their part. George was sarcastic yet brave to enter in offset and gt to know their plans. Ibrahim was smart to know whom to bribe and when to bribe.Overall, the whole story line was very much eye catchy and interesting enough to make one read it again and again.
Again a great piece of writing by you Paulami. Every time I read your work, I think nothing can come better than this, but that comes your new peice to take me by surprise. Just hatss off to you girl for this. I know shillong plays a great part in your life and how much you love shilllong. And, you just proved your love to shillong through this write-up. It’s just outstanding…I don’t have words in my vocabulary to praise it.
Would like to Extend my Warm Wishes to Paulami for her future endeavours
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2015
My Views on Ri- Homeland Of Uncertainity by Paulami Duttagupta
Idealism at its peak. That is what my first reaction was when I first read Ri. First of all what does Ri mean. Google Uncle told me it means Homeland. Ri- a homeland. The word rings very pure when you say it aloud. One of those small words whose vibrations outweighs its meaning.
But the Homeland it is referring to, is not resonating with any peace or love. There is a tug of war for power between the rebels and the authority. Now this is not something anymore 'uncommon' in India - or for the fact in any part of the world. Why and the morality of this is debatable.
The author Paulami Duttagupta, brings out a complete society by etching four characters
Kyndiah: representing the law
Janet - representing the press
Manbha- representing the outlaw
Emika- the society
It is Emika's character that makes me think that this story is too idealistic. The cynic in me will not be able to forgive Manbha. Whatever his reasons might be, to become a killer has no justification. There should not be any excuse to terrorism. But again that is my personal opinion and bears no consequence to the writer or her story.
Coming to the story, my favourite character is Kyndiah. His has all the shades of life. Bitter yet positive about the changes coming his way. Open to all changes, even if he has the authority in his hand. Fighting for a cause because he believes in it. Just the kind of a hero our society needs.
What the society doesn't need is Manbha. To fall in love with Sanjay Dutt in Khalnayak or Sharukh in Don/ Don2 is really ironic. Of course these things happen but as I said I don't think I can sympathize with a man who resorts to terrorism. Manbha is shown as a man who has lost his way and he can be brought back. Brought back ? After taking up arms, mass killing, arms smuggling... brought back? Can anyone ever return from the point of no return? Here is my one request to the author... Ri Part 2 if she ever plans to write- can she deal with this character and the aftermath? It would make a damn interesting subject!
To complete Manbha's character, one needs Emika. Somehow I felt she represented India. Too forgiving. Too ready to move on after a disaster occured. Too blase. Somehow the post effect of Mumbai attack became fresh in my mind. Yes life has to go on and life is for the living ... but as Emika accepted Manbha and forgave him - well, it takes a large heart - A very large one.
Of all the characters, Emika's character didn't gel with me so well. Somehow I felt there was a co-relation between Emika and Manbha's character. Emika had to do this for Manbha to do that. This really froze up her character. She had to ignore the gun when her son walks in. Smile when she was threatened. And forgive Manbha for the role he played in her ruining her life. It was too easy for Manbha. To forgive a crime of this magnitude is not possible - at least for a mere mortal soul like me :)
Janet represented the Hounds of Journalism. How and why.. read the book :)
The Language - is clear and precise. A fairly easy read. The voice of the author is quite distinct and its very clear the love she has for Meghalaya. You can feel the reverance in her tone.
Characterization - too many in too few a pages. This stunted the growth of the characters. Why was Janet rubbing Kyndiah the wrong way? Why was Emika not afraid when the nozzle of the gun pointed towards her? A terrorist group forgetting about Manbha after he .... (sorry cannot tell ) is hard to believe for they do have a code of (mis) conduct too. Don't they?
Idealism at its peak. That is what my first reaction was when I first read Ri. First of all what does Ri mean. Google Uncle told me it means Homeland. Ri- a homeland. The word rings very pure when you say it aloud. One of those small words whose vibrations outweighs its meaning.
But the Homeland it is referring to, is not resonating with any peace or love. There is a tug of war for power between the rebels and the authority. Now this is not something anymore 'uncommon' in India - or for the fact in any part of the world. Why and the morality of this is debatable.
The author Paulami Duttagupta, brings out a complete society by etching four characters
Kyndiah: representing the law
Janet - representing the press
Manbha- representing the outlaw
Emika- the society
It is Emika's character that makes me think that this story is too idealistic. The cynic in me will not be able to forgive Manbha. Whatever his reasons might be, to become a killer has no justification. There should not be any excuse to terrorism. But again that is my personal opinion and bears no consequence to the writer or her story.
Coming to the story, my favourite character is Kyndiah. His has all the shades of life. Bitter yet positive about the changes coming his way. Open to all changes, even if he has the authority in his hand. Fighting for a cause because he believes in it. Just the kind of a hero our society needs.
