Perumal Murugan’s Pyre is a tale of forbidden love, originally published in Tamil in 2013 and translated into English by Aniruddhan Vasudevan in 2016. Despite not making the 2023 International Booker Prize shortlist, there are several reasons why you should still read this incredible book.

Firstly, Perumal Murugan is an accomplished author with a rich body of work to his name. He has written 10 novels, five collections of short stories and poems, as well as several non-fiction titles on language and literature. His works are known for their lyrical prose, vivid descriptions, and nuanced characterisation, making them a joy to read for anyone who appreciates great literature.

Secondly, the story of Pyre is both timely and timeless. Set in rural Tamil Nadu, the novel follows the lives of a young couple who fall in love despite the social and cultural barriers that stand in their way. Their love is forbidden and must be kept hidden from the prying eyes of their conservative society. This theme of forbidden love resonates across cultures and time periods, making the book a compelling read for anyone who has ever faced societal restrictions on who they can love and how they can express it.

Thirdly, Pyre is a testament to the power of literature in the face of adversity. Perumal Murugan’s own story of being hounded by right-wing activists in his hometown after the publication of his novel Maadhorubhagan (translated as One Part Woman) is both inspiring and heart-breaking. His decision to stage his own literary death in 2015 through a Facebook post, only to be resurrected later by a court judgment that declared his right to free expression, is a powerful testament to the role of literature in shaping society and standing up to oppressive forces.

Fourthly, Pyre is a beautifully crafted novel that is a pleasure to read. Aniruddhan Vasudevan’s translation does justice to the original Tamil text, capturing the lyrical quality of Murugan’s prose and bringing the characters and their world to life. The novel’s vivid descriptions of rural Tamil Nadu, its customs, traditions, and way of life, are a treat for anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating region of India.
Finally, reading Pyre is an act of solidarity with writers and artists who have faced persecution for expressing their views. Murugan’s story is not unique, and there are countless others like him who have been silenced by oppressive forces. By reading and sharing his work, we can help to amplify the voices of those who have been silenced and create a more inclusive and diverse world where everyone has the right to free expression.

In conclusion, while Pyre may not have made the International Booker Prize shortlist, it is still a must-read for anyone who loves great literature and believes in the power of stories to shape our world.(Mind Voice News)

Purchase Link : https://www.amazon.in/Pyre-Perumal-Murugan/dp/0143429019/ref=asc_df_0143429019/?tag=googleshopdes-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=397080052715&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8257726984108951232&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9061928&hvtargid=pla-448425244955&psc=1&ext_vrnc=hi

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