Penguin 35 Collectors Edition: Year of the Weeds
In Siddhartha Sarma's evocative tale 'Year of the Weeds', we are drawn into the heart of a quaint Gond hamlet nestled in western Odisha, where the intertwined destinies of Korok, a passionate horticulturist, and Anchita, a visionary artist, unfold amid a monumental clash against corporate avarice and government encroachment. The tranquility of their village is shattered when officials demand the Gonds forsake their ancestral lands to facilitate aluminum extraction from their revered hillside, thrusting the community into a battle reminiscent of David versus Goliath. As a wave of politicians, advocates, and even Maoist insurgents storms into their midst, Korok and Anchita find themselves navigating the turbulent waters of defiance, armed solely with their unwavering resolve and a humble computer. Sarma's gripping prose delves into profound themes surrounding indigenous sovereignty, ecological preservation, and the formidable strength of grassroots activism when pitted against overwhelming opposition. This captivating narrative compels readers to reflect on the genuine ramifications of advancement and the profound vigor discovered in solidarity.
- Author: Siddhartha Sarma
- Publisher: Penguin (7 November 2022)
- Genre: Contemporary Fiction
- ISBN: 978-0670097548
- Pages: 212 pages