Sophie and Matteo, a young Italian couple disillusioned with their bourgeois upbringing, embark on a journey to India in the sixties or seventies, seeking spiritual fulfillment. Their experiences in an ashram, however, expose their differing expectations: Sophie desires a tourist's adventure, while Matteo yearns for a deeper, more authentic India. As Matteo becomes drawn to a charismatic guru known as Mother, Sophie sets out to uncover Mother's mysterious past, revealing a history that challenges their perceptions and ultimately leads them to a profound understanding of wisdom found within the journey itself.

Why You Should Read?

• Explore the complexities of spiritual seeking and cultural immersion through the eyes of two young Westerners in India.
• Delve into a compelling narrative that examines the nature of love, disillusionment, and the search for truth.
• Discover a masterful novel that explores themes of emotional exile and the diverse paths to self-discovery.
• Unravel the enigmatic past of a charismatic guru, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to the spiritual quest.

About the Author

Anita Desai is a renowned Indian novelist and short story writer. She has been nominated for the Booker Prize three times and is a recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award, India's highest literary honor. Her works often explore themes of identity, alienation, and the complexities of human relationships, set against the backdrop of Indian society. Desai's evocative prose and psychological depth have earned her international acclaim.