The global debut of “Swallowing the Sun,” a novel that has captivated Indian audiences and is now poised for adaptation into a high-profile streaming series, commenced in Edinburgh. Authored by Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri, this inaugural novel has quickly become a cornerstone of modern Indian literature.
Spanning from 1918 to 1950 during the British Raj, “Swallowing the Sun” chronicles the life of Malati, a Western-educated Indian woman, and a diverse cast of characters across three generations. They navigate colonial oppression, political turmoil, and the rigid societal structures of the time. The narrative combines elements of a coming-of-age story and family epic, weaving a tapestry of love, conflict, education, and resistance throughout India, from Bombay to Banaras.
Puri’s work masterfully blends historical events with fictional narratives, focusing on themes of female empowerment during India’s struggle for independence. The novel highlights the resilience of the human spirit and universal aspirations towards truth, love, justice, and beauty. Recognized with five prestigious literary awards and described as a transformative debut, the book has been praised for its vivid storytelling and profound thematic depth.
Kumar Chellappan from The Pioneer recently remarked that the novel is “Thrilling and vibrant…like a long-awaited monsoon.”
The international launch event took place at City Chambers in Edinburgh, chosen for its rich literary heritage and global perspective. The event featured discussions led by Lady Joyce Caplan of the Scottish Centre for Tagore Studies and drew a notable crowd including government representatives, scholars, and women’s leaders, celebrating the work’s expanding global influence.
Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri, the author, has an extensive background in international diplomacy and women’s advocacy, having held significant roles at the UN, including as the founding Deputy Executive Director of UN Women. Her diplomatic service and commitment to gender equality deeply influence the themes of her novel, which pays homage to the unsung heroes of India’s independence movement.
Puri said the novel is deeply entrenched in the Indian experience, appealing universally through its portrayal of courage and perseverance against adversity. The narrative, she notes, is a call to action and reflection for contemporary society.
With the novel’s translation into various Indian languages and its adaptation into a series underway, “Swallowing the Sun” is set to reach a broader audience. The Edinburgh event, supported by Purview Group, emphasized the city’s role as a nexus for cultural and civic discourse, making it an ideal venue for the novel’s global introduction.
Prabhu Guptara of Pippa Rann Books praised the novel for its emotional depth and literary sophistication, acknowledging its potential to resonate beyond its initial readership.
As “Swallowing the Sun” prepares for further UK events and its upcoming release, it continues to draw attention for its rich narrative and historical significance. The novel is scheduled for UK-wide release on February 5, 2026, at a retail price of £25 for the hardback edition.
