The Mother I Never Knew

Sudha Murthy is known for her simple yet powerful stories that stay with readers long after they finish the book. Her storytelling is relatable, causing you to think deeply about life and relationships.
The ‘Mother I Never Knew’ is no different. This book is a collection of two novellas that fall under the genre of contemporary Indian fiction. It delves into the emotional journeys of two men as they uncover hidden truths about their life and their mothers, leading to profound self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of Indian culture and traditions, the book reflects on the significance of familial bonds and the dilemmas they often bring.

The first novella follows Venkatesh, a bank manager leading a stable and predictable life. A chance encounter with someone who looks exactly like him shakes the foundations of his world. Driven by curiosity, Venkatesh digs deeper and unearths secrets about his father’s past including an abandoned wife and child. His journey is not just about finding answers but also about facing the moral dilemmas and responsibilities that come with this truth.
The second novella introduces Mukesh, a young man raised by a loving mother. When he discovers that the woman who nurtured him is not his biological mother, he is thrown into an emotional conflict. Driven by curiosity and a longing for closure, Mukesh sets out to find answers about his birth mother. Along the way, he is more confused about where his loyalties should lie. Should he
prioritize the bond he shares with the mother who raised him or the connection with the mother who gave birth to him?
Both stories revolve around the epitome of love- a mother. They force us to think about whether the bond of love can overpower the bond of blood.
What I liked most about the book is how simple and real it feels. Murthy’s writing is natural, making it accessible to readers from all walks of life. Her characters are ordinary people facing extraordinary situations, which makes their struggles and
triumphs so relatable. Though the stories are rooted in Indian cultural contexts, the emotions they evoke are universal. It asks important questions: What does it mean to belong to someone? Is it love or biology that defines a family? These questions stay with you even after you finish the book.
Murthy’s portrayal of mothers is particularly touching . She captures the selflessness, strength, and resilience that define motherhood while also acknowledging its imperfections. The mothers in these stories are not idealized or perfect figures; they are real women with their own set of fears, flaws, and sacrifices.
Sudha Murthy’s use of visual imagery adds life to the stories. The description of bustling towns and quiet family homes paints a
picture of the character’s lives.
The book is also a commentary on human relationships and the choices that define them. It forces readers to reflect on their own
relationships and the ties that bind them to their loved ones. What does it mean to truly belong to someone? Can love overcome the boundaries of blood? These are questions that linger long after the last page is turned.

While ‘The Mother I Never Knew’ is deeply emotional, it avoids melodrama. Murthy handles sensitive topics with grace and subtlety, making it simple, straight to the point but also gripping. The pacing of the novellas is perfect, keeping the readers engaged without overwhelming them.
This book left a deep impact on me. It reminded me of how relationships are built on love, trust, and understanding. It also
shows that family isn’t always about blood but about the people who truly care for you.
The ‘Mother I Never Knew’ is a touching book that will make you think about the people in your life and the bonds you share with them. If you enjoy heartfelt and meaningful stories, I would definitely recommend this book. It is emotional, thought- provoking, and beautifully written.
In the end, this book is not just about finding hidden truths. It’s about love in its purest form and the special connection between a mother and child. It leaves you with one question: Is family defined by the ties we are born into or the bonds we choose to nurture? Sudha Murthy’s storytelling ensures that this question stays with you, making the book unforgettable.