August 20, 2024 Bridge Team
The story of Pavi in ‘Adaraneeya Histhenak‘, the first of its kind to be written and published in Sri Lanka, is a beacon of light for anyone who is entangled in the pitfalls of cultural rigidities that are detrimental towards receiving equal rights as a Sri Lankan citizen, maintaining mental health, and overall development of self-respect.
Pavi, our protagonist, claims to be a “flamingo”. By far, this is a bold declaration to come from a teenager from a middle-class urban society where cultural stereotypes often dictate one’s future trajectory in life. Yet, it is this very claim that sets the stage for an introspective journey, exploring the essence of self in a world determined to define us.
The story also reveals how a single omission can conceal life’s deepest secrets, shaping a person’s entire existence. For Pavi, his secret manifests itself in the form of self-realization, especially one that challenges normative codes. In our society, such realizations are often viewed as mistakes and Pavi’s journey in the text is both a revelation and a revolution. Contrasted against his are those who live their lives without such “mistakes”, constrained by the phobia of stepping out of line.
The story introduces us to the everyday trials and tribulations of a trio of friends: an inspiring young wordsmith who takes flight despite societal constraints, his sporty best friend- a bit cliched, nevertheless his object of desire and a young woman who is willing to make sacrifices for her friend with her limited understanding of anything non-normative. Their lives intertwine with Pavi’s, creating a tapestry that unfolds as defiance, loyalty, and silent suffering.
Within its pages, we also meet various characters who paint a vivid picture of Pavi’s struggles. A pseudo psychiatrist who turns youthful romance into torment, a genuine healer who embodies the true spirit of caregiving, a few judgmental and apathetic conformists masked as teachers and a sympathetic artful heart are some of those who weave their narratives into the fabric of Pavi’s life.
R.C. Adhikari, the writer, brings forth the voices of these inexperienced youth trapped in cultural stereotypes, pushing back against the constraints yet unable to express their true selves. The narrative challenges the traditional notion that homoerotic love is non-organic and is a western import showcasing a story that is homegrown.
‘Adaraneeya Histhenak‘ is a must-read for today’s youth as well as their parents. It is a story that resonates with the silent battles of youth, the quest for identity, and the courage to break free from cultural shackles. Adhikari’s writing is a beacon of hope, shedding light on the unspoken struggles and offering solace to those navigating the foggy landscape of self-discovery.
In the end, this book is more than just a story; it is a mirror reflecting the soul of a generation. It is a voice for the voiceless, a journey through the fog of cultural constraints, and a celebration of the human spirit’s resilience. ‘Adaraneeya Histhenak‘ is not just a novel; it is a lifeline for those seeking to understand and embrace their true selves amidst a raging storm.
Note by: Regulus Black
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