What the society doesn't need is Manbha. To fall in love with Sanjay Dutt in Khalnayak or Sharukh in Don/ Don2 is really ironic. Of course these things happen but as I said I don't think I can sympathize with a man who resorts to terrorism. Manbha is shown as a man who has lost his way and he can be brought back. Brought back ? After taking up arms, mass killing, arms smuggling... brought back? Can anyone ever return from the point of no return? Here is my one request to the author... Ri Part 2 if she ever plans to write- can she deal with this character and the aftermath? It would make a damn interesting subject!
To complete Manbha's character, one needs Emika. Somehow I felt she represented India. Too forgiving. Too ready to move on after a disaster occured. Too blase. Somehow the post effect of Mumbai attack became fresh in my mind. Yes life has to go on and life is for the living ... but as Emika accepted Manbha and forgave him - well, it takes a large heart - A very large one.
Of all the characters, Emika's character didn't gel with me so well. Somehow I felt there was a co-relation between Emika and Manbha's character. Emika had to do this for Manbha to do that. This really froze up her character. She had to ignore the gun when her son walks in. Smile when she was threatened. And forgive Manbha for the role he played in her ruining her life. It was too easy for Manbha. To forgive a crime of this magnitude is not possible - at least for a mere mortal soul like me :)
Janet represented the Hounds of Journalism. How and why.. read the book :)
The Language - is clear and precise. A fairly easy read. The voice of the author is quite distinct and its very clear the love she has for Meghalaya. You can feel the reverance in her tone.
Characterization - too many in too few a pages. This stunted the growth of the characters. Why was Janet rubbing Kyndiah the wrong way? Why was Emika not afraid when the nozzle of the gun pointed towards her? A terrorist group forgetting about Manbha after he .... (sorry cannot tell ) is hard to believe for they do have a code of (mis) conduct too. Don't they?
December 28, 2015
‘Ri-Homeland of Uncertainty’ by Paulami Duttagupta is a book, which deals with the issues of militancy in India’s north-eastern region in general, and Meghalaya in particular. While many people are aware about the terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, very few of us know about a similar situation in north-east parts of India and main reasons behind this. This book makes us conscious about both such volatile situations in these regions and causative factors leading to these situations. Most importantly, the book brings light on the plight of locals living in these regions. With noteworthy elegance, precise prose, Paulami explores identity and exile, optimism and pessimism, and the countless fault lines in the lives of the people living in the shadow of the war raised by militancy.
Paulami Duttagupta deserves all the praises for penning down such a gripping tale, which leaves a long-lasting message amongst the readers. This book does not make any attempt to be entertaining. On the other hand, this book speaks the real truth. The book is more of a reality than an imaginary tale.
This book is the adaptation of the national award winning Khasi film, the screenplay of which was written by the same author. The word ‘Ri’ is a Khasi word, which stands for Homeland and this book is about the notion of Homeland. The cover looks eye-catching and will automatically turn heads of the readers. This cover page has been taken from the movie and convincingly portrays the mood of the book. The black background with sad faces clearly reflects the conflict between the two main characters of the book. While the book is fairly short and can be finished in one sitting, the impression it leaves is long-lasting. The narration is coherent and fluid. No part of the storyline makes you bore. The characters have been developed well. One can easily relate with these characters as they look really believable. From the names to the ways these characters converse with each other, the readers feel that these are not fictional but exist around us.
The book takes us on an amazing journey of the beautiful landscape of Meghalaya and India-Bangladesh borderlands. However, at the same time, this book takes us inside the minds of so- called terrorists or freedom fighters. Who are these people? What do they want? Are they really inhumane or heartless? The author tries to answer these questions through the character of Manbha, who is a young blood searching for recognition. He has dreams of bringing independence to Meghalaya and for that he is even ready to lay down his own life. At the same time, he is not ready to take the lives of the innocents as a cost for that freedom. With deep psychological insights and prose that wraps around you slowly but steadily, the author has written a hauntingly beautiful tale.
While some people in our country like to involve in big debates related to terrorism in Kashmir and other parts of our country, same set of people have no idea of what is happening in north-eastern parts of our country. This book is certainly an eye-opener for these people.
This book has violence but also a humane side of it. A highly recommended read…
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
Read more on:
http://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2015/01...
Paulami Duttagupta deserves all the praises for penning down such a gripping tale, which leaves a long-lasting message amongst the readers. This book does not make any attempt to be entertaining. On the other hand, this book speaks the real truth. The book is more of a reality than an imaginary tale.
