The Romance of Roopmati and Baz Bahadur
Malathi Ramachandran
Niyogi Books, Rs 395
Mandu is a perfect set up of historical tale and fiction as perceived by author Malathi Ramachandran. The book is a glimmering imagination and magnificence materialised on paper. As an author, Malathi has been successful in portraying the historical city of Mandu—situated in the Malwa region—with all its grandeur and lifestyle. The architecture of forts, the greenery of the city, river Narmada, and the background of the story have been very well described in the book.
Set in 16th century India, this novel is inspired by the legend of the young sultan, Baz Bahadur, and the beautiful peasant girl, Roopmati, who works as musicians in his court. Her passion for music attracts Baz Bahadur and he falls in love with her, going against the will of his mother and wife. But, far away, in Agra, Mughal emperor Akbar is planning his war campaigns and Mandu has been pinned on his map as a kingdom to be captured.
Will Baz be able to protect his capital, and more importantly, the woman he loves, from the enemy forces?
The author has beautifully painted this love story and brought famous Indian folk tales to life, as well as the independent character of Roopmati. Baz Bahadur and Roopmati’s romance stands the test of time and enemies abound, and that’s quite interesting and inspiring.
With this book, Malathi has delivered a masterpiece. The author has swirled various colours and tinges of love, romance, exuberance and shadiness attached to it without any cease. Roopmati’s passion and aura made Baz Bahadur think out of his wits. Overcoming all the plots of jealousy, revenge and regret, they come out strong in the most unexpected of ways especially when Akbar is also pacified with Roopmati’s talent.
The author has done a great job in character development of both the protagonist. Roopmati and Baz Bahadur and their twisted tale of romance made the plot intriguing enough to let the readers look for more. The story has been very well laid out with events unfolding in line with the plot. It is well paced and there is no rush. The language of the book is lucid and simple. The cover of the book is equally beautiful.
There were some parts that could’ve been detailed better. There is, for instance, a mention of a dwarf and a eunuch; the description seems to be very stereotypical. But it’s a lacuna that can—and should—be ignored for the otherwise gem of a book The Romance of Roopmati and Baz Bahadur is. With prose as stunning as the story itself, the author paints an epoch often told but scarcely written in detail. Highly recommended for historical, love and fictional story lovers.
