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Kamala Markandaya

Nectar In A Sieve

Nectar In A Sieve

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Rukmani is a child bride who married Nathan, a tenant farmer. They work together in the fields to survive against poverty and disasters. The novel is still relevant today, especially with rising temperatures and challenging land conditions in India.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: HopeRoad Publishing Ltd


In the depths of rural India, a young girl named Rukmani finds herself trapped in an arranged marriage with a tenant farmer named Nathan, a stranger to her. Despite the lack of familiarity and the challenges that lie ahead, Rukmani must join forces with her husband in the fields, working tirelessly to eke out a living from a land that has been ravaged by droughts, monsoons, and insects. With unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit, she confronts the harsh realities of poverty and disaster head-on, refusing to be defeated by the adversities that life throws her way.

Nectar in a Sieve, a poignant tale penned over 70 years ago, remains as relevant today as it was when it was first published. The story of Rukmani and Nathan resonates with countless Indian farmers, both past and present, as they navigate the intricate web of tradition, modernity, and the ever-changing landscape of agriculture.

This new edition of the book introduces a fresh generation of readers to a tragic narrative that has been made all the more poignant by the soaring temperatures in India and the increasing difficulties associated with working the land. Rukmani's resilience and unwavering spirit serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Through her struggles, Rukmani learns to adapt and find innovative solutions to the challenges she faces. She harnesses her knowledge of agriculture and her resourcefulness to cultivate crops and care for her family, despite the limited resources at her disposal. Her determination to overcome poverty and provide a better life for her children is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of resilience.

Nectar in a Sieve also sheds light on the social and cultural dynamics of rural India during the time it was written. The book explores the complex relationships between different classes, genders, and communities, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices that people make in the pursuit of a better life. It serves as a reminder of the importance of social justice and the need to address the inequalities that exist in society.

In conclusion, Nectar in a Sieve is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds. The story of Rukmani and Nathan is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and determination, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and struggles faced by farmers in rural India. This new edition introduces a new generation of readers to a tragic tale that is all the more relevant in today's climate, and it encourages us to reflect on the importance of social justice, compassion, and the pursuit of a better life for all.


Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913109110

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