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Sarasvatichandra #1-4
Saraswatichandra
Saraswatichandra is a Gujarati novel by Govardhanram Madhavaram Tripathi set in set in 19th-century feudalism in India, an author of early twentieth century from Gujarat, India. It is a widely read piece of Gujarati literature.
The supernovel was written over a period of 15 years, with the first volume being published in 1887 and the fourth one in 1902.
The focus of the novel is on two Gujarati Brahmin families. The family of Lakshminandan is settled in Bombay, and is very wealthy. Saraswatichandra, the brilliant scholar-to-be, is born to Lakshminandan and Chandralakshmi. He has a dazzling career to look forward to as he is steeped in Sanskrit and English classics, is a barrister by qualification and has tried his hand successfully at his father's business. The other family is that of Vidyachatur, the highly knowledgeable prime minister of the court of King Maniraj of kingdom of Ratnanagari. To him and his wife, Gunasundari, the lady of tremendous qualities, are born two daughters, Kumudsundari (the elder) and Kusumsundari. Saraswatichandra's mother dies, and Lakshminandan remarries. The step-mother, Guman, is a scheming woman and she treats her step-son with suspicion and dislike. Meanwhile, Saraswatichandra and Kumudsundari are engaged to be married, subsequent to which they exchange letters and fall in love without having seen each other; he, charmed with Kumud's tenderness and similar likes and she, taken in by his vast knowledge and excellent qualities.
Things reach a head in Saraswatichandra's home when he realizes that even his father suspects him of having an interest only in the family wealth and he decides to renounce his home. His best friend, Chandrakant, tries his best to prevent his friend from carrying out this terrible vow. But Saraswatichandra is not amenable to argument, and he leaves, thus not only renouncing home and wealth, but also leaving young Kumud in the lurch. He proceeds by sea to Suvarnapur. By the time he reaches there, Kumud has already been married off to Pramad-dhan, the wayward son of Buddhidhan, the man who is slated to become prime minister of Suvarnapur.
And thus, we come to the third family. Buddhidhan is a Bania (vaaNiyaa) and has a sharp intelligence and political sense, by which he manages to overturn the reign of Suvarnapur's ruler, Jadsinh, and his administrators, Dushtrai and Shathrai. His own Rajput friend, Bhoopsinh, becomes king and Buddhidhan, his prime minister. Saraswatichandra stays at Buddhidhan's place calling himself Navinchandra, and watches all this political activity with interest. Inevitably, he comes into contact a few times with Kumud, the daughter-in-law of the house. Love for each other ignites again, and a lowly companion of the daughter of the house takes advantage of this and incites Pramad-dhan against his wife.
On the day Buddhidhan gets the prime minister's post, Saraswatichandra leaves his house due to the tensions that contact with Kumud is causing them both and leaves without a destination in mind. Meanwhile, Kumud is also on her way in a palanquin and accompanied by guards, to see her mother in Manoharpuri. Saraswatichandra's is attacked by bandits and they leave him injured in a forest. An attack on Kumud is also planned by the bandits. Kumud's grandfather, Maanchatur, manage to foil the bandits' plans, capture their leader, but then, Kumud, fearing shame and infamy, jumps into the Subhadra river. Everybody assumes her dead.
Saraswatichandra, meanwhile, is rescued by a group of ascetics and taken to their ashram on the nearby mountains of Sundargiri. Here, Saraswatichandra impresses the head monk, Vishnudas, by his breadth of knowledge and eventually makes him name him as his successor to the post of head monk. Kumud also survives and her unconscious body is caught by a lady ascetic, Chandraavali. This group takes Kumud to Vishnudas' ashram and both she and Saraswatichandra come to know of each other's presence there.
The ashram ascetics realize the facts of the past life of these two, and try their best to reunite them. In this attempt, they take them both to an isolated cave on the peak of Chiranjeevshrung. Here, spending four days and nights together, they undergo a mystical experience and they realise their goal of life.
