The Politician by Devesh Verma

 In the newly independent India in Devesh Verma's novel The Politician, Ram Mohan is a daring and aspirational young man. North India is the setting for the book. Ram Mohan had a burning desire to enter politics, by whatever means necessary. The narrative opens with journalist Badri mourning the suicide death of his buddy Deena. He discovers a suicide letter written by Deena that mentions his father, Ram Mohan, in it. The early 1970s setting of the story provides readers with a glimpse into the politics of a newly independent India.

The story then goes back to show us how Ram Mohan evolved into the powerful man he is today. Ram Mohan was among the first to become highly educated (he later receives a PhD) and utilises his exceptional oratory skills to win over not just ladies but also the political leaders of the day. He obtains a teaching post among the upper class by using his exceptional diplomatic skills to keep everyone happy, and eventually regains his strength to begin a significant political career. His private life is also depicted here; his family is never treated with respect since they are always in a state of terror of him. While Ram Mohan struggled to establish himself in politics via diplomatic manoeuvres, his wife Kranti works to improve the educational system so that ladies can receive a formal education. Deena experienced his own difficulties as well. Additionally, the way Ram Mohan treats women and constantly expects physical favours from them exposes his false thinking. Deena is genuinely significant to us in this situation, and the fact that his suicide is still unclear at the conclusion of the novel suggests that there will be sequels. Author also explored Other characters in great detail.

To be quite honest, I had never read a book of this sort before, but I must admit that I really liked it. The maturity with which this novel was written was its strongest feature. Hard truths concerning the shifting political positions, patriarchal mind patterns, infidelity, caste prejudices, etc., without any sugarcoating. Whether it was Ram Mohan, Kanti, or Deena, the book's characters all made a case for being there. The conclusion was just as simple as the rest of the book. The book's flow was consistent from beginning to end. This one taught me a lot of things that I will always remember. I endorse this book for all readers.

Book Review By Biswajit Samal