Book Review: The Triumph of Love by Shivdutt Sharma

BookReviews

Title: The Triumph of Love
Author: Shivdutt Sharma
Publisher: Yogi Impressions
Pages: 160
Price: Rs. 245
My Rating: 3.5/5

Blurb:
'A greatness in thy daughter's soul resides
That can transform herself and all around,
But must cross on stones of suffering to its goal.'
Sage Narad to Aswapati, father of Savitri
- Savitri, Book VI, Sri Aurobindo

Ancient India's legendary romance of Savitri and Satyavan has been told and retold through opera, ballet, on stage, on film and television, across continents. One of the best-loved tales of ancient India, it has continued to weave its magic on the Indian as well as the global psyche.

Unique among women in the Indian epics and scriptures, Savitri embodies not just the complete love for and commitment to her husband, which all epic heroines display, but matches that with the power of absolute will and action. Like Sita, Shakuntala and Draupadi, she is also a victim of circumstances; unlike them she does not seek help from without to free herself and her husband from a tragic fate.

Once she has decided to marry Satyavan, even with the dire foreknowledge of the catastrophic event, she does not regret or waver from her choice. In fact, she becomes determined to confront and challenge fate and bend it to her indomitable will.


What is perhaps unique to The Triumph of Love is the depth of its narrative that lends credence to the romance of Savitri and Satyavan, which has endeared itself to everyone down the ages, to this day.

Review:
The epic love of Savitri and Satyavan has been talked about since forever. When I was growing up, everyone said if you want to love your husband, do so like Savitri who took back her husband's life from 'Yamraj' himself. The story of this novel is more or less based on the same story and while reading it, it felt like a remake of the old one.

The story revolves around the two main characters, how they meet, their life together and love. The sad fact of his death and her persistence and struggle to get him back.

The characters of the story are beautifully written and woven together. The way scenes are depicted, you feel them come alive.

In terms of story, book and everything, it is evident author has put in extra efforts to make it perfect.
What I could not digest in the story is the certain weird instances, which just sort of happen. They seem acceptable in the old ages but now, they seem curious and little funny.

Overall, it is a rather fine read. And my rating is - 3.5/5.

You can grab your copy here.

The book was sent to me by Anuj Kumar, Kalamos Literary Services..

Hope you enjoy the book too.

Love and Cheers