DEPARTMENT OF BBA(CA)
NEW ART’S COMMERCE AND SCIENCE
COLLEGE (AUTONOMOUS) AHMEDNAGAR
Book Review Report
“CHHAAVA” - BY SHIVAJI SAWANT
Submited by:
KRUSHNA AJINATH SHINDE
“CHHAAVA” - BY SHIVAJI SAWANT
Book Review of Chhaava by Shivaji Sawant
Introduction
Shivaji Sawant’s Chhaava is a literary masterpiece that brings to life the
forgotten story of one of Indian mythology’s most complex and tragic
heroes—Karna. Known for his role in the epic Mahabharata, Karna’s
life has long fascinated scholars and readers alike. Chava, meaning
"young lion" or "cub" in Marathi, is an apt title for this epic portrayal of
a man born into greatness yet denied his rightful place in society due to
circumstances of birth. Shivaji Sawant, a celebrated Marathi author,
delves into the emotional, philosophical, and moral struggles Karna
faced, offering readers a richly layered narrative that goes beyond black-
and-white morality.
Summary of the Book
Chhaava follows the journey of Karna from his mysterious birth to his
tragic death on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Born to Kunti before her
marriage and abandoned at birth, Karna is raised by a charioteer and
grows up under the shadow of social stigma. The story details his
relentless pursuit of knowledge, mastery of archery, and struggle for
identity and respect in a rigidly hierarchical society. Despite his talents,
Karna is repeatedly humiliated for his low birth. He finds solace in the
friendship of Duryodhana, who gives him a kingdom and status.
However, this allegiance ultimately pits him against his own brothers in
the Mahabharata war.
Character Analysis – Karna
Karna is portrayed as a man of unwavering integrity, loyalty, and
bravery. His internal battles are as intense as the external ones he fights.
While he longs for recognition and love, he also sticks to his principles,
even when they lead to personal loss. His character is layered with
contradictions—he is both noble and flawed, generous and prideful,
powerful yet bound by fate. Sawant humanizes Karna, showing his pain,
anger, and desire for justice. His refusal to abandon Duryodhana, despite
knowing the truth about his birth, showcases the depth of his loyalty and
sense of gratitude.
Themes in the Novel
Several key themes run through Chhaava:
1. Identity and Belonging: Karna’s search for his true identity and place
in the world is central to the novel.
2. Dharma (Duty) vs. Loyalty: Karna's loyalty to Duryodhana often
conflicts with what is morally or ethically right.
3. Fate and Free Will: The novel questions the extent to which one's
destiny is preordained.
4. Social Injustice: Karna's life highlights the cruelty of caste
discrimination and the pain of societal rejection.
5. Heroism and Tragedy: Karna embodies the tragic hero—great in
many ways, yet doomed by circumstance.
Writing Style and Narrative Structure
Shivaji Sawant's writing is poetic, philosophical, and emotionally
resonant. He uses rich, evocative language and vivid imagery to portray
the grandeur and gravity of ancient times. The narrative structure is non-
linear at times, delving into memories, dreams, and inner monologues.
This style helps readers connect deeply with Karna’s internal world.
Dialogues are powerful and thought-provoking, filled with wisdom and
pain. Sawant's storytelling bridges mythology and realism, creating a
timeless and universal tale.
Symbolism and Mythology
Chhaava draws heavily from Hindu mythology, but it does so with a
modern and rational perspective. Karna symbolizes the neglected,
misunderstood, and marginalized individual in society. His golden armor
and earrings are symbolic of his divine origins, while their removal by
Indra signifies the stripping of his divine protection and identity. The
wheel stuck in the mud during his final battle becomes a metaphor for
the constant obstacles fate throws in his path. Through these symbolic
moments, Sawant elevates Karna’s life into a mythic yet relatable
narrative.
Supporting Characters
The novel gives due attention to other significant figures:
Duryodhana: Often seen as a villain, he is shown here as a true friend
and political strategist.
Kunti: Her internal struggle as a mother who abandoned her son is
portrayed with depth and empathy.
Krishna: Acts as a divine guide but is also a political tactician.
Arjuna: Karna’s rival and brother, representing the ideal warrior, yet
bound by his own moral flaws.
Each character adds complexity to the story, challenging conventional
notions of good and evil.
Cultural and Historical Context
Though rooted in mythology, Chava also speaks to the social realities of
caste, privilege, and power dynamics in India. Sawant uses the
Mahabharata setting to comment on issues still relevant today—
oppression, identity crisis, and the human cost of blind loyalty. The epic
context provides grandeur, but the emotional and moral dilemmas make
the story strikingly contemporary. Sawant’s use of historical language,
customs, and references immerses readers in a world that feels both
ancient and immediate.
Critical Evaluation
Chhaava is a triumph of Indian literature. Its greatest strength lies in its
ability to humanize a mythological figure without stripping away his
grandeur. Shivaji Sawant’s extensive research and literary skill shine
through in every chapter. However, some may find the novel’s
philosophical tone and lengthy monologues heavy at times. Despite this,
the book’s emotional and intellectual depth makes it a compelling read.
It encourages readers to question societal norms and re-examine long-
held beliefs about heroism and villainy.
Conclusion and Personal Reflection
Reading Chhaava is an emotional and philosophical journey. It
challenges readers to look beyond surface-level judgments and consider
the complexities of fate, duty, and personal choice. Karna emerges not
just as a tragic hero, but as a symbol of strength, resilience, and integrity
in the face of relentless adversity. Shivaji Sawant has given voice to the
voiceless, and in doing so, has created a timeless classic. Chava is not
just a retelling of Karna’s life—it is a mirror to society, reflecting both
its flaws and its potential for greatness.
