Conceived as a trilogy, this translation of the first part of the Gujarti novel Jher To Pidhan Chhe Jani Jani tells the moving love story of Satyakam and Rohini. Brought up by Gopal Bapa, a saintly person who turns a desolate land into a garden, Satyakam in view of an astrological prediction chose to leave Rohini lest he should cause her suffering. Years later, Rohini happened to see Satyakam in a train. Written at the backdrop of freedom movement, this socio-historical novel attempts to emply Gandhian vision, often enriching us with moments of brilliant insight into love and compassion. Translated from original Gujarati, the novel is an acclaimed classic of modern Indian literature.
Manubhai Pancholi 'Darshak' (1914-2001) is one of the foremost writers in modern Gujarai literature. Novelist, dramatist, essayist, Darshak's major works include Kabrasthan, Bandhan Ane Mukthi, Deep Nirvaan, Kurukshetra and Socrates (novels); Adarso Sathaavam, Pavithram and Anthim Adhyay (plays). He was honoured with Padma Bhushan Award (1991), Sahitya Akademi Award (1995), Narsing Mehta Award (1992), and Jnanpith's Moorti Devi Award (1985).
Kamal Sanyal is a well known translator from Gujarati to English. She lives in Kolkata.
Of Hemlock I have Drunk (Jher To Pidhan Chhe Jani Jani) conceived in three parts is a great novel by Shri Manubhai Pancholi 'Darshak'. It was honoured with prestigious Moorti Devi Award, instituted by the Bharatiya Jnanpith, in 1985. The novel's wide geographical and historical range and its thought provoking deliberations makes its cultural link with Saraswati Chandra obvious. The universal man of twentieth century is seen here from the point of view of an Indian. The author has done a lot of research to validate his perception of facts. He has also travelled extensively. Right from the time he conceived the story, the writer was very clear about the evolution of his characters and their impact on the reader.
The novel begins with the description of a saint, of not a great status, who on his own makes barren and desolate caverns blossom. Then the novel proceeds to comfort Europe engaged and entangled in a bitter war, then goes on to salute the Jews in middle East involved in a struggle for life and death. Finally, purified in the cave of the Thousand Buddhas in Myanmar the novel takes the readers to the unforgettable siege of Korea.
The author has drawn characters from different countries and races and has been able to bring out their exclusive traits. These characters have been assessed over a long span of time. Since the story has to develop with their help, the author has taken the help of incidental factors.
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