What do you think?
Rate this book
The Curse of Gandhari
Gandhari has one day left to live. As she stares death in the face, her memories travel back to the beginning of her story, to life's unfairness at every point: A fiercely intelligent princess who wilfully blindfolded herself for the sake of her peevish, visually-impaired husband; who underwent a horrible pregnancy to mother one hundred sons, each as unworthy as the other; whose stern tapasya never earned her a place in people's hearts, nor commanded the respect that Draupadi and Kunti attained; who even today is perceived either as an ingratiatingly self-sacrificing wife or a bad mother who was unable to control her sons and was, therefore, partly responsible for the great war of the Mahabharata.
In this insightful and sensitive portrayal, Aditi Banerjee rescues Gandhari from being reduced to a mere symbol of her blindfold. She builds her up, as Ved Vyasa did, as an unconventional heroine of great strength and iron will - who, when crossed, embarked upon a complex relationship with Lord Krishna, and became the queen who cursed a God.
In this insightful and sensitive portrayal, Aditi Banerjee rescues Gandhari from being reduced to a mere symbol of her blindfold. She builds her up, as Ved Vyasa did, as an unconventional heroine of great strength and iron will - who, when crossed, embarked upon a complex relationship with Lord Krishna, and became the queen who cursed a God.
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2019
28 people are currently reading
455 people want to read
About the author
Aditi Banerjee
12 books58 followersAditi Banerjee is a practicing attorney at a Fortune 500 financial services company. She is currently an Executive MBA student at Columbia University. She co-edited the book, Invading the Sacred: An Analysis of Hinduism Studies in America. She has published several essays on Hinduism and the Hindu-American experience in publications such as The Columbia Documentary History of Religion in America since 1945 and Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs in America: A Short History (Religion in American Life) (Oxford University Press). She earned a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School and received a B.A. in International Relations, magna cum laude, from Tufts University. In her free time, she enjoys wandering the Himalayas and reading voraciously. The Curse of Gandhari is her first novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
October 9, 2019
Aditi Banerjee's 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑮𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒊 is an introspective retelling of Mahabharata and how Gandhari and Krishna's fate intertwined to end in a Curse that destroyed Krishna's tribe and caused his untimely death.
.
Banerjee helps us look at this epic through Gandhari's eyes- A woman of immense virtue, meant for a greater destiny but a failure as a queen and a mother. Gandhari has been condemned time and again for the choices she made, for choosing to be blind so she could stand with her husband as an equal, for raising sons who brought adharma to Earth leading to a war that claimed thousands of lives and for grieving for her children despite the evil soul they possessed. As Gandhari takes us through her solitary journey as a wife, a queen and a mother and how she brought the entire kingdom to the doors of destruction, we readers are informed of the events that led to the war of Kurukshetra and precisely at what moment Gandhari lost control over everything.
.
Themes like empowerment and redemption are not seen in this story. The author keeps the matter simple, the sole focus being on Gandhari and Krishna's equation. Gandhari, a grieving mother has always been intimidated by Krishna and despite knowing the fact that he is a God, hold him responsible for misleading the Pandavas, bending the laws of Dharma and finally causing the demise of all 100 of her sons. But God always has a plan chalked out for themselves, don't they?
.
For me, the highlight of the book was the conversations between Gandhari and Kunti. Gandhari loved the children but failed to discipline them whereas Kunti raised 5 of her sons as proud, self-righteous princes while abandoning one for the fear of losing her husband. Both of them have always been at odds, holding each other responsible for their respective losses. Banerjee moulds their conversation on their last day on Earth into something meaningful, another act of penance they need to perform and that is to forgive each other.
.
Banerjee believes that Gandhari is an unconventional heroine, a woman respected and loved by the Gods and someone who isn't as black and white as the world makes her be. 'The Curse of Gandhari' aims to show this aspect of Gandhari's character and it succeeds, maybe not immensely but enough to make us see perspective and logic, what drives a person to make certain choices and Gandhari deserves to be remembered for who she truly was-a woman with an iron will, capable of loving her family unconditionally and bearing responsibility for her actions.
.
Banerjee helps us look at this epic through Gandhari's eyes- A woman of immense virtue, meant for a greater destiny but a failure as a queen and a mother. Gandhari has been condemned time and again for the choices she made, for choosing to be blind so she could stand with her husband as an equal, for raising sons who brought adharma to Earth leading to a war that claimed thousands of lives and for grieving for her children despite the evil soul they possessed. As Gandhari takes us through her solitary journey as a wife, a queen and a mother and how she brought the entire kingdom to the doors of destruction, we readers are informed of the events that led to the war of Kurukshetra and precisely at what moment Gandhari lost control over everything.
.
Themes like empowerment and redemption are not seen in this story. The author keeps the matter simple, the sole focus being on Gandhari and Krishna's equation. Gandhari, a grieving mother has always been intimidated by Krishna and despite knowing the fact that he is a God, hold him responsible for misleading the Pandavas, bending the laws of Dharma and finally causing the demise of all 100 of her sons. But God always has a plan chalked out for themselves, don't they?
.
For me, the highlight of the book was the conversations between Gandhari and Kunti. Gandhari loved the children but failed to discipline them whereas Kunti raised 5 of her sons as proud, self-righteous princes while abandoning one for the fear of losing her husband. Both of them have always been at odds, holding each other responsible for their respective losses. Banerjee moulds their conversation on their last day on Earth into something meaningful, another act of penance they need to perform and that is to forgive each other.
.
Banerjee believes that Gandhari is an unconventional heroine, a woman respected and loved by the Gods and someone who isn't as black and white as the world makes her be. 'The Curse of Gandhari' aims to show this aspect of Gandhari's character and it succeeds, maybe not immensely but enough to make us see perspective and logic, what drives a person to make certain choices and Gandhari deserves to be remembered for who she truly was-a woman with an iron will, capable of loving her family unconditionally and bearing responsibility for her actions.
September 27, 2019
You guys know my love for Indian mythology and each character of Mahabharata attracts me .
The curse of Gandhari by Aditi Banerjee.
Gandhari - the mother of Kauravas and wife of the blind king Dhritarastra . Gandhari - the blindfolded queen. These are few things we only know about Gandhari. But this book has exhibited an unknown side of her.
The book takes us back and forth before the Kurukhsetra war. Gandhari was brought up with great virtues in her father's family. She worshipped Lord Shiva devotedly and the Lord gave a boon that she would be mother of hundred sons.
We all know the incidents, but we don't know the emotions . The book isn't only Gandhari's Mahabharata but it's more than that.
When Gandhari took the vows to blindfold herself, unlike Bhisma's vows, who was named Bhisma from Debabrata after his vow, there was no rain of flowers. It was taken granted . According society the sacrifice of women are normal. Gender inequality explained well. The bond between two siblings also has been displayed.
Gandhari has suffered. She was left alone to suffer. She was alone. Kunti and Draupadi both had Krishna but she was alone . Her only comfort zone was maid Ayla, who had come along to Hastinapur with her. But she was also not there when she needed her the most because her husband fathered a Son with her. And all these had made Gandhari to nurture the great battle. That's why Krishna was Cursed by her.
This book will of course make you feel sorry for Gandhari .
I suggest you all to read this book .
The curse of Gandhari by Aditi Banerjee.
Gandhari - the mother of Kauravas and wife of the blind king Dhritarastra . Gandhari - the blindfolded queen. These are few things we only know about Gandhari. But this book has exhibited an unknown side of her.
