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Uttarmarga : Where Freedom Reigns
Pratibha Ray’s Where Freedom Reigns is a paean to the courage and sacrifices of ordinary people during the freedom struggle. It is a political allegory debunking the notion that Gandhi and Nehru alone orchestrated the fall of the British Empire.
Originally written in Odia, the novel depicts not just people’s enthusiasm and sacrifices during the freedom struggle but also their disillusionment with a freedom that failed to fulfill their cherished dreams of equality and prosperity in postcolonial India. The protagonist, Diganta Keshari, leaves home and joins the freedom struggle, hoping to see the country become the ideal kingdom—Ram Rajya. But when he returns to his village after twenty years of Independence, he encounters a new form of oppression and evil perpetrated by people they considered their own.
When a poor young woman is raped by a politician, Diganta renews his vow to fight, this time for justice. Ray draws a parallel from the Upanishads and postulates that hard-earned freedom is sacrosanct, akin to a soul on the path of redemption, eventually becoming a deathless entity after languishing long in hell.
Kanak Hota’s endearing translation of this cautionary tale is an urgent reminder that though democracy has its imperfections, it alone assures the rule of law and protection of individual freedom.
Originally written in Odia, the novel depicts not just people’s enthusiasm and sacrifices during the freedom struggle but also their disillusionment with a freedom that failed to fulfill their cherished dreams of equality and prosperity in postcolonial India. The protagonist, Diganta Keshari, leaves home and joins the freedom struggle, hoping to see the country become the ideal kingdom—Ram Rajya. But when he returns to his village after twenty years of Independence, he encounters a new form of oppression and evil perpetrated by people they considered their own.
When a poor young woman is raped by a politician, Diganta renews his vow to fight, this time for justice. Ray draws a parallel from the Upanishads and postulates that hard-earned freedom is sacrosanct, akin to a soul on the path of redemption, eventually becoming a deathless entity after languishing long in hell.
Kanak Hota’s endearing translation of this cautionary tale is an urgent reminder that though democracy has its imperfections, it alone assures the rule of law and protection of individual freedom.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2025
6 people want to read
About the author
Pratibha Ray
95 books87 followersPratibha Ray is an Indian academic and writer. Her search for a "social order based on equality, love, peace and integration", continues, since she first penned at the age of nine. She wrote for a social order, based on equality without class, caste, religion or sex discriminations which are so common in India.
She was formerly a professor in Education and former member of Odisha Public Service Commission. She is one of the leading fiction writers in India writing in her mother tongue Odia. She has several novels, travelogues, short story, poetry and essay collections to her credit. She is the recipient of the Jnanpith Award for her contribution to Indian literature, the Moorti Devi Award, the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Padma Shri given by the Government of India.
She was formerly a professor in Education and former member of Odisha Public Service Commission. She is one of the leading fiction writers in India writing in her mother tongue Odia. She has several novels, travelogues, short story, poetry and essay collections to her credit. She is the recipient of the Jnanpith Award for her contribution to Indian literature, the Moorti Devi Award, the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Padma Shri given by the Government of India.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
June 4, 2025
What happens when the dream of freedom turns into a mirror reflecting new chains?
Uttarmarga by Pratibha Ray is a powerful, soul-stirring novel that dares to ask the uncomfortable questions we often ignore. It doesn’t just tell a story about India’s freedom struggle—it makes you feel the weight of sacrifice, betrayal, and the ache of unfulfilled promises.
Through the eyes of Diganta Keshari, a man who fought for independence only to return to a land still caged in corruption and silence, we witness the heartbreaking difference between political freedom and real justice. But it’s not just his journey that leaves a mark—it's Maithili’s too. Her quiet rebellion, her attempt to break free from generational cages... when she finds her way out, I felt like I was breathing again.
This book doesn’t hold back. It exposes the cruelty of the zamindari system, the oppressive dasi culture, and the heartbreaking reality of women’s lives at that time. There were pages that made me cry, made me furious, and made me question the meaning of "freedom" all over again. The Swadeshi movement, the unsung heroes, and the everyday courage of common people—it’s all beautifully, painfully alive.
Kanak Hota’s translation captures every emotional nuance of the original Odia with grace. Uttarmarga isn’t just historical fiction—it’s a ride through hope, resistance, and awakening. And it’s a ride that stays with you long after the final page.
Uttarmarga by Pratibha Ray is a powerful, soul-stirring novel that dares to ask the uncomfortable questions we often ignore. It doesn’t just tell a story about India’s freedom struggle—it makes you feel the weight of sacrifice, betrayal, and the ache of unfulfilled promises.
