KALYANI — Novel by D. Jayakanthan in Tamil: G. Balaji — Tr. in Telugu; Vishalandhra Publishing House, 4-1-435, Bank Street, Hyderabed-500001. Rs. 60.
WHENEVER A seasoned writer visualises his fictional world "truly", and merges it with an "observed world" fully, a novel like Jnanapith award winner, K. Jayakanthan's "Kalyani" will be born. How he portrays the life of a theatre artist and presents the twists and turns, maintaining the raw human emotions of all the characters intact, without sensationalising anything, is admirable. The protagonist, Kalyani's character has a rare dignity, with an insightful understanding of life. Her value system remains in place despite being in the centre of the world of drama. Her love for Diwakar, a journalist, is so unsullied that she puts up with his restless nature unhesitatingly. She does not get hysterical, as an average woman would, when Diwakar matter-of-factly seeks separation driven by his irresistible quest for something that is more intellectually and emotionally satisfying than what an ordinary marriage can offer. How his perspective on love changes when Kalyani's mature individuality comes to the fore is beautifully depicted.
Ananda Rao, as Kalyani's mentor, philosopher and friend, has a fine role to play in her life, though with his own eccentricities.
The translation is laudable and Balaji's interview with Jayakanthan is inspiring.
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