The book takes us back and forth before the Kurukhsetra war. Gandhari was brought up with great virtues in her father's family. She worshipped Lord Shiva devotedly and the Lord gave a boon that she would be mother of hundred sons.
We all know the incidents, but we don't know the emotions . The book isn't only Gandhari's Mahabharata but it's more than that.
When Gandhari took the vows to blindfold herself, unlike Bhisma's vows, who was named Bhisma from Debabrata after his vow, there was no rain of flowers. It was taken granted . According society the sacrifice of women are normal. Gender inequality explained well. The bond between two siblings also has been displayed.
Gandhari has suffered. She was left alone to suffer. She was alone. Kunti and Draupadi both had Krishna but she was alone . Her only comfort zone was maid Ayla, who had come along to Hastinapur with her. But she was also not there when she needed her the most because her husband fathered a Son with her. And all these had made Gandhari to nurture the great battle. That's why Krishna was Cursed by her.
This book will of course make you feel sorry for Gandhari .
I suggest you all to read this book .
March 25, 2022
Title: The Curse of Gandhari
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Publisher: Bloomsbury India
Book Review by Adiah Majumdar.
The Mahabharata has fascinating tales and includes hundreds of unique characters that play an important role in shaping the epic. Gandhari is one such character.
Aditi Banerjee provides an interesting viewpoint to the Mahabharata. Gandhari’s point of view provides us with the perspective of the so-called, villains mother. It is a perspective that is not as sought after -as it should have been- but is an important one.
Gandhari’s character is well-written and portrays Gandhari the way she was: one of the strongest, most affectionate and devoted women in the Mahabharata. It makes a reader want to know Gandhari’s side of the story, a viewpoint we tend to overlook.
The book portrays the chemistry, rivalry and contrast shown between Gandhari and Krishna in a very beautiful and atmospheric way. The author has portrayed the array of emotions between these characters with ease and concise speech. This keeps the story interesting and hooks the reader to the storyline.
The book gives you a unique perspective to the relations between Krishna and Gandhari which makes the intricate story of the Mahabharata clearer. The description of Krishna by Gandhari is very detailed and well-written. It makes it easier for the reader to imagine Krishna, the divine cowherd.
The Mahabharata has always fascinated me. It teaches you everything about human behaviour and features all the aspects of the human mind. It gives you an insight that tells you all about people there is to know, if not more.
All in all, the book is very interesting and is a must-read for anyone with even the slightest interest in the Mahabharata. I would love to read a book by Aditi Banerjee from the viewpoint of Yudhishthira.
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Publisher: Bloomsbury India
Book Review by Adiah Majumdar.
The Mahabharata has fascinating tales and includes hundreds of unique characters that play an important role in shaping the epic. Gandhari is one such character.
Aditi Banerjee provides an interesting viewpoint to the Mahabharata. Gandhari’s point of view provides us with the perspective of the so-called, villains mother. It is a perspective that is not as sought after -as it should have been- but is an important one.
Gandhari’s character is well-written and portrays Gandhari the way she was: one of the strongest, most affectionate and devoted women in the Mahabharata. It makes a reader want to know Gandhari’s side of the story, a viewpoint we tend to overlook.
The book portrays the chemistry, rivalry and contrast shown between Gandhari and Krishna in a very beautiful and atmospheric way. The author has portrayed the array of emotions between these characters with ease and concise speech. This keeps the story interesting and hooks the reader to the storyline.
The book gives you a unique perspective to the relations between Krishna and Gandhari which makes the intricate story of the Mahabharata clearer. The description of Krishna by Gandhari is very detailed and well-written. It makes it easier for the reader to imagine Krishna, the divine cowherd.
The Mahabharata has always fascinated me. It teaches you everything about human behaviour and features all the aspects of the human mind. It gives you an insight that tells you all about people there is to know, if not more.
All in all, the book is very interesting and is a must-read for anyone with even the slightest interest in the Mahabharata. I would love to read a book by Aditi Banerjee from the viewpoint of Yudhishthira.
September 15, 2019
This is one of the most beautiful, atmospheric books I’ve ever read. It is so easy to care about the characters because they live and breathe on the page. Stunning debut by a very talented author!
July 29, 2021
The Curse of Gandhari by Aditi Banerjee is an insightful retelling of Mahabharata from Gandhari’s point of view.
Gandhari is an important woman in the Kuru dynasty, but most of the stories I have read so far haven’t described her in this level of detail. This book is a refreshing change offering deeper insights into the woman who was a princess once, and when married to the blind prince, takes a life-changing decision. She is a virtuous woman with immense power, a devoted wife and a loving mother to her children. Twice gifted the boon of carrying 100 sons, and then blamed for bearing evil children, Gandhari is a complex character indeed.
The narration starts after the great battle is over, and Gandhari is dwelling in the forest along with Dhritarashtra and Kunti. As the story progresses, we get to know the lady behind the blindfold. Alternating between the present and the past, Banerjee brings the reader closer to Gandhari. We see her unconventional strength, complex thoughts, suppressed desires, and shattered dreams. We get to understand the lesser-known aspects of her persona. The author doesn’t depict Gandhari as a vulnerable woman, but one with immense powers.
There is a complex web of relations highlighted in this rendition. Gandhari’s relationship with her father Subalu, her mother, brother Shakuni; and after marriage with Satyawati, Pandu, and the rest of the Kuru clan is well depicted. Her interactions with Kunti and Krishna are especially detailed and well written, and are my favorite parts of this story. The author has paid attention to highlight Gandhari’s penance and devotion, which made her an iconic personality.
The plot development and flow are impactful. They reflect the author’s research, imagination and her command over the narration. All throughout, Gandhari remains the center of attention, while the rest of the events happen around her. Using simple language Banerjee brings the settings and the characters alive. She doesn’t attempt to justify Gandhari’s actions, but narrates them with passion and honesty.
The cover picture is perfectly suited to the story.
I really loved reading this book, and would recommend to anyone looking for a good Mytho-fiction.
BLOG TWITTER
Gandhari is an important woman in the Kuru dynasty, but most of the stories I have read so far haven’t described her in this level of detail. This book is a refreshing change offering deeper insights into the woman who was a princess once, and when married to the blind prince, takes a life-changing decision. She is a virtuous woman with immense power, a devoted wife and a loving mother to her children. Twice gifted the boon of carrying 100 sons, and then blamed for bearing evil children, Gandhari is a complex character indeed.
The narration starts after the great battle is over, and Gandhari is dwelling in the forest along with Dhritarashtra and Kunti. As the story progresses, we get to know the lady behind the blindfold. Alternating between the present and the past, Banerjee brings the reader closer to Gandhari. We see her unconventional strength, complex thoughts, suppressed desires, and shattered dreams. We get to understand the lesser-known aspects of her persona. The author doesn’t depict Gandhari as a vulnerable woman, but one with immense powers.
There is a complex web of relations highlighted in this rendition. Gandhari’s relationship with her father Subalu, her mother, brother Shakuni; and after marriage with Satyawati, Pandu, and the rest of the Kuru clan is well depicted. Her interactions with Kunti and Krishna are especially detailed and well written, and are my favorite parts of this story. The author has paid attention to highlight Gandhari’s penance and devotion, which made her an iconic personality.
The plot development and flow are impactful. They reflect the author’s research, imagination and her command over the narration. All throughout, Gandhari remains the center of attention, while the rest of the events happen around her. Using simple language Banerjee brings the settings and the characters alive. She doesn’t attempt to justify Gandhari’s actions, but narrates them with passion and honesty.
