Micro review: Yasodhara: A Novel About the Buddha’s Wife
TNN | Nov 21, 2018, 16:26 ISTHighlights
Title: Yasodhara: A Novel About the Buddha’s WifeAuthor: Vanessa R. SassonGenre: Historical FictionPublisher: Speaking Tiger PublishingPrice: 399 INRPages: 320 pages
Photo: Speaking Tiger PublishingWith all the insightful and beautiful books on Buddha and his amazing spiritual journey, the wife he left behind is often forgotten. Those familiar with Buddha's story might have a little idea of what she endured in his absence, but those unfamiliar with his tale, will find this novel a good way to understand the societal/social implications of his decisions during that time and the larger consequences to the kingdom he abandoned.
Despite the history one learns, Sasson's Yasodhara seeks to tell a more personal tale. The story is told from Yasodhara's perspective and the reader is taken through all her highs and lows of her married life with the prince who would one day become Buddha. From her perspective, we see what marriage to such a complex yet the most simple person was like. Though our protagonist Yashodhara was left behind when her husband legendarily obtained enlightenment, her own journey isn't one without significance.
The author is a Professor of Religious Studies who has written on Buddhism before. This is her first tryst with fiction, but it is clear that the book is thoroughly researched. The book is touching and thoughtful, offering us a wonderful window to the world of Yashodhara, and her spiritual and intellectual evolution after being abandoned by Prince Siddhartha. A historical fiction combined with a mythological fervour, Sasson's story is one of perseverance, love, and an astute account of a woman neglected by history and culture.
Despite the history one learns, Sasson's Yasodhara seeks to tell a more personal tale. The story is told from Yasodhara's perspective and the reader is taken through all her highs and lows of her married life with the prince who would one day become Buddha. From her perspective, we see what marriage to such a complex yet the most simple person was like. Though our protagonist Yashodhara was left behind when her husband legendarily obtained enlightenment, her own journey isn't one without significance.
The author is a Professor of Religious Studies who has written on Buddhism before. This is her first tryst with fiction, but it is clear that the book is thoroughly researched. The book is touching and thoughtful, offering us a wonderful window to the world of Yashodhara, and her spiritual and intellectual evolution after being abandoned by Prince Siddhartha. A historical fiction combined with a mythological fervour, Sasson's story is one of perseverance, love, and an astute account of a woman neglected by history and culture.
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