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Undertow
Loya is twenty-five: solitary, sincere, with restless stirrings in her heart. In an uncharacteristic move, she sets off on an unexpected journey, away from her mother, Rukmini, and her home in Bengaluru, to distant, misty Assam. She comes looking for her beloved Asian elephant, Elephas maximus, but also seeks someone else-her grandfather, Torun Ram Goswami, someone she has never met before. She arrives at the Yellow House on the banks of the Brahmaputra, where Torun lives, not knowing that her life is about to change. Twenty-five years ago, Rukmini had been cast out of the family home by her mother, the formidable and charismatic Usha, while Torun watched silently. Loya now seeks answers, both from him and from the place that her mother once called home. In her quest, she finds an understanding not only of herself and her life but also of the precarious bonds that tie people together.
A delicate, poignant portrait of family and all that it contains, Undertow becomes, in the hands of this gifted writer, an exploration of much more: home and the outside world, the insider and the outsider, and the ever-evolving nature of love itself.
A delicate, poignant portrait of family and all that it contains, Undertow becomes, in the hands of this gifted writer, an exploration of much more: home and the outside world, the insider and the outsider, and the ever-evolving nature of love itself.
181 pages, Hardcover
First published February 14, 2020
18 people are currently reading
1130 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 120 reviews
September 8, 2020
A dysfunctional family doesn't just happen. The ripples created by one event can reach far and wide, affecting generations. Loya- half Assamese and half Malyali, has repressed her thoughts and emotions, especially after her parent's divorce. She comes us empty whenever she tried to ascertain her roots and the desire to get some answers takes her to 'The Yellow House', home to her mother Rukmini, who was subjected to scorn by her mother and later abandoned for marrying a Cristian Malyali (read- outside her caste). The Yellow House currently has one resident- Loya's maternal grandfather, Torun Ram Goswami, a man burdened by his wrong-doings but proud enough to hold his head high. As Barua weaves a seemingly simple story, she gives us a sad and dejected father, a principled (something atrociously) mother, a meek daughter- abandoned time and again, and a granddaughter- seeking justice for her mother. 'Undertow' is about this family, it's trepidations and wrong-doings, encrusted with lush descriptions of Assam, it's people and their culture, now being diluted by the influx of immigrants from Bangladesh.
Quite adept in stirring emotions, the author addresses most characters, giving us their side of the story. Loya's choice of men, in search of comfort and to be held, a physical action denied by her mother surfaces every now and then. Tarun's guilt for abandoning his daughter runs parallel to his unabashed love for his wife Usha- the epicentre to all troubles. The other characters bring a different perspective, this building a story layered with emotions and the nuances of being human.
And amidst all this is the Brahmaputra, a silent observer and sometimes, a patient listener to the troubles of this family, a river that has seen this land come into existence, fight battles of its own and has offered solace to many a weary soul. The people of Assam believe fiercely in their roots, a love that is rare. This is the anchor that holds this story together, instilling in Loya the love for her roots and finally, giving this family a much-needed closure.
Quite adept in stirring emotions, the author addresses most characters, giving us their side of the story. Loya's choice of men, in search of comfort and to be held, a physical action denied by her mother surfaces every now and then. Tarun's guilt for abandoning his daughter runs parallel to his unabashed love for his wife Usha- the epicentre to all troubles. The other characters bring a different perspective, this building a story layered with emotions and the nuances of being human.
And amidst all this is the Brahmaputra, a silent observer and sometimes, a patient listener to the troubles of this family, a river that has seen this land come into existence, fight battles of its own and has offered solace to many a weary soul. The people of Assam believe fiercely in their roots, a love that is rare. This is the anchor that holds this story together, instilling in Loya the love for her roots and finally, giving this family a much-needed closure.
September 18, 2020
This book had no right to fuck with me the way it did in the last 50 pages. NO RIGHT. *crying*
The book is about a 25 year old girl Loya returning to her mom’s hometown in Assam. She’s never been there as her mother, Rukmani decided to marry out of her ‘caste’ and thus, was shunned from her house. The book talks of estranged families and relations and how they can be mended over time.
I liked this book alright for the first 2/3rds of the book - honestly was feeling a bit underwhelmed as I heard such great things but boom, the last 50 pages. Some people have hated it but even though I hate what happened, I loved how it made me feel. My heart leapt into my throat. I did not see it coming and uff, the waterworks.
The writing was easy to read and so descriptive! I could imagine the food, the nature, the surroundings - it all felt real. The people too felt real as well as their emotions. Was I annoyed with them for most of it? Yes. But do I grant that that’s just how people are? Also yes. I also really liked how through the book I was introduced to Assamese history and culture. It felt educational.
Definitely see this as a four star read. 181 pages - short, descriptive, well written, will give you a taste of Assam. Much recommended!
The book is about a 25 year old girl Loya returning to her mom’s hometown in Assam. She’s never been there as her mother, Rukmani decided to marry out of her ‘caste’ and thus, was shunned from her house. The book talks of estranged families and relations and how they can be mended over time.
I liked this book alright for the first 2/3rds of the book - honestly was feeling a bit underwhelmed as I heard such great things but boom, the last 50 pages. Some people have hated it but even though I hate what happened, I loved how it made me feel. My heart leapt into my throat. I did not see it coming and uff, the waterworks.
The writing was easy to read and so descriptive! I could imagine the food, the nature, the surroundings - it all felt real. The people too felt real as well as their emotions. Was I annoyed with them for most of it? Yes. But do I grant that that’s just how people are? Also yes. I also really liked how through the book I was introduced to Assamese history and culture. It felt educational.
Definitely see this as a four star read. 181 pages - short, descriptive, well written, will give you a taste of Assam. Much recommended!
August 27, 2020
I was a little conflicted about whether to give this book a 3 or a 4 star, after finishing it. The ending kind of ruined the whole experience for me, but until then the book was SO good! Right before writing this review, I decided not to rate it lower just because I personally didn't like the ending; it is objectively too good to be a 3-star read.
'Undertow' is extremely well-written, and is an emotional roller-coaster from the very first page. As an Assamese who has spent considerable time at her grandparents' place in Guwahati, most of the characters felt very familiar. I felt like I was wrapped under a comfortable, warm and fuzzy blanket during most parts of the book.
'Undertow' is extremely well-written, and is an emotional roller-coaster from the very first page. As an Assamese who has spent considerable time at her grandparents' place in Guwahati, most of the characters felt very familiar. I felt like I was wrapped under a comfortable, warm and fuzzy blanket during most parts of the book.
September 27, 2020
• r e v i e w •
.
Before I even read Undertow, I indulged in Rebirth, Jahnavi Barua's second novel which portrayed the beauty of motherhood. It wasn't all roses but I loved reading about the protagonist who spoke to her unborn child about her past and present, all the while imagining their future together. It didn't take me long enough to figure out that Jahnavi is a talented writer. The sort of writer who has the ability to move you through words. Undertow just cemented that fact all over again. Undertow, like Rebirth signifies the importance of human relationships and I could also notice a significant shift in her writing flair from the latter novel. Having read it, I can't help but feel disappointed that this beautiful work of hers wasn't shortlisted for the JCB prize for literature. But like I conveyed to the author, JCB or not, her book has successfully managed to connect with thousands of readers.
.
1983 was supposed to be a year of joy for Rukmini because she was to wed Alex but little did she have to celebrate when her family severed ties with her. Caste, religion and skin colour were important to Usha than her daughter's happiness. While her father Torun, could have stood up for Rukmini, he chose not to. Rukmini moves to Bangalore with Alex but over the years, things take a sour turn for her. Twenty-five years later, Loya stands in front of the same Yellow House in Assam that her mother grew up in. Will Loya be able to mend back ties that were broken all those years ago? Undertow is a book that focuses on fragile familial bonds that sometimes comes under strain. Keeping aside the human involvement in the novel, what fascinated me more was the beauty of Assam that Jahnavi cleverly managed to capture within these pages.
.