The cover picture is perfectly suited to the story.
I really loved reading this book, and would recommend to anyone looking for a good Mytho-fiction.
BLOG TWITTER
October 18, 2019
We all know who is Gandhari. She's one of the many fierce female characters of Mahabharata. Gandhari's hard work and dedication towards her vow to stay blindfolded for life, took unmeasurable courage. After being married to a blind prince Dhristarashtra, her life had already progressed downhill. She vowed to blindfold for her entire life, and dedicate her life to her husband. Though her husband could never become the king, she had an inner zeal of becoming a queen and ruling the folks. This somewhere led to a rage and created a spark of the entire plot of Mahabharata. With her boon of bearing one hundred sons, she promised to raise her sons to rule the kingdom. But her sad fate led to the destruction of the entire Kuru clan.
Gandhari is so much more than portrayed as in the epic. She was never considered the first choice and always had been omitted from having her moments.
I loved reading this book. Banerjee portrayed the entire story beautifully with a very simple language. Gandhari was the lady, who cursed a God - Krishna, the mastermind. Her character is explained perfectly. I didn't feel bored even for a moment while reading this book. There's a lot to talk about this book, but you'd know only when you'll read this. I fully recommend you to read this book
Gandhari is so much more than portrayed as in the epic. She was never considered the first choice and always had been omitted from having her moments.
I loved reading this book. Banerjee portrayed the entire story beautifully with a very simple language. Gandhari was the lady, who cursed a God - Krishna, the mastermind. Her character is explained perfectly. I didn't feel bored even for a moment while reading this book. There's a lot to talk about this book, but you'd know only when you'll read this. I fully recommend you to read this book
September 30, 2019
"Gandhari is not a conventional heroine. She was never beloved to the people nor did she win the titles and accolades that Draupadi and Kunti attained. Yet she was someone who even Krishna respected. She won the blessings of Shiva and Ved Vyasa, and even Krishna accepted her curse with a smile. She may not have been good the way we traditionally define a 'good woman'. But she was great in her own way."
---Aditi Banerjee 'The Curse of Gandhari'
Aditi Banerjee has done a fabulous job in trying to portray the complex and overlooked character of Gandhari. I loved the narrations, the time lines keep shuffling between past and her last day. Gandhari sees her life in flashbacks: from an intelligent princess, a doted daughter to a devoted wife, mother of hundred and one children and the queen who cursed a God.
Her sufferings and her penance, her love and her dedication made her legendary.
Definitely Must Read!
A treat to mythology lovers!!
Rating 5⭐
I am definitely looking forward to reading more of Aditi's work❤️ Happy Reading Everyone😊📖
---Aditi Banerjee 'The Curse of Gandhari'
Aditi Banerjee has done a fabulous job in trying to portray the complex and overlooked character of Gandhari. I loved the narrations, the time lines keep shuffling between past and her last day. Gandhari sees her life in flashbacks: from an intelligent princess, a doted daughter to a devoted wife, mother of hundred and one children and the queen who cursed a God.
Her sufferings and her penance, her love and her dedication made her legendary.
Definitely Must Read!
A treat to mythology lovers!!
Rating 5⭐
I am definitely looking forward to reading more of Aditi's work❤️ Happy Reading Everyone😊📖
July 13, 2021
A book Talking about Gandhari and Mahabharata from her perspective- A MUST READ FOR ALL.
All the myths and biases I had for Gandhari broke down reading this book. Also I got to know facts about Mahabharata which I was not aware earlier. the small details which are very very important for the Mahabharata saga- have been narrated so well in this book.
The best and strongest merit of this book is- the honesty preserved while narrating center character- Gandhari.
I am really impressed by hard work, understanding and efforts put up by author for being truthful about all events and portraying the character of Gandhari so honestly-sensibly.
The author makes sure to elaborate all the events about and around Gandhari- to make us relate with, understand to the emotions Gandhari had. No where in the book Author tries to white wash Gandhari's character or prove that shewas right-she was great-she was best. Instead Author narrates character of Gandhari with so much delicacy and truth that we can relate to her easily.
The author also explains humanly emotions like- love, passion, empathy, jealousy, hate, failure, pride, hope, dream, disappointment, rejection - very well. Every event-incident that Gandhari recalls - unfolds many facts and explains special side and emotions of Gandhari. Every dialogue- incident Gandhari goes through - talks about her emotions and justification to all the incidents of her life time.
This book is a must read book for all-kids and elders. This book will teach you not only about Katha of Mahabharata but also about human emotions and lessons- learnings from failures.
Conclusion:
A real enlightening Book that you must buy and read. Not just to know Mahabharata Katha or about Gandhari but to understand human relationships and human emotions better ways!
All the myths and biases I had for Gandhari broke down reading this book. Also I got to know facts about Mahabharata which I was not aware earlier. the small details which are very very important for the Mahabharata saga- have been narrated so well in this book.
The best and strongest merit of this book is- the honesty preserved while narrating center character- Gandhari.
I am really impressed by hard work, understanding and efforts put up by author for being truthful about all events and portraying the character of Gandhari so honestly-sensibly.
The author makes sure to elaborate all the events about and around Gandhari- to make us relate with, understand to the emotions Gandhari had. No where in the book Author tries to white wash Gandhari's character or prove that shewas right-she was great-she was best. Instead Author narrates character of Gandhari with so much delicacy and truth that we can relate to her easily.
The author also explains humanly emotions like- love, passion, empathy, jealousy, hate, failure, pride, hope, dream, disappointment, rejection - very well. Every event-incident that Gandhari recalls - unfolds many facts and explains special side and emotions of Gandhari. Every dialogue- incident Gandhari goes through - talks about her emotions and justification to all the incidents of her life time.
This book is a must read book for all-kids and elders. This book will teach you not only about Katha of Mahabharata but also about human emotions and lessons- learnings from failures.
Conclusion:
A real enlightening Book that you must buy and read. Not just to know Mahabharata Katha or about Gandhari but to understand human relationships and human emotions better ways!
February 7, 2020
It’s difficult to start review for me about this book. I have been a huge fan of mythology genre and especially story of Mahabharat is the most favourite. I have read again and again so I was confused while picking up this book, but it’s from the point of view from Gandhari so that attracted me the most. I wanted to know her opinion, mind set regarding events and I am glad that I picked this book up. It’s stupid to summarise blurb for this one but I will highlight few points that are different. It’s the last living day for Gandhari. She foresaw her death. She is living in forest/Ashram with her husband Dhritrastra and Kunti. But she felt uneasy like she isn’t ready. Then the entire events flashed before her eyes. I never read about her character in so details before like she was the wisest, beautiful and capable girl among all but she had been part of her destiny. There are also certain details that I remember after reading this like Duryodhana has Suyodhana name before etc.
Overall I really enjoyed reading this. I was confused to read as I have known the story before but I never felt bored while reading. The narration style of the author is amazing. It feels like watching a movie. Author has used amazing language and vocabulary. Author has tallied the stories and facts. Language has chosen carefully. Overall good one and a must read for mythology lovers. Recommended and a must read!
Click the link below to read detailed reviews
https://drruchipatel.wordpress.com/20...
Overall I really enjoyed reading this. I was confused to read as I have known the story before but I never felt bored while reading. The narration style of the author is amazing. It feels like watching a movie. Author has used amazing language and vocabulary. Author has tallied the stories and facts. Language has chosen carefully. Overall good one and a must read for mythology lovers. Recommended and a must read!
Click the link below to read detailed reviews
https://drruchipatel.wordpress.com/20...
