I grew up in a village much like the one Mari Selvaraj writes about, and reading Marakkavae Ninaikkiraen felt like stepping back into my own childhoodI grew up in a village much like the one Mari Selvaraj writes about, and reading Marakkavae Ninaikkiraen felt like stepping back into my own childhood. So many elements from the book brought back vivid memories � from the Uchi Kuduman and Ulla Kathan to the vibrant Dasara celebrations at the Mutamaramman temple.
During Dasara, I remembered how people would dress up as monkeys and walk the streets � and how, at times, they'd lift their masks so children wouldn't be scared. Sometimes, they’d deliberately put on a little act just to scare the kids who were boldly following them � a playful performance that added to the festive energy.
I was also pleasantly surprised to see Ammanpuram mentioned a few times in the book, as I have a friend from there. And the scenes of catching birds with nets � those were such a natural part of our village life too.
The stories take us through lush banana plantations and along the banks of the Tamirabarani, evoking the sights, smells, and sounds of a life deeply connected to the land and water.
One chapter that stood out was the one on police brutality against the Manjolai workers. It's a painful but necessary reminder of the injustices our communities have faced � a chapter that deserves to be remembered and passed on to the next generation.
And then there are scenes like taking the whole class to the principal’s room and beating the hell out of a few students � something that instantly took me back to school days. Harsh as it was, it’s a memory many of us can’t forget.
This book is more than just a memoir; it's a mirror for those of us who grew up in similar soil. It reminded me of things I had forgotten I remembered....more
The revelation of events akin to Nazi concentration camps happening in close proximity and recent times is undeniably disturbing. The unsettDisturbing
The revelation of events akin to Nazi concentration camps happening in close proximity and recent times is undeniably disturbing. The unsettling realization that individuals involved in such acts, live among us today as cops, raises disconcerting questions. The possibility that these individuals were recognized and rewarded for their service to the system adds another layer of concern.
While the literary value of the book may not stand out, its unique and compelling content makes it a worthwhile read. The narrative is so immersive that it transcends the realm of fiction, drawing readers into a gripping story that leaves a lasting impact....more
The book claims to be a history book. I came with an expectation of reference. to literature, archeological evidence etc. The only reference in the boThe book claims to be a history book. I came with an expectation of reference. to literature, archeological evidence etc. The only reference in the book is to Sangam literature. And there are more theories which sounds more like pseudo science....more