SUNFLOWERS: Incredible Journeys of Epic Women Artists from India | Book Review

 Review of Sujatha Prashar's book - SUNFLOWERS: Incredible Journeys of Epic Women Artists from India 

Title - SUNFLOWERS: Incredible Journeys of Epic Women Artists from India 

Author - Sujatha Parashar 

Genre – Non Fiction, Biography, Anthology

Format - Paperback

Pages- 188

Publisher -Atlantic Publishers and Distributors (P) Ltd. 

Publication Date - 21st February 2024

For a long time, women artists, particularly in India, did not have it easy.

So, what contributes to a woman artist's success?

Is it grit, determination or passion?

Sunflowers: Incredible Journeys of Epic Women Artists from India unveils unfiltered and untold success stories of twelve remarkable women artists. The book captures the heart and mind of these female artists belonging from diverse fields such as theatre, visual arts, fashion, etc. and traces their artistic journeys through pivotal stages of their lives. Much like sunflowers, each artist blossoms amid adversities, demonstrating art as a rewarding career and challenging societal biases.

Through the real-life narratives, the book urges readers to view artists as creative nurturers of society. It explores personal themes like relationships, youthful aspirations, the choice between pursuing passion and academic education, the influence of family and friends, and the delicate balance between an artist's life and societal roles like mother, daughter, partner, etc. These uplifting tales will not only inspire the young but also enlighten general readers while providing valuable insights for researchers in gender studies, sociology, popular culture, and more.

“...extraordinary life stories of women, whom destiny chose to be artistes.”

– Pratibha Prahlad, Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee

"...an essential read for anyone who wants to understand the profound role female artists play in nurturing the soul of society."

—Vinita Dawra Nangia, Executive Editor, Times Group

"Their stories show us the changing face of women in today's society."

— Pratap Somvanshi, Managing Editor, Hindustan Hindi Daily

Book #32 of 2024

Non-fiction #17

This book is a captivating anthology of biographies featuring Indian women artists who have achieved remarkable success and acclaim in their respective fields. The author delves beyond surface details, exploring pivotal moments in these women's lives when they recognized their potential and embarked on journeys of growth and achievement.

The narratives highlight the inherent challenges of pursuing success, emphasizing the struggles, failures, setbacks, and criticisms these women faced. Yet, through unwavering determination and hard work, they transcended obstacles to attain greatness, embodying a powerful testament to resilience and perseverance.

Notably, these women have not only pursued their passions but have also achieved a delicate balance between their careers, family responsibilities, and societal expectations. They have shattered conventional stereotypes, demonstrating extraordinary dedication and courage in their chosen fields.

Each chapter is devoted to an individual artist, featuring a portrait and an insightful quote. The narrative delves into their backgrounds, discussing their current pursuits, and chronicling the arduous journeys they undertook, complete with struggles and setbacks along the way.

Reading these stories instills readers with courage and motivation, illustrating that with determination and resilience, one can surmount any obstacle and effect meaningful change in the world.

The title aptly reflects the contents of the book—a collection of biographies celebrating women who embody beauty, vibrancy, resilience, and the transformative power of creativity.

 

Overall, this book is a compelling and inspiring read, particularly empowering for women seeking to forge their own paths. It earns a solid rating of 5 out of 5 stars, serving as a beacon of motivation and encouragement for readers of all backgrounds.

Sujata Parashar, a prolific author, social activist, trainer and talk therapist, currently serves as Vice President of WICCI's Arts Leadership Council (Delhi). She was a founding member of Empowering Minds and contributed to the Parents Empowering Parents (PEP) program. Her talk-therapy platform The Talk—it—Out—Express (TiOE), launched in 2019, promotes emotional health.

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