Book Review : Bhoye Renuka Tejmal, MGV’s Loknete Vyankatrao Hiray Art, Science And Commerce College Panchvati, Nashik.
Vishnu Sakharam Khandekar’s Yayati is a literary masterpiece that deftly retells the ancient story of King Yayati from the
Mahabharata. At its core, the novel grapples with the eternal human struggle between duty and desire, making it a timeless exploration of human psychology. King Yayati, cursed with premature old age, trades his senility with his son, Puru, to satisfy his insatiable longing for youth and pleasure. Through Yayati’s journey, Khandekar masterfully portrays the conflict between transient pleasures and the pursuit of deeper meaning in life. The character development is one of the novel’s strongest aspects, as readers witness Yayati’s transformation from a hedonistic king to a man seeking redemption. The supporting characters—Devayani, Sharmishtha, and Puru—are equally nuanced. Devayani’s vulnerability, Sharmishtha’s defiance, and Puru’s selfless sacrifice provide compelling sub plots that enrich the narrative. Each character serves as a mirror to Yayati’s internal conflict, reflecting the diverse shades of human emotion and morality. Khandekar’s writing style is poetic and philosophical, blending mythology with contemporary relevance. His vivid descriptions and introspective monologues allow readers to delve into the minds of the characters, making their dilemmas relatable even in modern contexts. The novel also raises profound questions about the nature of desire. Is desire inherently sinful, or does it drive human progress? Khandekar doesn’t provide definitive answers, instead inviting readers to reflect on their own lives. One of the most striking aspects of Yayati is its narrative depth. While rooted in mythology, the book transcends time and space, offering insights that resonate with readers across generations. Its themes of sacrifice, moral dilemmas, and the pursuit of happiness remain as relevant today as they were in ancient times. In conclusion, Yayati is not merely a retelling of a mythological tale but a profound exploration of human nature. Khandekar’s ability to intertwine philosophy with storytelling makes this book a must- read for lovers of literature and mythology. Its universal themes and rich characterizations ensure that it remains a classic in Indian literature.