THE ORACLE OF KARUTHUPUZHA: A NOVEL by Manu Bhattathiri [Hardcover]

In The Oracle of Karuthupuzha, Manu Bhattathiri tells the story of Nareshan, a struggling dairy farmer trying to provide for his family in the small town of Karuthupuzha. With only two cows and four mouths to feed, Nareshan's fortunes change dramatically when his daughter, Sarasu, becomes possessed by the demon-god Chaathan. This possession transforms Sarasu into a focal point of devotion, attracting pilgrims from all around who come to seek blessings and offer gifts, greatly improving Nareshan's financial situation.

As the town grapples with this miraculous phenomenon, skeptics, led by the rationalist and Communist party member Dasappan, challenge the legitimacy of Nareshan's newfound wealth and Sarasu’s divine connection. However, when Dasappan himself suffers a breakdown after denouncing Chaathan, the townspeople's faith is further solidified, leading to an influx of devotees and money. The narrative delves into themes of faith, skepticism, and the interplay between belief and livelihood, ultimately setting the stage for Nareshan's family to confront the implications of their daughter’s possession.

The novel intricately weaves elements of magical realism with social commentary, exploring how belief can shape communities and change lives. As Nareshan navigates the complexities of newfound wealth and the expectations that come with it, Bhattathiri revisits the beloved town of Karuthupuzha, deepening the connections to its earlier tales, The Town That Laughed and Savithri’s Special Room and Other Stories.