“The House of Blue Mangoes” is a trilogy depicting the struggles of a Christian family in South India against the backdrop of historical events. David Davidar skillfully blends fiction with actual historical occurrences in this captivating narrative.

The story begins in 1899 in Colonial India, a time marked by communal tensions, a rigid caste system, and social injustice. Solomon Durai, the patriarch of Chevathar village, finds himself entangled in a battle for justice against a formidable adversary, risking his reputation and the stability of the village.

The narrative then shifts to Solomon’s sons, Aaron and Daniel, in 1907 during the Indian freedom movement. Aaron becomes involved in the freedom struggle, while Daniel establishes Doraipuram, an exclusive colony for the Durai family. The focus later turns to Kannan, Daniel’s son, a tea planter in Pulimed, navigating the challenges of marriage and societal expectations.

Throughout the book, Davidar vividly portrays the lifestyle and challenges faced by each generation of the Durais, exploring themes of generational conflict and the role of women in a male-dominated society. The extensive research behind the book is evident, with detailed descriptions of historical events and settings.

“The House of Blue Mangoes” also sheds light on the place of Christians in Indian society, offering a long-overdue tribute to this community. With its rich storytelling and immersive descriptions, this book is a captivating read that I highly recommend.