Jahnavi writes about the river as if it is Brahmaputra that courses through her veins and not blood. She speaks of Assam in a manner that a mother speaks of her child, full of love and warmth. Her love for native food and dress, of the sky and even the land is utterly beautiful to read. I often feel that a writer's love for a place reflects in the words he/she writes. It is clear that Jahnavi adores Assam and through her books, she lures in others to witness its beauty. Undertow, in more than one ways won my heart. Be it in carving all the characters in a relatable manner, highlighting the innumerable emotions that a human is capable of feeling or just in plainly pointing out the shortcomings of people; she has excelled in it all. This story, as simple as it may sound is written in a profound mannner, making me watch Rukmini's loss like it was my own or Torun's regret like it was my very own father's. The ending, contrary to what others felt, pleased me immensely. Crafted smartly, Jahnavi now has me eagerly waiting for the sequel. Until then, I'll be content with what she has offered me through this novel. I highly recommend this.
.
Rating : 4.8/5.
.
Before I even read Undertow, I indulged in Rebirth, Jahnavi Barua's second novel which portrayed the beauty of motherhood. It wasn't all roses but I loved reading about the protagonist who spoke to her unborn child about her past and present, all the while imagining their future together. It didn't take me long enough to figure out that Jahnavi is a talented writer. The sort of writer who has the ability to move you through words. Undertow just cemented that fact all over again. Undertow, like Rebirth signifies the importance of human relationships and I could also notice a significant shift in her writing flair from the latter novel. Having read it, I can't help but feel disappointed that this beautiful work of hers wasn't shortlisted for the JCB prize for literature. But like I conveyed to the author, JCB or not, her book has successfully managed to connect with thousands of readers.
.
1983 was supposed to be a year of joy for Rukmini because she was to wed Alex but little did she have to celebrate when her family severed ties with her. Caste, religion and skin colour were important to Usha than her daughter's happiness. While her father Torun, could have stood up for Rukmini, he chose not to. Rukmini moves to Bangalore with Alex but over the years, things take a sour turn for her. Twenty-five years later, Loya stands in front of the same Yellow House in Assam that her mother grew up in. Will Loya be able to mend back ties that were broken all those years ago? Undertow is a book that focuses on fragile familial bonds that sometimes comes under strain. Keeping aside the human involvement in the novel, what fascinated me more was the beauty of Assam that Jahnavi cleverly managed to capture within these pages.
.
Jahnavi writes about the river as if it is Brahmaputra that courses through her veins and not blood. She speaks of Assam in a manner that a mother speaks of her child, full of love and warmth. Her love for native food and dress, of the sky and even the land is utterly beautiful to read. I often feel that a writer's love for a place reflects in the words he/she writes. It is clear that Jahnavi adores Assam and through her books, she lures in others to witness its beauty. Undertow, in more than one ways won my heart. Be it in carving all the characters in a relatable manner, highlighting the innumerable emotions that a human is capable of feeling or just in plainly pointing out the shortcomings of people; she has excelled in it all. This story, as simple as it may sound is written in a profound mannner, making me watch Rukmini's loss like it was my own or Torun's regret like it was my very own father's. The ending, contrary to what others felt, pleased me immensely. Crafted smartly, Jahnavi now has me eagerly waiting for the sequel. Until then, I'll be content with what she has offered me through this novel. I highly recommend this.
.
Rating : 4.8/5.
August 31, 2020
There are some battles which we fight no matter what. 'Undertow by Jahnavi Barua' is one such book of fighting with yourself, and to find what we call a 'home'.
📖
Set in Assam, with a backdrop of hills and flowing Brahmaputra, we see a close-knit story of a family divided through choices they made in their past. Rukmini, in 1983, marries to Alex, who is out of her caste. Neglected by her family, especially by her mother Usha, she left home with Alex and never came back. Loya, Rukmini's twenty-five-year-old daughter, returns to Assam, her mother's hometown and her home, The Yellow House, in 2009 to find some unquestioned answers and to know about her beloved Asian elephant in Kaziranga. Throughout the novel, she seeks answers on behalf of her mother.
What unfolds in the novel is close stories of Assamese culture, beautiful descriptions of nature and some shocking and never explicitly known details of Assam's politics.
📖
Undertow is a portrayal of a family in words; A balance of what a person explores inside their home and the world outside to seek what they are losing.
This is the first book I have read by the author, and I loved it. The book is a quick read in less than two-hundred pages but brings a detailed and clear picture through her beautifully, crafted writing and narration.
The end was highly unexpected, and it left me with goosebumps and an anxious feeling because I wanted to know more, but maybe this is how life is, it never gives a sense of closure according to your demand.
📖
Set in Assam, with a backdrop of hills and flowing Brahmaputra, we see a close-knit story of a family divided through choices they made in their past. Rukmini, in 1983, marries to Alex, who is out of her caste. Neglected by her family, especially by her mother Usha, she left home with Alex and never came back. Loya, Rukmini's twenty-five-year-old daughter, returns to Assam, her mother's hometown and her home, The Yellow House, in 2009 to find some unquestioned answers and to know about her beloved Asian elephant in Kaziranga. Throughout the novel, she seeks answers on behalf of her mother.
What unfolds in the novel is close stories of Assamese culture, beautiful descriptions of nature and some shocking and never explicitly known details of Assam's politics.
📖
Undertow is a portrayal of a family in words; A balance of what a person explores inside their home and the world outside to seek what they are losing.
This is the first book I have read by the author, and I loved it. The book is a quick read in less than two-hundred pages but brings a detailed and clear picture through her beautifully, crafted writing and narration.
The end was highly unexpected, and it left me with goosebumps and an anxious feeling because I wanted to know more, but maybe this is how life is, it never gives a sense of closure according to your demand.
February 11, 2021
4.5.
**Controversial Post Ahead**
I'm not a parent, yet, but I know enough parents to be able to say the following. Again, this is my opinion alone.
Some parents ruin it for their children. In every possible way. Parents use their children to make up for lost relationships during their time. Men and women have children with the hope that it will save their crumbling marriage. Parents shred relationships with their kin for various reasons and then try to win them all back through their children. Parents try to live their unfulfilled dreams through their children. Parents try to mend their own lives using their children. What does the child have to say about this? Nothing. Because, they don't even get a say.
I've said this before and I'll say it again. Children are from the parents, not for them. They don't owe their parents anything, least of all be the glue in something so shattered that it can never be put together again. I've seen this happen umpteen times and I've had only one thought in my mind. This is not what children are for.
Rukmini left her parents and their yellow house in Guwahati to marry Alex and then moves with him to Bangalore. Usha, her mother has never forgiven her for what she did, while her father, Torun, remained a mute spectator unwillingly standing by his wife. Twenty six years have now passed and Usha has passed away. Rukmini and Alex are divorced and Loya, their daughter is standing on the banks of the river Brahmaputra, in front of the yellow house waiting to step in and meet her maternal grandfather for the first time. Torun meanwhile, has to apologize for the past and answer all the questions Loya has come with.
Along with the personal unrest inside the yellow house, Assam is plagued with a political unrest as well. While one might think that this angle is not important, this is what starts the story and this is what ends it too.
Jahnavi Barua writes a story that is all heart. It is as raw and unfiltered as it could get. Flawed characters and dysfunctional families are usually tricky subjects as it is very hard to get them right. The author here aces it with sensitivity and realistic dialogue.
he characters are beautifully crafted and they bring the story alive. The vivid descriptions of Assam and the details of the yellow house paints a beautiful picture. Special mention to the importance given to the food that added that much needed whiff of culture to the unfolding drama. The ending, totally unpredictable, comes as a rude shock, leaving room for another open ending as to what would happen next. This was a bold move that actually pays off quite well. Two questions plagued me though. Why did Usha have a problem with Rukmini right from her young age? Why did Rukmini and Alex separate? While there is enough talk about these two situations, I wish there was more to it. As a story solely focusing on people and relationships, I needed details. Apart from this tiny grouse, this is a splendid book.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
**Controversial Post Ahead**
I'm not a parent, yet, but I know enough parents to be able to say the following. Again, this is my opinion alone.
Some parents ruin it for their children. In every possible way. Parents use their children to make up for lost relationships during their time. Men and women have children with the hope that it will save their crumbling marriage. Parents shred relationships with their kin for various reasons and then try to win them all back through their children. Parents try to live their unfulfilled dreams through their children. Parents try to mend their own lives using their children. What does the child have to say about this? Nothing. Because, they don't even get a say.
I've said this before and I'll say it again. Children are from the parents, not for them. They don't owe their parents anything, least of all be the glue in something so shattered that it can never be put together again. I've seen this happen umpteen times and I've had only one thought in my mind. This is not what children are for.
