Gyan Chaturvedi talks about 'Alipura,' the English translation of his novel, 'Baramasi'. 'Baramasi' is part of the Bundelkhand trilogy.
Book Description:
The novel is set in village Alipura, Jhansi district in the late 1960s. The Dube family – widowed mother, four sons and a daughter – are inspired by their dreams. Their immediate aspiration is to find a husband for Binnoo, the only daughter of the house. But the boys have dreams as well – of wealth, political power, dacoity, romance, or even just passing the intermediate exam. A perennial bestseller since its Hindi publication (as Baramasi) in 1999, Alipura is beloved for its indelible characters, rambunctious plot, the way in which it leavens tragedy with humour and, above all, for its sense of place. With a wit both savage and tender, sparkling none but with affection for all, Gyan Chaturvedi gives a portrait of a family, an era and a region – Bundelkhand.
About the Author and Translator:
Dr. Gyan Chaturvedi is one of Hindi’s most acclaimed and best-loved contemporary novelists, known in particular for his satirical take on life. A cardiologist and internal medicine specialist by profession, he is also a popular columnist and has written scripts for film and television. Dr Chaturvedi was awarded the Padma Shri in 2015.
Salim Yusufji was a schoolteacher for fifteen years and an editor with Navayana. He is the editor of Ambedkar: The Attendant Details, a selection of reminiscences by people in close proximity to B R Ambedkar. He co-edited Battling for India: A Citizen’s Reader.
This series is hosted by Yoshita Srivastava, literature collective associate at Belongg. She believes inclusive representation is essential for a better future — empathy being key in dismantling prejudice. She is interested in exploring intersections of gender, sexuality, identity and culture studies, and has previously worked at media and social sector organizations.