Raja Rao is recognized as a major novelist whose work delves into the intricacies of Indian identity and spirituality. His writing masterfully blends traditional Indian narrative techniques with modern literary styles, creating a unique and compelling voice. Rao's profound explorations of cultural encounters and the search for meaning resonate deeply with readers. His novels are celebrated for their poetic beauty and intellectual depth, solidifying his significance in contemporary literature.
Raja Rao's collection of non-fiction reflects on the profound essence of India, emphasizing it as a metaphysical concept rather than merely a geographical or civilizational entity. Through a blend of fables, journeys, discussions, and meditations, the work explores the deeper significance of Indian identity and existence, offering readers a contemplative view on how India shapes one's perception of self and the world.
This is the story of how Mahatma Gandhi's struggle for independence from the British came to a typical village, Kanthapura, in South India. This edition includes extensive notes on Indian myths, religion, social customs, and the Independence movement which fill out the background for the American reader's more complete understanding and enjoyment.
The Sacred Wordsmith compiles the best of Raja Rao's writings, including his autobiographical Prefaces and Introductions. The volume puts together several of his noted acceptance speeches, including those for the Sahitya Akademi Award and Neustadt International Prize, and other famous pieces, such as 'The World is Sound', 'The Word', 'Why Do You Write?', 'The West Discovers Sanskrit', 'The English Language and Us', and 'The Story Round, Around Kanthapura', a fascinating, unpublished account of the makings of his famous first novel.