Bhaunri by Anukriti Upadyay

What did society teach women when they are about to marry? Society taught us to keep our tongues tied when men are speaking, society taught us to endure the abusive marriage and accept the physical abuse.

How we peacefully normalised the physical abuse in marriages?! Still, most of us cannot speak about divorce infront of our Indian parents and it's always labelled as 'Taboo' inspite of so much awareness about domestic violence.

Domestic violence is justified in the name of extreme affection, over protectiveness in our society.

Controlling, taming women in households is considered as ‘Prestigious’ and ‘Manly’. I still wonder how we happily romanticise and lionize a man in movies when he physically abuses a woman? 

‘Bhaunri’ by Anukrti Upadhyay is an intrepid novella that paints a married life of a bold rural Indian woman.

 Bhaunri, a sixteen year old girl is sent away to her husband’s home, Bhaunri was  not brought up as a timid and submissive woman by her mother, she was as sharp as a knife that is ready to slit the prepollent words of domineering men. 

Bhaunri gets married to a haughty young man Bheema, his enticing demeanour attracts her, but Bheema has a mistress in the same village, Bhaunri is not able to endure his extra marital affairs and quarrels with him to be an ideal husband. 

Her bold words and anger challenges Bheema’s male ego and he thrashes and warns to keep her tongues tied.

Will Bhaunri be able to transform her haungty husband? Or Will she transform herself like her submissive mother in law? 

‘Bhaunri’ is an enthralling story that weaves the lives of nomadic tribes in Rajasthan village, the story revolves around the myths of villages and their intricate customs.

 

Anukriti Upadhyay’s female protagonist is such a powerful and thunderous character. The ending was devastating and heart wrenching yet powerful!!!

Recommending this novella to those who are looking for a powerful Indian literary fiction. 'Bhaunri' is written in a refined and embellished language. The captivating story line will make you finish this novella in one sitting.