Kaushik Barua’s Windhorse
While Kaushik Barua’s No Direction Rome failed to reach out(to me), his debut novel Windhorse connects from page one. Set in Tibet, India and Nepal against the backdrop of the Tibetan struggle,the book follows two main protagonists Lhasang and Norbu. While Norbu has lived a privileged expatriate life in India, Lhasang’s life has been a struggle in Tibet. Lhasang’s father Dadul, pushes him towards the path of the Buddha, but the Chinese Occupation and atrocious treatment thereafter, force Lhasang to take the aggressive path. While Norbu is miles away from Nepal and firm in his faith in the Dalai Lama, Lhasang flees Tibet along with his parents and makes his way to India. Lhasang’s destiny clashes with Norbu’s, when they both meet up in Delhi and join the resistance movement to free Tibet. Their Dharma takes them across the border to fight for their homeland.
Much has been written about Tibetan Buddhism and how the path of the Buddha leads one to a happier life. There is also enough media coverage on the Dalai Lama and the Chinese occupation of Tibet. With Windhorse, Kaushik Barua has managed to bring out the ordinary human element in this politically charged movement to light. The story has shades of Tibetan folklore and mysticism, which till date makes up the core of Tibetan beliefs. This deftly written narrative is well researched and beautifully presented. As each page turns, the reader connects and feels the trials and tribulations of the characters, both minor and major. Each character is portrayed brilliantly, with their personal characteristics shining out. The characters created by the author even though fictional, reflect authenticity. Barua manages to give convincing perspectives on the ordinary Tibetans’ conflicting views on the need for resistance and the strongly advocated non-violent approach. The story moves fast and is gripping till the very end. The historical research is impeccable and the story is strong enough to reach out and create widespread awareness towards the Tibetan cause.
Windhorse is a gripping, poignant tale of struggle, loyalty and beliefs.
A definite read!
Up next, an interview with the articulate author……………..
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the good book corner 
What an interesting way to approach a current issue! I’ll have to check it out.
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