[.ca] Kanthapura (ISBN 0811201686)

Visit to Kanthapura:
Raja Rao's novel throws us into the depths of an Indian village, early 20th century. Coinciding with Ghandi's trek to the sea to make salt, in defiance of British authority, "Kanthapura" exemplifies the struggle of ordinary Indian villagers under British rule. Rao is a masteful story teller and in this work one can see, hear, taste and smell the the cultural variety and richness of India. My only criticism is that I would have liked to see a glossary, maybe at the end of the book, because too many of the terms were unfamiliar to me. I would definetely recommend this novel to my friends, or anyone who has an interest in Indian life and thought; it was excellent.

The creation of the myth of The Mahatma:
This novel , if not anything else, clearly explains how the myth of Gandhi was created, not by Gandhiji himself but by his ardent followers who consciously (and deliberately) made a myth out of Gandhi. The insatnce of Jayramacharya is a very good example. We also get to know that Gandhi was considered a "avatar" during his lifetime. If someone wants to study the effects of myths on human society this novel is a must for him coz, the myth of Gandhi caused a event unprecedented in world history (even today) -- a non - violent struggle for independence .... and ulitimately ...success! This is not to denounce Gandhi, rather is a tribute to the man who could lead 400 million people into non-violent struggle, who had the moral authority to call back his own struggle if it went violent (even if it was in a critical stage). I would say , a must also for those who wonder and want to know about the miracle of indian-freedom-struggle.