Name: The Palace of Illusions
Author: Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
ISBN: 978-0-330-45853-5
Genre: Fiction
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We have heard the tales of warriors. Often, we are told and reminded how great they were, fought their own family for the right. They were the true warriors who never let themselves down. Epics and historical tales depict the rage, the fierceness, strength and will power of the great men. But, what about the women? The ones which played a great role, staying behind the curtain. We never thought to take a glance into their lives. Maybe, we did think about it but never bothered. Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, the very famous author of all the time, took an insight for the same. A beautiful book depicting the life of Panchaali through-out The Mahabharata.
Summary:
Born out of fire, Princess Draupadi, daughter of King Drupada of Panchal and thus also named as Panchaali. Fierce and fearless, always standing out for herself. She was not interested in doing the most things which the dowagers did, she wished to learn what his brother did.
She was married to the sons of Pandu – the five Pandavas. From having the most luxurious room in her own palace to residing in a hut on floor. She faced a lot of hardships. Her husbands lost her in the game of dice and she was de-moralized during the presence of the Kauravas.
Thus, rage swelled out in Panchaali’s eyes and she pushed her husbands to have a war with them. The great Mahabharata took place this way.
For most amazing plot lines and the amazing stories you might have never heard about, you must read the book once! To leave you with an awe let me ask you a few questions.
– Draupadi secretly desired other man, do you know who he was?
– Did you know Krishna was best friend to Draupadi?
If not, you are totally missing out. Find out what Palace of Illusions was, how beautifully it was built and what magic was hidden inside it by reading the legendary book.
~> What I like about this book?
The way we are born leaves out a spot on us. Inspite of trying the whole time there are few things which we cannot change about ourselves. Everything happens for a reason, sometimes we are the reason for everything to happen but it was meant to happen. So, don’t look at the past and keep moving on trying to make your best move.
~> Writing Style:
Author has written in a very detailed manner. You will find fine details even about the walls, the clothes, feelings, even the doors. If you quickly run an eye, you are not going to get the plot. Read it in the best presence of your mind.
~> What to question about the book?
There are many facts which are very new and our minds cannot just get through it. Well, we need not run through scriptures and try to find facts and maybe just sit here and enjoy the book as it is.
Well, I hope you enjoyed it! If you did, please share your views about it. Have a great day!
~Krupali
Musing Of Souls 