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A review by _askthebookbug
The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi
5.0
| Book Review | The Henna Artist.
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Henna has always been associated with opportune events which is probably why henna artists in our country have a very important role to play. I find it fascinating, the manner in which their hands glide over ours, unfurling intricate and exquisite designs that soothes us almost instantly. The fragrance of freshly ground henna leaves is something that I thoroughly enjoy. I had also heard of many pleasure women seeking henna designs to be drawn on their bodies which makes them sound and seem exotic. It was only understandable that I'd come to find this title fascinating and not only did I enjoy the richness of the story but also gathered considerable amount of knowledge about herbalists and henna artists in general.
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Set in the1950s in Jaipur, the protagonist is a woman in her thirties named Lakshmi who is known for her excellent henna artistry and is also sought out for being a good herbalist. Catering to women of upper castes, including Maharanis and the like, Lakshmi lives a comfortable life. With her house being under construction, she can barely contain her excitement of fulfilling her dream. At seventeen, she escapes from her abusive husband and later sets up a new life in Jaipur that took years of hardwork. Just when she thinks she can finally lead a relaxed life, her ex-husband tracks her down but he's not alone. Radha, a thirteen year old girl has now come to seek her sister after the death of their parents. It is only then that the girls learn of each other's existence. Soon, the carefully built life of Lakshmi comes tumbling down.
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There's a clear shift in dynamics between the rich and the poor and to see the effect that Lakshmi had on few of the rich women was a treat. I have always enjoyed novels with strong female protagonists and The Henna Artist is one such brilliant book. She had a fantastic presence of mind, often playing her cards right which served very critical in holding up her place in the society. It was effortless to like her and it lasted throughout the story in spite of the mistakes she committed.
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It was particularly heartwarming to see her relationship with Malik, her assitant who could have been of any age between seven to ten. There's a clear portrayal of difference that exists between many social classes, issues that are still plaguing the society, the constant carefulness with which women had to carry themselves and many other aspects. Apart from being a very invigorating read, I loved witnessing the evolvement of few characters, making us understand that people do have the ability to change. It goes without saying that this book is rich in culture, painting a vivid image of India back in the olden days. The description is crisp making it easier for the readers to picture even the tiniest of details. The Henna Artist is a fairly simple book but it carries a certain amount of importance, be it in the manner in which women were always capable of being self sufficient or how herbalists played a crucial role as healers. If you're looking for a book that's both easy as well as interesting, something unconventional, then this one's for you.
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Rating - 4.6/5.
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Henna has always been associated with opportune events which is probably why henna artists in our country have a very important role to play. I find it fascinating, the manner in which their hands glide over ours, unfurling intricate and exquisite designs that soothes us almost instantly. The fragrance of freshly ground henna leaves is something that I thoroughly enjoy. I had also heard of many pleasure women seeking henna designs to be drawn on their bodies which makes them sound and seem exotic. It was only understandable that I'd come to find this title fascinating and not only did I enjoy the richness of the story but also gathered considerable amount of knowledge about herbalists and henna artists in general.
•
Set in the1950s in Jaipur, the protagonist is a woman in her thirties named Lakshmi who is known for her excellent henna artistry and is also sought out for being a good herbalist. Catering to women of upper castes, including Maharanis and the like, Lakshmi lives a comfortable life. With her house being under construction, she can barely contain her excitement of fulfilling her dream. At seventeen, she escapes from her abusive husband and later sets up a new life in Jaipur that took years of hardwork. Just when she thinks she can finally lead a relaxed life, her ex-husband tracks her down but he's not alone. Radha, a thirteen year old girl has now come to seek her sister after the death of their parents. It is only then that the girls learn of each other's existence. Soon, the carefully built life of Lakshmi comes tumbling down.
•
There's a clear shift in dynamics between the rich and the poor and to see the effect that Lakshmi had on few of the rich women was a treat. I have always enjoyed novels with strong female protagonists and The Henna Artist is one such brilliant book. She had a fantastic presence of mind, often playing her cards right which served very critical in holding up her place in the society. It was effortless to like her and it lasted throughout the story in spite of the mistakes she committed.
•
It was particularly heartwarming to see her relationship with Malik, her assitant who could have been of any age between seven to ten. There's a clear portrayal of difference that exists between many social classes, issues that are still plaguing the society, the constant carefulness with which women had to carry themselves and many other aspects. Apart from being a very invigorating read, I loved witnessing the evolvement of few characters, making us understand that people do have the ability to change. It goes without saying that this book is rich in culture, painting a vivid image of India back in the olden days. The description is crisp making it easier for the readers to picture even the tiniest of details. The Henna Artist is a fairly simple book but it carries a certain amount of importance, be it in the manner in which women were always capable of being self sufficient or how herbalists played a crucial role as healers. If you're looking for a book that's both easy as well as interesting, something unconventional, then this one's for you.
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Rating - 4.6/5.