This book is the adaptation of the national award winning Khasi film, the screenplay of which was written by the same author. The word ‘Ri’ is a Khasi word, which stands for Homeland and this book is about the notion of Homeland. The cover looks eye-catching and will automatically turn heads of the readers. This cover page has been taken from the movie and convincingly portrays the mood of the book. The black background with sad faces clearly reflects the conflict between the two main characters of the book. While the book is fairly short and can be finished in one sitting, the impression it leaves is long-lasting. The narration is coherent and fluid. No part of the storyline makes you bore. The characters have been developed well. One can easily relate with these characters as they look really believable. From the names to the ways these characters converse with each other, the readers feel that these are not fictional but exist around us.
The book takes us on an amazing journey of the beautiful landscape of Meghalaya and India-Bangladesh borderlands. However, at the same time, this book takes us inside the minds of so- called terrorists or freedom fighters. Who are these people? What do they want? Are they really inhumane or heartless? The author tries to answer these questions through the character of Manbha, who is a young blood searching for recognition. He has dreams of bringing independence to Meghalaya and for that he is even ready to lay down his own life. At the same time, he is not ready to take the lives of the innocents as a cost for that freedom. With deep psychological insights and prose that wraps around you slowly but steadily, the author has written a hauntingly beautiful tale.
While some people in our country like to involve in big debates related to terrorism in Kashmir and other parts of our country, same set of people have no idea of what is happening in north-eastern parts of our country. This book is certainly an eye-opener for these people.
This book has violence but also a humane side of it. A highly recommended read…
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
Read more on:
http://pgalmora.wordpress.com/2015/01...
March 4, 2017
http://www.b00kr3vi3ws.in/2014/11/Ri....
This is really a wonderful and thought provoking book.
This book is necessarily the story of Manbha, a freedom fighter. He wants independence for his land and is ready to lay down his life for it. What he is not prepared to do is stake the lives of the innocents of the state as a cost for that freedom. He did start off as a freedom fighter but takes on a path that leads him to be labeled as a terrorist. Will he be able to attain freedom the right way or would he cost the lives of hundreds of innocents along the way? Is he a true hero or just another terrorist?
The book is set in the North-East of India and the author introduces us to one of the North-Eastern state and takes us on an amazing journey of the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. She also includes the terrorism factor in the book - in fact it is the front runner. The life and needs of the people of the region is portrayed in a manner that would appeal to everyone who reads this book.
Manbha is a very powerful character and he made his own space in my heart in no time. He is a freedom fighter and has his own limits. He may have deviated from his original path, yet he holds on to his morals and never crosses certain boundaries. His ideas for his state and his plight are very clear in his heart. The other characters like Emika, Kydiah and Janet have made their presence known with their individual personas.
The author has done an incredible job of blending together many facets into creating this Novella. Her writing style in refreshing and I do applaud her efforts to bring forward the story of so many lives to the mass.
I would recommend every reader to give this book a chance.
This is really a wonderful and thought provoking book.
This book is necessarily the story of Manbha, a freedom fighter. He wants independence for his land and is ready to lay down his life for it. What he is not prepared to do is stake the lives of the innocents of the state as a cost for that freedom. He did start off as a freedom fighter but takes on a path that leads him to be labeled as a terrorist. Will he be able to attain freedom the right way or would he cost the lives of hundreds of innocents along the way? Is he a true hero or just another terrorist?
The book is set in the North-East of India and the author introduces us to one of the North-Eastern state and takes us on an amazing journey of the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. She also includes the terrorism factor in the book - in fact it is the front runner. The life and needs of the people of the region is portrayed in a manner that would appeal to everyone who reads this book.
Manbha is a very powerful character and he made his own space in my heart in no time. He is a freedom fighter and has his own limits. He may have deviated from his original path, yet he holds on to his morals and never crosses certain boundaries. His ideas for his state and his plight are very clear in his heart. The other characters like Emika, Kydiah and Janet have made their presence known with their individual personas.
The author has done an incredible job of blending together many facets into creating this Novella. Her writing style in refreshing and I do applaud her efforts to bring forward the story of so many lives to the mass.
I would recommend every reader to give this book a chance.
January 20, 2015
Rating:3.5 (wish there was a half star as well)
Ri-Homeland of Uncertainty is a fast, crisp and well written story about rebellion and conflict, set in Meghalaya, symbolic of all regional conflicts in India. The misguided youth feels that the nation doesn’t do anything for them, and their state, if run as an independent country would fair better. The title is apt for the myriad emotions playing in the minds of various characters.
The story is about a terrorist group planning an attack in Shillong around the Independence day, and how police officer SP Kyndiah tracks them down. Manbha is one of the protagonists and a rebel, who has been tasked to lead the mission. Emika’s character is mature and impressive.
