Ms. Draupadi Kuru: A Modern Twist on a Mythical Legend

Trisha Das’s Ms. Draupadi Kuru offers a delightful and creative reimagining of one of Indian mythology’s most formidable characters, Draupadi. Known as the fierce and resilient queen in the epic Mahabharata, Draupadi is resurrected in this novel, but not in the way you might expect. Set in modern-day Delhi, this witty and refreshing narrative explores what happens when ancient mythological figures are given a second chance at life—this time, on their own terms.

The book is an interesting take on the "what-if" scenario: what if these iconic mythological characters came back to live among us today?

Ms. Das’s exploration of this concept is entertaining and offers a fresh perspective on how we view these ancient figures. She paints an intriguing picture of Draupadi’s existence in heaven, where the legendary queen finds herself bored with the mundane routine of eternal life. Keen to escape the tedium and curious to see how the mortal world has evolved since she last walked the earth, Draupadi is enthusiastic at the opportunity to return. The novel begins with Draupadi’s eager anticipation of experiencing life in the mortal world once again, a theme that sets the stage for the adventures to come.

The story truly comes alive when Draupadi, accompanied by Kunti, Gandhari, and Amba, lands in present-day Delhi. Ms. Das skillfully captures the women’s reactions as they become acquainted with the drastic changes in technology, societal attitudes, and the modern way of life. The contrast between their ancient wisdom and the fast-paced, technology-driven world of today makes for some truly engaging moments. Whether it’s their fascination with phones or their bewilderment at modern fashion, these interactions provide both humour and insight into how far humanity has come—and how some things remain unchanged. Their lament of the degradation in people's moral compass is very well-presented.

One of the book’s strengths is how it handles the theme of closure. Each of these mythological women has unresolved issues from their previous lives, and the book explores how they seek—and in some cases, achieve—closure in the modern world. Whether it’s reconciling with past relationships, coming to terms with their historical legacies, or simply finding peace, Ms. Das treats these moments with care, making them engaging and thought-provoking. The idea of these legendary figures coming back to tie up loose ends adds a layer of depth to the narrative, making it more than just a humorous what-if scenario.

Trisha Das’s writing is breezy and accessible, making it a perfect read for anyone who enjoys a mix of mythology, humour, and contemporary fiction. The prose is light-hearted but never superficial, and Ms. Das manages to balance the mythological elements with modern-day scenarios seamlessly. Her ability to breathe new life into well-known characters while making them relatable and engaging is commendable.

Ms. Draupadi Kuru is a fun, refreshing, and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on one of Indian mythology’s most iconic women. Trisha Das’s blend of humour, wit, and cultural insight makes this a good story for anyone interested in seeing how ancient legends can be reimagined in today’s world. It’s a story of empowerment, rebirth, and the enduring spirit of women who refuse to be defined by their pasts.