Book Review: ‘Troubled Waters’ by Kalki and Nandini Krishnan

Book Title: Troubled Waters (Ponniyin Selvan Book 2)
Author: Kalki
Translator: Nandini Krishnan
Publisher: Eka
Number of Pages: 306
ISBN: 978-9357768702
Date Published: Oct. 23, 2023
Price: INR 296

Book Review

“Troubled Waters,” Nandini Krishnan’s English translation of Kalki Krishnamurthy’s acclaimed classic, tells the enthralling story of the Chozha Empire amid political intrigue and dynastic turmoil. This translation perfectly captures the essence of Kalki’s original work, combining historical depth with modern accessibility. The work, written in lyrical writing, exemplifies the peculiar style known as ‘Kalki Tamil,’ in which vernacular meets erudition and vivid imagery dances with ecstatic prose. Readers are pulled into a universe where characters such as the powerful Pazhuvoor Ilaiya Rani, Nandini, and the daring hero Vandiyadevan command attention due to their depth and complexity.

The story of “Troubled Waters” moves at an unnerving pace, keeping readers intrigued and eager to comprehend the unfolding events. Characters develop dynamically, testing assumptions and adding levels of fascination to the story. The enigmatic influence of Pazhuvoor Ilaiya Rani over her prominent husband, as well as the pain endured by Crown Prince Aditya Karikalan, arouse interest and suspense. Vandiyadevan’s mission to convey an important message, as well as Azhvarkadiyaan Nambi’s desire to meet Nandini, add to the plot’s intricacy.

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Kalki’s serialization in “Ponniyin Selvan” revolutionized Tamil writing, developing a distinct style that mixed vernacular with knowledge and wordplay with vivid imagery. Nandini Krishnan’s translation captures the appeal of the original while being accessible to current audiences. The lush descriptions of Sri Lanka, as well as the mesmerizing representation of cultural events such as the Perahera celebration, enhance the story and transport readers to a wonderfully detailed historical setting.

“Troubled Waters” is more than just a translation; it is a proud and genuine tribute to the Ponniyin Selvan series. The book’s ability to keep readers engrossed till the early hours says eloquently about the author’s narrative abilities and the book’s compelling nature. As the second volume in the series, this translation maintains a balance of historical richness and contemporary accessibility, ensuring that Kalki’s timeless masterpiece reaches a new audience. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning the film adaptation of “Ponniyan Selvan,” Parts 1 and 2, conceived and directed by acclaimed Tamil filmmaker Mani Ratnam. With a stellar cast, the movie serves as a visual tribute to Kalki’s epic story of “Ponniyan Selvan. Reading the book brings out characters with realism.

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