Ratnanagari's police and detectives find out where Saraswatichandra and Kumud are, and eventually, his entire family talk to Vishnudas about getting the two 'back into the world', and convince the two about the same. However, there is no consensus on the marriage of Kumud to Saraswatichandra. Kumud on the other hand tries to convince saras to marry Kusum (kumud's sister).
The story ends with Saraswatichandra marrying Kusum.
This is the plot of the novel described in the briefest possible manner, without conveying even an iota of the emotions, the tension, the idealism of some characters and the pragmatism of others, the sheer vicissitudes of life in these three families after Saras...
The supernovel was written over a period of 15 years, with the first volume being published in 1887 and the fourth one in 1902.
The focus of the novel is on two Gujarati Brahmin families. The family of Lakshminandan is settled in Bombay, and is very wealthy. Saraswatichandra, the brilliant scholar-to-be, is born to Lakshminandan and Chandralakshmi. He has a dazzling career to look forward to as he is steeped in Sanskrit and English classics, is a barrister by qualification and has tried his hand successfully at his father's business. The other family is that of Vidyachatur, the highly knowledgeable prime minister of the court of King Maniraj of kingdom of Ratnanagari. To him and his wife, Gunasundari, the lady of tremendous qualities, are born two daughters, Kumudsundari (the elder) and Kusumsundari. Saraswatichandra's mother dies, and Lakshminandan remarries. The step-mother, Guman, is a scheming woman and she treats her step-son with suspicion and dislike. Meanwhile, Saraswatichandra and Kumudsundari are engaged to be married, subsequent to which they exchange letters and fall in love without having seen each other; he, charmed with Kumud's tenderness and similar likes and she, taken in by his vast knowledge and excellent qualities.
Things reach a head in Saraswatichandra's home when he realizes that even his father suspects him of having an interest only in the family wealth and he decides to renounce his home. His best friend, Chandrakant, tries his best to prevent his friend from carrying out this terrible vow. But Saraswatichandra is not amenable to argument, and he leaves, thus not only renouncing home and wealth, but also leaving young Kumud in the lurch. He proceeds by sea to Suvarnapur. By the time he reaches there, Kumud has already been married off to Pramad-dhan, the wayward son of Buddhidhan, the man who is slated to become prime minister of Suvarnapur.
And thus, we come to the third family. Buddhidhan is a Bania (vaaNiyaa) and has a sharp intelligence and political sense, by which he manages to overturn the reign of Suvarnapur's ruler, Jadsinh, and his administrators, Dushtrai and Shathrai. His own Rajput friend, Bhoopsinh, becomes king and Buddhidhan, his prime minister. Saraswatichandra stays at Buddhidhan's place calling himself Navinchandra, and watches all this political activity with interest. Inevitably, he comes into contact a few times with Kumud, the daughter-in-law of the house. Love for each other ignites again, and a lowly companion of the daughter of the house takes advantage of this and incites Pramad-dhan against his wife.
On the day Buddhidhan gets the prime minister's post, Saraswatichandra leaves his house due to the tensions that contact with Kumud is causing them both and leaves without a destination in mind. Meanwhile, Kumud is also on her way in a palanquin and accompanied by guards, to see her mother in Manoharpuri. Saraswatichandra's is attacked by bandits and they leave him injured in a forest. An attack on Kumud is also planned by the bandits. Kumud's grandfather, Maanchatur, manage to foil the bandits' plans, capture their leader, but then, Kumud, fearing shame and infamy, jumps into the Subhadra river. Everybody assumes her dead.
Saraswatichandra, meanwhile, is rescued by a group of ascetics and taken to their ashram on the nearby mountains of Sundargiri. Here, Saraswatichandra impresses the head monk, Vishnudas, by his breadth of knowledge and eventually makes him name him as his successor to the post of head monk. Kumud also survives and her unconscious body is caught by a lady ascetic, Chandraavali. This group takes Kumud to Vishnudas' ashram and both she and Saraswatichandra come to know of each other's presence there.
