In the last two years, Indian-themed books, plays and movies have become hotter than the green sauce at the New Delhi buffet. Manil Suri's The Death of Vishnu is the latest in this trend, a novel that presents a glimpse of Indian culture that is exotic but not unfamiliar.
The Death of Vishnu reads like a collection of short stories. The author artfully weaves the stories of an apartment building's residents around Vishnu, an alcoholic dying on the landing. The Asrani and Pathak families use Vishnu as a pawn in their competition while Mr. Jalal sees him as an aid in his spiritual quest. The most intriguing story is the forbidden relationship between Kavita Asrani, a Hindu girl, and Salim Jalal, a Muslim boy. Vishnu plays a pivotal role in their relationship, and their love parallels Vishnu's forbidden affair years ago. As Vishnu's health declines, his hallucinations become more fantastic and the weight of the other characters' decisions become critical. The subplots feel somewhat trite, but Suri's detailed depiction of Indian culture and unique approach to time keep the narrative fresh. One of the novel's most enjoyable aspects is Suri's effortless intertwining of each character's memories and dreams with their present. Although he draws on Vishnu's childhood and current situation as well as Hindu mythology, the connections between the three never seem contrived.
Another one of the author's strengths is his attention to universal themes of love, prejudice, faith and tradition. While Kavita's daily life in Bombay doesn't include Starbucks or cell phones, readers can relate to her struggle to please both her parents and herself. She also confirms that the walk of shame is an international phenomenon.
The novel doesn't try to prove heavy arguments (though Mr. Jalal's conflict between intellect and spirituality is a thoughtful distraction), but tells stories of India in a romantic and well-written manner. Suri displays the craft of an accomplished storyteller as his first novel is colorful and engaging.
- Rebecca Rindler
