Hung on the Horizon by Bhuwan Khanduri | Book review

Book review:

"Hung on the Horizon" is a powerful tale, diverse characters, and a perceptive commentary on societal processes. It is a compelling narrative exploring the intersecting realms of class struggle, personal determination, and persistent hope, with its diverse cast of characters embodying multifaceted viewpoints of social inequality and resistance.

The story revolves around Gaje Singh who finds himself among the Naxalites. What he wanted was simply to be of help to the poor labourers and peasants. But he finds himself in this awkward position where the Naxals are fighting against the system. The system on one part is aiming to make development possible in these backward areas thereby aiming betterment of their people. However, in reality, they rarely get any improvement. In this mix, a young Maoist is captured and the story takes a turn. What will happen to the captive? How Gaje Singh will survive among the Naxalite? Is there hope for the poor and weak section? 

Quote from the book that piqued me:

💙“Education doesn’t mean you forget your customs and traditions”

💙 “… democracy is a sham; the government is fascist and dominated by capitalists. A revolution on the model of our communist neighbour is needed because nobody will give you your rights, you'll have to snatch them. The situation is appropriate for launching a protracted people’s war.”

The author has portrayed "Chipko Movement" along with class struggles, family history and local traditions which play vital role in depicting the characters. The writing style of the author is that of a seasoned journalist and the fiction has roots in the facts. 

Overall, the book is a poignant tale that unwraps illuminating histories of the gritty struggles, enormous sacrifices, and relentless hopes undertaken by the underprivileged classes in Indian society. Worth reading, do grab it!

Purchase: https://amzn.to/3YRrpHp