The ashram ascetics realize the facts of the past life of these two, and try their best to reunite them. In this attempt, they take them both to an isolated cave on the peak of Chiranjeevshrung. Here, spending four days and nights together, they undergo a mystical experience and they realise their goal of life.
Ratnanagari's police and detectives find out where Saraswatichandra and Kumud are, and eventually, his entire family talk to Vishnudas about getting the two 'back into the world', and convince the two about the same. However, there is no consensus on the marriage of Kumud to Saraswatichandra. Kumud on the other hand tries to convince saras to marry Kusum (kumud's sister).
The story ends with Saraswatichandra marrying Kusum.
This is the plot of the novel described in the briefest possible manner, without conveying even an iota of the emotions, the tension, the idealism of some characters and the pragmatism of others, the sheer vicissitudes of life in these three families after Saras...
Hardcover
First published January 1, 1887
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 9, 2021
A torture to the senses
Set in 19th-century India, it is acclaimed as one of the masterpieces of Gujarati literature. The novel was written over a period of 15 years, with the first volume being published in 1887 and the fourth one in 1901. Spanned about in 2000 pages, the novel was divided into four parts. Thankfully Sahitya Akademi has published an abridged version translated in English by Vinod Meghani
The plot is weak and confusing. To me the hero Saraswatichandra comes across as a weakling scared to be responsible. Time and again he leans on others to help him out without any shame and at the same time take advantage of the situation. The portrayal of women in the book is shocking. The author makes feeble attempt to cloak hero’s utter lethargy and lack of purpose with nationalism and lofty ideals. It is surprising that a mediocre novel written with so much bias and is being hailed as a classic.
Set in 19th-century India, it is acclaimed as one of the masterpieces of Gujarati literature. The novel was written over a period of 15 years, with the first volume being published in 1887 and the fourth one in 1901. Spanned about in 2000 pages, the novel was divided into four parts. Thankfully Sahitya Akademi has published an abridged version translated in English by Vinod Meghani
The plot is weak and confusing. To me the hero Saraswatichandra comes across as a weakling scared to be responsible. Time and again he leans on others to help him out without any shame and at the same time take advantage of the situation. The portrayal of women in the book is shocking. The author makes feeble attempt to cloak hero’s utter lethargy and lack of purpose with nationalism and lofty ideals. It is surprising that a mediocre novel written with so much bias and is being hailed as a classic.
March 25, 2017
I have read it after I got 1 chapter in literature lesson in high school.
my experience of it was epic.
Saraswatichandra is my all time favorite in all genre.
I will definitely provide review of it after I read it again. i have read it ..how many times i don't know it in 20 years.
saraswatichandra is unique in many way I can not explain it here in short terms.
I will give you pointers to look ... how other people think about it.
Mahatam Gandhi, who made a careful reading of “Saraswatichandra”, wrote about it thus: "To the first part he gave all his art. The novel is imbued with aesthetic delight; the characterisation is matchless. The second part depicts Hindu society, his art went deeper in the third part, and he gave all that he wished to give to the world in the fourth part."
plus, you check Article here and if you can find what Tridip Suhrud says.
my experience of it was epic.
Saraswatichandra is my all time favorite in all genre.
I will definitely provide review of it after I read it again. i have read it ..how many times i don't know it in 20 years.
saraswatichandra is unique in many way I can not explain it here in short terms.
I will give you pointers to look ... how other people think about it.
Mahatam Gandhi, who made a careful reading of “Saraswatichandra”, wrote about it thus: "To the first part he gave all his art. The novel is imbued with aesthetic delight; the characterisation is matchless. The second part depicts Hindu society, his art went deeper in the third part, and he gave all that he wished to give to the world in the fourth part."
plus, you check Article here and if you can find what Tridip Suhrud says.
September 4, 2019
Magnum Opus.
March 30, 2016
This is my favourite Novel, I read all four parts and really liked characters Saraswatichandra and Kumud Sundri, But I was disappointed by end. They must met in end..!!