February 9, 2020
Gandhari was a beautiful and virtuous woman and a very dedicated wife. She married Dhritrashtra who was blind from birth, so she also blindfolded herself as the sign of devotion and love for her husband. She received a boon of having 100 sons. But, she lost all her sons in the great war of Kurukshetra. For that, she curses Lord Krishna of the end of his family in the same manner.
The book is written impeccably beautiful keeping Gandhari at its center. The narration is what keeps the reader hooked to the book. The author has done very well research, and plotted the story greatly. Writing is smooth with clear and easily understandable language. The cover is also attractive and suits the story. The quality of the book is excellent.
I would recommend this book to all mythological fiction lovers.
The book is written impeccably beautiful keeping Gandhari at its center. The narration is what keeps the reader hooked to the book. The author has done very well research, and plotted the story greatly. Writing is smooth with clear and easily understandable language. The cover is also attractive and suits the story. The quality of the book is excellent.
I would recommend this book to all mythological fiction lovers.
February 23, 2021
No piece of fiction has captivated my attention in the recent past as this book has. It kept me hooked and forced me to finish it. The power of the characters, the intensity of their emotions and beauty of the language made it a brilliant read.
Though the book is focused on the character Gandhari, it succeeds in bringing out the unique personality of Duryodhana, Dhritarashtra, Satyavati and Shakuni. Their aims, desires and character flaws are brought out quite effectively by the author.
Some of the scenes in the story captivated me. The process by which Suyodhana rechristens himself as Duryodhana is my favourite. The moment when Arjuna chooses Krishna instead of Krishna's army is the second best piece of storytelling the book.
This book does have many quotable quotes. But here's my favourite one: "Some think that it is magic, this play of blessings and curses, but it is not, not really. It is only one who has never gone through the the rigors of sadhana, the science and math of it, who do not realise the workings of its power. Just as a man counts the coins in his treasury and knows what it is he can buy and what he cannot afford, one trained in sadhana, one who has accumulated piety and merit, knows one's own store of powers, what it can achieve and what it cannot."
Unlike Ramayana, Mahabharata is filled with many subplots and detours. The author has managed to ensure that the reader does not feel confused or lost while crafting her narrative around Gandhari. The flow from the past to present in her narrative has been seamless.
The author tries to portray Gandhari as a protagonist, pious and virtuous woman. But I, as a reader disagree. She failed to bring up her kids in the right environment. Allowing her evil brother Shakuni to poison the minds of Kauravas was a terrible fault. If someone were to repeat such mistakes in real life, we should not whitewash such acts by citing their pious nature. Good behaviour in one domain cannot compensate for terrible deeds in another.
Though the book is focused on the character Gandhari, it succeeds in bringing out the unique personality of Duryodhana, Dhritarashtra, Satyavati and Shakuni. Their aims, desires and character flaws are brought out quite effectively by the author.
Some of the scenes in the story captivated me. The process by which Suyodhana rechristens himself as Duryodhana is my favourite. The moment when Arjuna chooses Krishna instead of Krishna's army is the second best piece of storytelling the book.
This book does have many quotable quotes. But here's my favourite one: "Some think that it is magic, this play of blessings and curses, but it is not, not really. It is only one who has never gone through the the rigors of sadhana, the science and math of it, who do not realise the workings of its power. Just as a man counts the coins in his treasury and knows what it is he can buy and what he cannot afford, one trained in sadhana, one who has accumulated piety and merit, knows one's own store of powers, what it can achieve and what it cannot."
Unlike Ramayana, Mahabharata is filled with many subplots and detours. The author has managed to ensure that the reader does not feel confused or lost while crafting her narrative around Gandhari. The flow from the past to present in her narrative has been seamless.
The author tries to portray Gandhari as a protagonist, pious and virtuous woman. But I, as a reader disagree. She failed to bring up her kids in the right environment. Allowing her evil brother Shakuni to poison the minds of Kauravas was a terrible fault. If someone were to repeat such mistakes in real life, we should not whitewash such acts by citing their pious nature. Good behaviour in one domain cannot compensate for terrible deeds in another.
February 7, 2020
Book Title: The Curse of Gandhari
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Format: Paperback
Book Title:
The title of the book ' The Curse of Gandhari ' is very clear that it is about Gandhari, one of the very important characters in the Mahabharatha book.
Book Cover:
The cover image of the book is abstract art of a scene in Mahabharatha where Queen Gandhari curses Sri Krishna faulting him to be responsible for her 100 sons the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra War.
About the author:
Aditi Banerjee is a practicing attorney at a Fortune 500 financial services company. She co-edited the book, Invading the Sacred: An Analysis of Hinduism Studies in America. She has published several essays on Hinduism and the Hindu-American experience in publications such as Outlook India and Swarajya. She earned a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School and received a B.A. in International Relations, magna cum laude, from Tufts University.
About the book:
In this insightful and sensitive portrayal, Aditi Banerjee rescues Gandhari from being reduced to a mere symbol of her blindfold. She builds her up, as Ved Vyasa did, as an unconventional heroine of great strength and iron will - who when crossed, embarked upon a complex relationship with Lord Krishna, and became the queen who cursed a God.
My review:
This book by Aditi Banerjee The Curse of Gandhari is a fantastic tale from Mahabharata and how Gandhari and Krishna’s fate has intertwined that end in a Curse that destroyed Krishna’s tribe and caused his death.
The reader walks with the author through Gandhari’s eyes. The author shows Gandhari as a woman of immense virtue, a great queen and a compassionate mother. Gandhari has been condemned many times for the choices she made, for choosing to be blind so she could stand with her husband as an equal. She was also many times cursed for her kids being so evil.
An interesting conversation between Gandhari and Krishna is observed. A new and novel way of conceiving Gandhari is shown in the book.
What I like:
1. The conversations between Gandhari and Kunti
2. A new insight about Gandhari and her history
3. The pain a mother goes through who gets bereaved of her sons no matter whatever generation is very intrinsically explained.
4. Gandhari's intelligence, her unconventional personality and her sharp observance in political matters are very beautifully narrated.
5. Her personality oscillating between a responsible queen and a mother is incredibly portrayed.
What I didn't like:
There is nothing to dislike
Characters:
The characters of Gandhari and Kunti are discussed in a unique and not so common manner which made the characterization appealing and strong.
Narration:
A very engaging and interesting narration is found in the book.
Language & Grammar:
The language used in the book
My Final Verdict:
One of the finest book about Gandhari
Book Title: 4/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Narration: 4/5
Language & Grammar: 4/5
Final Rating: 4/5
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Format: Paperback
Book Title:
The title of the book ' The Curse of Gandhari ' is very clear that it is about Gandhari, one of the very important characters in the Mahabharatha book.
Book Cover:
The cover image of the book is abstract art of a scene in Mahabharatha where Queen Gandhari curses Sri Krishna faulting him to be responsible for her 100 sons the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra War.
About the author:
Aditi Banerjee is a practicing attorney at a Fortune 500 financial services company. She co-edited the book, Invading the Sacred: An Analysis of Hinduism Studies in America. She has published several essays on Hinduism and the Hindu-American experience in publications such as Outlook India and Swarajya. She earned a Juris Doctor from Yale Law School and received a B.A. in International Relations, magna cum laude, from Tufts University.
About the book:
In this insightful and sensitive portrayal, Aditi Banerjee rescues Gandhari from being reduced to a mere symbol of her blindfold. She builds her up, as Ved Vyasa did, as an unconventional heroine of great strength and iron will - who when crossed, embarked upon a complex relationship with Lord Krishna, and became the queen who cursed a God.
My review:
This book by Aditi Banerjee The Curse of Gandhari is a fantastic tale from Mahabharata and how Gandhari and Krishna’s fate has intertwined that end in a Curse that destroyed Krishna’s tribe and caused his death.
The reader walks with the author through Gandhari’s eyes. The author shows Gandhari as a woman of immense virtue, a great queen and a compassionate mother. Gandhari has been condemned many times for the choices she made, for choosing to be blind so she could stand with her husband as an equal. She was also many times cursed for her kids being so evil.
An interesting conversation between Gandhari and Krishna is observed. A new and novel way of conceiving Gandhari is shown in the book.
What I like:
1. The conversations between Gandhari and Kunti
2. A new insight about Gandhari and her history
3. The pain a mother goes through who gets bereaved of her sons no matter whatever generation is very intrinsically explained.
4. Gandhari's intelligence, her unconventional personality and her sharp observance in political matters are very beautifully narrated.
5. Her personality oscillating between a responsible queen and a mother is incredibly portrayed.
What I didn't like:
There is nothing to dislike
Characters:
The characters of Gandhari and Kunti are discussed in a unique and not so common manner which made the characterization appealing and strong.
Narration:
A very engaging and interesting narration is found in the book.
Language & Grammar:
The language used in the book
My Final Verdict:
One of the finest book about Gandhari
Book Title: 4/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Narration: 4/5
Language & Grammar: 4/5
Final Rating: 4/5
October 17, 2019
Title: The Curse of Gandhari
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Publisher: Bloomsbury India
My take:
Among the two great epics of Indian mythology, it is always Mahabharata that fascinates me. "The Curse Of Gandhari" by Aditi Banerjee is the retelling of the great epic Mahabharata. Mahabharata, in Gandhari's perspective. The story started off with Gandhari, Dhirithurastra and Kunti spending their last day of life on earth in the forest.
Dhirithurastra and Kunti had prepared themselves to embrace death, for it will put an end to all of their sufferings and will offer them the peace that their earthly life had failed. Gandhari, a grieving mother who had lost one hundred of her sons in the Kurukshetra war, was not ready, not when she has so much to tell. Thus the tale unfolds as she walked us through the rough paths of her life. From the princess who had vowed to blindfold herself, to the Queen who cursed the God.
Gandhari was undoubtedly a remarkable woman, a devoted wife and an affectionate mother. Unlike her husband she was not ambitious, unlike her brother she was not treacherous, unlike her sons she was not evil conspiring against the Pandavas. But her affection towards her sons did overshadow her, the path of dharma. She did not come to the rescue of Dharupthi when she had been molested by her own sons and by her brother.
How different it would have been if Gandhari had not been vowed to blindfold herself. One hundred of her sons would not have met the fateful death if she had not relied on her treacherous brother Shakuni to look after them. Sometimes I had even thought that after all, it was a family feud for the throne of Hastinapur that had caused the great war Kurukshetra.
This book will surely change your perspective towards Gandhari after reading. The author did justice to this remarkable character. Gandhari always insisted her sons to follow the path of dharma but had failed drastically as she had no control over neither her husband nor her sons or her brother. She had failed as a mother, but she will always be remembered as a noblewoman, a devoted wife and an affectionate mother. This book is a must-read for all mythology lovers.
I'm extremely grateful to Bloomsbury India for providing me with a copy of this book.
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Publisher: Bloomsbury India
My take:
Among the two great epics of Indian mythology, it is always Mahabharata that fascinates me. "The Curse Of Gandhari" by Aditi Banerjee is the retelling of the great epic Mahabharata. Mahabharata, in Gandhari's perspective. The story started off with Gandhari, Dhirithurastra and Kunti spending their last day of life on earth in the forest.
Dhirithurastra and Kunti had prepared themselves to embrace death, for it will put an end to all of their sufferings and will offer them the peace that their earthly life had failed. Gandhari, a grieving mother who had lost one hundred of her sons in the Kurukshetra war, was not ready, not when she has so much to tell. Thus the tale unfolds as she walked us through the rough paths of her life. From the princess who had vowed to blindfold herself, to the Queen who cursed the God.
Gandhari was undoubtedly a remarkable woman, a devoted wife and an affectionate mother. Unlike her husband she was not ambitious, unlike her brother she was not treacherous, unlike her sons she was not evil conspiring against the Pandavas. But her affection towards her sons did overshadow her, the path of dharma. She did not come to the rescue of Dharupthi when she had been molested by her own sons and by her brother.
How different it would have been if Gandhari had not been vowed to blindfold herself. One hundred of her sons would not have met the fateful death if she had not relied on her treacherous brother Shakuni to look after them. Sometimes I had even thought that after all, it was a family feud for the throne of Hastinapur that had caused the great war Kurukshetra.
This book will surely change your perspective towards Gandhari after reading. The author did justice to this remarkable character. Gandhari always insisted her sons to follow the path of dharma but had failed drastically as she had no control over neither her husband nor her sons or her brother. She had failed as a mother, but she will always be remembered as a noblewoman, a devoted wife and an affectionate mother. This book is a must-read for all mythology lovers.
I'm extremely grateful to Bloomsbury India for providing me with a copy of this book.
February 2, 2020
The Mahabharata is an epic that keeps giving food for thought on every new reading. Just when one thinks that we have learnt all we can, it pulls the rug from underneath our feet once again. Aditi Banerjee's retelling of the epic views the Mahabharata from Gandhari's lens and makes for an enthralling read.
Gandhari is not a character who comes to mind when we think of the Mahabharata's iconic characters. Hence, the author needed to set the context accurately to give a sense of her import to the tale, which she does brilliantly. Right from being chosen for the "lesser" king Dhritarashtra, to blindfolding herself, to getting a boon to give birth to a 100 sons, to being so protective of them that she skips her dharmic duties to finally cursing Krishna himself for orchestrating her sons' deaths, we get an in-depth understanding of her psyche (the author's interpretation).
Significant incidents are narrated in the background while the focus remains on Gandhari and her thoughts as the events unfold. This style was refreshing to read, and also one of the critical aspects of what makes this book click. The book is also excellent in keeping the dharmic nature of the epic intact by alluding to various practices and customs as they were at the time. However, interleaving the divine elements of Krishna with the otherwise realistic and practical narrative didn't work for me.
The Curse of Gandhari is another reminder of the depth and gravitas of the Mahabharata. It has stoked my interest in reading this itihāsa once again, and that, I believe, is the real victory for any book written on it.
Gandhari is not a character who comes to mind when we think of the Mahabharata's iconic characters. Hence, the author needed to set the context accurately to give a sense of her import to the tale, which she does brilliantly. Right from being chosen for the "lesser" king Dhritarashtra, to blindfolding herself, to getting a boon to give birth to a 100 sons, to being so protective of them that she skips her dharmic duties to finally cursing Krishna himself for orchestrating her sons' deaths, we get an in-depth understanding of her psyche (the author's interpretation).
Significant incidents are narrated in the background while the focus remains on Gandhari and her thoughts as the events unfold. This style was refreshing to read, and also one of the critical aspects of what makes this book click. The book is also excellent in keeping the dharmic nature of the epic intact by alluding to various practices and customs as they were at the time. However, interleaving the divine elements of Krishna with the otherwise realistic and practical narrative didn't work for me.
The Curse of Gandhari is another reminder of the depth and gravitas of the Mahabharata. It has stoked my interest in reading this itihāsa once again, and that, I believe, is the real victory for any book written on it.
December 21, 2019
While everybody and every book wants to talk about the Pandavas and Draupadi in Mahabharata, very few might want to know about the Kauravas and especially Gandhari, the daughter of Subala who herself was raised with 99 brothers (Shakuni being the most cunning), a Shiva worshipper who is granted a boon to have 100 sons, however in today's sense it is more of a bane. One cant even imagine having a second child in a metro but let's assume the kings were sorted with such common man's problems!! perhaps the only character powerful enough to curse the greatest of gods, a woman who is stymied by her husband and her sons, caught in the webs of their karmas and ill content. One hundered sons may not be equal to one good son.
The language in the book could have been better as sometimes the author uses the thesaurus unnecessarily, which could have been written in simple plain English!!
If you enjoy Mahabharata you will enjoy all it's characters! Everyone has something special to offer and every character is mysterious in itself!! Overall a good and nice read!
The language in the book could have been better as sometimes the author uses the thesaurus unnecessarily, which could have been written in simple plain English!!
If you enjoy Mahabharata you will enjoy all it's characters! Everyone has something special to offer and every character is mysterious in itself!! Overall a good and nice read!
February 4, 2020
The curse of Gandhari: Gandhari, was the mother of the Kauravas. We know the character of Gandhari, what is her role in the Mahabharat, we might see in many movies and we might read many books. This book has many things which say about Gandhari. How strong she was. How she was partly responsible for the battle between Kauravas and Pandavas. She received a boon of having 100 sons. But she lost all her sons in the great war of Kurukshetra. For that, she curses Lord Krishna of the end of yadavas in the same manner.
This book centers her and her story, how is it happened
The cover is also attractive and suits the story.
The language was simple and easy to understand, even it is mythology related it hook up the readers because of the narration.
The quality of the pages in the book is excellent
This book centers her and her story, how is it happened
The cover is also attractive and suits the story.
The language was simple and easy to understand, even it is mythology related it hook up the readers because of the narration.
The quality of the pages in the book is excellent
April 26, 2020
Worst book on mythology I've read so far. Author should be a writer in Ekta Kapoor's serials as the kind of narration she has written is too mundane & dull to read. I'm stuck on this book for months now.
March 13, 2020
Book Title: The Curse of Gandhari
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Format: Paperback
Book Title:
The title of the book ' The Curse of Gandhari ' is very clear that it is about Gandhari, one of the very important characters in the Mahabharatha book.
Book Cover:
The cover image of the book is abstract art of a scene in Mahabharatha where Queen Gandhari curses Sri Krishna faulting him to be responsible for her 100 sons the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra War.
My review:
This book by Aditi Banerjee The Curse of Gandhari is a fantastic tale from Mahabharata and how Gandhari and Krishna’s fate has intertwined that end in a Curse that destroyed Krishna’s tribe and caused his death.
The reader walks with the author through Gandhari’s eyes. The author shows Gandhari as a woman of immense virtue, a great queen and a compassionate mother. Gandhari has been condemned many times for the choices she made, for choosing to be blind so she could stand with her husband as an equal. She was also many times cursed for her kids being so evil.
An interesting conversation between Gandhari and Krishna is observed. A new and novel way of conceiving Gandhari is shown in the book.
Gandhari's intelligence, her unconventional personality and her sharp observance in political matters are very beautifully narrated.
The pain a mother goes through who gets bereaved of her sons no matter whatever generation is very intrinsically explained. She is a strong and bold woman. I really liked how facts are stated straight without drag in this book. The author’s narration is good.
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Format: Paperback
Book Title:
The title of the book ' The Curse of Gandhari ' is very clear that it is about Gandhari, one of the very important characters in the Mahabharatha book.
Book Cover:
The cover image of the book is abstract art of a scene in Mahabharatha where Queen Gandhari curses Sri Krishna faulting him to be responsible for her 100 sons the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra War.
My review:
This book by Aditi Banerjee The Curse of Gandhari is a fantastic tale from Mahabharata and how Gandhari and Krishna’s fate has intertwined that end in a Curse that destroyed Krishna’s tribe and caused his death.
The reader walks with the author through Gandhari’s eyes. The author shows Gandhari as a woman of immense virtue, a great queen and a compassionate mother. Gandhari has been condemned many times for the choices she made, for choosing to be blind so she could stand with her husband as an equal. She was also many times cursed for her kids being so evil.
An interesting conversation between Gandhari and Krishna is observed. A new and novel way of conceiving Gandhari is shown in the book.
Gandhari's intelligence, her unconventional personality and her sharp observance in political matters are very beautifully narrated.
The pain a mother goes through who gets bereaved of her sons no matter whatever generation is very intrinsically explained. She is a strong and bold woman. I really liked how facts are stated straight without drag in this book. The author’s narration is good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2020
We all have heard and know about Gandhari. She is the mother of the Kauravas and the wifeof the blind King Dhritarashtra. But we only know a few things about her like she blindfolded herself all her life and that she gave birth to 100 children. But little do we know about that she is one of the many fiercest characters of Mahabharata. The hard work and the dedication that she had to go through all the events that she had to face in her life. We get to see a wide range of emotions throughout the book, the relationship that a devotee shares with the God. We also get to see the events and the circumstances that led to the Kurukshetra war and the lives that were later led by all the remaining characters. We also get to see the circumstances under which Gandhari cursed Lord Krishna. What is this curse? Will the curse ever come true? To know more read ‘The Curse of Gandhari’.
My Thoughts:
I would like to start off by saying that I have never read a book which gives us an insight into the life of Gandhari. Very little is known about this character and normally we get to see only one side of the coin. But the author has done an excellent work of showing us the other side of the coin as well.
The characterization is done excellently and I actually loved the character of Gandhari. The characters are well developed and the readers will actually relate to the feelings of the characters while all the events are occurring.
The plot is well written and the author has actually gone into details while writing the plot. The narration is very good and the descriptions of the events are done excellently.
The cover page and the title of the book is apt to the story and done beautifully.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to all.
My Thoughts:
I would like to start off by saying that I have never read a book which gives us an insight into the life of Gandhari. Very little is known about this character and normally we get to see only one side of the coin. But the author has done an excellent work of showing us the other side of the coin as well.
The characterization is done excellently and I actually loved the character of Gandhari. The characters are well developed and the readers will actually relate to the feelings of the characters while all the events are occurring.
The plot is well written and the author has actually gone into details while writing the plot. The narration is very good and the descriptions of the events are done excellently.
The cover page and the title of the book is apt to the story and done beautifully.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to all.
July 2, 2024
Aditi Banerjee's "The Curse of Gandhari" presents an intriguing premise: Gandhari, with only one day left to live, reflects on her life, filled with unfairness and the burden of her choices. However, my reading experience left me feeling disappointed and somewhat misled by the title and synopsis.
The narrative predominantly revolves around Gandhari's life journey, delving into her experiences as a fiercely intelligent princess who voluntarily blindfolded herself for her visually impaired husband, Dhritarashtra. Banerjee explores Gandhari's painful pregnancy and her role as the mother of one hundred unworthy sons, each seemingly indistinguishable from the other. The story also highlights Gandhari's tapasya (ascetic practices), which failed to earn her the same respect and admiration as Draupadi and Kunti, further adding to her sense of isolation and unfairness.
