Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni- Book review.

I had the pleasure of completing this book today and when I did I had goosebumps on my hands. The book leaves you with immense thoughts and questions about the decisions that we take during our lifetime which could alter the life of not only us by many around.

The plot starts with Draupadi, daughter of King Drupada born from fire where priests declare that she would play a major role in changing the destiny. She lives her childhood waiting for the day but when she learns that she would have five husbands, her life changes.

This story of Panchali (the name she is most known for) tells us about the grief, pain that she endured during her lifetime and the hatred that she had for the Kauravas who had tried to disrobe her when her husband had lost her in a gambling game. It narrates the voice of a strong woman who has sacrificed her wealth, her luxury and even her children when she sets off for a life in forest to support her husband’s during the exile of 13 years. 

Even after the revenge for her humiliation was taken during the Kurukshetra war, she felt remorse for all the lives that was sacrificed for her actions. This book also talks about her inner deep passions and her secret love towards Karna, her husband’s enemy(in-relation their elder brother) and how sacred her bond with Krishna.

The story ends with Panchali’s death in the mountains where she sees Krishna in her last moments and Karna extending his hands to take her to heaven.

Such a beautiful narrative of the epic tale which leaves the questions in our mind— if Draupadi had married Karna will the Kurukshetra happen? If only she could go back in time.... many lives could have been saved.