AUTHOR FEATURE:

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni 

Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is an acclaimed Indian-American author, poet, and professor known for her deep, evocative storytelling that blends Indian culture with universal human emotions. She was born in 1956 in Kolkata, India, and later moved to the United States for her higher education. Currently, she teaches creative writing at the University of Houston. Her works often explore themes of identity, displacement, and the immigrant experience, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of people caught between two cultures.

Divakaruni’s writing is widely recognized for its lyrical style, rich imagery, and emotional depth. A significant aspect of her work is her focus on women’s lives — their challenges, relationships, and journeys toward empowerment. She often gives voice to female characters who have been overlooked in traditional narratives. Her use of magic realism, where elements of fantasy blend seamlessly with everyday reality, adds a unique charm and mysticism to her stories.

Some of her most celebrated works include The Palace of Illusions, a retelling of the Mahabharata from Draupadi’s perspective; The Forest of Enchantments, which reimagines the Ramayana through Sita’s eyes; and The Mistress of Spices, which portrays an immigrant woman’s magical connection with spices that heal people. Other notable novels like Sister of My Heart and Before We Visit the Goddess beautifully capture the emotional bonds between women across generations and cultures.

Her contribution to literature has been recognized through several awards, including the American Book Award, PEN Oakland Award, and Bay Area Book Reviewers Award. Her books have been translated into over 29 languages and some adapted into films and plays, proving her global appeal. Through her works, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni continues to inspire readers worldwide by weaving together myth, magic, and the realities of modern life with a compassionate and empowering voice.

Sources : 

1. Official Website: www.chitradivakaruni.com

2. Poetry Foundation: poetryfoundation.org/poets/chitra-banerjee-divakaruni

3. Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chitra_Banerjee_Divakaruni