ThalaimuRaigaL by Neela.Padmanabhan.Quote:
Originally Posted by Nerd
One of the classic novels. It was noted for its simpl,e flow and subtle and gradual progression of writing style.
It is about a family living in Nagercoil area. The hero Dhiravi's (in the novel he starts as a small boy and progresses to be an adult) sister gets sent back by her impotent husband. In the regressive society then one can only fume. His love for his sister, his yearning to do justice to her but then he is not the man of the house, not yet atleast. Changes in the family, society, attitudes towards women shown beautifully. The characters like the hero's grandmother an oldworld lady who is getting outdated but no doubt full of love for her grandchildren (just that she thinks her granddaughter ought to resign to her fate).
The story works because of the memorable characters. Dhiravi's bigamist grand uncle gets henpecked by both wives. The one who really care for him are the half caste concubine and their children. But there are limits - this far and no further.
Dhiravi's lower caste friend (who is a rough gain but with great affection for his invalid father) has a soft corner for Dhiravi's sister. But given his station there are limits to his expressing it. And nor can Dhiravi offer it when he is not yet man of the house to make such a social leap, when the possibility of reconciliation is still open etc.How time and changes in events gradually push the family in certain directions is the story. Quite filmable. Then again quite goofable, adhunaala dhaan kEttukittE irukkEn.