MHAAI

📘 Book Details

• Author: Mahadev More

• Publisher: Mehta Publishing House

• Language: Marathi

• Edition: 2nd Edition

• Year of Publication: December 2023

• ISBN: 9789357201391

• Pages: 176

• Cover: Paperback

• Category: Short Stories

📝 About The Book

‘Mast Kalandar’ by Mahadev More is a poignant collection of Marathi short stories that delve into the raw realities of rural life, steeped in tradition, emotion, and social complexity. Each story paints a vivid picture of village culture—its customs, poverty, beliefs, and the vulnerability of its women.

In the titular story ‘Mast Kalandar’, we witness a moving love story between a poor girl, once baking bread in a hotel and later working on a tobacco plantation, and a man who wants to marry her despite opposition from her family. ‘Bali’ unveils the horrific transition from animal sacrifices to a shocking human sacrifice under the guise of religious vows.

‘Galat Hai Loot Liya’ explores deceit and betrayal, where a writer disappears after being sponsored to publish his work—only for his songs to echo from across the border on a Pakistani radio station. ‘Fada’ captures the dark side of lust and exploitation, where Diwanji's greedy eyes fall upon Shyari, turning her life upside down.

And in the story ‘Mhai’, the spectacle of a village feast, the bustling kitchen, and the rituals around Mhai’s worship are beautifully narrated, offering a window into the joys and sorrows of rural communities.

This anthology stands out for its authentic storytelling, highlighting the emotional struggles, cultural richness, and societal challenges faced by rural Maharashtra. Mahadev More masterfully presents social commentary wrapped in deeply engaging narratives, making this collection a must-read for lovers of Marathi literature.