“Sirf ehsaas hai ye rooh se mehsoos karo..Pyaar ko pyaar hi rahne do koi naam na do”
#blurb:Arif is the son of a sub-inspector in Patna. His once prosperous landowning family has slipped low down the class ladder. Arif ’s sole ambition in life is to crack the civil service examination and become an IAS officer. He believes this will restore the family’s fortunes and works hard at his studies. Until his first glimpse of Sumitra, a voluptuous long-haired beauty. Married, Hindu and several years older than him, she is wrong for him in every way. It is the beginning of an infatuation that will consume his life.
Author: Abdullah Khan
Publisher: Juggernaut
Pages: 296
I would like to thank the author for providing me with the review copy.
My review: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
The story is about a boy named Arif living in Patna with his family. He comes from a lower middle class background and dreams to become an IAS officer. He wishes to earn respect in the society and make his parents proud. Arif is a very dedicated student but his life falls onto a different track when he meets Sumitra, a married Hindu woman and a mother of two. Things start to spiral when a forbidden love begins to bloom between them. Though Arif knows that the repercussions can be catastrophic which will bring nothing but shame to his family yet he cannot abstain himself from falling for her. In spite of being aware of the communal disturbances which can occur if their affair comes into light he continues meeting Sumitra secretly. But what will happen if their family finds out? Will Arif and Sumitra finally be together?
The book is set during the time when communal riots are at its peak. Islamophobia is raging throughout the country and the intolerance towards Muslims is increasing day by day. Different historical events are mentioned which questions the human race. Khan family goes through a huge loss because of the prejudice against the minority community which shatters them completely. Adding to that grief is Arif’s inability to clear the civil service exam. But he is ready to try once again. Will he succeed this time?
The book is a heart wrenching tale from dream to destiny with a gripping storyline and admirable characters. The language is easy and understandable and keeps you hooked till the end. It explores various taboos existing in our society and highlights the hostility towards Muslims.The writing style is noticeable for its flawless ease, clarity and refinement. The characters are relatable inspired from those who we have met at some point in our lives. My most loved character is that of Arif, a boy who despite of several hurdles doesn’t lose hope. His relationship with his family and friends is warm and pleasant. The thought privoking and heart-warming narration along with the mention of Urdu poems spellbinds the readers and makes you question today’s reality. I would recommend this book to everyone out there. If you want to know more about Arif and the state of communal tension in the late 20th century don’t forget to give this book a read.
Bong Reader 