Book Review: ‘Gulabiya’ by Dr Abha Purbey

Book Title: Gulabiya: A Novel
Author: Dr Abha Purbey
Translator(s): Shivangi Pandey and Tejaswi Rawal
Publisher: Hachette India
Number of Pages: 128
ISBN: 9357319328
Date Published: May 19, 2026

Book Review

The English translation of the Angika-language novella “Gulabiya” by Dr. Abha Purbey, translated by Shivangi Pandey and Tejaswi Rawal, presents a poignant tale set against the backdrop of the Kosi River floodplains in Bihar, India. The story revolves around Gulabiya, a young farmhand passionate about Balesar, the farm’s manager. Their aspirations to cultivate their own land ignite the ire of Balesar’s landlord and lead to a betrayal by Gulabiya’s family, resulting in a heartbreaking separation.

The story dives into the harsh realities of farm labor and socio-economic struggles in 21st-century India, highlighting themes of love, land, and resistance within a deeply entrenched caste and class system. The novella contrasts the intimate world of its characters with broader societal issues.

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Dr Abha Purbey’s strong writing captures the complexities of farmhands’ lives while addressing themes of oppression and audacious rebellion. The fluidity and emotional depth in the translation reflect the original’s essence, deftly conveying the struggles and hopes of the protagonists.

“Gulabiya” emerges as a compelling exploration of women’s struggles for freedom in a traditional society, deftly blending literary elegance with emotional resonance.

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