Misplaced Heads | Book Review

Misplaced Heads

Author: Jayanthi Sankar

Pages: 489

 

                ‘Misplaced Heads’ by Jayanthi Sankar is a well researched historical fiction which gives us a glimpse of our rich cultural heritage. The book talks about the Devadasi system once highly revered position where parents used to donate girls to the temple who used to serve to the temple deity all their lives. We also get to see the plight of the Devadasis during the medieval era as they were only familiar to one thing and that was their pure dedication and devotion towards their deity. The book moves back and forth through various timelines such as the 100 BC, Early Medieval Era, and to the present day.

                We also get to see how unbiased systems used to be followed while appointment of various temple vacancies wherein no preferences were given and appointment used to be done on pure talent of a person.  We also get to see the history of the dance and how it was introduced to the masses and renamed as Bharat Natyam and why it was renamed is discussed in detail. This book is a beautiful amalgamation of past and the present to know more read ‘Misplaced Heads’.

My Thoughts:

                The plot is unique and brings us close to our cultural heritage and tries to show us the realities and the struggle that particular sections of the society had to go through for where we are today. The story moves in the form of dialogues which gives it a personal touch to the story. At first when I started reading the book it was a bit confusing when the story went back and forth in different timelines but later it made total sense.

                Characters are well developed and relatable. There are many characters in the book each of them have their own story and struggles that they are dealing with and also trying to overcome. Each of these characters gives the story a deep meaning. Author has dealt with various social issues such as patriarchy that came along with colonialism before which women were given equal importance and respected in all aspects.

                Language is simple and lucid. I liked how the author has included footnotes for particular words which otherwise the readers will have to go and take time to search. The book cover is beautiful and gives us a brief idea about the plot of the book. The title of the book is also interesting and will surely make the readers eager to know what the story is about.

                Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and would surely recommend it to someone who loves reading historical books.

Rating: 5/5