But end is suitable to story, and life always goes like this..!! I wish I could meet Tripathi sir to discuss this....!!
But end is suitable to story, and life always goes like this..!! I wish I could meet Tripathi sir to discuss this....!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2014
too good
August 15, 2015
it is a very interesting story i really liked it i read it in English and i watched the Indian TV serial saraswathichandra i'm really impressed
January 10, 2021
There is some unspeakable charm and joy of reading a well written classic in your native language after so long.
Somehow, when reading it, it doesn't really take you back to that time, rather it feels like the scenarios of the book are the current reality. It's dreamy and in the best way.
Somehow, when reading it, it doesn't really take you back to that time, rather it feels like the scenarios of the book are the current reality. It's dreamy and in the best way.
April 25, 2019
Highly recommend to read
Very good book
Very good book
October 8, 2018
Saraswatichandra
Saraswatichandra is a four volume classics written in Gujarati. History is evident of the fact that whatever it has to offer it's mind-blowing in every aspect, the very fact lies in the deep tales of the past which often instill the deepest desires in our heart.
The story is set in late 19th century India which centres around the protagonists Saraswatichandra & Kumud. Saraswatichandra is from a rich lady from a family which basically indulges in business & trades (on shore). He lives in Bombay with his father, step-mother & step-brother whereas Kumud is a talented girl from Suvarnapur living with her parents & her mischievous sister Kusum. As both of them come from well known families, aristocratic lineage to be precise, their match was perfect for an aligned arranged marriage & they wrote letters to each other post their nuptial engagement, they eventually fall for each other. However, their easy going loving days & love story remains short due to some problems which interferes in their jovial lives. What's the problem? Will their love be unrequited? Will they ever meet again? To know the complete story, go & grab the book now.
Cover is beautiful & has been designed well considering it's based on a historical story.
Title is catchy, apt & unique.
Language is simple, easy to understand, riveting & beautiful in every aspect!
A must read in every aspect. Worth appraisal & I recommend it to all the readers!
Saraswatichandra is a four volume classics written in Gujarati. History is evident of the fact that whatever it has to offer it's mind-blowing in every aspect, the very fact lies in the deep tales of the past which often instill the deepest desires in our heart.
The story is set in late 19th century India which centres around the protagonists Saraswatichandra & Kumud. Saraswatichandra is from a rich lady from a family which basically indulges in business & trades (on shore). He lives in Bombay with his father, step-mother & step-brother whereas Kumud is a talented girl from Suvarnapur living with her parents & her mischievous sister Kusum. As both of them come from well known families, aristocratic lineage to be precise, their match was perfect for an aligned arranged marriage & they wrote letters to each other post their nuptial engagement, they eventually fall for each other. However, their easy going loving days & love story remains short due to some problems which interferes in their jovial lives. What's the problem? Will their love be unrequited? Will they ever meet again? To know the complete story, go & grab the book now.
Cover is beautiful & has been designed well considering it's based on a historical story.
Title is catchy, apt & unique.
Language is simple, easy to understand, riveting & beautiful in every aspect!
A must read in every aspect. Worth appraisal & I recommend it to all the readers!
July 14, 2019
Very good book
May 17, 2015
how to open or download the book
June 11, 2015
gfooo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
February 8, 2016h
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2018
This book can change reader's vision to the world. It teaches how to accept all kind of situation in life and how to stay calm. नन्द को नन्दन एक आनन्द देत है
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2021
It was a pain sitting through the entire book. The author managed to depict the socio-economic situation of 19th Century Gujarat pretty well but I felt the book was more about normalising everything around “What will the society think!”. The characters were written to be good problem solvers who occupy high positions in the society but made the absolute disaster of a solution when it came to the most crucial decisions of their lives. The book name is Saraswatichandra but I felt throughout the entire book Saras made the most questionable choices and Kumud had to live through the consequences. Even though the story is revolving around the main protagonists there were long arcs of irrelevant character building. I felt the book was deeply anti-feminist.
June 12, 2024
For those who enjoy historical fiction that challenges conventions and explores the complexities of human relationships, Saraswatichandra is a compelling read. It invites the reader to question societal norms and ponder the enduring power of love, even in the face of immense constraints. So, delve into this classic and decide for yourself: is it a happily ever after, or a poignant reflection of societal limitations?
Read full review at https://vpgoyal.blogspot.com/2024/03/...
Read full review at https://vpgoyal.blogspot.com/2024/03/...
February 3, 2022
I have read it in gujrati. The Best perfect longest Novel ! Politics, Education, Love, Action, Characters, Reality in composition,The plot twisting and story line and the best Ending ever. And The sanskrit and Gujrati Words to describe characters and beauty. Anyone can fall for it.
February 20, 2022
Not sure I like the concept of woman sacrificing no matter what. Saraswatichandra came out to be a very weak character who changes his life on whilms of other and also cant resist marrying the sister of his beloved in the name of greater good.
March 31, 2024
It is wonderful book that currently I am reading. You will get to know a lot about ancient time and the love and pain that was seen it is disastrous. If you are gujarati you should try to read atleast part 1 then if you like you can continue till part 4.
September 19, 2018
I don't know how to read this book, can we read this book in real ?
December 2, 2019
These app is very useless not able to read the book because they are not allowing to open book just showing the option of buying
Read
July 21, 2020For my improve knowledge📚
Currently reading
August 31, 2020how to open book nd read it
February 17, 2021
Read part 1
August 3, 2021
Masterpiece of gujarati literature. Every one should read one time in life.
Read
June 9, 20243.5 (audio)
October 8, 2018
Saraswatichandra
Saraswatichandra is a four volume classics written in Gujarati. History is evident of the fact that whatever it has to offer it's mind-blowing in every aspect, the very fact lies in the deep tales of the past which often instill the deepest desires in our heart.
The story is set in late 19th century India which centres around the protagonists Saraswatichandra & Kumud. Saraswatichandra is from a rich lady from a family which basically indulges in business & trades (on shore). He lives in Bombay with his father, step-mother & step-brother whereas Kumud is a talented girl from Suvarnapur living with her parents & her mischievous sister Kusum. As both of them come from well known families, aristocratic lineage to be precise, their match was perfect for an aligned arranged marriage & they wrote letters to each other post their nuptial engagement, they eventually fall for each other. However, their easy going loving days & love story remains short due to some problems which interferes in their jovial lives. What's the problem? Will their love be unrequited? Will they ever meet again? To know the complete story, go & grab the book now.
Cover is beautiful & has been designed well considering it's based on a historical story.
Title is catchy, apt & unique.
Language is simple, easy to understand, riveting & beautiful in every aspect!
A must read in every aspect. Worth appraisal & I recommend it to all the readers!
Saraswatichandra is a four volume classics written in Gujarati. History is evident of the fact that whatever it has to offer it's mind-blowing in every aspect, the very fact lies in the deep tales of the past which often instill the deepest desires in our heart.
The story is set in late 19th century India which centres around the protagonists Saraswatichandra & Kumud. Saraswatichandra is from a rich lady from a family which basically indulges in business & trades (on shore). He lives in Bombay with his father, step-mother & step-brother whereas Kumud is a talented girl from Suvarnapur living with her parents & her mischievous sister Kusum. As both of them come from well known families, aristocratic lineage to be precise, their match was perfect for an aligned arranged marriage & they wrote letters to each other post their nuptial engagement, they eventually fall for each other. However, their easy going loving days & love story remains short due to some problems which interferes in their jovial lives. What's the problem? Will their love be unrequited? Will they ever meet again? To know the complete story, go & grab the book now.
Cover is beautiful & has been designed well considering it's based on a historical story.
Title is catchy, apt & unique.
Language is simple, easy to understand, riveting & beautiful in every aspect!
A must read in every aspect. Worth appraisal & I recommend it to all the readers!
Read
January 23, 2014awesome book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews