I read this book when I was studying in college, and the truth mentioned in this book has been etched on my mind forever. I borrowed a copy of this book from an old friend of mine, who highly recommend this book.
The book mentions the plight of the lepers in Calcutta. Scenes from this book are unforgettable. I wish to add a comment, to the people, who would try and see the movie version of this book...please, do not see the movie. I guess they did not have the courage of showing the entire truth of the book in the movie. It shows how the courage and willpower of a doctor, to help people, exceeds the pressure exerted upon him by the society, and the local goons.The description of how an NY doctor quickly adapts to the harsh realities of living in a slum, in Calcutta, out of mere faith that he can heal and treat the lepers.
Dominique Lapierre is an amazing writer. I felt that his book is a tight slap across the face of the Indian authors, who can never write so much truth, but stick to some glossy and cheap thrills, that sell in the market. I have a deep inquisitiveness, to know about the author’s background work he has done to write such a novel.
I feel that the subject of this book would not appeal to a lot of people’s taste, but surely its a good reading material.