The Ramayana, one of the world’s greatest epics, is also a tragic love story. In this brilliant retelling, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni places Sita at the centre of the novel: this is Sita’s version. The Forest of Enchantments is also a very human story of some of the other women in the epic, often misunderstood and relegated to the margins: Kaikeyi, Surpanakha, Mandodari. A powerful comment on duty, betrayal, infidelity and honour, it is also about women’s struggle to retain autonomy in a world that privileges men, as the author transforms an ancient story into a gripping, contemporary battle of wills.

Why You Should Read?

• Experience the classic Ramayana from the unique and powerful perspective of Sita.
• Discover the untold stories of complex female characters like Kaikeyi and Surpanakha.
• Explore timeless themes of duty, autonomy, and the struggle for rights within relationships.
• Engage with a contemporary retelling that makes ancient wisdom relevant for modern readers.

About the Author

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is an award-winning Indian-American author, poet, and professor. Her work often explores the experiences of women, particularly those from the South Asian diaspora, blending mythology with contemporary social issues. She has written numerous acclaimed novels, short story collections, and poetry books, including The Palace of Illusions and Oleander Girl. Her writing is celebrated for its lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance, earning her a place as a significant voice in modern literature.