Despite the promise of a focus on Gandhari's curse, the book primarily serves as a summarized retelling of the Mahabharata, with Gandhari's perspective as the central thread. The narrative repeats situations and reactions, resulting in a monotonous reading experience devoid of surprises. This repetition further detracts from exploring Gandhari's curse and its significance, leaving the reader questioning the book's purpose.
The lack of depth in exploring Gandhari's curse is a notable flaw. While the title suggests a deeper examination of the curse and its origins, the narrative falls short of delivering on this premise. Instead, it offers a surface-level exploration of Gandhari's struggles and sacrifices without delving into the intricacies of her curse and its implications.
Overall, "The Curse of Gandhari" feels more like a summarized version of the Mahabharata rather than a focused exploration of Gandhari's curse. The title and synopsis may lead readers to expect a deeper dive into Gandhari's character and the curse that defines her, but the book ultimately fails to deliver on this promise. As a result, readers seeking a nuanced exploration of Gandhari's curse may find themselves disappointed by the lack of depth and focus in Banerjee's narrative.
Favorite lines from the book:
- That is a hard price of breaking a vow. Sometimes you cannot understand what you have entered into, what you have cost yourself by a sacrifice, a view. And you break it, you cannot know how everything may be lost. Everything.
- There is a word for orphan, but no word for a mother who has lost all her children.
The narrative predominantly revolves around Gandhari's life journey, delving into her experiences as a fiercely intelligent princess who voluntarily blindfolded herself for her visually impaired husband, Dhritarashtra. Banerjee explores Gandhari's painful pregnancy and her role as the mother of one hundred unworthy sons, each seemingly indistinguishable from the other. The story also highlights Gandhari's tapasya (ascetic practices), which failed to earn her the same respect and admiration as Draupadi and Kunti, further adding to her sense of isolation and unfairness.
Despite the promise of a focus on Gandhari's curse, the book primarily serves as a summarized retelling of the Mahabharata, with Gandhari's perspective as the central thread. The narrative repeats situations and reactions, resulting in a monotonous reading experience devoid of surprises. This repetition further detracts from exploring Gandhari's curse and its significance, leaving the reader questioning the book's purpose.
The lack of depth in exploring Gandhari's curse is a notable flaw. While the title suggests a deeper examination of the curse and its origins, the narrative falls short of delivering on this premise. Instead, it offers a surface-level exploration of Gandhari's struggles and sacrifices without delving into the intricacies of her curse and its implications.
Overall, "The Curse of Gandhari" feels more like a summarized version of the Mahabharata rather than a focused exploration of Gandhari's curse. The title and synopsis may lead readers to expect a deeper dive into Gandhari's character and the curse that defines her, but the book ultimately fails to deliver on this promise. As a result, readers seeking a nuanced exploration of Gandhari's curse may find themselves disappointed by the lack of depth and focus in Banerjee's narrative.
Favorite lines from the book:
- That is a hard price of breaking a vow. Sometimes you cannot understand what you have entered into, what you have cost yourself by a sacrifice, a view. And you break it, you cannot know how everything may be lost. Everything.
- There is a word for orphan, but no word for a mother who has lost all her children.
March 4, 2020
Gandhari, a very well known name among almost everyone. But where the Mahabharata tells us story about every person and their pride, destiny, struggle there may be this queen who had saccrificed her life, her wishes by blindfolding her eyes after marrying the blind king Dhritrashtra had never been discussed more . Gandhari was a lady of pride and dignity. Intelligence was her beauty. And somewhere I also heard that she had beautiful eyes which attracted everyone. And this book is totally about Gandhari. Her life, her saccrifice, her adjustment . I live this book for depicting her character in such a different way with lots of vibrant colors. This book has several information to disclosed about the mother of Kauravas and the queen of Hastinapur. Book is really very good and entertaining.
March 3, 2020
Title: The Curse of Gandhari
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Format: Kindle
Review
Gandhari has traditionally been depicted either as a devoted, self-sacrificing wife or a bad mother who was unable to control her sons and was therefore partly responsible for the great war.
I would say that this book was so well researched. The storyline surrounding the sea of flames snooker slightly. However the well developed characters and the beauty of it is to extent that i had to go back and watch the cinematic equivalent emotion of Sightlessness.
Though provoking account, wonderful character. Language of the book is perhaps is one of the most important bit, it is written with such fine and lively details. I fail to found words that can suitably elocute my experience.
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Format: Kindle
Review
Gandhari has traditionally been depicted either as a devoted, self-sacrificing wife or a bad mother who was unable to control her sons and was therefore partly responsible for the great war.
I would say that this book was so well researched. The storyline surrounding the sea of flames snooker slightly. However the well developed characters and the beauty of it is to extent that i had to go back and watch the cinematic equivalent emotion of Sightlessness.
Though provoking account, wonderful character. Language of the book is perhaps is one of the most important bit, it is written with such fine and lively details. I fail to found words that can suitably elocute my experience.
February 26, 2020
Mahabharata had so many characters that one can write so many different versions of a character according to one's interpretation of the big battle. I have read books on Krishna, Ashwathma, Duryodhan, Karna etc, n all of them provided a completely differently story about their life of what is already known to us.
This book is in the same category, the focal point of this book is Gandhari, wife of Dhritrastra n mother of the Kauravas.
The author has brilliantly depicted her life from the beginning till the end.
When my grandmother used to narrate Gandhari's stories to me I always asked her why did she blindfolded herself, she used to say because of her husband. The book provides a valid reason for it ( although it's fictional).
Overall I really liked the way the author has narrated a very good story, I liked the book all the much more because may be I was reading a Mythological fiction after a long time.
This book therefore is 5 🌟 read for me.
This book is in the same category, the focal point of this book is Gandhari, wife of Dhritrastra n mother of the Kauravas.
The author has brilliantly depicted her life from the beginning till the end.
When my grandmother used to narrate Gandhari's stories to me I always asked her why did she blindfolded herself, she used to say because of her husband. The book provides a valid reason for it ( although it's fictional).
Overall I really liked the way the author has narrated a very good story, I liked the book all the much more because may be I was reading a Mythological fiction after a long time.
This book therefore is 5 🌟 read for me.
February 26, 2020
An untold story of the queen of Hasthinapura
The Curse of Gandhari is the story of the princess of Gandhara who has taken a vow of not seeing the world as her husband is blind. The story takes us all through the time when the Kauravas were defeated in the Kurukshetra and the life of Kunti, Gandhari and Dritharashtra when the death was nearing them.
Review:
- The cover is beautiful and the title is apt as the story mainly focuses on the curse of Gandhari.
- Must appreciate the efforts of the author for doing good research on the unknown facts of this mythological epic. I just heard that Gandhari cursed Krishna but the backdrop of the curse and the life of Gandhari is not known for me.
- The language is easy to understand.
Overall, a very good insight on the life of Gandhari. Must read.
The Curse of Gandhari is the story of the princess of Gandhara who has taken a vow of not seeing the world as her husband is blind. The story takes us all through the time when the Kauravas were defeated in the Kurukshetra and the life of Kunti, Gandhari and Dritharashtra when the death was nearing them.
Review:
- The cover is beautiful and the title is apt as the story mainly focuses on the curse of Gandhari.
- Must appreciate the efforts of the author for doing good research on the unknown facts of this mythological epic. I just heard that Gandhari cursed Krishna but the backdrop of the curse and the life of Gandhari is not known for me.
- The language is easy to understand.
Overall, a very good insight on the life of Gandhari. Must read.