Through the eyes of Diganta Keshari, a man who fought for independence only to return to a land still caged in corruption and silence, we witness the heartbreaking difference between political freedom and real justice. But it’s not just his journey that leaves a mark—it's Maithili’s too. Her quiet rebellion, her attempt to break free from generational cages... when she finds her way out, I felt like I was breathing again.
This book doesn’t hold back. It exposes the cruelty of the zamindari system, the oppressive dasi culture, and the heartbreaking reality of women’s lives at that time. There were pages that made me cry, made me furious, and made me question the meaning of "freedom" all over again. The Swadeshi movement, the unsung heroes, and the everyday courage of common people—it’s all beautifully, painfully alive.
Kanak Hota’s translation captures every emotional nuance of the original Odia with grace. Uttarmarga isn’t just historical fiction—it’s a ride through hope, resistance, and awakening. And it’s a ride that stays with you long after the final page.
June 9, 2025
Pratibha Ray’s "Uttarmarga: Where Freedom Reigns" is not merely a historical book set against the backdrop of India’s freedom struggle, it is a political allegory, a philosophical critique, and above all, a soul-searching reflection on the meaning of “freedom.” Originally penned in Odia, this hauntingly lyrical and socially charged narrative pierces through the myths of national liberation to reveal the unvarnished truth about postcolonial India’s moral decay.
At the heart of the book is Diganta Keshari, a freedom fighter who leaves the comfort of his home and dreams behind to join the Mahatma’s call for Ram Rajya, a utopian realm of justice, equality, and dignity. The first half of the book evokes the patriotic fervor of India's independence movement, portraying ordinary men and women with extraordinary willpower, resilience, and moral clarity.
But she flips the conventional narrative by leaping twenty years ahead into a disillusioned, "independent" India. Diganta’s return to his village reveals not a liberated society, but a rotting republic, where the oppressors wear swadeshi clothes and carry the tricolour. When a young, poor woman is raped by a local politician, the veneer of freedom peels off, exposing a deeper, more insidious form of enslavement.
🪅 Freedom vs. Emancipation : She distinguishes between political independence and inner liberation. The book asserts that freedom is not a destination, but a moral path—“Uttarmarga”—fraught with personal responsibility, eternal vigilance, and moral courage.
🪅 Gandhi and Nehru Debunked : Without disrespecting the national leaders, the author gently decentralizes the freedom narrative, highlighting that India’s liberation was not the result of singular heroism, but a collective uprising of countless unnamed, forgotten heroes.
🪅 Ram Rajya vs. Political Reality : Diganta’s shattered idealism is emblematic of a generation betrayed by the promises of freedom. She doesn’t romanticize the past but warns against the rapid deterioration of values in a democracy governed by power, not principles.
Kanak Hota’s translation deserves commendation for preserving the gritty lyricism and philosophical density of Pratibha Ray's original Odia prose. The translation flows with restraint and rhythm, never compromising on the cultural nuances and emotional gravitas. The book is both meditative and unsettling, using sparse dialogue and powerful imagery to disturb and awaken the reader.
In conclusion, it is a searing, thought-provoking narrative that forces us to confront a painful question, What have we done with the freedom we inherited? She strips away the romanticism of Independence to reveal the unfinished business of justice, equality, and moral governance.
At the heart of the book is Diganta Keshari, a freedom fighter who leaves the comfort of his home and dreams behind to join the Mahatma’s call for Ram Rajya, a utopian realm of justice, equality, and dignity. The first half of the book evokes the patriotic fervor of India's independence movement, portraying ordinary men and women with extraordinary willpower, resilience, and moral clarity.
But she flips the conventional narrative by leaping twenty years ahead into a disillusioned, "independent" India. Diganta’s return to his village reveals not a liberated society, but a rotting republic, where the oppressors wear swadeshi clothes and carry the tricolour. When a young, poor woman is raped by a local politician, the veneer of freedom peels off, exposing a deeper, more insidious form of enslavement.
🪅 Freedom vs. Emancipation : She distinguishes between political independence and inner liberation. The book asserts that freedom is not a destination, but a moral path—“Uttarmarga”—fraught with personal responsibility, eternal vigilance, and moral courage.
🪅 Gandhi and Nehru Debunked : Without disrespecting the national leaders, the author gently decentralizes the freedom narrative, highlighting that India’s liberation was not the result of singular heroism, but a collective uprising of countless unnamed, forgotten heroes.