Paulami Duttagupta has managed to bring out the conflict, confusion and hardships of the rebels successfully in the novella. The conflict in Manbha’s mind and his tussle to choose right from wrong, forces one to sympathize the disillusioned youths of the nation. The author has also shown us how these terror activities cripple the lives of people in all walks of life.
On the flip side; the past, whenever mentioned, was a bit rushed and I wasn’t able to get into thick of situation or understand the complete picture of the yesteryears. Also I would have appreciated a little more description of the settings, scenic locations to feel connected. Same goes for character’s back stories and physical attributes, which would have helped get emotionally attached to the protagonists early in the story.
A recommended read, for it gives a compelling picture about the reality of life.
Ri-Homeland of Uncertainty is a fast, crisp and well written story about rebellion and conflict, set in Meghalaya, symbolic of all regional conflicts in India. The misguided youth feels that the nation doesn’t do anything for them, and their state, if run as an independent country would fair better. The title is apt for the myriad emotions playing in the minds of various characters.
The story is about a terrorist group planning an attack in Shillong around the Independence day, and how police officer SP Kyndiah tracks them down. Manbha is one of the protagonists and a rebel, who has been tasked to lead the mission. Emika’s character is mature and impressive.
Paulami Duttagupta has managed to bring out the conflict, confusion and hardships of the rebels successfully in the novella. The conflict in Manbha’s mind and his tussle to choose right from wrong, forces one to sympathize the disillusioned youths of the nation. The author has also shown us how these terror activities cripple the lives of people in all walks of life.
On the flip side; the past, whenever mentioned, was a bit rushed and I wasn’t able to get into thick of situation or understand the complete picture of the yesteryears. Also I would have appreciated a little more description of the settings, scenic locations to feel connected. Same goes for character’s back stories and physical attributes, which would have helped get emotionally attached to the protagonists early in the story.
A recommended read, for it gives a compelling picture about the reality of life.
October 3, 2015
A Story of Homecoming
First of all I would like to thank the author for giving me an opportunity to review the book.
Paulami Dutta Gupta has done an incredible job in portraying the city torn in conflict and turmoil due to the separatist group. These groups run mostly on money from extortion, terror outbreak and kidnappings. They have training camps in bordering countries like Bangladesh and Burma and are currently very active in North eastern states. They started with the motto of demanding a free land for their community but today their mission seems aimless.
Nevertheless Ri- Homeland of Uncertainty is the story of Manaba, a young man, who was brain washed to join one such group in the early 2000s. The author very beautifully pens down the emotional turmoil within him when he starts doubting his mission. The author succeeds in delivering the message very clear in her book. Even the other characters are very specific to their part. The story is based in Meghalaya and the narration sways from the present to the past very smoothly deciphering the beauty and virginity of the state along with how the people were affected because of the bloodshed. How difficult it is for the police force alone to restore peace with their hands tied and again how easily a few words of love and kindness can transform a mind. How the act of forgiveness is above all.
I would recommend this story to all who have faith in the system of our country and above all humanity. Together these values can bring a change in the society.
Ideal for those who love stories on critical issues like insurgency or terrorist.
First of all I would like to thank the author for giving me an opportunity to review the book.
Paulami Dutta Gupta has done an incredible job in portraying the city torn in conflict and turmoil due to the separatist group. These groups run mostly on money from extortion, terror outbreak and kidnappings. They have training camps in bordering countries like Bangladesh and Burma and are currently very active in North eastern states. They started with the motto of demanding a free land for their community but today their mission seems aimless.
Nevertheless Ri- Homeland of Uncertainty is the story of Manaba, a young man, who was brain washed to join one such group in the early 2000s. The author very beautifully pens down the emotional turmoil within him when he starts doubting his mission. The author succeeds in delivering the message very clear in her book. Even the other characters are very specific to their part. The story is based in Meghalaya and the narration sways from the present to the past very smoothly deciphering the beauty and virginity of the state along with how the people were affected because of the bloodshed. How difficult it is for the police force alone to restore peace with their hands tied and again how easily a few words of love and kindness can transform a mind. How the act of forgiveness is above all.
I would recommend this story to all who have faith in the system of our country and above all humanity. Together these values can bring a change in the society.
Ideal for those who love stories on critical issues like insurgency or terrorist.
April 14, 2015
Anisha Singh's review of the book. http://morselsandjuices.com/mixing-bo...
Rituparna Kundu's review of the book.
http://morselsandjuices.com/mixing-bo...
Rituparna Kundu's review of the book.
http://morselsandjuices.com/mixing-bo...
July 7, 2015
A nice read! Didn't expect this end.
December 17, 2015
Wonderful novel about the psych of insurgency in north-eastern part of India. Very interesting and engaging plot. Loved reading it. One of very few books that kept me glued till I finished it.
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