Review of Book : 'Benares- a journey within' by Roli Jindal

Review of Book : 'Benares- a journey within' by Roli Jindal

FOR THE LOVE OF MY CITY-

'Benares- a journey within' by Roli Jindal, is a multi-hued compilation of recollections and celebrations, of memories and experiences, and of facts and interpretations tinged with the writer's surplus love and reverence for her hometown. The book's nonlinear narrative is free flowing, humorous and engaging. Every page tells a story in itself...complete and insightful. From the world famous benarsi sari, delectable sweets and 'chaat', the drool worthy 'paan', the renowned temples, the mighty river Ganga and its majestic ghats, the quartet of universities and home to the famous Benares Hindu University ( B.H.U.), Benares has been unfolded vividly and glowingly by the writer. To give her credit, she also mentions the sore points plaguing the city like river pollution, staggering traffic jams, messy and chaotic infrastructure and deplorable power supply but none of which diminish the city's inherent charm in any manner. 

The essence and ethos of a vibrant and pulsating city like Benares, with all its glory and glitches, has been captured adroitly via personal anecdotes, hear-says and the vast sea of information and perspective provided by family members living in here for generations. Unlike other celebrated books on Benares this one focuses more on the daily routine, mores, beliefs and practices of an average Benarsi and less on the mythical and abstract aspects, probably because it's under the scanner of a true blue benarsi and not some random foreigner donning quixotic glares. This is exactly where the book scores; an insider's view and perspective as opposed to an outsider's jaundiced viewpoint is almost always more authentic and appealing.

 As a fellow native, I thoroughly relished this kaleidoscopic tour of Kashi and I am hopeful that every reader will follow suit. It's a journey into the heart of a city which is an embodiment of Hindu tradition and culture. Trust me, it'll be a fascinating ride, one you won't regret taking.