🪅 Ram Rajya vs. Political Reality : Diganta’s shattered idealism is emblematic of a generation betrayed by the promises of freedom. She doesn’t romanticize the past but warns against the rapid deterioration of values in a democracy governed by power, not principles.
Kanak Hota’s translation deserves commendation for preserving the gritty lyricism and philosophical density of Pratibha Ray's original Odia prose. The translation flows with restraint and rhythm, never compromising on the cultural nuances and emotional gravitas. The book is both meditative and unsettling, using sparse dialogue and powerful imagery to disturb and awaken the reader.
In conclusion, it is a searing, thought-provoking narrative that forces us to confront a painful question, What have we done with the freedom we inherited? She strips away the romanticism of Independence to reveal the unfinished business of justice, equality, and moral governance.
May 26, 2025
Book Review: Uttaramarga - Where Freedom Reigns
Uttaramarga - Where Freedom Reigns is a profound and evocative novel that takes readers on a poignant journey through the tumultuous period of pre-independence India. The narrative, originally penned in Odia, immerses us in a time when zamindars wielded power over the oppressed, and the British colonial regime was just one facet of the larger struggle for freedom. The author skillfully highlights the duality of oppression faced by the people—not only from foreign rulers but also from their own countrymen.
At the heart of this gripping tale is the character of Diganta Keshari, whose aspirations for an ideal nation—Ram Rajya—propel him into the freedom struggle. His journey is not just one of physical resistance against colonial rule but also a quest for justice and equality. After two decades of independence, Diganta returns to his village only to find that the chains of oppression have merely transformed, now manifesting in the form of corruption and betrayal by those he once trusted. This poignant realization serves as a stark reminder of the disillusionment many felt in postcolonial India, as the dreams of equality and prosperity remained unfulfilled.
The narrative takes a dark turn when a young woman becomes a victim of political violence, prompting Diganta to renew his commitment to fight—not just for freedom, but for justice. The author draws compelling parallels to the Upanishads. This philosophical underpinning adds depth to the story, elevating it beyond a mere historical account to a meditation on the nature of freedom itself.The writing is polished, with every word resonating with emotion. The author's ability to evoke empathy for the characters' struggles leaves a lasting impact, making it impossible to forget their pain and sacrifices. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling that even after closing the book, the weight of their experiences lingers in the heart.
In conclusion, Uttaramarga - Where Freedom Reigns is a must-read for anyone seeking a deep and insightful exploration of India’s struggle for independence and the democracy we dreamt for. It invites readers to reflect not only on the past but also on the ongoing quest for justice in contemporary society. This book is not just a narrative; it is an experience that will resonate with you long after you turn the final page.
Uttaramarga - Where Freedom Reigns is a profound and evocative novel that takes readers on a poignant journey through the tumultuous period of pre-independence India. The narrative, originally penned in Odia, immerses us in a time when zamindars wielded power over the oppressed, and the British colonial regime was just one facet of the larger struggle for freedom. The author skillfully highlights the duality of oppression faced by the people—not only from foreign rulers but also from their own countrymen.
At the heart of this gripping tale is the character of Diganta Keshari, whose aspirations for an ideal nation—Ram Rajya—propel him into the freedom struggle. His journey is not just one of physical resistance against colonial rule but also a quest for justice and equality. After two decades of independence, Diganta returns to his village only to find that the chains of oppression have merely transformed, now manifesting in the form of corruption and betrayal by those he once trusted. This poignant realization serves as a stark reminder of the disillusionment many felt in postcolonial India, as the dreams of equality and prosperity remained unfulfilled.
The narrative takes a dark turn when a young woman becomes a victim of political violence, prompting Diganta to renew his commitment to fight—not just for freedom, but for justice. The author draws compelling parallels to the Upanishads. This philosophical underpinning adds depth to the story, elevating it beyond a mere historical account to a meditation on the nature of freedom itself.The writing is polished, with every word resonating with emotion. The author's ability to evoke empathy for the characters' struggles leaves a lasting impact, making it impossible to forget their pain and sacrifices. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling that even after closing the book, the weight of their experiences lingers in the heart.
In conclusion, Uttaramarga - Where Freedom Reigns is a must-read for anyone seeking a deep and insightful exploration of India’s struggle for independence and the democracy we dreamt for. It invites readers to reflect not only on the past but also on the ongoing quest for justice in contemporary society. This book is not just a narrative; it is an experience that will resonate with you long after you turn the final page.
June 11, 2025
I love reading books about lesser known people of the freedom struggle. Uttaramarga by Pratibha Ray translated from the Oriya by Kanak Hota was a treat. Mostly in India, Independence is only credited to two people which is very wrong, the unsung heroes hardly get credit or we hardly read/study about them in our history books.
~
Uttaramarga, is a poignant exploration of the unsung heroes of the freedom struggle. Many people have contributed to the struggle but they remain shrouded in the shadows of the past, and majorly the credit is taken by the two most famous names.
This book is set in colonial Odisha, the book combines the personal with the historical and political context of the struggle for independence. Ray has highlighted the stories of common and ordinary people who have contributed in their own special way to the fabric of the independence movement with strength and resilience.
Ray presents the pre independence times as they were, raw and unfiltered. I often wonder what drove the people, what they were made of to give up and sacrifice everything to see the country independent.
~
What I admired most about this book was the involvement of the people of rural Odisha which shows the grassroots level efforts of people and the picture it forms at large. The freedom struggle was a collective endeavour and not just restricted to bigger cities and bigger leaders.
Uttaramarga is an eloquent, very powerful novel which is a silent tribute to the unsung heroes of the freedom struggle. Ray’s lyrical writing also presents before the reader a picture of colonial Odisha, presenting a compelling portrait of pre independent India.
Recommended!
4🌟
~
Uttaramarga, is a poignant exploration of the unsung heroes of the freedom struggle. Many people have contributed to the struggle but they remain shrouded in the shadows of the past, and majorly the credit is taken by the two most famous names.
This book is set in colonial Odisha, the book combines the personal with the historical and political context of the struggle for independence. Ray has highlighted the stories of common and ordinary people who have contributed in their own special way to the fabric of the independence movement with strength and resilience.
Ray presents the pre independence times as they were, raw and unfiltered. I often wonder what drove the people, what they were made of to give up and sacrifice everything to see the country independent.
~
What I admired most about this book was the involvement of the people of rural Odisha which shows the grassroots level efforts of people and the picture it forms at large. The freedom struggle was a collective endeavour and not just restricted to bigger cities and bigger leaders.
Uttaramarga is an eloquent, very powerful novel which is a silent tribute to the unsung heroes of the freedom struggle. Ray’s lyrical writing also presents before the reader a picture of colonial Odisha, presenting a compelling portrait of pre independent India.
Recommended!
4🌟
June 13, 2025
Book Review: "Uttarmarga" by Pratibha Ray (Translated by Kanak Hota)
This book touched me deeply. "Uttarmarga" is not just about the freedom struggle—it’s about what came after. It’s about the hope, the sacrifice, and the pain of realizing that the freedom so many people gave their lives for didn’t turn out the way they had imagined.
The main character, Diganta Keshari, leaves everything behind to fight for India’s freedom. He dreams of a better country—a Ram Rajya where everyone is treated equally. But when he comes back to his village after twenty years of Independence, he sees a different kind of injustice. The powerful are still hurting the weak—only now, they are our own people.
One part that really stayed with me in the book. That’s when Diganta realizes that his fight isn’t over. The struggle has changed—but it's still there.
The writing is simple but powerful. There’s a lot of emotion in it. The book doesn’t blame or preach. It just tells the truth. And the truth is that freedom is not just about getting rid of rulers—it’s also about standing up for justice every day.
The translation is beautiful. It keeps the soul of the original story alive.
It's a reminder that the journey of a nation doesn’t end with freedom. It continues. And it’s up to us to make it worth the sacrifices.
This book touched me deeply. "Uttarmarga" is not just about the freedom struggle—it’s about what came after. It’s about the hope, the sacrifice, and the pain of realizing that the freedom so many people gave their lives for didn’t turn out the way they had imagined.
The main character, Diganta Keshari, leaves everything behind to fight for India’s freedom. He dreams of a better country—a Ram Rajya where everyone is treated equally. But when he comes back to his village after twenty years of Independence, he sees a different kind of injustice. The powerful are still hurting the weak—only now, they are our own people.
One part that really stayed with me in the book. That’s when Diganta realizes that his fight isn’t over. The struggle has changed—but it's still there.
The writing is simple but powerful. There’s a lot of emotion in it. The book doesn’t blame or preach. It just tells the truth. And the truth is that freedom is not just about getting rid of rulers—it’s also about standing up for justice every day.
The translation is beautiful. It keeps the soul of the original story alive.
It's a reminder that the journey of a nation doesn’t end with freedom. It continues. And it’s up to us to make it worth the sacrifices.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews