In Custody by Anita Desai

“In Custody” is a novel written by Anita Desai, an acclaimed Indian author. The book was published in 1984 and explores themes of identity, cultural alienation, and the decline of traditional arts in modern India.

The story revolves around Deven Sharma, an Urdu language teacher and aspiring poet who lives in Mirpore, a fictional town in India. Deven idolizes the Urdu poet Nur, whose work he deeply admires. When Deven gets the opportunity to interview Nur, who is now living in a state of seclusion and declining health, he sees it as a chance to meet his literary hero and make a mark in the world of Urdu poetry.

However, Deven’s journey to meet Nur proves to be more challenging than he anticipated. He faces obstacles and struggles along the way, from bureaucratic hurdles to personal and cultural conflicts. As he navigates through these challenges, Deven’s idealized vision of Nur and his own aspirations as a poet begin to clash with the realities of life.

Through Deven’s experiences, Anita Desai delves into the complexities of language, tradition, and artistic pursuit. She portrays the clash between traditional values and the changing modern world, as well as the dilemmas faced by individuals caught in this cultural transition.

“In Custody” is known for its evocative portrayal of characters and its exploration of the power of language and literature. Anita Desai’s prose is often praised for its lyrical quality and emotional depth. The novel received critical acclaim and was shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 1984, further establishing Anita Desai as a prominent voice in contemporary Indian literature.