MODIAAIN-BOOK REVIEW

 

"Modiaain" by Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala is a novella that stands out for its distinctive narrative style and thematic focus. The story is a reimagining of the Mahabharata, but instead of depicting the grandeur of the epic, it zeroes in on the personal trauma and the psychological impact of the war on ordinary people—specifically women. The novella centers around Modiaain, a grocer’s wife, who embodies the voices of countless women affected by war, making it a profound commentary on the devastation that extends far beyond the battlefield.

PLOT OVERVIEW AND SETTING

The novella is set in Darbhanga, a region in India, where the narrator, a young boy from Nepal, meets Modiaain. The boy's curiosity leads him to learn about the history and legends of the place. Modiaain's house is situated near Hadaha Pokhari (a lake), a place that she claims has been there since the time of the Mahabharata. As the boy and his companion Misirji stay at Modiaain’s house, she begins to recount the Mahabharata from her own perspective, intertwining her personal story with the larger epic.

The setting is symbolic of a transitional space between history and the present, where myth and reality coalesce. Modiaain’s account is deeply personal—she has lived through the consequences of the Kurukshetra War, which led to her losing her husband. The novella thus offers a unique viewpoint on the aftermath of the war, emphasizing how its repercussions affect not only the heroes and kings but also the women and common people left behind to pick up the pieces​.

THEMES AND SYMBOLISM

One of the central themes of "Modiaain" is the human cost of war. Koirala uses Modiaain’s story to illustrate the profound and often overlooked emotional toll of warfare. Through her, the novella delves into themes such as love, loss, renunciation, and longing. Her life is marked by both bravery and vulnerability, and she becomes a voice for the “widows of war,” those whose lives were permanently altered due to the conflict. The novella poses a crucial question: What is the true outcome of war? It highlights the emptiness left by the deaths of loved ones and the futility of violent conflict​.

Another theme is the contrast between the greatness of warriors like Arjuna and Krishna and the simplicity of Modiaain’s own life. Her recounting of the epic is not about glory or heroism but about the consequences of decisions made by those in power. The narrative suggests that true greatness lies not in achieving grand victories but in living with integrity and empathy. This is best encapsulated in Modiaain’s advice to the young boy: “Don’t strive to be great, strive to be good.”

NARRATIVE STYLE AND TECHNIQUE

Koirala’s narrative technique in "Modiaain" is marked by its simplicity and clarity. The novella is only about 42 pages long, yet it encapsulates a wide range of emotions and philosophical reflections. Koirala employs the character of Modiaain to reflect on the contradictions of life and the struggle for meaning amid chaos and loss. The novella’s prose is poetic and symbolic, making it both a compelling read and a meditation on human suffering and resilience.

PHILOSOPHICAL AND LITERARY SIGNIFICANCE

"Modiaain" is not merely a retelling of an epic but a philosophical exploration of human nature and the consequences of war. Koirala uses the novella to critique the traditional glorification of war in epics like the Mahabharata. The narrative questions the purpose of war and suggests that real heroism lies in fostering peace and understanding. The novella also subtly critiques the patriarchal structures that perpetuate war and marginalize the voices of women​.

In conclusion, "Modiaain" is a powerful, thought-provoking work that transcends its brief length. It provides a nuanced perspective on the Mahabharata, one that focuses on the lived experiences of ordinary people rather than the exploits of its heroes. Through the lens of Modiaain’s life, Koirala crafts a story that is both timeless and relevant, urging readers to reflect on the true costs of conflict and the value of peace.