The Many Versions of Mrs Sharma by Sangeeta Kampani

My Rating - 5 out of 5 stars

Publisher - Notion Press

Genre - Lyrical Fiction
Publishing year - 2024
Language - English
ISBN - 979-8-89610-952-5
Pages - 70

Book Review - 

The Many Versions of Mrs Sharma is the third book by Sangeeta Kampani and my first experience with her writing. The story is written in a lyrical fiction format, which is not new to me, but it has been a long time since I last read a book in this style. I must say, it was a refreshing and deeply moving experience.

The story revolves around Mrs Sharma, a relatable and realistic character whose life reflects the experiences of many women in traditional Indian households. Married at a young age into a joint family, Mrs Sharma’s youthful dreams and aspirations are gradually overshadowed by the weight of domestic responsibilities. She takes on the roles of a devoted mother, a dutiful wife, a respectful daughter-in-law, and more. But in fulfilling these roles, she loses touch with her younger, carefree, and spirited self.

The narrative explores how Mrs Sharma, now turning seventy, reflects on her life during the celebration of her milestone birthday. As she looks back at her past, we see her journey unfold — from the innocence of a nineteen-year-old bride to the emotionally layered experiences of a woman who has sacrificed much of herself for the happiness of others. This introspection allows Mrs Sharma to reconnect with the parts of herself that were long buried beneath the weight of societal and familial expectations.

What makes Mrs Sharma’s story so touching is its authenticity. The author has masterfully created a character that mirrors the lives of countless women who sacrifice their personal desires for the sake of their families. Mrs Sharma reminded me of many women I know — women who have dedicated their entire lives to their families, often at the cost of their own happiness and identity. This emotional connection made the story even more impactful for me.

Mrs Sharma’s character arc is beautifully crafted. Through her reflections, the reader witnesses her emotional evolution — the joys, the regrets, the small victories, and the moments of profound loss. The emotional weight of her story is balanced with moments of warmth and subtle humour, making it easy for readers to connect with her on a personal level.

Sangeeta Kampani’s writing style is captivating. The lyrical nature of the prose adds a poetic charm to the story without making it feel overly dramatic or forced. The language is simple yet powerful, allowing the emotions of the characters to shine through effortlessly. The pacing is steady, neither rushed nor dragging, which makes it easy to stay engaged throughout the book.

It is more than just a story about one woman’s life — it is a reflection of the silent sacrifices and unspoken desires of countless women. It serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder to appreciate their disavowals and recognize their individuality beyond the roles they play.

Overall, it is a heart-touching, thoughtful, and beautifully written book. The emotional depth of the story, the relatable characters, and the engaging writing style make it a must-read. 

Sangeeta Kampani has done a remarkable job of capturing the complexities of a woman’s life with honesty and sensitivity. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for a story that resonates on a personal and emotional level.

Grab your copy from - Amazon IN Amazon US