4.5 Stars

I’ve written a super long review (and plan to get it published on a third-party site). This is a shorter version, so I’ll keep it in pointers. 

·       Read Mahabharata (critical/ complete edition) to enjoy Parva better. Don’t start with this book. It won’t be easy. 

·       There is no magic or fantasy. Most events/ incidents have a logical explanation or probable theory. 

·       The book doesn’t glorify anyone. Everyone has flaws, and it’s these flaws that come under the magnifying glass but without being twisted beyond recognition. 

·       A non-linear narration with multiple POVs. Plenty of flashbacks that switch from first-person to second to third to first. 

·       Much to unpack and discuss about Dharma, human weaknesses, power games, manipulation, body autonomy, control, family, relationships, war, etc. A great choice for book club discussions. 

·       Slow-paced as expected but possibly slower due to the English translation and formatting. 

·       Character arcs we cannot help but think about long after the book ends, especially Bhima, Draupadi, Arjuna, and Kunti. 

·       Sexuality is a strong theme and has many facets. Not everyone will like it but that’s exactly the point. 

·       A vivid portrayal of the dark/ smelly side of war and its aftermath. 

·       A doomsday-style ending that’s somehow fitting and aligns with the dark themes in the book. 

To summarize, Parva is an exploration of human fallacies using Mahabharata and its characters as the core framework. It is Mahabharata but it is much more too!