Bahadur Sahiba a must-read on a lazy afternoon

Latest from the pen of Ritika Kochhar, Bahadur Sahiba explores a constellation of characters, emotions, occupation, landscape and history. It trails the centre character Sanjana, a widowed artist, who carries heartbreak like an invisible cloak from the bylanes of Delhi to Dehradun and onto to Coonoor trying to find true love in Brigadier Asif Bakhtiyar.

Penned by versatile Ritika Kochhar a writer, educator, and founder of ArtRadio – a platform for digital storytelling at the intersections of South Asian art, gender, and ecology. The author brings her vast expertise to the table and interlaces emotions with art and history. “Do you know, the only time you sound decisive and resolute is when you’re discussing your pottery? It’s such a different side of you,” Kainaat said with a smile. Sanjana smiled. “My art is an important part of me.”

Bahadur Sahiba is a work of love set in the shadow of India’s #MeToo movement. So while there are references to certain headlines in the past, the author manages to interlace it with her characters and make them part of the text effortlessly.

The story introduces Kainaat, Raqia and Gulabo all strong women characters connected to the Brigadier and Bahadur Sahiba, the Brigadier’s fiery sister-anchor. The characters have their own distinct diction, choice of words and independent ways of expression bringing with them their unique story and background stitching together a garland of relationships with their equally well-crafted male counterparts such as Colonel Varin, Firdaus, Mayank, Abhay, Umar amongst others. This multi-generational novel transcends age group and gender.

The novel core strength lies in delving into themes of trust, betrayal, patriarchy, and how power dynamics have an impact on relationships.   Truly engaging Bahadur Sahiba explores how individuals navigate emotional challenges and rebuild trust after experiencing hurt and loss.

Bahadur Sahiba is a captivating book about love, trust, betrayal and yet hope! It makes for a perfect read over a cup of tea on a laid-back afternoon.