On the 28th June 2024, the “LITERARY LENS” Literary Club organized its weekly book review program via Google Meet. Shabna K the resource person for the day, presented “Karnan” by Shivaji Sawant is a celebrated Marathi novel that has been translated into several languages, including English
The novel delves into the life of Karna, one of the most intriguing and tragic characters from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. Sawant’s work is renowned for its deep psychological insight and rich narrative, offering a comprehensive and humanizing portrayal of Karna.
The novel is structured around the life of Karna, starting from his mysterious birth to his tragic death on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including Karna himself, his wife Vrushali, his father Adhiratha, his friend Duryodhana, and others. This multi-perspective approach provides a nuanced and layered understanding of Karna’s character, his motivations, and his complex relationships
Shabna notes that “Karnan” has been widely praised for its literary excellence and its empathetic portrayal of Karna. The novel’s exploration of social issues, combined with its rich character development, has made it a beloved classic in Indian literature. The novel’s exploration of themes like identity, honor, and social justice ensures its enduring relevance and appeal. The “Literary Lens” Literary Club continues to be a platform where members can immerse themselves in the world of captivating stories and share their enthusiasm for the written word.