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384
Novel • Fiction
Jaipur, India • 1950s
2020
Adult
18+ years
The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi follows Lakshmi, a skilled henna artist and healer in 1955 Jaipur, whose life is disrupted by the arrival of her estranged sister, Radha. As they navigate their interconnected journeys, the novel explores themes of personal choice, cultural clashes, and the struggle for identity amid traditional and modern pressures in post-independence India. Note: The book deals with themes of abuse and unwanted pregnancy.
Emotional
Nostalgic
Inspirational
Romantic
Contemplative
221,133 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi is widely appreciated for its vivid depiction of 1950s India and the intricate art of henna. Reviewers praise the rich, immersive storytelling and the protagonist's resilience. Some critiques mention predictable plot elements and occasional pacing issues. Overall, it's a compelling read enriched with cultural insights.
Readers who enjoy immersive, character-driven stories with rich cultural settings will be captivated by Alka Joshi's The Henna Artist. It's ideal for fans of Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns or Lisa See's Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. This novel offers a vivid exploration of Indian traditions and the resilience of women.
221,133 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Radha
Lakshmi’s 13-year-old sister, who comes to live with Lakshmi after their parents' death and faces challenges while seeking a sense of belonging and family.
Hari Shastri
Lakshmi's ex-husband, initially slovenly and struggling, who later utilizes herbalist skills to help others.
Jay Kumar
A Western-educated doctor and a friend of Samir’s, who respects Lakshmi's expertise in herbal remedies and represents a bridge between traditional and modern values.
Samir Singh
A wealthy member of the Singh family, who aids Lakshmi professionally but maintains a string of mistresses and exhibits patriarchal tendencies.
Parvati Singh
A key client of Lakshmi’s from the Singh family, originally supportive but later protective of her family's reputation over equitable solutions.
Ravi Singh
The privileged eldest son of the Singh family, who secretly meets with Radha despite being engaged to someone else, mirroring his father's double standards.
384
Novel • Fiction
Jaipur, India • 1950s
2020
Adult
18+ years
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