Rukmini left her parents and their yellow house in Guwahati to marry Alex and then moves with him to Bangalore. Usha, her mother has never forgiven her for what she did, while her father, Torun, remained a mute spectator unwillingly standing by his wife. Twenty six years have now passed and Usha has passed away. Rukmini and Alex are divorced and Loya, their daughter is standing on the banks of the river Brahmaputra, in front of the yellow house waiting to step in and meet her maternal grandfather for the first time. Torun meanwhile, has to apologize for the past and answer all the questions Loya has come with.
Along with the personal unrest inside the yellow house, Assam is plagued with a political unrest as well. While one might think that this angle is not important, this is what starts the story and this is what ends it too.
Jahnavi Barua writes a story that is all heart. It is as raw and unfiltered as it could get. Flawed characters and dysfunctional families are usually tricky subjects as it is very hard to get them right. The author here aces it with sensitivity and realistic dialogue.
he characters are beautifully crafted and they bring the story alive. The vivid descriptions of Assam and the details of the yellow house paints a beautiful picture. Special mention to the importance given to the food that added that much needed whiff of culture to the unfolding drama. The ending, totally unpredictable, comes as a rude shock, leaving room for another open ending as to what would happen next. This was a bold move that actually pays off quite well. Two questions plagued me though. Why did Usha have a problem with Rukmini right from her young age? Why did Rukmini and Alex separate? While there is enough talk about these two situations, I wish there was more to it. As a story solely focusing on people and relationships, I needed details. Apart from this tiny grouse, this is a splendid book.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
February 8, 2021
I came to ‘Undertow’ after having read Jahnavi’s brilliant ‘Rebirth.’ The luminosity of Barua’s writing shines through in ‘Undertow’ as well - her love for Assam evident in the lush descriptions of its landscape.
What makes a family? What tears a family apart? These are questions that Barua doesn’t answer. But they are questions that she asks of us. For some reason, I couldn’t quite connect to this as well as ‘Rebirth.’ The narrative seemed to stutter here and there - and we don’t want our plots to do that because it mimics our life. We want a healthy dose of non-reality. Barua excels in showing us reality: life doesn’t happen this way, she gently reminds me. Despite that, the characters never grew on me. And the ending ruined it for me.
Still, I would read anything by Barua - she really is one of India’s most gifted, poetic writers.
What makes a family? What tears a family apart? These are questions that Barua doesn’t answer. But they are questions that she asks of us. For some reason, I couldn’t quite connect to this as well as ‘Rebirth.’ The narrative seemed to stutter here and there - and we don’t want our plots to do that because it mimics our life. We want a healthy dose of non-reality. Barua excels in showing us reality: life doesn’t happen this way, she gently reminds me. Despite that, the characters never grew on me. And the ending ruined it for me.
Still, I would read anything by Barua - she really is one of India’s most gifted, poetic writers.
September 18, 2020
Told through the story of a small family whose members are estranged from one another, Jahnavi Barua's Undertow is a gentle yet intense narrative that looks at family ties, roots and moorings, questioning notions of identity, of trying to forge connections while trudging uncertain grounds and how loneliness is a weight that is difficult to bear. It is about exile and late apologies traversing between time and place.
The author puts forth both the personal and the political in Undertow: the dynamics of the family and the interplay of characters with one another on one hand and the socio political history of Assam in the prism of its own identity in the context of a nation India that remains unaware,uninvolved and uninterested on the other. The author does this within the ambit of the narrative with grace and restraint, never as information, or drumming it all in as a lesson to the audience of readers.
The writing of conflict within the personal and political spaces gives a lot for the reader to chew on, the author not giving justification for any quarter. As one discovers the fissures and the bonds between the characters, so do you begin to see what might have happened. It's a book where the reader has to read between the lines. The ‘resolution’ that comes at the end may well leave most readers gasping in shock but that is the only way Undertow would have stayed true to its premise of undercurrents and layers beneath the surface that one sees. Definitely a book that will be loved,thoroughly discussed and debated upon.
The author puts forth both the personal and the political in Undertow: the dynamics of the family and the interplay of characters with one another on one hand and the socio political history of Assam in the prism of its own identity in the context of a nation India that remains unaware,uninvolved and uninterested on the other. The author does this within the ambit of the narrative with grace and restraint, never as information, or drumming it all in as a lesson to the audience of readers.
The writing of conflict within the personal and political spaces gives a lot for the reader to chew on, the author not giving justification for any quarter. As one discovers the fissures and the bonds between the characters, so do you begin to see what might have happened. It's a book where the reader has to read between the lines. The ‘resolution’ that comes at the end may well leave most readers gasping in shock but that is the only way Undertow would have stayed true to its premise of undercurrents and layers beneath the surface that one sees. Definitely a book that will be loved,thoroughly discussed and debated upon.
October 26, 2020
"On this day of mourning, not even the wind stirred. The only sound was the murmur of the river as it sped along, oblivious to the happenings of the city it flowed through. A city under siege and only the river dared disregard it."
RATING: 3.75/5
I read a short story by Barua, "The Vigil", last month & liked it a lot. This book, which is her latest novel, had also been on my TBR for some time so when it made it to the JCB Prize longlist, I just had to pick it up and I am glad that I finally read it. Clocking in at only 180 pages, it's a short book but those pages are packed with great writing and a gripping narrative. The plot is pretty straightforward, but the way it is brought to life is wonderful. Weaving themes of home & belonging, the book explores the family and estrangement, the ties that bring us close but also bind us irrevocably, and the nature of our human lives, like a deceptively passive river whose undertow can sweep us away.
More than that, the book is grounded strongly in the lived realities of Assam, a small state in the northeast region of India with quite a turbulent past. It expertly engages with the complexities of Assamese history and socio-cultural mores, making its effect known on the lives of all the characters. The end was shocking and I didn't see that coming at all (but somehow it did make sense???). I would recommend the book and I definitely want to read more of Barua's work in the near future.
December 23, 2020
Undertow by Janhavi Barua is a book about the emotions of people in an estranged family.
Twenty five year old Loya knocks on the door of the house whose doors have been closed for her mother, Rukmini ever since she marries an "outsider". Loya, an elephant conservationist has to go to Kaziranga for her research. But why does she land up 200 kms away from her research place and a month in advance at the Yellow House which has been shut for them for the past 25 years?
Torun, Rukmini's father and Loya's grandfather is shocked to see Loya at his doorstep. But though he wants to be welcoming and warm towards her, his first impression is far from an affectionate Koka (grandfather in Assamese). A regret he's been living with for not standing with his daughter, but will he able to apologise and mend the relationships?
Rukmini, abandoned by her mother, not supported by her father, marries a person she loves, but is treated as an outsider by his family. Not having visited her home for twenty five years, will she ever go back to her home?
A family saga of love, longing and weakened familial ties supported with the right amount of politics and history of Assam, Undertow is a book that will leave you with an abundance of knowledge of Assam's culture and an array of emotions that you won't know how to deal with.
Written in a prose that's poetic and a language that's so rich that even simple descriptions of a cool winter morning or a hot afternoon will mesmerize you in a way that you will feel the light cold breeze and a warm whiff of air on your skin while reading. Oh! And the beautiful description of the Brahmaputra, brings the river to life. I've read some passages from the book again and again just to feel the magic of the words.
A simple tale of a distorted family, this book makes you smile, it makes you sad, it makes you angry and it also makes you gasp in horror. An ending that one would not expect, it leaves you with so many questions and yet its answers you'll find yourself.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5/5
Twenty five year old Loya knocks on the door of the house whose doors have been closed for her mother, Rukmini ever since she marries an "outsider". Loya, an elephant conservationist has to go to Kaziranga for her research. But why does she land up 200 kms away from her research place and a month in advance at the Yellow House which has been shut for them for the past 25 years?
Torun, Rukmini's father and Loya's grandfather is shocked to see Loya at his doorstep. But though he wants to be welcoming and warm towards her, his first impression is far from an affectionate Koka (grandfather in Assamese). A regret he's been living with for not standing with his daughter, but will he able to apologise and mend the relationships?
Rukmini, abandoned by her mother, not supported by her father, marries a person she loves, but is treated as an outsider by his family. Not having visited her home for twenty five years, will she ever go back to her home?
A family saga of love, longing and weakened familial ties supported with the right amount of politics and history of Assam, Undertow is a book that will leave you with an abundance of knowledge of Assam's culture and an array of emotions that you won't know how to deal with.
Written in a prose that's poetic and a language that's so rich that even simple descriptions of a cool winter morning or a hot afternoon will mesmerize you in a way that you will feel the light cold breeze and a warm whiff of air on your skin while reading. Oh! And the beautiful description of the Brahmaputra, brings the river to life. I've read some passages from the book again and again just to feel the magic of the words.
A simple tale of a distorted family, this book makes you smile, it makes you sad, it makes you angry and it also makes you gasp in horror. An ending that one would not expect, it leaves you with so many questions and yet its answers you'll find yourself.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5/5
October 8, 2020
Undertow by Jahnavi Barua is one of those books that you want to finish reading soon, but also want to cherish each and every expression that's presented in it.
Did I ever thought a tale about dysfunctional family from the perspective of the third generation child would be so interesting and will be covering the aspects like what impact does casteism has on people's lives, how the political activities would effect the commoners and each point, Everytime raised is equally thought provoking.
From loya staying over with her estranged grandfather, having petty arguments with her mother - which is quite similar to the relation her mother Rukmini has shared with her grandmother Usha. This book kind of defended my argument that "like mother - like daughter" bonds. Though the mothers here love their daughters deeply they do not have it in them to accept the choices of their kids, similarly the daughters have immense respect for their mothers, they still chose to stick to their grounds. Rukmini is both, the mother of Loya and the daughter of Usha.
The descriptions author has given about the food, places and the emotions the characters are undergoing makes you feel and enjoy every moment of it, you'll be transported to Assam in your head.
I couldn't particularly make it anything about what the cover has with the story until I reached very end, and oh boy! Did I understand anything? I don't know. Just like all the great books, even Undertow ends without a proper closure.
Oh yeah, did I mention about the little Assamese historical events that are included in this book?
Do I recommend this book?
Hell Yes! Everyone with a messed up and melancholic mind will enjoy this book to the core, and the rest too, enjoy reading it over the crust.
Note:- If you have a thing for poetic and detailed descriptions, this book is THE ONE for you!
Did I ever thought a tale about dysfunctional family from the perspective of the third generation child would be so interesting and will be covering the aspects like what impact does casteism has on people's lives, how the political activities would effect the commoners and each point, Everytime raised is equally thought provoking.
From loya staying over with her estranged grandfather, having petty arguments with her mother - which is quite similar to the relation her mother Rukmini has shared with her grandmother Usha. This book kind of defended my argument that "like mother - like daughter" bonds. Though the mothers here love their daughters deeply they do not have it in them to accept the choices of their kids, similarly the daughters have immense respect for their mothers, they still chose to stick to their grounds. Rukmini is both, the mother of Loya and the daughter of Usha.
The descriptions author has given about the food, places and the emotions the characters are undergoing makes you feel and enjoy every moment of it, you'll be transported to Assam in your head.
I couldn't particularly make it anything about what the cover has with the story until I reached very end, and oh boy! Did I understand anything? I don't know. Just like all the great books, even Undertow ends without a proper closure.
Oh yeah, did I mention about the little Assamese historical events that are included in this book?
Do I recommend this book?
Hell Yes! Everyone with a messed up and melancholic mind will enjoy this book to the core, and the rest too, enjoy reading it over the crust.
Note:- If you have a thing for poetic and detailed descriptions, this book is THE ONE for you!
May 22, 2021
Religion - a word that governs the rules of marriage in rural India to this day. Familial ties are severed if a lovemate is of a different religion, which may lead to banishment and being disinherited. If it is a daughter who has committed this transgression, she who is cultivated in a sheltered cocoon, at odds with a son's freedom - her sin remains unforgiven.
Rukmini sails in this boat, having fallen in love with a Keralite. Being excommunicated, she lives a life bereft of family & love, disillusioned by her husband for whom she had given up everything. Fast forward 25 years, her daughter Loya returns to her roots, seeking the unanswered questions roaming in her head.
Loya finds herself in the company of a grizzly grandfather, who is facing an inner turmoil of emotions & flashbacks of his daughter Rukmini & wife Usha. In the sleepy afternoons, Loya stealthily creeps through the house, sifting through her mothers' childhood pictures, trying to piece together her ancestry.
The language is colorful, with scenic descriptions of Guwahati, painting the town to life. The Saraighat Bridge “looked deceptively fragile, a wisp of spun sugar against the grey sky". The Brahmaputra "Swollen, sullen, it grew belligerent with the monsoon rains & became quite another creature". "The river could make a grown man cry".
Coincidentally I spent a part of my childhood in Richmond Town, Bangalore, & the descriptions of Johnson Market & the churches took me back in time.
A snapshot of the political scenario in Assam is revealed in gross morbidity. The ending stunned me, and I had to reread, hoping I misunderstood it. The gravity of what happened marred the happiness of the return of a beloved daughter.
Undertow has an important message woven in its lyrical prose - one of living in regret and the need for reconciliation. The Matriarch, Uma, who had no love lost for her daughter, drew the ire in me for her bad decisions. This book unearthed a whirlpool of emotions in me like the strong undertow in a river.
Rukmini sails in this boat, having fallen in love with a Keralite. Being excommunicated, she lives a life bereft of family & love, disillusioned by her husband for whom she had given up everything. Fast forward 25 years, her daughter Loya returns to her roots, seeking the unanswered questions roaming in her head.
Loya finds herself in the company of a grizzly grandfather, who is facing an inner turmoil of emotions & flashbacks of his daughter Rukmini & wife Usha. In the sleepy afternoons, Loya stealthily creeps through the house, sifting through her mothers' childhood pictures, trying to piece together her ancestry.
The language is colorful, with scenic descriptions of Guwahati, painting the town to life. The Saraighat Bridge “looked deceptively fragile, a wisp of spun sugar against the grey sky". The Brahmaputra "Swollen, sullen, it grew belligerent with the monsoon rains & became quite another creature". "The river could make a grown man cry".
Coincidentally I spent a part of my childhood in Richmond Town, Bangalore, & the descriptions of Johnson Market & the churches took me back in time.
A snapshot of the political scenario in Assam is revealed in gross morbidity. The ending stunned me, and I had to reread, hoping I misunderstood it. The gravity of what happened marred the happiness of the return of a beloved daughter.
Undertow has an important message woven in its lyrical prose - one of living in regret and the need for reconciliation. The Matriarch, Uma, who had no love lost for her daughter, drew the ire in me for her bad decisions. This book unearthed a whirlpool of emotions in me like the strong undertow in a river.
March 26, 2021
Yes, I understand that what transpires at the end of this book can happen in real life, but that's not the reason we read books for. The deus ex machina kinda ending feels forced and while giving a shock value, it veers away from the story development that took place before it.
Also, character development is half baked. All that angst and anger just goes out of the window because the author said so. Underwhelmed.
Also, character development is half baked. All that angst and anger just goes out of the window because the author said so. Underwhelmed.
April 23, 2020
Love, roots, belonging, separation, loneliness – all these create an immersive mélange of emotions in Jahnavi Barua's ‘Undertow,’ her latest novel published by Penguin Random House India. Set in the backdrop of Guwahati, the characters in the novel weave a poignant tale of layered complexities of human relationships, the failure of communication, vocal silences, wilful indecisiveness, and a rebellious desire to break away from the conventional and the routine to eventual acceptance at the cost of aching losses and agonizing disrepair. As Loya leads the narrative towards an eventual reconciliation between Rukmini and Torun Ram Goswami, the author springs up a surprise that leaves the reader jolted and dazed with a sense of void and incompleteness.
Despite an unexpected ending, the novel with its description of all the familiar surroundings and events can make a reader literally walk through the sequences and emotions in a manner that is quite attached, involved, and felt.
An unputdownable gem of a story.
Despite an unexpected ending, the novel with its description of all the familiar surroundings and events can make a reader literally walk through the sequences and emotions in a manner that is quite attached, involved, and felt.
An unputdownable gem of a story.
June 16, 2021
A profound storyline which will definitely evoke ambivalent emotions.
When Rukmini fell in love with Alex she made peace with the fact that this inter-religious marriage will not be accepted by her mother Usha & her father Torun will follow suit irrespective of his feelings for her daughter. Loya his grand-daughter seems to be the revitalising force introduced in Torun’s household after 25yrs like a paradox to be unveiled.
