Grandmother`s Tale

Book Details

• Author: R.K. Narayan

• Publisher: Indian Thought Publications

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9788185986159

• Pages: 97

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.4 inches

About the Book

Grandmother's Tale by R.K. Narayan is a poignant narrative that chronicles the life of his great-grandmother, Bala, set during the later period of the East India Company. This short but captivating work offers a glimpse into the personal and cultural challenges of life in colonial India. The story follows Bala, who is married at the age of seven to Viswa, a boy of ten. However, after he departs on a pilgrimage, leaving her behind, she is left to face the difficulties of life without him.

As time passes with no word from Viswa, Bala grows into a determined young woman. Faced with relentless gossip from the community, she embarks on a long and arduous journey to find him. The narrative captures her resilience as she finds Viswa in Poona, convinces him to return with her to the South, and they eventually settle in Kumbakonam, where they raise five children. The book portrays Bala’s evolution from an innocent schoolgirl to a strong, determined woman and later to a traditional, obedient wife.

The story is not only a personal tale but also a reflection of the changing roles of women in Indian society. Narayan’s storytelling is at its finest, offering readers a vivid and touching account of life, love, and the enduring nature of relationships. The narrative is rich with cultural context and offers an insightful perspective on the complexities of Indian life in the 19th century.