Set in 1942 and published in 2017, Supriya Kelkar's novel Ahimsa received overwhelmingly positive reviews upon release. In their review of the novel, Kirkus Reviews wrote that "This 2015 New Visions Award winner offers a complex narrative and inspires readers to check their privilege to address ongoing injustices." The novel follows Anjali, a ten-year-old Indian girl who is terrified of losing her father, who is working with Mahatma Gandhi to fight for Indian freedom from British colonial rule. But things are not what they seem: Anjali's mother, not her father, has joined Gandhi's freedom movement and has put her life on the line. Anjali's mother joined Gandhi's ahimsa, or non-violent resistance, movement to fight for independence. And Anjali's life radically changes as well. She must give up some of her most cherished possessions and deal with lower castes - including the "untouchable" caste. Eventually, Anjali's mother is sent to jail for her work, and Anjali is forced to continue her mother's important work.
Kelkar's novel was inspired by real-life events that took place in India in the mid-20th century. It was also inspired by the ancient Indian principle of non-violence and non-interventionism. The novel was also inspired by the life and work of the author's ancestors. Kelkar's great-great-grandmother, for instance, worked with Gandhi as he campaigned for Indian independence.
The novel highlights the struggles of the people of India during the fight for independence and how they were able to maintain their moral integrity amid the turmoil. It also emphasizes the importance of self-sacrifice, unity, and the power of the collective voice. It also shows the importance of compassion and understanding in the face of injustice. The novel's thoughtful and nuanced depiction of the Indian independence movement has been praised by critics, and Ahimsa has been featured in numerous publications, including The Washington Post and The New York Times. It is a powerful story that serves as an inspiration to all those who are striving for justice and equality.
