Pokhran | Book Review

 Pokhran

Author: Uday Singh

Pages: 194

                ‘Pokhran’ by Uday Singh is a novel that takes place in Pokhran where nuclear testing was conducted. The story starts with the successful nuclear testing but there was some news that was not disclosed to the general public. During this testing there was nuclear fallout due to which many children born around that period were born with some sort of disability. Chaitanya’s father was very proud and happy of this successful nuclear testing but little did he know that his own son would be suffering due to this nuclear test. When Chaitanya’s mother went into labour the climate was conducive enough for her to be carried to the hospital so it was decided that the delivery would be done at their Pplace only. But due to some complications she could not survive and when Chaitanya’s father saw him he was very sad to his only son born with disability. It was kind of shock for him because no one in his family ever had any disability and during Chaitanya’s treatment there were some revelations made by the doctor which later on cost Chaitanya and his family a lot. To know about Chaitanya and his story read ‘Pokhran’.

My Thoughts:

                The plot was well written and how the author has set a fictional story in this real life event. We never know what the later results would have been from such a testing but there are multiple things that can go wrong like in this story. I must say the story is engaging and will surely make the readers curious to know what is going to happen next.

                The characters are well written and relatable. I liked Chaitanya’s mother even after being born in a small village she was really determined to do something in life and always did what she felt was right. Chaitanya’s father who always used to behave strictly with him but also wanted to see his son strong and never back out in any situation whatever the situation be. Chaitanya is one character where we get to see him how once he was a shy and reserved person who always used to doubt himself due to his disability and later his transformation to a confident and independent person was very inspiring to see.

                Language is simple and lucid and the narration is done beautifully. The pace of the story is also perfect which makes it a perfect read.

                The cover page and the title of the book are apt to the plot.       

                Overall, I must say that this was a very inspiring read and at time would also make the readers very emotional too. I would surely recommend it to all.

Rating: 5/5