Nectar In A Sieve (Book Review) by R.G. Prarthana

"Nectar In A Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya is an Indian classic that revolves around a family in South India. Rukmani, the narrator, was forced to marry a poor tenant farmer when she was just 12 years old. She tells the reader the story of courage and determination. Despite her disappointments, Rukmani works side by side with her loving husband to make a living and raise their children.

Markandaya is one of the greatest Indian writers known for both their subject matter and excellent literary style. The novel mainly focuses on the struggles of tenant farmers and the clash between the East and the West. The writer gives an ominous aura to industrialization and empathizes with the helpless villagers. Interestingly, Markandaya doesn't create a singular villain in the story. The factory becomes the main antagonist, gradually swallowing up the village and destroying its peace and moral values. However, the writer doesn't portray the villagers as entirely innocent. At times, she mocks their traditional concepts and social norms, particularly in relation to gender issues. She makes efforts to highlight the brutality of these norms.

As you continue reading the book, you will be amazed by how the writer presents the metaphor of the title throughout the novel. She depicts the struggles of the characters as they strive to protect the "nectar" they have and how quickly they lose it. If you haven't read it yet, you should definitely give it a try!