Sakuntala is a timeless Odia novel written by Santanu Kumar Acharya and published in 1980. The novel is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of rural Odisha. It tells the story of Sakuntala, a young woman who struggles to find her place in a society that is bound by tradition and patriarchy.
The novel opens with Sakuntala, a beautiful and intelligent young woman, living with her parents in a small village in Odisha. Despite her intelligence and talents, Sakuntala is forced to conform to societal expectations and marry a man chosen by her family. Her husband, Braja, is a wealthy landowner who is more interested in his own pleasures than in his wife’s well-being.
As Sakuntala tries to navigate her marriage and find her own identity, she meets Gobinda, a charming and educated man who is also struggling against societal norms. The two form a deep connection and soon fall in love, despite the societal consequences of their relationship.
As their love story unfolds, Sakuntala and Gobinda must navigate the challenges of their society, including the disapproval of their families and the gossip of the village. However, their love for each other is strong, and they are determined to fight for their happiness.
The novel is beautifully written, with vivid descriptions of the Odisha countryside and richly drawn characters. Santanu Kumar Acharya captures the complexities of rural life in Odisha, as well as the struggles faced by women in a society that values tradition over individual freedom.
One of the most compelling aspects of Sakuntala is the way in which it explores the theme of women’s empowerment. Sakuntala is a strong and determined protagonist who refuses to be defined by the constraints placed upon her by society. She fights for her own happiness and refuses to be a victim of circumstances, even when faced with overwhelming odds.
Through Sakuntala’s story, Santanu Kumar Acharya challenges the reader to rethink traditional gender roles and consider the possibilities for women in a changing society. The novel is a powerful reminder of the importance of women’s voices and agency, and a celebration of the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity.
Sakuntala is a must-read for anyone interested in Odia literature, women’s empowerment, or just a good old-fashioned love story. It is a novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
Books Info
| Books name | Sakuntala/ଶକୁନ୍ତଳା |
| Author | Santanu Kumar Acharya |
| No Of pages | 431 |
| Publisher | Agraduta |
| Publication | 1980 |
| Printed At | Swaraj Press |
| Distributor | NA |