It happens very rarely that I get to read a contemporary novel, and I feel overwhelmed! Yes, it happened recently. I got my hands on Ashwini Pratham’s debut novel, Legacy of the Lost Words. And believe me, for many reasons, the novel is fantastic. Storyline, plot, themes, and its symbolic value–everything mixes together so well to create a lasting impression that should linger after reading the work. In this article, I will share my thoughts on the book.
Ashwini Pratham’s Legacy of the Lost Words is not just a novel; it is a mirror held up to the social realities that continue to shape lives in India, particularly in its rural heartlands. Ashwini delves into the enduring scars of caste, patriarchy, and societal expectations through the intertwined stories of Savitri, Dev, and Aanya, offering a poignant exploration of how these forces traumatise young people even today. The novel is a powerful reminder that while India has progressed in many ways, the shadows of tradition and hierarchy still loom large, dictating lives and stifling dreams.
At its core, the novel is a searing critique of the caste system and its devastating impact on love and individuality. Savitri and Dev’s relationship, set in 1950s Nandipur, is a heartbreaking example of how societal norms can crush even the purest forms of love. Dev, a man from a lower caste, and Savitri, a woman bound by familial honour, find solace in each other’s company under the banyan tree—a symbol of their love and rebellion. Yet, their love is doomed from the start, not because it lacks depth or sincerity, but because it defies the rigid hierarchies of their world. With its sprawling roots and sheltering canopy, the banyan tree becomes a metaphor for their relationship: enduring yet constrained, a sanctuary that cannot protect them from the storm of societal judgment.
The novel also highlights the patriarchal structures that dictate women’s lives. Savitri’s forced marriage to Rajesh, a man chosen by her family, is a stark reminder of how women’s desires are often sacrificed at the altar of familial duty. Her diary entries, filled with longing and despair, reveal the emotional toll of living a life dictated by others. In many ways, Aanya’s journey to uncover her grandmother’s past is a rebellion against these structures. As a modern woman, Aanya represents the freedom Savitri never had, yet she too grapples with the weight of societal expectations. Her quest to understand Savitri’s story is not just an act of love but also a challenge to the silence and submission that have defined her family for generations.
The symbolism in the novel is rich and layered, adding depth to its exploration of social realities. The banyan tree, as mentioned, is a central symbol, representing both the endurance and constraints of love. The diary, with its fragmented entries and unsent letters, symbolises the weight of silenced voices and buried truths. Once grand but now crumbling, the haveli mirrors the old societal norms, while its hidden rooms and locked boxes represent the secrets that families bury to maintain their honour. These symbols intertwine to create a narrative that is as much about the past as the present, reminding readers that the scars of tradition run deep and are not easily erased.
Savitri and Dev’s relationship, as revealed through diary entries and letters, is the novel’s emotional heart. Savitri’s writings capture the intensity of her love for Dev and the pain of their separation. Her description of their meetings under the banyan tree—“We met where roots embraced the earth and branches touched the sky—our sanctuary, our rebellion”—is both tender and tragic, a testament to the beauty and fragility of their love. Dev’s letters, discovered in the hidden room of his haveli, reveal a man torn between love and duty. His decision to leave Nandipur, sacrificing his happiness to protect Savitri, is a poignant reminder of people’s sacrifices in the name of love and honour. Together, their writings paint a picture of a love that is both timeless and tragic, a love that endures even in silence.
One of the most emotional aspects of the novel is the theme of redemption through third-generation efforts. Aanya’s journey to uncover her grandmother’s past is not just a quest for truth but also an act of healing. By giving voice to Savitri’s story, Aanya not only honours her grandmother’s legacy but also liberates herself from the weight of unspoken truths. Her decision to write Savitri’s story is a powerful act of redemption, breaking the cycle of silence and submission that has defined her family for generations. Through Aanya, the novel suggests that while the past cannot be changed, it can be understood and, in understanding, healed.
Ashwini Pratham’s writing style is both lyrical and evocative, capturing the beauty and pain of love with poetic precision. Her descriptions of Nandipur—the banyan tree, the haveli, the bustling village life—are vivid and immersive, transporting readers to a world that feels familiar and foreign. The use of diary entries and letters adds a layer of intimacy to the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeply personal level. The author’s ability to balance the emotional depth of the characters with the broader social and historical context is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. Her debut work is marked by authenticity and emotional honesty, making Legacy of the Lost Words a compelling and unforgettable read.
Legacy of the Lost Words offers a rich and rewarding experience for young readers looking to read a meaningful novel. It is a story that speaks to the heart, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience with sensitivity and depth. The novel’s exploration of social realities—caste, patriarchy, and the weight of tradition—is timely and timeless, offering a poignant reminder of the challenges many still face. At the same time, it is a story of hope and redemption, a testament to the power of love and the importance of reclaiming silenced voices.
In conclusion, Legacy of the Lost Words is a beautifully crafted novel that resonates deeply with the social realities of India. Through the intertwined lives of Savitri, Dev, and Aanya, Ashwini Pratham offers a discerning exploration of love, sacrifice, and resilience. The novel’s rich symbolism, emotional depth, and powerful themes make it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeply personal and universally resonant story. It is a celebration of the human spirit, a tribute to the strength of women, and a testament to the transformative power of love. For young readers, it is a reminder that while the past may shape us, it does not define us and that love, in all its forms, has the power to heal and transform.
I am sure you must be excited to read the novel already! You can get a copy from Amazon India right now – click here to get your copy from Amazon.
Review by Parakashtha for The Best Books