February 24, 2020
When I saw the book was recommended by Kavita Kane, I was immediately intrigued to pick this book up. I have had tons of things about Gandhari but I never had a good amount of in depth knowledge about the mythological character. This book did a great job. There was so much empathy for the protagonist that one cannot deny but feel that she was truly much more than a woman who blinded herself for her blind husband and incapable mother who couldn't control her hundred sons. Her dedication in each and every work that she did was remarkable. I loved it. She was portrayed with immense courage, a woman who though being surrounded by so many people was fighting her own battle totally alone. I loved the narration of the book and there was not a single time I felt bored. It was so engaging and I now really long for a paperback or a physical copy. The cover is so pretty and the language was lucid. After reading the book I think she is an underrated character of a well known epic.
February 13, 2020
Book Name : The Curse of Gandhari
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Genre: Mythological Fiction
Format: Paperback & Knidle
Language : English
Available on : Amazon
MRP : ₹499
Publication: Bloomsbury India
Pages: 336
Suitable for : Above 15
Plot/Storyline :
'The Curse of Gandhari' is based on the plot of great Indian epic 'Mahabharata'.
But in Mahabharat nobody give concentration on the poor woman Gandhari, mother of Kauravas and wife of blind King Dhritarashtra. This book shows her devotion towards lord Shiva.
It is beyond any doubt that Gandhari was a devoted wife as well as exceptional mother . Unfortunately Gandhari blamed every time for each decision like making herself blindfold or allowing Sokuni to teach her kids that considered the probable reason of death of his all son. The character Gandhari was depicted by the author in a unique way.
Criticism :
The plot is well created and it has the ability to draw the reader attention till the end. The author describe many more things about the main character Gandhari that is probably unknown for most of the people . Without a huge research it is not possible to write a book in such genre, after reading it thoroughly, it is unless to say the author did that perfectly .
Rating:
Overall - 4/5
Title - 4/5
Cover - 3.9/5
Language - 4.2/5
Storytelling - 4/5
Author: Aditi Banerjee
Genre: Mythological Fiction
Format: Paperback & Knidle
Language : English
Available on : Amazon
MRP : ₹499
Publication: Bloomsbury India
Pages: 336
Suitable for : Above 15
Plot/Storyline :
'The Curse of Gandhari' is based on the plot of great Indian epic 'Mahabharata'.
But in Mahabharat nobody give concentration on the poor woman Gandhari, mother of Kauravas and wife of blind King Dhritarashtra. This book shows her devotion towards lord Shiva.
It is beyond any doubt that Gandhari was a devoted wife as well as exceptional mother . Unfortunately Gandhari blamed every time for each decision like making herself blindfold or allowing Sokuni to teach her kids that considered the probable reason of death of his all son. The character Gandhari was depicted by the author in a unique way.
Criticism :
The plot is well created and it has the ability to draw the reader attention till the end. The author describe many more things about the main character Gandhari that is probably unknown for most of the people . Without a huge research it is not possible to write a book in such genre, after reading it thoroughly, it is unless to say the author did that perfectly .
Rating:
Overall - 4/5
Title - 4/5
Cover - 3.9/5
Language - 4.2/5
Storytelling - 4/5
January 25, 2020
We all know about the famous battle between Kauravas and Pandavas. Gandhari, was the mother of the Kauravas.
We all think Gandhari was weak, she couldn't control her sons and give them proper attention. But this is not true. Through this book we will come to know how strong Gandhari was and about her curse which she given to Krishna.
Gandhari is a strong woman who has got a wish, or we would say she has got a pleasure of having 100 sons and one girl child. But she didn't know one day all her sons will be killed in the battle, and she will be left alone in her life. She had made many sacrifice since her life. She also become blind saying if her husband can't see the world how can she. When her elder son Duryodhana was killed Krishna goes to say Gandhari about him. And she knew that her son cannot be killed it was Krishna who made this happen.
She curses Krishna for all the things he had done. The curse was so powerful that will wipe entire Yadavas. This book has many things which says about Gandhari. How strong she was. How she was partly responsible for the battle between Kauravas and Pandavas.
I love this book which shows about a woman who is very strong. I recommend this book to read.
We all think Gandhari was weak, she couldn't control her sons and give them proper attention. But this is not true. Through this book we will come to know how strong Gandhari was and about her curse which she given to Krishna.
Gandhari is a strong woman who has got a wish, or we would say she has got a pleasure of having 100 sons and one girl child. But she didn't know one day all her sons will be killed in the battle, and she will be left alone in her life. She had made many sacrifice since her life. She also become blind saying if her husband can't see the world how can she. When her elder son Duryodhana was killed Krishna goes to say Gandhari about him. And she knew that her son cannot be killed it was Krishna who made this happen.
She curses Krishna for all the things he had done. The curse was so powerful that will wipe entire Yadavas. This book has many things which says about Gandhari. How strong she was. How she was partly responsible for the battle between Kauravas and Pandavas.
I love this book which shows about a woman who is very strong. I recommend this book to read.
February 24, 2020
Mythology, the theme which always encourages me more and more...the bold and brave character in this epic is Gandhari..the protagonist with the selfless love for her family but in spite of so much goodness he possessed , her sons never understand the value of love and sacrifice....the female character in the ancient time of such a bold nature is attractive in one word and a motivational character in modern times..I have read the book with utter satisfaction and the words used here are lucid which makes it easier to read and understand the context...the story at the angle of her is the most attractive attribute penned down by the author...In my opinion you must give it a read
February 8, 2020
I liked the character the author chosen for this book.
A day before ghandharis death she travelled back to her memories how she reached an ashram end of the day, she born with a silver spoon and live as blind for her husband, mother of 100 kids how much she went through life, life never plays yed a fair game with her .she never complained. Gandhari tried to kids morals and all which she learned from her life but she failed somehow.
in this book, we can see Mahabharata from Gandhi’s perspective. What was she going through the war which she lost her kids, she stood up for truth and she the knows end of war what’s going to happen because Pandav has Krishna with them.
The story travelling in flash backtrack and it’s very honest writings and flow of the story is perfect .i liked the character presentation .editing of the book is clear cut no unwanted character and description about circumstance live
Language is easy one yet standard I h difficult to understand old terms but this book is worthy for our time.
A day before ghandharis death she travelled back to her memories how she reached an ashram end of the day, she born with a silver spoon and live as blind for her husband, mother of 100 kids how much she went through life, life never plays yed a fair game with her .she never complained. Gandhari tried to kids morals and all which she learned from her life but she failed somehow.
in this book, we can see Mahabharata from Gandhi’s perspective. What was she going through the war which she lost her kids, she stood up for truth and she the knows end of war what’s going to happen because Pandav has Krishna with them.
The story travelling in flash backtrack and it’s very honest writings and flow of the story is perfect .i liked the character presentation .editing of the book is clear cut no unwanted character and description about circumstance live
Language is easy one yet standard I h difficult to understand old terms but this book is worthy for our time.
February 3, 2020
This story revolves around Gandhari who is partly responsible for the deadly war between kaurvas and pandavas. She has the gift of having hundred sons and one daughter but due to fate all of her sons were killed in a battle. Gandhari also becomes blind because she feels that it is injustice to see the world when her husband can't see. Most of us think that she is a weak woman who has no control over her sons but we are entirely wrong . She is one of the most powerful women . Her curse on Krishna made entire yadavs were swept. She is strong and bold woman. I really liked how facts are stated straighy without drag in this book . Author's narration is good. Mostly when we read historical books, it will bore us because they don't meet our fantasies. The case is different with this book . It is reader engaging book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews