Mahashweta

Anupama looked into the mirror and shivered with shock. A small white patch had now appeared on her arm.’ Anupama’s fairytale marriage to Anand falls apart when she discovers a white patch on her foot and learns that she has leukoderma. Abandoned by her uncaring in-laws and insensitive husband, she is forced to return to her father’s home in the village. The social stigma of a married woman living with her parents, her stepmother’s continual barbs and the ostracism that accompanies her skin condition force her to contemplate suicide. Determined to rebuild her life against all odds, Anupama goes to Bombay where she finds success, respect and the promise of an enduring friendship. Mahashweta is an inspiring story of courage and resilience in a world marred by illusions and betrayals. This poignant tale offers hope and solace to the victims of the prejudices that govern society even today.

From the Back Cover

Sudha Murthy's "Mahashweta" beckons readers into a compelling narrative that traverses the realms of love, resilience, and societal norms. The novel unfolds the poignant story of Anupama, a young woman with dreams and aspirations, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she is struck by a disfiguring disease.

As Anupama grapples with the challenges of her altered appearance, societal prejudices, and the emotional turmoil that follows, "Mahashweta" becomes a powerful exploration of inner strength and the indomitable spirit of a woman facing adversity. Sudha Murthy, with her characteristic narrative finesse, addresses themes of societal expectations, beauty standards, and the transformative power of love.

The title "Mahashweta" carries a profound significance, drawing inspiration from the symbolic white sari worn by Hindu widows. In the face of societal judgments, Anupama's journey becomes a metaphorical representation of purity and strength, challenging stereotypes and embracing the true essence of beauty.

Murthy's storytelling weaves a tapestry of emotions, offering readers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience. "Mahashweta" stands as a testament to Sudha Murthy's ability to craft narratives that go beyond the surface, delving deep into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations. This novel invites readers to reflect on the transformative power of resilience and the enduring beauty that lies within, regardless of external appearances.

About the Author

Sudha Murty:

Sudha Murty was born in 1950 in Shiggaon, in north Karnataka. She did her MTech in computer science. She is the founder of Infosys
Foundation and is currently the chairperson of the Murty Trust.

A prolific writer in English and Kannada, she has written novels, technical books, travelogues,
collections of short stories and non-fictional pieces, and several bestselling titles for children. Her books have been translated into
all the major Indian languages. Sudha Murty is the recipient of the R.K. Narayan Award for Literature. She received the Padma Shri in 2006, the Attimabbe Award from the Government of Karnataka for excellence in Kannada literature in 2011, the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Crossword Book Awards and the Padma Bhushan in 2023. She has also received ten honorary doctorates.

She weaves magical tales and especially enjoys writing for young readers. A generation of children has grown up reading her books, and her stories have been included in textbooks across schools in India.