Being exiled from your own home your sacred roots is an unsparing act which seems way too common in our world, especially when it does not tick all the boxes of the norms. Words have actually failed me to marvel at the author’s finesse in capturing such delicate matters of state politics, religion, parenthood, family and a typical outsider vs insider conundrum.
I would definitely recommend to read this book which left my stomach in knots with the ending. The view from the window of “The Yellow House” is all that is left when I finished this masterpiece.
When Rukmini fell in love with Alex she made peace with the fact that this inter-religious marriage will not be accepted by her mother Usha & her father Torun will follow suit irrespective of his feelings for her daughter. Loya his grand-daughter seems to be the revitalising force introduced in Torun’s household after 25yrs like a paradox to be unveiled.
Being exiled from your own home your sacred roots is an unsparing act which seems way too common in our world, especially when it does not tick all the boxes of the norms. Words have actually failed me to marvel at the author’s finesse in capturing such delicate matters of state politics, religion, parenthood, family and a typical outsider vs insider conundrum.
I would definitely recommend to read this book which left my stomach in knots with the ending. The view from the window of “The Yellow House” is all that is left when I finished this masterpiece.
May 2, 2021
Had high hopes from this book. Now, I have mixed feelings though.
The writing was good. The characters were real. But still, I couldn't find a connect throughout the story. There were some hopeful moments but I think I wanted much more.
Still, would recommend it to anyone over Savi Sharma and Chetan Bhagat any day.
The writing was good. The characters were real. But still, I couldn't find a connect throughout the story. There were some hopeful moments but I think I wanted much more.
Still, would recommend it to anyone over Savi Sharma and Chetan Bhagat any day.
January 4, 2021
There are some books which grip you with an indescribable force and drag you into their world by the power of their writing. Undertow by Jahnavi Barua is one such book which pulls you into the narrative, providing an experience that is almost tangible. I was wondering where else had I undergone a similar literary experience, that answer came to me when I was chatting with my friend about the book, Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier.
The Yellow House of Undertow reminded me of Manderley, the foreboding houses with all their secrets; in the charismatic matriarch of the Yellow House, Usha, I saw Rebecca, the enigmatic, former mistress of Manderley; the frangipanis of Undertow brought to mind the rhododendrons of Rebecca; and lastly the river and the sea from Undertow and Rebecca respectively, play such an important role in the storyline, not to mention the atmosphere rife with melancholy and sense of foreshadowing that is palpable in both the books, a testament to the brilliant writing style that they feature.
Thus, my ruminations over the similarities that I experienced between Undertow and Rebecca set aside for the time being, I'd like to delve into the magic proffered by the former.
Spanning two generations, this book has a lot to offer within its limited pages. From a brief overview of the cultural and political history of Assam to intercultural relationships and family conflicts that go deep. From beginning till the end there's this air of sadness and mystery and even though you may expect something to happen it does shock you when it finally occurs.
You may feel like you agree or don't agree with the ending but you can't help but think that there was no other way out and that's how the author intended it to be, it's poignant and you feel contented with just that….
The Yellow House of Undertow reminded me of Manderley, the foreboding houses with all their secrets; in the charismatic matriarch of the Yellow House, Usha, I saw Rebecca, the enigmatic, former mistress of Manderley; the frangipanis of Undertow brought to mind the rhododendrons of Rebecca; and lastly the river and the sea from Undertow and Rebecca respectively, play such an important role in the storyline, not to mention the atmosphere rife with melancholy and sense of foreshadowing that is palpable in both the books, a testament to the brilliant writing style that they feature.
Thus, my ruminations over the similarities that I experienced between Undertow and Rebecca set aside for the time being, I'd like to delve into the magic proffered by the former.
Spanning two generations, this book has a lot to offer within its limited pages. From a brief overview of the cultural and political history of Assam to intercultural relationships and family conflicts that go deep. From beginning till the end there's this air of sadness and mystery and even though you may expect something to happen it does shock you when it finally occurs.
You may feel like you agree or don't agree with the ending but you can't help but think that there was no other way out and that's how the author intended it to be, it's poignant and you feel contented with just that….
August 9, 2021
Undertow gently breaks your heart, then builds it up with a faint sight of hope, and breaks it again, very gently but the tragedy is nothing close to gentle. When are they though?
The ending is more mellow than one would expect but that makes it feel real.
The ending is more mellow than one would expect but that makes it feel real.
October 11, 2022
Truth be told, I liked Barua's Rebirth much more than this one.
April 11, 2021
This book looks like a cinnamon roll but can actually kill you.
November 18, 2020
A dysfunctional family is not a mere circumstance. There always remain a bridge of succeeding events that don’t even leave the generations from the echoes of the past.
This book is nothing short of surprises. I found my mother in Rukmini just for the fact that she spent her youth amongst the chill breeze, surrounded mountains and the silver shinning Brahmaputra. Through this book, it’s my first official travel to Northeast, specifically Guwahati.
Isn’t it seen that the millennial generation, as we call them, are perceived as selfish, self-sufficient & being their own boss? I felt Barua breaks this myth through her book. Here, Loya is shown mature & affectionate at least to try to mend things right for her mother.
Loya- half Assamese, half Malayali is seen great representations with her parents’ divorce. She comes empty handed, sudden seeking answers from the resident of ‘The Yellow House’, a place called home to her mother Rukmini before she was banished from the place by Usha Goswami for marrying a Christian Malayali Alex George. After twenty five years, when Loya stands in front to the ‘The Yellow House’ there’s only the fragile grandfather, Torun Ram Goswami ached by all the wrong side takings.
Barua’s language was a masterpiece. The expression of how she described an apartment. The discomfort to sleep in a sweaty summer afternoon felt exactly how humid summers feel like. It’s a November when I read it still gave me a sense of moistness.
And do I have to specify on how wonderfully and warmly she elaborates nature in general- may it be the tranquility of the sky, Assam pathways, coolness of air, the marvels of the river Brahmaputra, the vibrant morning I’m nearly speechless. It was no less than a big gift for a reader like me to experience Assam through Loya’s viewpoint. Coming from Bengaluru, living almost in crowd and rush it would have been a surreal recreation for Loya, I wish I would meet her in person if only she really existed.
While reading I came across the Assam often political unrests that reminded me of my Maa narrating me how she used to clever and brave head amongst her Assamese friends.
Before reading this book, I only knew the names of places like Guwahati, Jorhat, Silchar, Dibrugarh (places that my mother lived/visited) but after reading Undertow I rekindle all the Assam culture.
This book is about a family. Not just Loya stay the protagonists but even Rukmini and Torun had equal parts in the book. This book is for readers who question the existence of certain relationships, for your family, for those who either dealt or heard about family complexities.
Just read this book for its existence. Read this book for the love of reading. I’m sure you would treasure it.
This book is nothing short of surprises. I found my mother in Rukmini just for the fact that she spent her youth amongst the chill breeze, surrounded mountains and the silver shinning Brahmaputra. Through this book, it’s my first official travel to Northeast, specifically Guwahati.
Isn’t it seen that the millennial generation, as we call them, are perceived as selfish, self-sufficient & being their own boss? I felt Barua breaks this myth through her book. Here, Loya is shown mature & affectionate at least to try to mend things right for her mother.
Loya- half Assamese, half Malayali is seen great representations with her parents’ divorce. She comes empty handed, sudden seeking answers from the resident of ‘The Yellow House’, a place called home to her mother Rukmini before she was banished from the place by Usha Goswami for marrying a Christian Malayali Alex George. After twenty five years, when Loya stands in front to the ‘The Yellow House’ there’s only the fragile grandfather, Torun Ram Goswami ached by all the wrong side takings.
Barua’s language was a masterpiece. The expression of how she described an apartment. The discomfort to sleep in a sweaty summer afternoon felt exactly how humid summers feel like. It’s a November when I read it still gave me a sense of moistness.
And do I have to specify on how wonderfully and warmly she elaborates nature in general- may it be the tranquility of the sky, Assam pathways, coolness of air, the marvels of the river Brahmaputra, the vibrant morning I’m nearly speechless. It was no less than a big gift for a reader like me to experience Assam through Loya’s viewpoint. Coming from Bengaluru, living almost in crowd and rush it would have been a surreal recreation for Loya, I wish I would meet her in person if only she really existed.
While reading I came across the Assam often political unrests that reminded me of my Maa narrating me how she used to clever and brave head amongst her Assamese friends.
Before reading this book, I only knew the names of places like Guwahati, Jorhat, Silchar, Dibrugarh (places that my mother lived/visited) but after reading Undertow I rekindle all the Assam culture.
This book is about a family. Not just Loya stay the protagonists but even Rukmini and Torun had equal parts in the book. This book is for readers who question the existence of certain relationships, for your family, for those who either dealt or heard about family complexities.
Just read this book for its existence. Read this book for the love of reading. I’m sure you would treasure it.
September 19, 2020
Where should I begin. This is probably the first book written in English that I've read, which is based on my own state. The author did such a commendable job with her storytelling, that I just wanted to give her a warm hug while weeping on her shoulders, after completing the book. It has to be a talent, to beautifully write such a story which contains several other stories within it, all within less than 150 pages. A number of characters play different roles in this story. Normally, too many characters sometimes spoil the book. But, how do I explain about this book. Every character carries their own background story. Everyone of them equally plays an important role in the entire story. Not a single time I had the slightest feeling of boredom while reading it.
Did I mention about the raw and bona fide collection of Assamese words used in different places of this book? From ikora (a material used to build houses) to using the original Assamese words like koka, deuta, bhonti, khura (Grandfather, father, sister, uncle) etc. you are definitely going to have a feeling of reading an Assamese novel, even if its written in English. The tale is going to leave a special touch of emotional impression in your mind. You are going to cry, and also laugh all at the same time. You're going to hate Torun, and also love him. That's the magic of this story. The ending really made me emotional. Only a countable times, I've actually become emotional after reading a book. For a time I totally forgot that I was reading a book. There was a feeling that I was actually watching the entire story through my own eyes. The description of the various Assamese traditional dishes, like the tenga dail (sour dal), row maas (a kind of fish), pitika etc just made my mouth watery, even when personally I dislike these dishes (please forgive me, I don't like sour food and fish). The picturesque Brahmaputra river, that has been continuously flowing since years, silently observing everything; the lush green valleys of the state, to the people with an open heart, everything has been described accurately.
Undertow by Jahnavi Barua has also been nominated for the JCB Prize for Literature 2020. It totally deserves to be on that spot. I will urge more people to read this book. I'm so thankful that I got to read this book.
Did I mention about the raw and bona fide collection of Assamese words used in different places of this book? From ikora (a material used to build houses) to using the original Assamese words like koka, deuta, bhonti, khura (Grandfather, father, sister, uncle) etc. you are definitely going to have a feeling of reading an Assamese novel, even if its written in English. The tale is going to leave a special touch of emotional impression in your mind. You are going to cry, and also laugh all at the same time. You're going to hate Torun, and also love him. That's the magic of this story. The ending really made me emotional. Only a countable times, I've actually become emotional after reading a book. For a time I totally forgot that I was reading a book. There was a feeling that I was actually watching the entire story through my own eyes. The description of the various Assamese traditional dishes, like the tenga dail (sour dal), row maas (a kind of fish), pitika etc just made my mouth watery, even when personally I dislike these dishes (please forgive me, I don't like sour food and fish). The picturesque Brahmaputra river, that has been continuously flowing since years, silently observing everything; the lush green valleys of the state, to the people with an open heart, everything has been described accurately.
Undertow by Jahnavi Barua has also been nominated for the JCB Prize for Literature 2020. It totally deserves to be on that spot. I will urge more people to read this book. I'm so thankful that I got to read this book.
December 20, 2020
I will begin by saying #undertow was the right book for me at the right time. Nothing short of a chance gift that the universe gave me this Diwali, as precious as pearls or gold. It’s the first voice of Northeast India that I listened to and I recommend that if you are new to Indian or Northeast Indian literature, this be your first read.
This is the kind of book that you read on a lazy afternoon, perched on your seat by the window with a South Indian filter coffee in your hand, letting the languorous language lull you into comfort. This is a book for thinkers, for people who love to read about complexities in human relationships, of the egos, the frailties, the impossible decisions one must make in the face of deep-rooted prejudices masquerading as traditions, and the repercussions that reverberate through generations. Rukmini, the beloved daughter of Torun and Usha Goswami falls in love with Alex George, a Christian Malayali. She can marry him but must leave her parents, never to return again. 25 years later, Loya, Rukmini’s daughter knocks on Torun’s door, expecting an apology. Poor, sweet Loya who bore the burden of the exile because the unexpected occurred. Rukmini and Alex did not walk into a happily-ever-after and Loya was left to pick up the pieces, hiraeth racing through her veins. Examination without context doesn’t help anyone, so Jahnavi slid the puzzle pieces in slowly, cautiously, introducing us to the Assam political landscape, the invisible strings of codependence inside a marriage, the devotion to one’s motherland. There is no black and white, only grisly grays.
Jahnavi’s language was beautiful. Wait till you read how she described an apartment terrace with its black tanks and cement covered pipes. I was equally giddy when I felt the hot sweat trickle down my back in the Assam heat, the cool air rushing in from the Brahmaputra, its waters glistening in the radiant sun, the distant mewls of kites circling over the rolling green hills of North Guwahati across the river. Loya was a South Indian from Bengaluru discovering Guwahati for the first time, and I discovered it with her.
Before I picked this book up, I couldn’t point to Assam in a map. Now I know Assam so deeply; this novel has such a strong sense of place! I was nostalgic for something that I never set my eyes on. I’m not of Assam, yet I felt a deep satisfaction of homecoming. This book will remind you of your own grandfather, and you would want to have grown up in that Yellow House with him on the banks of the Brahmaputra. The ending was a bit troubling, but this novel is such a slice of life, you will forgive @jahnavibarua for it. She gave you a gift after all! ❤️
This is the kind of book that you read on a lazy afternoon, perched on your seat by the window with a South Indian filter coffee in your hand, letting the languorous language lull you into comfort. This is a book for thinkers, for people who love to read about complexities in human relationships, of the egos, the frailties, the impossible decisions one must make in the face of deep-rooted prejudices masquerading as traditions, and the repercussions that reverberate through generations. Rukmini, the beloved daughter of Torun and Usha Goswami falls in love with Alex George, a Christian Malayali. She can marry him but must leave her parents, never to return again. 25 years later, Loya, Rukmini’s daughter knocks on Torun’s door, expecting an apology. Poor, sweet Loya who bore the burden of the exile because the unexpected occurred. Rukmini and Alex did not walk into a happily-ever-after and Loya was left to pick up the pieces, hiraeth racing through her veins. Examination without context doesn’t help anyone, so Jahnavi slid the puzzle pieces in slowly, cautiously, introducing us to the Assam political landscape, the invisible strings of codependence inside a marriage, the devotion to one’s motherland. There is no black and white, only grisly grays.
Jahnavi’s language was beautiful. Wait till you read how she described an apartment terrace with its black tanks and cement covered pipes. I was equally giddy when I felt the hot sweat trickle down my back in the Assam heat, the cool air rushing in from the Brahmaputra, its waters glistening in the radiant sun, the distant mewls of kites circling over the rolling green hills of North Guwahati across the river. Loya was a South Indian from Bengaluru discovering Guwahati for the first time, and I discovered it with her.
Before I picked this book up, I couldn’t point to Assam in a map. Now I know Assam so deeply; this novel has such a strong sense of place! I was nostalgic for something that I never set my eyes on. I’m not of Assam, yet I felt a deep satisfaction of homecoming. This book will remind you of your own grandfather, and you would want to have grown up in that Yellow House with him on the banks of the Brahmaputra. The ending was a bit troubling, but this novel is such a slice of life, you will forgive @jahnavibarua for it. She gave you a gift after all! ❤️
April 17, 2021
Children are always hopelessly caught between the battle of elders.
THE RIVER
The river starts its journey in Tibet, originating from the height of more than 5000 m. The name suggests that it’s the major river of India regarded as male so, from now on I’ll refer to it as ‘He’.
He was always there, gushing forth from the valley between the mountains to quench the thirst of the northeast and to nourish his banks with good harvest and prosperity and also sites with spectacular beauty.
He takes several names bestowed on him by his devotees as a source of sacred throughout his vast and endless journey but He likes his one name the most – BRAHMAPUTRA
He'd even witnessed numerous battles fought on his banks from yore – the battle of Saraighat, one of many greatest battles, fought between the two strangers, and the battles of household, a recurring battle, fought between the known, between the belongings.
He had seen Rukmini the night before her wedding that had been disapproved by her mother. Through her room’s window, He saw His motionless Rukmini lying in bed, gracefully staring at the violet night sky and suddenly her eyes fastened on Him. From that lofty distance, He could easily sense from the texture of her skin that she was happy or was having blues. Both knew the whole city would be shut down the morning of her wedding due to Bandh by the Students’ union.
But what was the point of depression now? She had been through tough times all her life, her mother always prioritized her brother in everything over her. She never felt so loved before meeting the man she was going to wed soon. Was there something that she had difficulty envisaging?
But He was aware of every consequence –past, present and even could envisage her future – because He had been through many such illnesses. But what could He do?
He had neither pair of hands and legs, to stop her mother from casting Rukmini out of the house, nor mouth, to speak for her in support that love is greater than caste, religion and skin colour.
All He had possessed was His deceiving currents – sometimes terrible and torturous that could easily pull someone by His undertow – and sometimes soft and serene that could offer some solace to someone from emerging dark undertows of loss and hate. Therefore, He could just be a mere patient observer.
The words above, at the starting, are not a figment of my imagination. They are true, hailing from my heart and Undertow by Jahnavi Barua enabled me to write it. So He and I are recommending this book to the folks who believe girls have temporary stay in her family, to the folks who believe apologizing would belittle them, to the folks who believe relationships are fragile and thus prone to family feuds and separations. In short, this is also recommended to all who wish to witness – poetry, prose, pain, poignancy and profundity of everything in a single book.
THE RIVER
The river starts its journey in Tibet, originating from the height of more than 5000 m. The name suggests that it’s the major river of India regarded as male so, from now on I’ll refer to it as ‘He’.
He was always there, gushing forth from the valley between the mountains to quench the thirst of the northeast and to nourish his banks with good harvest and prosperity and also sites with spectacular beauty.
He takes several names bestowed on him by his devotees as a source of sacred throughout his vast and endless journey but He likes his one name the most – BRAHMAPUTRA
He'd even witnessed numerous battles fought on his banks from yore – the battle of Saraighat, one of many greatest battles, fought between the two strangers, and the battles of household, a recurring battle, fought between the known, between the belongings.
He had seen Rukmini the night before her wedding that had been disapproved by her mother. Through her room’s window, He saw His motionless Rukmini lying in bed, gracefully staring at the violet night sky and suddenly her eyes fastened on Him. From that lofty distance, He could easily sense from the texture of her skin that she was happy or was having blues. Both knew the whole city would be shut down the morning of her wedding due to Bandh by the Students’ union.
But what was the point of depression now? She had been through tough times all her life, her mother always prioritized her brother in everything over her. She never felt so loved before meeting the man she was going to wed soon. Was there something that she had difficulty envisaging?
But He was aware of every consequence –past, present and even could envisage her future – because He had been through many such illnesses. But what could He do?
He had neither pair of hands and legs, to stop her mother from casting Rukmini out of the house, nor mouth, to speak for her in support that love is greater than caste, religion and skin colour.
All He had possessed was His deceiving currents – sometimes terrible and torturous that could easily pull someone by His undertow – and sometimes soft and serene that could offer some solace to someone from emerging dark undertows of loss and hate. Therefore, He could just be a mere patient observer.
The words above, at the starting, are not a figment of my imagination. They are true, hailing from my heart and Undertow by Jahnavi Barua enabled me to write it. So He and I are recommending this book to the folks who believe girls have temporary stay in her family, to the folks who believe apologizing would belittle them, to the folks who believe relationships are fragile and thus prone to family feuds and separations. In short, this is also recommended to all who wish to witness – poetry, prose, pain, poignancy and profundity of everything in a single book.
March 22, 2021
If we talk about or understand the true definition of Undertow, the exact meaning as per Google is a current of water below the surface and moving in a different direction from any surface current or an implicit quality, emotion, or influence underlying the superficial aspects of something and leaving a particular impression. Undertow book is absolutely true to the meaning of word in every literal sense.
Undertow is story of girl who married against her family wish with a political backdrop of Assam. Twenty five year old Loya knocks on the door of the house whose doors have been closed for her mother, Rukmini ever since she marries an "outsider". Undertow is story of emotion, finding your roots, regret and reconciliation, mother-daughter relationships. There are few book which draws you in from the very first page, it is gripping, character seems so relatable, it evokes empathy, prose is very touching and poignant. There is certain instances in books which are quite melancholic, there is stillness which I quite loved it.
The descriptions of Guwahati and the Brahmaputra river are quite beautiful. The Saraighat Bridge “looked deceptively fragile, a wisp of spun sugar against the grey sky.” On uncharacteristically hot September early mornings, “At that secret hour, dew softened the ground while the air still held, possessively, memories of the river at night.” Underneath all this softness is the dark undertow of anger — hard feelings are left unspoken but keenly felt.
Last year I picked The Far Field after knowing it is JCB winner this year I picked this book and it coincidentally become JCB prize winner by the time I finished the book.
Overall short breezy read and end it bit like cliffhanger moment !!
Undertow is story of girl who married against her family wish with a political backdrop of Assam. Twenty five year old Loya knocks on the door of the house whose doors have been closed for her mother, Rukmini ever since she marries an "outsider". Undertow is story of emotion, finding your roots, regret and reconciliation, mother-daughter relationships. There are few book which draws you in from the very first page, it is gripping, character seems so relatable, it evokes empathy, prose is very touching and poignant. There is certain instances in books which are quite melancholic, there is stillness which I quite loved it.
The descriptions of Guwahati and the Brahmaputra river are quite beautiful. The Saraighat Bridge “looked deceptively fragile, a wisp of spun sugar against the grey sky.” On uncharacteristically hot September early mornings, “At that secret hour, dew softened the ground while the air still held, possessively, memories of the river at night.” Underneath all this softness is the dark undertow of anger — hard feelings are left unspoken but keenly felt.
Last year I picked The Far Field after knowing it is JCB winner this year I picked this book and it coincidentally become JCB prize winner by the time I finished the book.
Overall short breezy read and end it bit like cliffhanger moment !!
November 3, 2020
Undertow is a depiction of a life in a house of a dysfunctional family living beside an angry river in North eastern part of India, along with glimpse into the lives of a contemporary middle class family.
The story begins with an unhappy wedding of Rukmini, the only daughter of Torun Goswami and Usha. Usha, a matriarch with a controlling personality is against the wedding as Rukmini was getting married to Alex, who was a Malayali, and outside to her caste!
The degraded relationship between mother and daughter changes the flow of the upcoming story. Usha and Rukmini never had a soft mother daughter business between them, hence Torun was both a father and a mother to Rukmini.
The author very smoothly highlights certain issues of national importance that blend very well with the narrative flow. Issues like that of Bangladeshi immigrants being allowed to not just stay but also vote, ULFA demanding independence from India and the effects it had on the people of Assam.
Loya, a 25 years old daughter of Rukmini and Alex, visits the Yellow house after her parents' house, with a desire to find answers to the questions she had since childhood. Her discoveries are very heart touching and engulfing! The only constant in this entire narration was river Brahmaputra, which remained a silent observer, a patient listener and a witness to everything that was going on in the Yellow House and around.
..... The writing is very descriptive, lucid , vivid and equally soothing.
The story begins with an unhappy wedding of Rukmini, the only daughter of Torun Goswami and Usha. Usha, a matriarch with a controlling personality is against the wedding as Rukmini was getting married to Alex, who was a Malayali, and outside to her caste!
The degraded relationship between mother and daughter changes the flow of the upcoming story. Usha and Rukmini never had a soft mother daughter business between them, hence Torun was both a father and a mother to Rukmini.
The author very smoothly highlights certain issues of national importance that blend very well with the narrative flow. Issues like that of Bangladeshi immigrants being allowed to not just stay but also vote, ULFA demanding independence from India and the effects it had on the people of Assam.
Loya, a 25 years old daughter of Rukmini and Alex, visits the Yellow house after her parents' house, with a desire to find answers to the questions she had since childhood. Her discoveries are very heart touching and engulfing! The only constant in this entire narration was river Brahmaputra, which remained a silent observer, a patient listener and a witness to everything that was going on in the Yellow House and around.
..... The writing is very descriptive, lucid , vivid and equally soothing.
September 13, 2020
Was it anyone's fault?
Was falling in love a fault?
A man who was not of her religion, let alone her caste, not of her race, not from any region remotely near hers, and a man whose skin was dark, to make matters worse.
AN EXCERPT 👆
___________
UNDERTOW by @jahnavibarua @penguinindia is part of #jcbprizelonglist2020 & my 1st choice of read from the 10 📚books🙂
UNDERTOW means a current of water below the surface & moving in a different direction from any surface current.
It can be implicitly used as a metaphor for emotions too.
Genre: Contemporary Fiction.
What makes a book capable of being part of the nominated few for recognition & awards?
This is the 3rd book by the author & took around 7 yrs, if I remember correctly.. as told by the author in a live session with @vivekism
It released in feb, this year. 13 chapter 183 pages, it is fairly a quick read.
I took smtm finishing it coz I devoured & relished it..i could relate to it at a lot of places..intercaste marriage.. Grandfather- daughter relationship..to name a few.. So nostalgia clouded my thoughts & I was lost in the journey.
The mention of the majestic river Brahmaputra, reminded me of my geo class in schl days..but here, it made me yearn to experience it's beauty & expanse. The yellow house, built on the hill behind the river..the detailed narration made me almost experience it's breeze & calmness..
Food, yes I so want to relish Assamese cuisine now.
The book, leaves no detail untouched, be it student politics, history, migrants, government, streets & bazaar, China, Bangladesh, militant org.s.. Be it Guwahati/ Gauhati or Bengaluru, the details are immaculate.
Storyline:
RUKMINI marries ALEX against the wishes of her mother, a very strong character, USHA.
She gets some support from her brother ARUN, father TORUN RAM GOSWAMI.. but is outcasted.
For 25yrs, Rukmini, yearns for the place, she one knew as Home but her last straw of hope breaks, when usha dies.
LOYA, her daughter, comes to Guwahati on an assignment to study The Asian Elephant & also to seek answers from her grandfather. It also shows the effect of strained relationships on a child.. & how thru the journey, Loya grows & blooms, to realise her self worth.
Also, Alex has left Rukmini for some other girl, which Loya, strangely feels justified in some way..
__________
What happens when Loya meets Torun?
Was Usha really the only one at fault all these yrs?
Will the trio reconcile?
Or
Will this story have a very unpredictable ending?
READ it to know more.
__________
This is one book, where I loved the journey from the beginning to the end MORE than the end.
It has an open ending, for the reader to deciper.
Relationships..emotions are so fragile & precious..
The role of supporting characters is so valuable in this story & so interesting.
I loved the cover, it's a hardback & the bifurcation of the story is wrt the timeline.
___________
This book will remain a precious part of my bookish treasure.
Hope to read the other 2 bks by the author soon.
#noorthebookwormreviews
#undertow
Was falling in love a fault?
A man who was not of her religion, let alone her caste, not of her race, not from any region remotely near hers, and a man whose skin was dark, to make matters worse.
AN EXCERPT 👆
___________
UNDERTOW by @jahnavibarua @penguinindia is part of #jcbprizelonglist2020 & my 1st choice of read from the 10 📚books🙂
UNDERTOW means a current of water below the surface & moving in a different direction from any surface current.
It can be implicitly used as a metaphor for emotions too.
Genre: Contemporary Fiction.
What makes a book capable of being part of the nominated few for recognition & awards?
This is the 3rd book by the author & took around 7 yrs, if I remember correctly.. as told by the author in a live session with @vivekism
It released in feb, this year. 13 chapter 183 pages, it is fairly a quick read.
I took smtm finishing it coz I devoured & relished it..i could relate to it at a lot of places..intercaste marriage.. Grandfather- daughter relationship..to name a few.. So nostalgia clouded my thoughts & I was lost in the journey.
The mention of the majestic river Brahmaputra, reminded me of my geo class in schl days..but here, it made me yearn to experience it's beauty & expanse. The yellow house, built on the hill behind the river..the detailed narration made me almost experience it's breeze & calmness..
Food, yes I so want to relish Assamese cuisine now.
The book, leaves no detail untouched, be it student politics, history, migrants, government, streets & bazaar, China, Bangladesh, militant org.s.. Be it Guwahati/ Gauhati or Bengaluru, the details are immaculate.
Storyline:
RUKMINI marries ALEX against the wishes of her mother, a very strong character, USHA.
She gets some support from her brother ARUN, father TORUN RAM GOSWAMI.. but is outcasted.
For 25yrs, Rukmini, yearns for the place, she one knew as Home but her last straw of hope breaks, when usha dies.
LOYA, her daughter, comes to Guwahati on an assignment to study The Asian Elephant & also to seek answers from her grandfather. It also shows the effect of strained relationships on a child.. & how thru the journey, Loya grows & blooms, to realise her self worth.
Also, Alex has left Rukmini for some other girl, which Loya, strangely feels justified in some way..
__________
What happens when Loya meets Torun?
Was Usha really the only one at fault all these yrs?
Will the trio reconcile?
Or
Will this story have a very unpredictable ending?
READ it to know more.
__________
This is one book, where I loved the journey from the beginning to the end MORE than the end.
It has an open ending, for the reader to deciper.
Relationships..emotions are so fragile & precious..
The role of supporting characters is so valuable in this story & so interesting.
I loved the cover, it's a hardback & the bifurcation of the story is wrt the timeline.
___________
This book will remain a precious part of my bookish treasure.
Hope to read the other 2 bks by the author soon.
#noorthebookwormreviews
#undertow
December 16, 2020
Starting the #readingindia project with @every.turn.a.story and @deepthi.m__ is one of the best things that I have done in 2020. Four months in and I have already been exposed to a number of books that have taken their rightful spots on my tbr! Undertow is one such book that I might not have picked up if it weren't for the project and I am really glad I did.
Undertow is the story of a young girl named Loya who returns to Assam in an attempt to reunite with her grandfather. A tale filled with emotion, Undertow tells their story in two perspectives, and their struggles to understand each other while the generation gap between them looms significantly.
The narration was almost poetic, the prose lyrical. I liked how the words pulled on my emotions and kept it at a level where I needed to know more. It was a strong story about family and how the longing between blood never fades. The grandfather Romen, reminded me of Ove. His interactions with Loya were short bursts of happiness like pop rocks in your mouth. The story in its rawest form, adopts an 'I will dictate life the way it is. get ready for it' attitude and pushes forward.
With a brilliant plot converging to an almost superior ending, Jahnavi paints a masterpiece in just 180 pages. In addition to the plot, the vivid descriptions of Assam, its culture, the political landscape and the food (always the food) created a longing to visit the place.
The ending, contrary to popular belief, left me deeply satisfied. I cannot explain it, whether it was the openness (at least to me) or the structure in which it was framed made me go into a state of deep thought and later emerge with the satisfaction of having read a beautiful book. I will be visiting Jahnavi's other works soon!
I highly recommend this book!
Undertow is the story of a young girl named Loya who returns to Assam in an attempt to reunite with her grandfather. A tale filled with emotion, Undertow tells their story in two perspectives, and their struggles to understand each other while the generation gap between them looms significantly.
The narration was almost poetic, the prose lyrical. I liked how the words pulled on my emotions and kept it at a level where I needed to know more. It was a strong story about family and how the longing between blood never fades. The grandfather Romen, reminded me of Ove. His interactions with Loya were short bursts of happiness like pop rocks in your mouth. The story in its rawest form, adopts an 'I will dictate life the way it is. get ready for it' attitude and pushes forward.
With a brilliant plot converging to an almost superior ending, Jahnavi paints a masterpiece in just 180 pages. In addition to the plot, the vivid descriptions of Assam, its culture, the political landscape and the food (always the food) created a longing to visit the place.
The ending, contrary to popular belief, left me deeply satisfied. I cannot explain it, whether it was the openness (at least to me) or the structure in which it was framed made me go into a state of deep thought and later emerge with the satisfaction of having read a beautiful book. I will be visiting Jahnavi's other works soon!
I highly recommend this book!
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