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Halfway up the Mountain
Kiran Khalap’s first novel is a poetic work, in which prayer, spirituality and reality are interwoven. A mountain girl, Maya, fights her fate in a traditional Indian family. She makes steamed pancakes with turmeric leaf fragrance and skips school. Her fate is tied to Ravindra in an arranged marriage that falls apart when Maya meets the poet, Krishnarao, and is forced to spend the night in his house by a torrential storm. Ravindra refuses to believe that their son Sharan is his own, and he leaves her. The young girl is undone by the men closest to her, abandoned in an Indian society that places no value on a woman on her own. A tale of snakebites, separation and sadness.
224 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2005
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
July 6, 2014
If there is a book that deserves to be rated alongside the modern day classics, then ‘Halfway Up The Mountain’ surely grabs that honor.
Kiran Khalap’s masterpiece is not just a story, nor another book on the shelf, but rather a conglomeration of feelings draped in the form of a paperback, revolving around the various questions encompassing life and death, love and relationship, tears and joy, and good and bad, attempting to answer the mysticism of the world, breathing tales that are inked not in syllables but which beat and resonate with the rhythm of the human heart.
‘Halfway Up The Mountain’ is the tale of Maya. Born in a village, Maya is raised in a conservative manner, learning the chores and the daily rituals of life. However, the loss of her father haunts her always, and she yearns for his missing love. She gets married to Ravindra, an artist, and encourages him to continue with his passion and try to shape his life with the aide of his colors. However, a misunderstanding on a storm and rain-infested night leads to her marriage life falling apart, and before she can absorb the severity of it all, she soon finds herself out of the place that she called home. With her new born child, Sharan (who Ravindra refuses to accept as his own), she trudges along the cross roads of life, braving the tides and finally emerging into a strength that overcomes all obstacles.
The first feature of the book that grabbed hold of my attention was its brilliant and innovative narration. I have read stories that follow the first and third person narrative style. However, here, the author resorts to an invisible narrator, who addresses ‘Maya’ as ‘you’, telling her story, and often throwing hints regarding her future. Who is the narrator then? Is it Destiny, or Time, or some other entity who silently watches our steps, walks with us, knows our stories, but we fail to identify it? Yes, this style of telling the story certainly added an ethereal charm to it, making it all the more attractive and intriguing.
The plot is neatly woven, and thanks to the beautiful story-line, there isn't a single dull moment in the book. The story at times seems real, and you are able to relate to the events. That makes reading a lot friendlier and easier, as the imagination guides you into the plot, and makes you witness the actions as one of the characters. The words are intricately laid, at times powerful, and on other occasions, sublime, perfectly swinging with the mood of the narration.
And what should I say about the characterization? Right from the protagonist, Maya, to her husband, Ravindra, her family and in-laws, her friends, her acquaintances, and her son, Sharan, the author has successfully inducted life and blood to each one of them. They hold stories of their own, walking on secrets bare-foot, hurt by thorns and pacified by hope. A common thread binds them all together – uncertainty. Yes, just like in real life, they too are not sure about their journey, but each one of them harbors a dream, a destination they wish to reach, resulting in a fresh tale of success and failure, falling at times and rising again.
‘Halfway Up The Book’ is one of the best novels I have come across in recent times. An heartfelt account, it traverses through your sensibilities, rendering you numb on various occasions, as you sail across its waves, an adventure that’s soothing to the soul. I wish this book had never ended. Maya and her story definitely have made a lasting impression on my mind, and heart.
Kiran Khalap’s masterpiece is not just a story, nor another book on the shelf, but rather a conglomeration of feelings draped in the form of a paperback, revolving around the various questions encompassing life and death, love and relationship, tears and joy, and good and bad, attempting to answer the mysticism of the world, breathing tales that are inked not in syllables but which beat and resonate with the rhythm of the human heart.
‘Halfway Up The Mountain’ is the tale of Maya. Born in a village, Maya is raised in a conservative manner, learning the chores and the daily rituals of life. However, the loss of her father haunts her always, and she yearns for his missing love. She gets married to Ravindra, an artist, and encourages him to continue with his passion and try to shape his life with the aide of his colors. However, a misunderstanding on a storm and rain-infested night leads to her marriage life falling apart, and before she can absorb the severity of it all, she soon finds herself out of the place that she called home. With her new born child, Sharan (who Ravindra refuses to accept as his own), she trudges along the cross roads of life, braving the tides and finally emerging into a strength that overcomes all obstacles.
The first feature of the book that grabbed hold of my attention was its brilliant and innovative narration. I have read stories that follow the first and third person narrative style. However, here, the author resorts to an invisible narrator, who addresses ‘Maya’ as ‘you’, telling her story, and often throwing hints regarding her future. Who is the narrator then? Is it Destiny, or Time, or some other entity who silently watches our steps, walks with us, knows our stories, but we fail to identify it? Yes, this style of telling the story certainly added an ethereal charm to it, making it all the more attractive and intriguing.
The plot is neatly woven, and thanks to the beautiful story-line, there isn't a single dull moment in the book. The story at times seems real, and you are able to relate to the events. That makes reading a lot friendlier and easier, as the imagination guides you into the plot, and makes you witness the actions as one of the characters. The words are intricately laid, at times powerful, and on other occasions, sublime, perfectly swinging with the mood of the narration.
And what should I say about the characterization? Right from the protagonist, Maya, to her husband, Ravindra, her family and in-laws, her friends, her acquaintances, and her son, Sharan, the author has successfully inducted life and blood to each one of them. They hold stories of their own, walking on secrets bare-foot, hurt by thorns and pacified by hope. A common thread binds them all together – uncertainty. Yes, just like in real life, they too are not sure about their journey, but each one of them harbors a dream, a destination they wish to reach, resulting in a fresh tale of success and failure, falling at times and rising again.
‘Halfway Up The Book’ is one of the best novels I have come across in recent times. An heartfelt account, it traverses through your sensibilities, rendering you numb on various occasions, as you sail across its waves, an adventure that’s soothing to the soul. I wish this book had never ended. Maya and her story definitely have made a lasting impression on my mind, and heart.
August 9, 2014
Halfway up the Mountain, the second book of Kiran Khalap centering around a woman ‘Maya’ this book is sure to catch the reader’s eye. The most eye grabbing thing in the book is the cover of the book and the fact that the writer has himself drawn this art makes it all the more interesting and fascinating.
When the book starts, one cannot get enough of complimenting the quality of the book. When in hand, it fits perfectly well and the book is also written in a very easy to read font. From the first scene till the last, the book has something special hidden it.
I would like to compliment the author for having efficiently described the minutiae of a woman’s life, her needs-desires, her life and love with such ease and comfort that every reader seems to be a part of the life of the central character.
I particularly loved the concept behind the whole story circling around Maya, the main protagonist. The relationships she had with the men of her life, starting from her father (who left her as a kid) to her elder brother, her husband, father-in-law and finally her son.
There are so many things one can learn from the life of Maya and the way she fought the world and all this teamed together makes this book one life turning one for many reader. The way the author has narrated all these makes the reader fall in love with the protagonists. A new and fresh narrating style also gives this book a whole new feeling. Kudos to the author for putting the glossaries at the end, which will definitely help the readers.
As far as the flaw in concerned, the only thing I felt was that at the end of the book, all readers would want to read more and more of the life of Maya’s life and thus it is the only way why I would like to deduct a few points. Apart from that, I really loved the book; waiting for much more by the author.
Final Words: This novel has an absorbing flavor which is going to mesmerize the readers from the core. The unique narrating style and the efficient characterization helps this book to stand out from the crowd.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
When the book starts, one cannot get enough of complimenting the quality of the book. When in hand, it fits perfectly well and the book is also written in a very easy to read font. From the first scene till the last, the book has something special hidden it.
I would like to compliment the author for having efficiently described the minutiae of a woman’s life, her needs-desires, her life and love with such ease and comfort that every reader seems to be a part of the life of the central character.
I particularly loved the concept behind the whole story circling around Maya, the main protagonist. The relationships she had with the men of her life, starting from her father (who left her as a kid) to her elder brother, her husband, father-in-law and finally her son.
There are so many things one can learn from the life of Maya and the way she fought the world and all this teamed together makes this book one life turning one for many reader. The way the author has narrated all these makes the reader fall in love with the protagonists. A new and fresh narrating style also gives this book a whole new feeling. Kudos to the author for putting the glossaries at the end, which will definitely help the readers.
As far as the flaw in concerned, the only thing I felt was that at the end of the book, all readers would want to read more and more of the life of Maya’s life and thus it is the only way why I would like to deduct a few points. Apart from that, I really loved the book; waiting for much more by the author.
Final Words: This novel has an absorbing flavor which is going to mesmerize the readers from the core. The unique narrating style and the efficient characterization helps this book to stand out from the crowd.
For more reviews click on: www.timidfingers.blogspot.in
August 11, 2014
Maya, a strong woman who is well-read with a different approach to life. She is emotional and at the same time a deep thinker.
Ravinder, a coward who can’t take decisions and a selfish.
What I think
To begin with, the cover page is very vibrant and brilliant. It hints that the book contains the story of a woman. The title is appropriate and you realize that as you read through the book. The book blurb is perfect. It not only gives away the plot, but also throws light on how this book is different from all others. The best part is the book offers what was promised; if not more!
The narrative is fresh and different. The protagonist, Maya, is referred to as “You”. It could be her inner-mind talking to us subconsciously. We never know. The writing is simple and lucid. It is so poetic that the beauty of words captures our hearts.
The situations in which Maya is thrown into seems so real, magnifying how women in India are treated. Sadly it holds well in today’s time as well although the story takes place in early 1960’s and 70’s.
Maya’s character is well-chalked out. We are walked through her life since childhood. As a result, we understand her; empathize with her. We, as readers, grow and evolve with her.
I appreciate the author for touching almost all the poignant points that is concerned with the manner in which women are treated in India. It wonderfully paints the picture of how men exploit women and try to use women for their own convenience and good.
In short, the book is thought provoking and wonderfully crafted.
It is brilliant!
But...
Sometimes, it becomes tough to follow the narrative where the protagonist is referred to as “You”.
Should you read it?
The writing style is different so is the approach.
This book is an experience.
Do not miss it!
Ravinder, a coward who can’t take decisions and a selfish.
What I think
To begin with, the cover page is very vibrant and brilliant. It hints that the book contains the story of a woman. The title is appropriate and you realize that as you read through the book. The book blurb is perfect. It not only gives away the plot, but also throws light on how this book is different from all others. The best part is the book offers what was promised; if not more!
The narrative is fresh and different. The protagonist, Maya, is referred to as “You”. It could be her inner-mind talking to us subconsciously. We never know. The writing is simple and lucid. It is so poetic that the beauty of words captures our hearts.
The situations in which Maya is thrown into seems so real, magnifying how women in India are treated. Sadly it holds well in today’s time as well although the story takes place in early 1960’s and 70’s.
Maya’s character is well-chalked out. We are walked through her life since childhood. As a result, we understand her; empathize with her. We, as readers, grow and evolve with her.
I appreciate the author for touching almost all the poignant points that is concerned with the manner in which women are treated in India. It wonderfully paints the picture of how men exploit women and try to use women for their own convenience and good.
In short, the book is thought provoking and wonderfully crafted.
It is brilliant!
But...
Sometimes, it becomes tough to follow the narrative where the protagonist is referred to as “You”.
Should you read it?
The writing style is different so is the approach.
This book is an experience.
Do not miss it!
October 15, 2014
This tiny little book left me, excuse the pun, halfway up the mountain. For everything that I enjoyed, I can name another element that was mediocre.
And as it is, mediocrity is the theme of this book, with the main protagonist, Maya, being surrounded by talented men who are actually pretty terrible human beings.
The trials to which she is subjected by these men are intended to show her growing closer to spiritual realisations, but for me they merely illustrated the sad state of gender relations in India.
Which wasn't actually a bad thing. I enjoyed seeing Maya push ahead despite the fools surrounding her. But this interview identified for me the real issue. Khalap tole the interviewer: "At the cost of sounding egotistic, my core value is sharing, be it wealth or knowledge. I believe I have an answer to some of life's questions, and this is my way of sharing that answer. You might not agree with what I have to say, but share it I must."
Errrrrr..... Yep. The authors need to share his life perspectives is as subtle as a brick.
Despite this, I glided my eyes over the spiritual hoo-haa and truly enjoyed the beautiful rhythm and poetic descriptions of the rest of the book. The use of second person ("you") narration was also a nice change to first or third person. The writing alone made this book a worthy read.
And as it is, mediocrity is the theme of this book, with the main protagonist, Maya, being surrounded by talented men who are actually pretty terrible human beings.
The trials to which she is subjected by these men are intended to show her growing closer to spiritual realisations, but for me they merely illustrated the sad state of gender relations in India.
Which wasn't actually a bad thing. I enjoyed seeing Maya push ahead despite the fools surrounding her. But this interview identified for me the real issue. Khalap tole the interviewer: "At the cost of sounding egotistic, my core value is sharing, be it wealth or knowledge. I believe I have an answer to some of life's questions, and this is my way of sharing that answer. You might not agree with what I have to say, but share it I must."
Errrrrr..... Yep. The authors need to share his life perspectives is as subtle as a brick.
Despite this, I glided my eyes over the spiritual hoo-haa and truly enjoyed the beautiful rhythm and poetic descriptions of the rest of the book. The use of second person ("you") narration was also a nice change to first or third person. The writing alone made this book a worthy read.
September 21, 2014
This was a rather ambitious novel. It's the first I've read that used the second person all the way through, with the "you" being a young woman in India. That in itself was something of an achievement. But I'm not sure it really worked.
Secondly, the author attempted to weave a lot of mysticism into the life story of the main character. And yet she really wasn't what you'd call a spiritual seeker. The mystic breakthroughs just seemed to happen on their own to her when she was at especially low points. They were interesting, but somehow didn't quite fit the overall tone.
I had a hard time keeping track of who the characters were, in part because the plot jumped around. Perhaps Indian readers, being more familiar with the names, would have an easier time of it.
The accomplishments of Maya, the main character (Maya being the word for illusion -- get it? get it?) seemed somewhat of a stretch. So did the rather miraculous coincidences that occurred to her.
Overall, this book just didn't do it for me. I enjoyed reading about India, and liked the mystical elements. But there were many ways in which it felt like the author was trying too hard, or working to make a point that never quite fit.
Secondly, the author attempted to weave a lot of mysticism into the life story of the main character. And yet she really wasn't what you'd call a spiritual seeker. The mystic breakthroughs just seemed to happen on their own to her when she was at especially low points. They were interesting, but somehow didn't quite fit the overall tone.
I had a hard time keeping track of who the characters were, in part because the plot jumped around. Perhaps Indian readers, being more familiar with the names, would have an easier time of it.
The accomplishments of Maya, the main character (Maya being the word for illusion -- get it? get it?) seemed somewhat of a stretch. So did the rather miraculous coincidences that occurred to her.
Overall, this book just didn't do it for me. I enjoyed reading about India, and liked the mystical elements. But there were many ways in which it felt like the author was trying too hard, or working to make a point that never quite fit.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews