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SHE: Ekla Cholo Re
Set in the backdrop of 1990 Calcutta, She is a story about finding one’s own identity in spite of all odds. The story spins around the life of Kusum, a brave heart whose identity is often untitled and blurred; it does not belong anywhere, definitely not under the ‘he’ or ‘she’ bracket, thanks to our social conditioning. Will she be successful in her mission? Find out in She, an utterly absorbing read that derives inspiration from Tagore’s “Ekla Cholo Re” song, which urges everyone to move on despite the fear of abandonment from others.
"She is one of the finest book to read" - Sujeeth Kumar, Project Manager, MNC Bengaluru
"A story often untold. Appreciate the team for presenting She in the best possible harmonious way!" - N K Narasimhan, CEO and Co-Founder, Nascor Technologies, Bengaluru
"Don't miss the ending!" - Raghunath Babu Are, Employee at Microsoft, Bengaluru
"She is 'Wow!'" - Shilpa Patil, English Teacher in a Leading School
"She is one of the finest book to read" - Sujeeth Kumar, Project Manager, MNC Bengaluru
"A story often untold. Appreciate the team for presenting She in the best possible harmonious way!" - N K Narasimhan, CEO and Co-Founder, Nascor Technologies, Bengaluru
"Don't miss the ending!" - Raghunath Babu Are, Employee at Microsoft, Bengaluru
"She is 'Wow!'" - Shilpa Patil, English Teacher in a Leading School
- GenresIndian LiteratureFiction
60 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2015
3 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Santosh Avvannavar
26 books47 followersSantosh Avvannavar is presently working as Mentor at QtPi Robotics. He is an alumni of NITK Surathkal and worked as researcher at IISc Bengaluru. He has published his research findings in conferences, national and international journals.
He is passionate about creative activities for kids and educators. Since 2008, he has addressed 11K+ teachers and 70K+ students through seminars, training and workshops.
He has given talk for TV and Radio on Gender Equality. His book She: Ekla Cholo Re has become acclaimed writing. His new book, Classroom Communication aims to help educators and students to make classroom engaging and fun place to be. His presents several inquiry based ideas in his illustrated book.
He has organised 2 TEDx events and presented idea that is worth sharing for 11 times.
He is passionate about creative activities for kids and educators. Since 2008, he has addressed 11K+ teachers and 70K+ students through seminars, training and workshops.
He has given talk for TV and Radio on Gender Equality. His book She: Ekla Cholo Re has become acclaimed writing. His new book, Classroom Communication aims to help educators and students to make classroom engaging and fun place to be. His presents several inquiry based ideas in his illustrated book.
He has organised 2 TEDx events and presented idea that is worth sharing for 11 times.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
December 9, 2016
Received this book by the author for an honest review. And so it is. Honest.
A short and good one.
HITS. ITS. MARK.
She is a story of one's identity in the society. What is a society after all?
A collection of people with varied ideologies living in harmony.
Only that it is far from true for humans. We have over processed our thoughts and drawn conclusions that the makers of laws would never have imagined.
Love and compassion is the basis of every flourishing community. We accept all and embrace all.
Or we used to.
There are more lines that divide us rather than uniting. On caste, creed, gender, race, ideologies, football clubs, types of colors we have on our walls and what not!
She: Ekla Cholo Re is one such story of a transgender who struggles to get a foothold in the frameworks of the social customs. She shares a ride with a stranger and pours her pain out to him - and to us, readers. That ostracization is the correct word for the glimpses people give her. Her pain and suffering that even her parents failed to comprehend. Loved ones' separation. Rukhsat!
She is a strong lady that self motivates herself from the ashes with the help of a guiding light of an author. His books make her come out and face the dawn. And the shame that was never hers to bear.
Jodi Tor Dak Shune Keu Na Ase Tobe
Ekla Cholo Re
If no one follows you,
oh my dear soul,
Walk alone.
Walk alone on the path,
That you think is correct.
Because it very well is.
The denouement is something that made me smile ear-to-ear.
November 19, 2017
Mr P V Ramana, National Award Nominee and Scientist says "It is good have sympathy on cows and dogs, but better to have sympathy on our own species first. Mankind has so many sections of people who deserve much more attention and sympathy than what they get now. This novel is an attempt to draw our attention on one such set of people. It is not easy to run a novel with just two characters mainly and still succeed in its aim. The authors have very nicely managed this without loosing the grip on the readers. It is our social responsibility to read such books to know the unknown feelings of our own mankind."
Book Review by Gopal Hosur:
He tries to relate to the new generation and it makes him happy and feel young. He was sceptical when he was approached first thinking whether he is in a position to do this. 3.5 decades in police and majorly spoke to people who are criminals. Career has been a bag of fortunes and misfortunes; Has its share of ups and down. He has been rejuvenated through his career through his family friends. He comes from a place called Gokak where in he had 6 siblings, and spoke about how his parents bought him up with the low salary and remembers those days. He speaks about today's day where in how the fears and anexities are part of the life while brinining up a single kid.
Brief of the book:
Concentration: Life these days is so different from those days an instrument called "Mobile" had gotten us so distracted. we cannot concentrate on anything. His concentration was in bits and bytes before picking She: Ekla Cholo Re book to read. He happened to read the book entirely. An Eyeopener book for him after spending so much time in government working with and for society it was an eye opener book reviews should not be done if the author is known, It should not be done if you either hate or love the person, on this note he is totally qualified to review the book.
Why is this book eye opener:
He was happy because the book was not very heavy, since our span of concentration is so little. In whatever circumstance you are in you still would want to read the book and that is the best thing about the book. The title and tag Line : Ekla Cholo Re fascinated him to read it.
As he began he thougt it was a thriller, every moment you think if what is coming next. Every sentence written make you think about what is coming next.
Next thing is to read between lines:
Some books are to be tasted, some books are to be devoured and very few books are to be eaten and digested and this book falls in third category.
The cause that it tries to potray is extremely well thought of and well written.
It is an interesting insight into life of a transgender person. Thanks for sharing the same with me.
Best wishes, Sridhar Rangayan, Founder/Festival Director at KASHISH Mumbai
Last evening I received a call from my English teacher, Sr Victoria on joy of reading ‘She:Ekla Cholo Re’. It’s first time in her life that she read a book without putting it down and completed it on one go! Her happiness and joy was reflected in her tone! I take this opportunity to thank her for making me what I am today. God bless her!
Content of book is amazing, I started my reading late night, the narrative story of the book made curious of what next? & i completed reading. Content is King, brilliant work. A series of cliping runs in mind when you complet each sentence. Strong wordings, beautiful story narration. - Kishore Sawant, Aspiring Film maker
I read She: Ekla Cholo Re in one sitting. I empathise with the protagonist. That is the sorry state of affairs in the society. - Dr Asna Urooj, University of Mysore
SHE: Ekla chalo re - review
A short and a sweet story with a serious message. 'SHE' deals with a topic that has been made fun of without realising the agony through which people dealing with this problem go through. I am sure this will change the way we behave with such people. Which people? Read it to find out. Five stars for 'SHE'. - Jyothi Byahatti
She is 'Mindblowing' and 'Awaesome' - Vishnuteerth Jambagi
She is Awesome! - Dr. Bindu Madhav Yendegiri
I read 'She: Ekla Cholo Re' and I must say it's one of the very good books I've read. The way it is narrated is very good and impressive, seriously a nice one! The ending is also full filmy style. - Dr Swaroop, MMBS 3rd Year
I highly recommend this book to be read by everyone whose heart bleeds at the discrimination humans face at the hands of other humans in the name of gender. - Blogger (https://theerailivedin.wordpress.com/...)
Book Review by Gopal Hosur:
He tries to relate to the new generation and it makes him happy and feel young. He was sceptical when he was approached first thinking whether he is in a position to do this. 3.5 decades in police and majorly spoke to people who are criminals. Career has been a bag of fortunes and misfortunes; Has its share of ups and down. He has been rejuvenated through his career through his family friends. He comes from a place called Gokak where in he had 6 siblings, and spoke about how his parents bought him up with the low salary and remembers those days. He speaks about today's day where in how the fears and anexities are part of the life while brinining up a single kid.
Brief of the book:
Concentration: Life these days is so different from those days an instrument called "Mobile" had gotten us so distracted. we cannot concentrate on anything. His concentration was in bits and bytes before picking She: Ekla Cholo Re book to read. He happened to read the book entirely. An Eyeopener book for him after spending so much time in government working with and for society it was an eye opener book reviews should not be done if the author is known, It should not be done if you either hate or love the person, on this note he is totally qualified to review the book.
Why is this book eye opener:
He was happy because the book was not very heavy, since our span of concentration is so little. In whatever circumstance you are in you still would want to read the book and that is the best thing about the book. The title and tag Line : Ekla Cholo Re fascinated him to read it.
As he began he thougt it was a thriller, every moment you think if what is coming next. Every sentence written make you think about what is coming next.
Next thing is to read between lines:
Some books are to be tasted, some books are to be devoured and very few books are to be eaten and digested and this book falls in third category.
The cause that it tries to potray is extremely well thought of and well written.
It is an interesting insight into life of a transgender person. Thanks for sharing the same with me.
Best wishes, Sridhar Rangayan, Founder/Festival Director at KASHISH Mumbai
Last evening I received a call from my English teacher, Sr Victoria on joy of reading ‘She:Ekla Cholo Re’. It’s first time in her life that she read a book without putting it down and completed it on one go! Her happiness and joy was reflected in her tone! I take this opportunity to thank her for making me what I am today. God bless her!
Content of book is amazing, I started my reading late night, the narrative story of the book made curious of what next? & i completed reading. Content is King, brilliant work. A series of cliping runs in mind when you complet each sentence. Strong wordings, beautiful story narration. - Kishore Sawant, Aspiring Film maker
I read She: Ekla Cholo Re in one sitting. I empathise with the protagonist. That is the sorry state of affairs in the society. - Dr Asna Urooj, University of Mysore
SHE: Ekla chalo re - review
A short and a sweet story with a serious message. 'SHE' deals with a topic that has been made fun of without realising the agony through which people dealing with this problem go through. I am sure this will change the way we behave with such people. Which people? Read it to find out. Five stars for 'SHE'. - Jyothi Byahatti
She is 'Mindblowing' and 'Awaesome' - Vishnuteerth Jambagi
She is Awesome! - Dr. Bindu Madhav Yendegiri
I read 'She: Ekla Cholo Re' and I must say it's one of the very good books I've read. The way it is narrated is very good and impressive, seriously a nice one! The ending is also full filmy style. - Dr Swaroop, MMBS 3rd Year
I highly recommend this book to be read by everyone whose heart bleeds at the discrimination humans face at the hands of other humans in the name of gender. - Blogger (https://theerailivedin.wordpress.com/...)
October 19, 2015
Powerful
A huge thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book
I think I will vote for this book, if I have to pick out a good work from all the works that I have so far read from the author. There are two reasons for it. One an actual construction of plot rather than a quick brush up on a given topic and another being the flow and narration
I love how the author have picked up a theme and have worked towards it with the support of a good story. Usually what I have noticed in author’s work is an imperfect ending and a chaotic execution and that is why I loved the patience and level of treatment that the author had used for this book
No doubt they had a powerful message to deliver but I guess the message is a little muffled but the story on the other hand was quite impactful. When I say a muffled message, what I mean is that the book does not exactly brings out a solution or question about the topic at hand, if that was the aim, but if you take the book as a simple story to narrate or bring you eyes to a certain life then yes it has accomplished that as the author bravely and vividly portrays the picture of a person caught up in a dilemma which forms the theme of the book. So yes in that regard there is a good message.
Above everything it’s the treatment that deserves the appreciation because I can honestly say that I was completely engrossed in the story as it was quick and really focused on narrating the story rather than setting the scene or irrelevant character structure as when the story unfolds you get every details as crisp and clear as they could get
There are two things that bothered me. One . the very first opening remains as a standalone because I couldn’t clue it to the rest of the story just felt a tiny part forcefully inserted in the beginning but this is just a couple of paragraphs and once the story catches the momentum, there is no stopping the book. Two. I personally did not like the full English translated version of the Tagore’s poem that becomes the core theme of the book. I wish it would have been a little more easy to comprehend as it fails to invoke the true spirit of the actual Poem but then these are very minute things and mostly just my nagging
As I keep saying about the author’s book, it is a quick read and hardly demanding any time of yours but this time around the book comes with a good story that will for sure keep you glued till the end
A huge thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book
I think I will vote for this book, if I have to pick out a good work from all the works that I have so far read from the author. There are two reasons for it. One an actual construction of plot rather than a quick brush up on a given topic and another being the flow and narration
I love how the author have picked up a theme and have worked towards it with the support of a good story. Usually what I have noticed in author’s work is an imperfect ending and a chaotic execution and that is why I loved the patience and level of treatment that the author had used for this book
No doubt they had a powerful message to deliver but I guess the message is a little muffled but the story on the other hand was quite impactful. When I say a muffled message, what I mean is that the book does not exactly brings out a solution or question about the topic at hand, if that was the aim, but if you take the book as a simple story to narrate or bring you eyes to a certain life then yes it has accomplished that as the author bravely and vividly portrays the picture of a person caught up in a dilemma which forms the theme of the book. So yes in that regard there is a good message.
Above everything it’s the treatment that deserves the appreciation because I can honestly say that I was completely engrossed in the story as it was quick and really focused on narrating the story rather than setting the scene or irrelevant character structure as when the story unfolds you get every details as crisp and clear as they could get
There are two things that bothered me. One . the very first opening remains as a standalone because I couldn’t clue it to the rest of the story just felt a tiny part forcefully inserted in the beginning but this is just a couple of paragraphs and once the story catches the momentum, there is no stopping the book. Two. I personally did not like the full English translated version of the Tagore’s poem that becomes the core theme of the book. I wish it would have been a little more easy to comprehend as it fails to invoke the true spirit of the actual Poem but then these are very minute things and mostly just my nagging
As I keep saying about the author’s book, it is a quick read and hardly demanding any time of yours but this time around the book comes with a good story that will for sure keep you glued till the end
May 18, 2017
She is an attempt to search for one's identity irrespective of all odds. What makes it unique are it's two most important aspects - the protagonist
(Kusum) and Tagore's song, Ekla Cholo Re. The identity of the protagonist is often untitled and blurred; it does not belong anywhere, definitely not under the ‘he’ or ‘she’ bracket because of our social conditioning. We normally do not give 'social sanction' to 'such' people because we ‘pretend’ that they do not exist, albeit for our own convenience. So, when a person like Kusum decides to move on with her life despite all odds, it deserves a special mention, indeed. As the editor cum reader of this book, I grew with Kusum each day in complete awe as she drew inspiration from Tagore’s Ekla Cholo re song to be her true self each time she was struck with a heavy blow.
(Kusum) and Tagore's song, Ekla Cholo Re. The identity of the protagonist is often untitled and blurred; it does not belong anywhere, definitely not under the ‘he’ or ‘she’ bracket because of our social conditioning. We normally do not give 'social sanction' to 'such' people because we ‘pretend’ that they do not exist, albeit for our own convenience. So, when a person like Kusum decides to move on with her life despite all odds, it deserves a special mention, indeed. As the editor cum reader of this book, I grew with Kusum each day in complete awe as she drew inspiration from Tagore’s Ekla Cholo re song to be her true self each time she was struck with a heavy blow.
October 20, 2015
We can’t live without the society. With times, the society has developed a distinct structure for itself and, we have been assigned some rules and regulation to be followed with exactitude. Men are supposed to be ‘manly’ and show aggressiveness and power while women must behave in a polished and gentle manner. If it happens otherwise, the society brands the person as “not normal” and, such branding leads to complete seclusion from the rest of the people having the royal insignia of “normal”!
But what should a person do if the heart revolts to follow the path it is supposed to? What if a tender femininity encapsulates herself in the body of a male? What if the apparent masculine ruggedness fails to satiate the passion and desire the mind feels? Yes, one has to walk alone, extremely tiresome the journey might be. Santosh Avvannavar and Dr. Shayan Haq have joined hands to pen down the journey of Kusum, a transgender, in their book She: Ekla Cholo Re.
Kusum, a girl born in the biological frame of a boy, wants to steer her life in a different way. But the society finds this tendency as an egregious sacrilege. Even her father, a doctor himself, goes off his rocker and becomes a helicopter dad monitoring Kusum’s each and every activity; forcing her to behave, talk, play, eat like a boy. But her father fails to control her mind and, slowly but surely she blooms retrieving all the feminine traits.
Kusum’s intransigent attitude makes her face dire consequences. Her life gets scattered every time she wants to gather the fallen pieces. Her dreams, her love, and life collide with a person one day all of a sudden, professor Raj. Would she be able to gain an identity? Or whether her life would flow along with the lines of Tagore’s song,”jodi tor daak shune keu na aashey, tobe ekla cholo re“( if they answer not to thy call, walk alone). You’ll find the answer in the book.
My Views
The authors here have told a story, but the story makes you stop for a moment, feel and think. Set in the backdrop of 1990, Kolkata, The story speaks on behalf of all those who find themselves trapped in between “he” and “she”. The gender dysphoria, the fundamental unease, dilemma, and dissatisfaction with which Kusum deals in her life reflects the mismatch between her gender identity and the assigned sex. The story has the required twists and turns and, I liked the way it finally ends.
However, in my opinion, the friendship between Professor Raj and Kusum happens too quickly. They could be given some more time to get acquainted with each other. Apart from that the book is a bold step towards social awareness and discussing a few things which are still considered taboo in the society.
Find more reviews on https://maniparna5002.wordpress.com
But what should a person do if the heart revolts to follow the path it is supposed to? What if a tender femininity encapsulates herself in the body of a male? What if the apparent masculine ruggedness fails to satiate the passion and desire the mind feels? Yes, one has to walk alone, extremely tiresome the journey might be. Santosh Avvannavar and Dr. Shayan Haq have joined hands to pen down the journey of Kusum, a transgender, in their book She: Ekla Cholo Re.
Kusum, a girl born in the biological frame of a boy, wants to steer her life in a different way. But the society finds this tendency as an egregious sacrilege. Even her father, a doctor himself, goes off his rocker and becomes a helicopter dad monitoring Kusum’s each and every activity; forcing her to behave, talk, play, eat like a boy. But her father fails to control her mind and, slowly but surely she blooms retrieving all the feminine traits.
Kusum’s intransigent attitude makes her face dire consequences. Her life gets scattered every time she wants to gather the fallen pieces. Her dreams, her love, and life collide with a person one day all of a sudden, professor Raj. Would she be able to gain an identity? Or whether her life would flow along with the lines of Tagore’s song,”jodi tor daak shune keu na aashey, tobe ekla cholo re“( if they answer not to thy call, walk alone). You’ll find the answer in the book.
My Views
The authors here have told a story, but the story makes you stop for a moment, feel and think. Set in the backdrop of 1990, Kolkata, The story speaks on behalf of all those who find themselves trapped in between “he” and “she”. The gender dysphoria, the fundamental unease, dilemma, and dissatisfaction with which Kusum deals in her life reflects the mismatch between her gender identity and the assigned sex. The story has the required twists and turns and, I liked the way it finally ends.
However, in my opinion, the friendship between Professor Raj and Kusum happens too quickly. They could be given some more time to get acquainted with each other. Apart from that the book is a bold step towards social awareness and discussing a few things which are still considered taboo in the society.
Find more reviews on https://maniparna5002.wordpress.com
November 10, 2015
A MUST READ!
This is not only a story but a guide. I have read almost all books by the author but this one's my favourite. A short emotional and satiable read. I liked the characters, Kusum, Debu and Dr. Raj. The narration is very good. The story is short and sweet. The protagonist is someone you'd grow to respect with each line.
I read a book, not long time ago, about women in general. It promised a nice story. I anticipated a lot from it, only to be chagrined at the end. This book, SHE, came with the same promises and it fulfilled all of them and more. I like my books with a story and this came with one .
" You are your own worst enemy. If you can learn to stop expecting impossible perfection, in yourself and others, you may find the happiness that has always eluded you.”
An exemplary piece of work and a five starer !!!
October 30, 2015
Full review @ http://nandhinisbookreviews.blogspot....
SHE: Ekla Cholo Re is the story of Kusum who suffers a gender identity disorder since childhood. Through Kusum's conversation over a long drive with a stranger, the authors have brought out the subtle feelings that Kusum undergoes during each phase of her life.
A touching love story, subtly wound around Kusum's internal conflicts, holds the grip of the events. Contrary to the general perception that transsexuals lack romantic relationships, Kusum is portrayed as one who makes not one but two male characters to fall in love with her, instantly. As a matter of fact, SHE doesn't intend to sympathetically highlight the emotional and psychological disturbances that transsexuals experience; rather it emphatically reiterates the fact that they are normal people too of great self-respect and admiration, just that outwardly, their gender doesn't fall into the two categories, pre-fixed by society.
SHE gives hope and strength to people like Kusum, justly, by encouraging them to move on and remain deaf to the indifference shown by the society. One of the characters, Maria, plays a supportive role to Kusum in her career and academics. Maria is certainly a reminder to all of us to refine our perceptions towards them.
To those of us who have never come in close association with the life of a transsexual, Kusum's story shall give a new understanding of a unique kind of human emotion. Through Kusum's story, let's be enlightened that it's first the family they expect acceptance from, the society being only secondary.
SHE is a quick read that would take less than an hour. And I recommend readers to spread this genuine social message far and wide. The psychology and poetical references quoted in the narration are not to be missed. And the twist at the end was a classic one.
Nandhini's Book Reviews
SHE: Ekla Cholo Re is the story of Kusum who suffers a gender identity disorder since childhood. Through Kusum's conversation over a long drive with a stranger, the authors have brought out the subtle feelings that Kusum undergoes during each phase of her life.
A touching love story, subtly wound around Kusum's internal conflicts, holds the grip of the events. Contrary to the general perception that transsexuals lack romantic relationships, Kusum is portrayed as one who makes not one but two male characters to fall in love with her, instantly. As a matter of fact, SHE doesn't intend to sympathetically highlight the emotional and psychological disturbances that transsexuals experience; rather it emphatically reiterates the fact that they are normal people too of great self-respect and admiration, just that outwardly, their gender doesn't fall into the two categories, pre-fixed by society.
SHE gives hope and strength to people like Kusum, justly, by encouraging them to move on and remain deaf to the indifference shown by the society. One of the characters, Maria, plays a supportive role to Kusum in her career and academics. Maria is certainly a reminder to all of us to refine our perceptions towards them.
To those of us who have never come in close association with the life of a transsexual, Kusum's story shall give a new understanding of a unique kind of human emotion. Through Kusum's story, let's be enlightened that it's first the family they expect acceptance from, the society being only secondary.
SHE is a quick read that would take less than an hour. And I recommend readers to spread this genuine social message far and wide. The psychology and poetical references quoted in the narration are not to be missed. And the twist at the end was a classic one.
Nandhini's Book Reviews
November 5, 2015
The thing I love about Santosh's writing is that he picks up the topics we (the society) consider a taboo and hence we don't talk about such topics . 'She : Ekla Cholo Re' is the best of Santosh's works till date . The story is told in a beutiful and simple narration . The topic is again a very less talked and also very less aware topics of the current times . The flow of the story is excellent . The book doesn't allow reader to stop or to put down the book .
The character of the protagonist Kusum is one of the most unique and one of the most powerful character I have ever read . Kusum is an epitome of the power in uniqueness and one can realise this power only when that person accepts the uniqueness .
The philosophy of the book revolves around the song by Rabindranath Tagore 'Ekla Cholo Re' , which is one of my favourite songs . Great book Loved the twist in the end .
Immensely Impactful book .
A MUST READ .
The character of the protagonist Kusum is one of the most unique and one of the most powerful character I have ever read . Kusum is an epitome of the power in uniqueness and one can realise this power only when that person accepts the uniqueness .
The philosophy of the book revolves around the song by Rabindranath Tagore 'Ekla Cholo Re' , which is one of my favourite songs . Great book Loved the twist in the end .
Immensely Impactful book .
A MUST READ .
October 24, 2015
1) Great story portraying the She
2) Gripping story with suspense, thrill and drama
3) Credit to the authors for keeping up the pace and releasing it once in a while so that users keep reading book
4) Great end one that i never expected
2) Gripping story with suspense, thrill and drama
3) Credit to the authors for keeping up the pace and releasing it once in a while so that users keep reading book
4) Great end one that i never expected
January 15, 2016
Simple,profound,and motivating!! must read for everyone.
One of my favorite books.
One of my favorite books.
March 16, 2017
I just finished reading this book , Though I read few articles before never did I get a chance to read something like this . I am sure , this book will change your views about She-male ( I hope ppl are still not so backward to think low about this issue ) . It definitely helped me understand their struggles better .
I must appreciate the Author for choosing strangers as protagonists , sometimes its easy to share your problems with a stranger than a friend or confident for that matter . And it was amusing to see the speakers tone neutral , She was not blaming anyone , not even the society for not accepting her . The Author successfully emphasised his point " Human emotions are same irrespective of gender " albeit subtly . And I think Kusum is stronger than many ppl out there who criticised and banished her from society and again Author did a marvellous job conveying it without actually wording it .
And the ending , I was smiling from ear to ear .
I must appreciate the Author for choosing strangers as protagonists , sometimes its easy to share your problems with a stranger than a friend or confident for that matter . And it was amusing to see the speakers tone neutral , She was not blaming anyone , not even the society for not accepting her . The Author successfully emphasised his point " Human emotions are same irrespective of gender " albeit subtly . And I think Kusum is stronger than many ppl out there who criticised and banished her from society and again Author did a marvellous job conveying it without actually wording it .
And the ending , I was smiling from ear to ear .
February 7, 2017
When the author asked me to review his work, I told him that I can do so only if I am given the freedom to review it honestly and he agreed, thankfully. So, here it is, my honest review.
Just imagine giving a birthday gift to your friend or, keeping with the trend of this week, a Valentine’s Day gift to your loved one. No matter how precious the gift may be, presentation is something that you will consider equally important. You will not handover a costly shirt wrapped in a gunny bag or pack that precious diamond ring in a cheap plastic box. You will ensure that the container of that gift is equally, if not more, attractive as the gift. That’s called presentation and sadly, that is exactly what is lacking in this book.
The gift here is the awareness of the plight of the third-gender and the pressing need to treat them as equals. It’s indeed a lofty idea, worthy of appreciation. Till I read this book, I didn’t even bother to learn whether such literature exists in the country. Kudos to the author for showing me a new direction and stoking in me a curiosity to learn about those pitiable souls that walk the streets, clapping their hands and asking for money from all and sundry.
But nothing else is worthwhile about this book apart from that idea. Poor language, melodramatic writing style and illogical statements all come together to mar what could have been a really good book. It is surprising that this book was authored by two people and also edited by another person (said to be an avid blogger). A flurry of grammatical errors will make any serious reader squirm. The punctuations are even worse. Either the authors these days don’t go through their drafts for the second time or there is a dearth of quality editors.
This is the plot – the protagonist offers lift to a good-looking woman during one of his evening rides. That woman turns out to be a transgender person, who is on the rebound. She recounts the pains inflicted by love and lack of understanding from the people around. There is nothing novel about her ‘love’. There is not much in the tale that could make you feel deeply for her. The writing style depicts the emotion at best as ordinary infatuation. The tale takes the routine path of betrayal by the other person, our heroine’s attempt at studying and getting a small job. Predictably, the protagonist shows emotions of kindness towards that transgender person and the tale ends by showing that protagonist is the author whom the woman has been quoting all along. Really?! The transgender persons have much worse challenges in life than mere ‘love failure’.
Logic is the next casualty. Some of the lines will make your head reel by being as ambiguous as only they can be. Consider these two lines just for a sample – 1) 'People were often perplexed about my gender - some said that since the child is soft, she must be a girl while others felt that I am a boy.' (Really?! A child is born and people are not able to determine its gender?!) 2) 'Strangers often don't meet in life.' (What the?! Whatever the author wanted to convey here is clearly not what he has conveyed.)
What could have been a worthy attempt is marred by melodramatic thinking, poor writing style and poorer editing. Only thing that I could take away from this book is the desire to learn about the state of transgender persons in our country. Thanks to the author for that.
Just imagine giving a birthday gift to your friend or, keeping with the trend of this week, a Valentine’s Day gift to your loved one. No matter how precious the gift may be, presentation is something that you will consider equally important. You will not handover a costly shirt wrapped in a gunny bag or pack that precious diamond ring in a cheap plastic box. You will ensure that the container of that gift is equally, if not more, attractive as the gift. That’s called presentation and sadly, that is exactly what is lacking in this book.
The gift here is the awareness of the plight of the third-gender and the pressing need to treat them as equals. It’s indeed a lofty idea, worthy of appreciation. Till I read this book, I didn’t even bother to learn whether such literature exists in the country. Kudos to the author for showing me a new direction and stoking in me a curiosity to learn about those pitiable souls that walk the streets, clapping their hands and asking for money from all and sundry.
But nothing else is worthwhile about this book apart from that idea. Poor language, melodramatic writing style and illogical statements all come together to mar what could have been a really good book. It is surprising that this book was authored by two people and also edited by another person (said to be an avid blogger). A flurry of grammatical errors will make any serious reader squirm. The punctuations are even worse. Either the authors these days don’t go through their drafts for the second time or there is a dearth of quality editors.
This is the plot – the protagonist offers lift to a good-looking woman during one of his evening rides. That woman turns out to be a transgender person, who is on the rebound. She recounts the pains inflicted by love and lack of understanding from the people around. There is nothing novel about her ‘love’. There is not much in the tale that could make you feel deeply for her. The writing style depicts the emotion at best as ordinary infatuation. The tale takes the routine path of betrayal by the other person, our heroine’s attempt at studying and getting a small job. Predictably, the protagonist shows emotions of kindness towards that transgender person and the tale ends by showing that protagonist is the author whom the woman has been quoting all along. Really?! The transgender persons have much worse challenges in life than mere ‘love failure’.
Logic is the next casualty. Some of the lines will make your head reel by being as ambiguous as only they can be. Consider these two lines just for a sample – 1) 'People were often perplexed about my gender - some said that since the child is soft, she must be a girl while others felt that I am a boy.' (Really?! A child is born and people are not able to determine its gender?!) 2) 'Strangers often don't meet in life.' (What the?! Whatever the author wanted to convey here is clearly not what he has conveyed.)
What could have been a worthy attempt is marred by melodramatic thinking, poor writing style and poorer editing. Only thing that I could take away from this book is the desire to learn about the state of transgender persons in our country. Thanks to the author for that.
November 5, 2016
‘She: Ekla Cholo Re’ is the story of Kusum, a transgender.
I’ll start by saying I cannot claim to be an expert in these sorts of books, and I never really know how to rate them. True stories are one thing, but fictional stories are something else entirely. As I’m not transgender, I never know whether or not the author has done a good job or not. It feels wrong to say one way or the other when I do not have any personal experience.
Despite this, I did enjoy the book.
It’s a mere handful of pages, short and sweet, allowing you to finish it in no time at all. It doesn’t take much by way of effort, allowing you to read it in those periods where you just need something to fill the time. The story is straight to the point, pulling you in and giving you all you would expect.
I will say, however, that the story telling wasn’t what I had hoped it would be. This is one of the stories where the story is told through someone telling the story to another. I know that’s a complicated way of explaining it, but such is how my brain labels it. Rather than reading the events, we list to the character tell another how things happened. Personally, I’m not a big lover of this way of storytelling. It means the story is mostly dialogue – and whilst I love good dialogue, I also love watching events unfold. I like the little details, I like the way everything comes together, and with this one we simply listen to a character telling us how something played out.
It was fun, but I had wanted a bit more in terms of the way the story unfolded.
I’ll start by saying I cannot claim to be an expert in these sorts of books, and I never really know how to rate them. True stories are one thing, but fictional stories are something else entirely. As I’m not transgender, I never know whether or not the author has done a good job or not. It feels wrong to say one way or the other when I do not have any personal experience.
Despite this, I did enjoy the book.
It’s a mere handful of pages, short and sweet, allowing you to finish it in no time at all. It doesn’t take much by way of effort, allowing you to read it in those periods where you just need something to fill the time. The story is straight to the point, pulling you in and giving you all you would expect.
I will say, however, that the story telling wasn’t what I had hoped it would be. This is one of the stories where the story is told through someone telling the story to another. I know that’s a complicated way of explaining it, but such is how my brain labels it. Rather than reading the events, we list to the character tell another how things happened. Personally, I’m not a big lover of this way of storytelling. It means the story is mostly dialogue – and whilst I love good dialogue, I also love watching events unfold. I like the little details, I like the way everything comes together, and with this one we simply listen to a character telling us how something played out.
It was fun, but I had wanted a bit more in terms of the way the story unfolded.
December 14, 2015
This is the best book so far I have read from the respective author.
There are cases wherein a boy is trapped in girl's body and vice-versa. Society rebukes such people who are neither a male nor female but fail to understand the agony with which they have to dwell with.
Our so called educated society makes it worse with their conventional pride oriented ideas.
This is a motivating story about a shemale, who in spite of all odds, triumphs in her life.The story flourishes exquisitely right from the 1st page and keeps you gripped until the last one.
The climax makes an impact!
Every human is engulfed in this world with problems. It's the perception and determination towards the problem which makes the difference.
"Everyone arrives crying, but one who exits laughing, will be called the king of destiny"
There are cases wherein a boy is trapped in girl's body and vice-versa. Society rebukes such people who are neither a male nor female but fail to understand the agony with which they have to dwell with.
Our so called educated society makes it worse with their conventional pride oriented ideas.
This is a motivating story about a shemale, who in spite of all odds, triumphs in her life.The story flourishes exquisitely right from the 1st page and keeps you gripped until the last one.
The climax makes an impact!
Every human is engulfed in this world with problems. It's the perception and determination towards the problem which makes the difference.
"Everyone arrives crying, but one who exits laughing, will be called the king of destiny"
February 12, 2016
This is a short story and will not take more than 30 minutes to complete, if you sit and read at a stretch but having said that this book has a story which has a strong message.
The story revolves around two main characters - Raj and Kusum. Raj meets Kusum on highway and gives her a lift. While they were travelling, both gets into a conversation where Kusum tells about her life of how she was born a boy but had undergone sex change operation. She also narrates about her childhood love with Debu and how it ends in trgedy.
Kusum however was inspired by one particular author Dr.Rajendra Mukherjee.
The story has a pleasant twist in the end though revealing it would defeat the entire purpose of this review. Do buy and read it. You will surely not regret it.
The story revolves around two main characters - Raj and Kusum. Raj meets Kusum on highway and gives her a lift. While they were travelling, both gets into a conversation where Kusum tells about her life of how she was born a boy but had undergone sex change operation. She also narrates about her childhood love with Debu and how it ends in trgedy.
Kusum however was inspired by one particular author Dr.Rajendra Mukherjee.
The story has a pleasant twist in the end though revealing it would defeat the entire purpose of this review. Do buy and read it. You will surely not regret it.
November 8, 2016
Got this book as a copy for honest review and here it is.
In life, we all are misplaced - we don't know who we are or what we are doing and what's our purpose on this earth. But then we don't have to worry about one thing(most important) - whether we are in "Male" category or a "Female" category while filling up forms.
This book just shows how those individuals feel. How they will be feeling from the inside - the most important identity. In India (sorry to say), the mindset of the people is still running in 1970s, thus these individuals face criticism from all sides.
This book is a reminder for all of us to be easy on them and to give them the respect they deserve, for they are humans after all.
In life, we all are misplaced - we don't know who we are or what we are doing and what's our purpose on this earth. But then we don't have to worry about one thing(most important) - whether we are in "Male" category or a "Female" category while filling up forms.
This book just shows how those individuals feel. How they will be feeling from the inside - the most important identity. In India (sorry to say), the mindset of the people is still running in 1970s, thus these individuals face criticism from all sides.
This book is a reminder for all of us to be easy on them and to give them the respect they deserve, for they are humans after all.
October 14, 2015
'She' is a wow!
Something that takes you into the lines and scenes.Thoughts and connectivity of the conversation has conveyed clarity to the readers about the book.
A short-movie or a documentary in the form of paper that hits your back to remind you that it was a story so far yet sending a prompt message to think and feel.The setup of the story has to get an appreciation that truly provides a platform forinteresting climax.
Something that takes you into the lines and scenes.Thoughts and connectivity of the conversation has conveyed clarity to the readers about the book.
A short-movie or a documentary in the form of paper that hits your back to remind you that it was a story so far yet sending a prompt message to think and feel.The setup of the story has to get an appreciation that truly provides a platform forinteresting climax.
November 22, 2015
The book with awesome and unexpected climax. Author choose very different character as Hero/Heroin for this book, where first time I ever read about. I'm sure that after reading this book, people will learn and think more things in "psychological" way, this will change your perception, that character will change that.
November 15, 2015
the story is very realistic and pragmatic...love the story which revolve around the song ekla cholo by tagore...afetr reading this book one would easily discover and feel the feeling of transgender..it clearly depict the behaviour of public toward them....her own parents forget about other.....and this story is also a bit suspence....anyway santosh sir good and wonderful thoughts......
March 1, 2021
When a baby takes birth, it’s parents are happily asked by the society, is it a boy or a girl? They get one answer of the two and then the baby just fits in the gender role and its stereotyping and is expected to do all what that gender is ‘supposed’ to do all throughout its life. It’s all about a boy or a girl, a man or a woman, a gentleman or a lady. Why are we so dichotomous? Why is everything just black or white? What about someone who falls in neither of these categories that we had made? Do we ever understand the pain of a woman trapped in a man’s body or vice versa? It’s the topic that everybody avoids to discuss as we are taught to not consider those human beings normal who aren’t either a male or a female.
“She”, written by Dr Shayan Haq and Santosh Avvannavar, is a beautiful short story of a ‘she-male’, a brave heart who seeks her own identity in this world which is not fair to her. The author, as he writes, is motivated by Shree Rabindranath Tagore’s famous song “Ekla Cholo Re” which tells us, with beautiful words, to go our own way alone even if nobody supports or comes along with you.
Set against the backdrop of Calcutta, this story is about Kusum, who is a man by body but a woman by heart. She narrates her life story to Rajendra, a very broad-minded professor. She tells him about how she realizes that she behaved and thought like a woman even if she was not supposed to do that. Her love for her undying passions and aspirations make us feel inspired that if someone who isn’t supported at all by not only the society, but also her own family, can have hopes to do so much in life, why can’t we? It’s an amazing story to read, with an even more amazing end. It’s a story nobody has ever told us before because it has rarely been discussed before.
My favorite character is undeniably Kusum. She just gives more meaning to the song “Jodi Tor Dak Shune Keu Na Ase Tobe Ekla Cholo Re”. It’s simple but a very meaningful story, a must read book that will change your opinion about the stereotypical views and will get you inspired a lot.
“She”, written by Dr Shayan Haq and Santosh Avvannavar, is a beautiful short story of a ‘she-male’, a brave heart who seeks her own identity in this world which is not fair to her. The author, as he writes, is motivated by Shree Rabindranath Tagore’s famous song “Ekla Cholo Re” which tells us, with beautiful words, to go our own way alone even if nobody supports or comes along with you.
Set against the backdrop of Calcutta, this story is about Kusum, who is a man by body but a woman by heart. She narrates her life story to Rajendra, a very broad-minded professor. She tells him about how she realizes that she behaved and thought like a woman even if she was not supposed to do that. Her love for her undying passions and aspirations make us feel inspired that if someone who isn’t supported at all by not only the society, but also her own family, can have hopes to do so much in life, why can’t we? It’s an amazing story to read, with an even more amazing end. It’s a story nobody has ever told us before because it has rarely been discussed before.
My favorite character is undeniably Kusum. She just gives more meaning to the song “Jodi Tor Dak Shune Keu Na Ase Tobe Ekla Cholo Re”. It’s simple but a very meaningful story, a must read book that will change your opinion about the stereotypical views and will get you inspired a lot.
July 7, 2017
Review originally submitted in Abby's Shelves: https://goo.gl/UnV7JZ
She: Ekla Cholo Re by Santhosh Avvannavar and Dr. Shayan Haq is a short but highly motivational book. She is the story of Kusum, a brave heart in search for one’s true identity in a hypocritical society, an unfair world where such an identity crises are considered taboo or “abnormal”.
In this short and crisp fictional plot, I loved the protagonist Kusum's determination in finding herself and is someone you would grow to respect with each line. Special mention to her friend Maria who encouraged Kusum to pursue higher studies and fought along side her against an insensitive society which is an approach we need to practice in real life. Kiddos to the authors for moving away from the mainstream commercial writing to write on this topic which is often considered a taboo and ignored. This book has the potential to make the readers empathize the people who face such physical and emotional challenges in such a conventional society. I also loved the climax of the plot which I could have never anticipated. The story is told in a beautiful and use of simplest language for narration along with Tagore’s song Ekla Cholo Re making this an immensely impactful book gluing the reader right from the beginning.
In short, this book makes us think and changes our perspective towards those who have faced such a crises and sought out their identity against the customs of a conventional society like ours. Overall a unique book that draws attention to a neglected group of people through a short and crisp fictional plot. Highly recommended.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
She: Ekla Cholo Re by Santhosh Avvannavar and Dr. Shayan Haq is a short but highly motivational book. She is the story of Kusum, a brave heart in search for one’s true identity in a hypocritical society, an unfair world where such an identity crises are considered taboo or “abnormal”.
In this short and crisp fictional plot, I loved the protagonist Kusum's determination in finding herself and is someone you would grow to respect with each line. Special mention to her friend Maria who encouraged Kusum to pursue higher studies and fought along side her against an insensitive society which is an approach we need to practice in real life. Kiddos to the authors for moving away from the mainstream commercial writing to write on this topic which is often considered a taboo and ignored. This book has the potential to make the readers empathize the people who face such physical and emotional challenges in such a conventional society. I also loved the climax of the plot which I could have never anticipated. The story is told in a beautiful and use of simplest language for narration along with Tagore’s song Ekla Cholo Re making this an immensely impactful book gluing the reader right from the beginning.
In short, this book makes us think and changes our perspective towards those who have faced such a crises and sought out their identity against the customs of a conventional society like ours. Overall a unique book that draws attention to a neglected group of people through a short and crisp fictional plot. Highly recommended.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2015
A huge thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Really inspiring and a must read.
Really inspiring and a must read.
January 7, 2021
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
Grammar aside, this story is really inspiring. The attitude of the protagonist, Kusum is admirable. This book made me realize how much of a pity it is living in a society where not everyone is accepted. Some people loathe anyone who isn't like them and this book made me want to be better than that.
I loved the way Tagore's famous song was interwoven here. It lent a lot of depth to the story.
Although there may be better books on this topic, this is one that talks about such a vast subject in less than 40 pages and is easy to read.
Grammar aside, this story is really inspiring. The attitude of the protagonist, Kusum is admirable. This book made me realize how much of a pity it is living in a society where not everyone is accepted. Some people loathe anyone who isn't like them and this book made me want to be better than that.
I loved the way Tagore's famous song was interwoven here. It lent a lot of depth to the story.
Although there may be better books on this topic, this is one that talks about such a vast subject in less than 40 pages and is easy to read.
September 28, 2016
Authors' of she (he in she) have tried to open the readers eyes towards the transponders through the character Kusum in such a beautiful way. Heart touching story of Kusum makes every reader heart to melt. It is not only the story for a normal man it is a gift for every Kusum who lives in this world.
May 18, 2016
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She Ekla Cholo Re – Book Review: A Story To Change Your Perspective
She Ekla Cholo Re is written by Dr. Shayan Haq and Santosh Avvannavar, and edited by Rajashree Ghosh. The 50-page fiction story is far beyond the length and breadth of it. It conveys an ocean-size message in this small story written so crisply, concisely and precisely. The story revolved around the lead character Kusum who takes birth in a Doctor's family of repute during the 1990s in Calcutta (now Kolkata). It takes time for Kusum and her affectionate mother to understand the dilemma Kusum is born with. Her mother accepts the reality because her ego was far smaller than her affection and love for her child. But that was not true in the case of her father whose ego was supreme and above his love for his wife or child. Against all odds, Kusum never let her conscious die to realize the cruel reality of her life when finding and establishing her identity was not an easy task for her like others around.
I loved reading this short and crisp story She Ekla Cholo Re. The way Kusum identifies her identity issues for the first time and tries to cope up with the expectations of her father is very well understood in a normal scenario that anyone would have done under those circumstances. But, on the other hand, Kusum is presented as a strong character and a brave heart even when she finds her identity untitled or blurred. It takes some time for her to understand the reality behind this dilemma but once she understands the truth, it becomes her goal to move beyond the social conditioning of 'he' or 'she' to make it clear in her own mind and to the society.
Overall, a very interesting book She Ekla Cholo Re is and must be read by everyone. It is short, crisp and has a strong message for each individual and for the society as a whole. It takes courage to fight against all odds in life the way Kusum did. It takes a high amount of maturity and courage to accept the reality of Kusum in a real life scenario. The end comes with a pleasant surprise and must not be missed. 50-odd pages can be read in one go, and that brings the enjoyment and strong message behind the story much clearer. This book has proved that a strong message can be conveyed in fewer words rather than writing spicy long novels. I would rate it 5 out of 5 without any doubt and am sure you will do the same once you read it.
She Ekla Cholo Re – Book Review: A Story To Change Your Perspective
She Ekla Cholo Re is written by Dr. Shayan Haq and Santosh Avvannavar, and edited by Rajashree Ghosh. The 50-page fiction story is far beyond the length and breadth of it. It conveys an ocean-size message in this small story written so crisply, concisely and precisely. The story revolved around the lead character Kusum who takes birth in a Doctor's family of repute during the 1990s in Calcutta (now Kolkata). It takes time for Kusum and her affectionate mother to understand the dilemma Kusum is born with. Her mother accepts the reality because her ego was far smaller than her affection and love for her child. But that was not true in the case of her father whose ego was supreme and above his love for his wife or child. Against all odds, Kusum never let her conscious die to realize the cruel reality of her life when finding and establishing her identity was not an easy task for her like others around.
I loved reading this short and crisp story She Ekla Cholo Re. The way Kusum identifies her identity issues for the first time and tries to cope up with the expectations of her father is very well understood in a normal scenario that anyone would have done under those circumstances. But, on the other hand, Kusum is presented as a strong character and a brave heart even when she finds her identity untitled or blurred. It takes some time for her to understand the reality behind this dilemma but once she understands the truth, it becomes her goal to move beyond the social conditioning of 'he' or 'she' to make it clear in her own mind and to the society.
Overall, a very interesting book She Ekla Cholo Re is and must be read by everyone. It is short, crisp and has a strong message for each individual and for the society as a whole. It takes courage to fight against all odds in life the way Kusum did. It takes a high amount of maturity and courage to accept the reality of Kusum in a real life scenario. The end comes with a pleasant surprise and must not be missed. 50-odd pages can be read in one go, and that brings the enjoyment and strong message behind the story much clearer. This book has proved that a strong message can be conveyed in fewer words rather than writing spicy long novels. I would rate it 5 out of 5 without any doubt and am sure you will do the same once you read it.
December 3, 2016
(I received a free copy of this book on Kindle from the author in exchange for an honest review.)
BLURB
Set in the backdrop of 1990 Calcutta, She is a story about finding one’s own identity in spite of all odds. The story spins around the life of Kusum, a brave heart whose identity is often untitled and blurred; it does not belong anywhere, definitely not under the ‘he’ or ‘she’ bracket, thanks to our social conditioning. Will she be successful in her mission? Find out in She, an utterly absorbing read that derives inspiration from Tagore’s “Ekla Cholo Re” song, which urges everyone to move on despite the fear of abandonment from others.
CHARACTERS
Kusum is an incredibly strong character and the main character in this story. Her pain and suffering show through her words and makes the readers understand the hurdles transgenders are facing in this world.
The other character Dr. Raj also adds a three dimensional look to the story and plays a pivotal role.
PLOT
It is a topic that is not discussed by people; a topic that people choose to ignore; a topic that people are embarrassed to talk out aloud about. She talks about identity and how the third gender is often misunderstood. People are afraid of or disgusted with things they see as 'not normal'. The story is that of Kusum, a transgender who talks of the challenges she has faced and continues to face just because she doesn't fall under either 'she' or 'he'. She has been abandoned by her family and her lover but rather than give up, she is embarking on a new journey. I really liked the ending.
WRITING
The writing is simple and clear though not as descriptive as I would have liked it to be. It was fast paced and a really quick read!
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK
- The plot
- The characters
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
- Nothing much (I would have liked it to be more descriptive)
CONCLUSION
It is a quick but powerful read. It is thought provoking and a must read for everyone.
BLURB
Set in the backdrop of 1990 Calcutta, She is a story about finding one’s own identity in spite of all odds. The story spins around the life of Kusum, a brave heart whose identity is often untitled and blurred; it does not belong anywhere, definitely not under the ‘he’ or ‘she’ bracket, thanks to our social conditioning. Will she be successful in her mission? Find out in She, an utterly absorbing read that derives inspiration from Tagore’s “Ekla Cholo Re” song, which urges everyone to move on despite the fear of abandonment from others.
CHARACTERS
Kusum is an incredibly strong character and the main character in this story. Her pain and suffering show through her words and makes the readers understand the hurdles transgenders are facing in this world.
The other character Dr. Raj also adds a three dimensional look to the story and plays a pivotal role.
PLOT
It is a topic that is not discussed by people; a topic that people choose to ignore; a topic that people are embarrassed to talk out aloud about. She talks about identity and how the third gender is often misunderstood. People are afraid of or disgusted with things they see as 'not normal'. The story is that of Kusum, a transgender who talks of the challenges she has faced and continues to face just because she doesn't fall under either 'she' or 'he'. She has been abandoned by her family and her lover but rather than give up, she is embarking on a new journey. I really liked the ending.
WRITING
The writing is simple and clear though not as descriptive as I would have liked it to be. It was fast paced and a really quick read!
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK
- The plot
- The characters
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
- Nothing much (I would have liked it to be more descriptive)
CONCLUSION
It is a quick but powerful read. It is thought provoking and a must read for everyone.
February 10, 2016
You can find this review at my Blog : MessingWithImaginations
Title : SHE – Ekla Cholo Re
Author : Santosh Avvannavar, Shayan Haq
My Rating : 4.5 / 5 stars
Set in the backdrop of 1990 Calcutta, She is a story about finding one’s own identity in spite of all odds. The story spins around the life of Kusum, a brave heart whose identity is often untitled and blurred; it does not belong anywhere, definitely not under the ‘he’ or ‘she’ bracket. Will she be successful in her mission in standing against the society and embrace her identity?
The book basically revolves around the status & treatment of transgenders in the society. Like the many other books of the author, this book too takes its root from a social issue – the acceptability of transgenders in the society. I should say this is one of the best works of the author as he has been very successful in bringing out the essence of the story in a very short read.
Kusum’s life story is beautifully said; her birth as a male and the pressure to be a male in the society shows us the yearning of a transgender to break free from their natural form. Her decision to follow her heart and embrace her identity even after many heart breaks and let downs, makes us have great respect for the transgenders. In short, the book makes us think and changes our perceptive towards those who have sought out their identity without fear.
I give the book 4.5/5 for its ability to stand out and invoke a change. The rating should say it all and I would recommend this book for everyone.
Note: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for a honest review. The opinions expressed in the review are my own, and remain unbiased and uninfluenced.
Title : SHE – Ekla Cholo Re
Author : Santosh Avvannavar, Shayan Haq
My Rating : 4.5 / 5 stars
Set in the backdrop of 1990 Calcutta, She is a story about finding one’s own identity in spite of all odds. The story spins around the life of Kusum, a brave heart whose identity is often untitled and blurred; it does not belong anywhere, definitely not under the ‘he’ or ‘she’ bracket. Will she be successful in her mission in standing against the society and embrace her identity?
The book basically revolves around the status & treatment of transgenders in the society. Like the many other books of the author, this book too takes its root from a social issue – the acceptability of transgenders in the society. I should say this is one of the best works of the author as he has been very successful in bringing out the essence of the story in a very short read.
Kusum’s life story is beautifully said; her birth as a male and the pressure to be a male in the society shows us the yearning of a transgender to break free from their natural form. Her decision to follow her heart and embrace her identity even after many heart breaks and let downs, makes us have great respect for the transgenders. In short, the book makes us think and changes our perceptive towards those who have sought out their identity without fear.
I give the book 4.5/5 for its ability to stand out and invoke a change. The rating should say it all and I would recommend this book for everyone.
Note: I received this book as a complimentary copy from the Author in exchange for a honest review. The opinions expressed in the review are my own, and remain unbiased and uninfluenced.
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January 15, 2016The society fears what it cannot comprehend, it shuns those who do not conform to its archaic norms. She is the story of a person, for whom identity crisis has been a reality from childhood. Since Kusum did not fall into the categories of male or female, the society includng her own family has always been a bane on her.
She is the story of a woman's spirit held captive by a man's body and the struggle of the person due to this mismatch.
The story begins with the narrator offering a lift to Kusum. The journey moves forward and Kusum feeling a strange kinship with the narrator, tells her life sstory in detail; how as a little boy he had found love but how the society decided he could not love someone from the same gender and time separated them. When left to face the world alone, how she had adopted Tagore's poem Ekla Cholo Re as inspiration and moved forward on her path undeterred. She details about her struggles and talks of an author whose works and motivational books keep her going in such troubled times. By the time they reach their destination, the narrator too falls in love with her.
Contrary to what people believe, not all of them are sex workers, they are just normal people like us who struggle to make ends meet. They too are humans made of flesh and bones, they too have emotions and feelings.
The book is very small and is a quick read. It leaves you thinking about what we as a society are doing about the section of people who are not confined in the boundaries we have set for them.
http://ishireviews.blogspot.com/2016/...
She is the story of a woman's spirit held captive by a man's body and the struggle of the person due to this mismatch.
The story begins with the narrator offering a lift to Kusum. The journey moves forward and Kusum feeling a strange kinship with the narrator, tells her life sstory in detail; how as a little boy he had found love but how the society decided he could not love someone from the same gender and time separated them. When left to face the world alone, how she had adopted Tagore's poem Ekla Cholo Re as inspiration and moved forward on her path undeterred. She details about her struggles and talks of an author whose works and motivational books keep her going in such troubled times. By the time they reach their destination, the narrator too falls in love with her.
Contrary to what people believe, not all of them are sex workers, they are just normal people like us who struggle to make ends meet. They too are humans made of flesh and bones, they too have emotions and feelings.
The book is very small and is a quick read. It leaves you thinking about what we as a society are doing about the section of people who are not confined in the boundaries we have set for them.
http://ishireviews.blogspot.com/2016/...
December 17, 2015
Read Complete Reviews on my Blog : BookReviewsFromHeart @ Blogger.in
"She : Ekla Chalo Re" is a short novel . It is much simpler and enormously better than any short story centered on a social lesson . No phony glamour girls and no bullying braggarts sentimentalized almost to parody distort its honest and elemental theme. Within the sharp restrictions imposed by the very nature of his story Mr. Santosh Avvannavar has written with sure skill.
Book is considered to be the first young adult short-novel centered on a transgender character to be released in India.
This is the story of Kusum setup in Calcutta and narrated in 3rd form covering major part as conversation between Kusum and Rajendra , a highly placed professor ,about biased thinking of society about the transgenders . This short story showcase how a single heart fights for what she think is right , going against what we call ' Social-Norms ' . With Kusum's father , author tried to frame the character of a person who is self-centred and believes in his fake pride . And the extended name ' Ekla Chalo Re ' is taken from the Rabindranath Tagore's song anthology Baul which was dedicated to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose .
Lesson ; World is there to misunderstand you and then there is ' You ' to live life on your terms thrashing anyone who try n bend 'you ' in their ways . .
So " She : Ekla Chalo Re " is one of the pacy read whose end can'r be missed at any condition .
"She : Ekla Chalo Re" is a short novel . It is much simpler and enormously better than any short story centered on a social lesson . No phony glamour girls and no bullying braggarts sentimentalized almost to parody distort its honest and elemental theme. Within the sharp restrictions imposed by the very nature of his story Mr. Santosh Avvannavar has written with sure skill.
Book is considered to be the first young adult short-novel centered on a transgender character to be released in India.
This is the story of Kusum setup in Calcutta and narrated in 3rd form covering major part as conversation between Kusum and Rajendra , a highly placed professor ,about biased thinking of society about the transgenders . This short story showcase how a single heart fights for what she think is right , going against what we call ' Social-Norms ' . With Kusum's father , author tried to frame the character of a person who is self-centred and believes in his fake pride . And the extended name ' Ekla Chalo Re ' is taken from the Rabindranath Tagore's song anthology Baul which was dedicated to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose .
Lesson ; World is there to misunderstand you and then there is ' You ' to live life on your terms thrashing anyone who try n bend 'you ' in their ways . .
So " She : Ekla Chalo Re " is one of the pacy read whose end can'r be missed at any condition .
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