Unveiling the Unseen: “Tomb of Sand” by Geetanjali Shree

“Tomb of Sand” by Geetanjali Shree, became my reading companion during those blissful, sunlit winter days, transporting me to a world wrapped in mystery and suspense. As I got engrossed into the pages of this captivating book, I found myself immersed in a tale that seamlessly weaved together elements of suspense, discovery, and the boundless depths of the human spirit. The winter sun cast a warm glow on my surroundings and I leisurely journeyed through the author’s words, uncovering secrets buried within the shifting sands of time.

Geetanjali Shree’s masterful prose painted vivid landscapes and breathed life into complex characters, their stories intertwining like delicate threads. Within the tapestry of “Tomb of Sand,” themes of love, betrayal, and resilience emerge, leaving an indelible mark on the reader’s heart. I can’t go further without thanking my friend who gifted me this wonderful treasure when I was going through a reader’s block.

A Glimpse into Unseen Lives: The Subjugation of Women

As I eagerly flipped through the pages of ,” I found myself drawn into a world where the invisibility of women echoed through each chapter. It was as if the author had woven a tapestry of emotions, revealing the deep-rooted societal dynamics that persist in modern-day India. Reflecting on my own observations, I embarked on a personal journey through the enchanting words of Shree’s masterpiece.

“When you’re quiet, you’re polite; but when I’m quiet, I’m wily.
If you did it, it’s good etiquette; if I do, it’s fawning flattery.
If you say it, it’s candid; if I do, it’s just rude.
If I ask, it’s obscene curiosity; when you do, it’s sympathy.
If I do it, it’s for my own convenience; if you do it, you’re most beneficent.
If I do it, I’m being stingy; if you do it, you’re being thrifty.
If I’m quiet, I’m acting proud; if you’re quiet, you feel bashful.
I’m extremely secretive, but you’re just reserved.
And my fashions are faux, whereas yours are cutting edge.
And if I lose something, what’s the big deal, but if you do, you’ve been
robbed, woe is me!”
― Geetanjali Shree, 

Geetanjali Shree’s Keen Observation

As a keen observer of women’s inner lives, Shree expertly delved into the effects of living with men, unraveling the physical and psychological toll it takes on women. I couldn’t help but recall the opening lines of her debut novel, “Mai” (Silently Mother), where she poetically described the consequences of constant bending on a woman’s spine. Shree’s words resonated deeply as I contemplated the profound impact of societal expectations on women’s well-being.

Lost in the Tomb of Sand: The Journey of Ma

Within the pages of “Tomb of Sand,” the world of Ma unfolded before my eyes—an 80-year-old woman trapped in the clutches of depression, her existence obscured by the weight of her own despair. It was a poignant metaphor that resonated deeply within me, as for the initial 100 pages, only her back was visible to the reader. It was as if her very being had become invisible, mirroring the invisibility society often imposes upon women.

Ma’s journey, both physically and emotionally, became a profound exploration of her identity and purpose. From the confines of a civil servant’s bungalow in north India, she embarked on a quest that transcended geographical boundaries. Her footsteps led her to Lahore, her childhood home, where memories of a bygone era mingled with the present. It was a pilgrimage to reclaim fragments of her past, to unearth the buried emotions that lay dormant within her heart.

With unwavering determination, Ma’s journey continued to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, fueled by her search for her ex-husband, Anwar. As she traversed the landscapes, her footsteps echoing the countless women who had embarked on similar odysseys throughout history, their stories intertwining in an eternal tapestry. Each step carried the weight of unspoken tales and unfulfilled dreams, encapsulating the resilience and unyielding spirit of women who defied societal expectations.

“Once you’ve got women and a border, a story can write itself. Even women on their own are enough. Women are stories in themselves, full of stirrings and whisperings that float on the wind, that bend with each blade of grass.”
― Geetanjali Shree, 

As I turned the pages, I felt a deep connection with Ma and the countless women she represented. Her journey became a mirror reflecting the struggles and triumphs of women throughout time. Through Geetanjali Shree’s evocative storytelling, I witnessed the indomitable spirit that propels women to embark on quests for self-discovery, to reclaim their voices and identities in a world that often renders them invisible.

In the vast expanse of “Tomb of Sand,” Ma’s voyage became a testament to the timelessness of women’s stories, their resilience echoing through the ages. It reminded me that the battles fought by one woman are shared by many, their collective narratives woven together in a tapestry of strength and endurance. Through the power of Shree’s prose, I witnessed the beauty and complexity of Ma’s journey—a journey that awakened my own appreciation for the untold stories of women, and the profound impact they have on our world.

The Hindi Cow Belt: A Society in Focus

Embedded within “Tomb of Sand” was the story of an upper-class family residing in the Hindi cow belt, where debates on safeguarding mothers echoed during leisurely lunches. Shree’s sarcastic prose vividly captured the dynamics of Indian men, their indirect communication with women, and the refusal of women to comply. I found myself chuckling and wincing simultaneously as I read descriptions of self-important men unable to laugh or husbands demanding freshly cooked meals each day, fearing the fatal consequences of leftovers.

The Challenge of Translation: The Dichotomy of Hindi and English

Having experienced the power of Geetanjali Shree’s words, I couldn’t help but acknowledge the challenges faced by translators. Daisy Rockwell’s translation remained true to the original Hindi version, capturing the essence of Shree’s prose. However, I observed instances where literal translations from Hindi to English failed to convey the intended meaning effectively.

“Nandu kyon bol kar bura bane? Unke nire dost baithe hain na, unke man kee bolne ko.

Why should Nandu speak and become bad? His friends are sitting there to speak what his heart wants.”
― Geetanjali Shree

I realized at few moments I was actually translating few sentences in Hindi and that made better sense. The linguistic dichotomy raised questions about the portrayal of Hindi characters and the potential misinterpretations caused by this disparity.

Embracing the Unseen: A Celebration of Strength and Spirit

As I closed the final pages of “Tomb of Sand,” I carried with me a newfound appreciation for the unseen lives of women. Geetanjali Shree’s poignant storytelling had peeled back the layers of invisibility, unveiling the strength and resilience that exist within each woman’s spirit. It was a reminder to celebrate the untold stories, to honor the struggles and triumphs, and to continue shining a light on the unseen, navigating the shifting sands of life with courage and determination.