Namita Gokhale’s latest book, Life on Mars: Collected Stories, features 15 short stories that delve into themes of love, fate, and the essence of human existence. Released in January 2025, this collection showcases the author’s profound connection to storytelling, merging her previous works with new narratives that reflect her evolving viewpoint. The book is divided into two distinct sections—‘Love and Other Derangements’ and ‘The Mirror of the Mahabharata’—each providing a unique perspective on relationships, mythology, and human emotions.
What makes Life on Mars a reflection of Gokhale’s literary journey?
Gokhale describes Life on Mars as a reflection of various stages in her life and writing journey. The initial section of the book explores the intricacies of relationships, while the latter part reinterprets mythological narratives. One story depicts Kunti and Gandhari dealing with their personal grief following the Kurukshetra war, while another creatively tells the love story of Nala and Damayanti from the viewpoint of a swan. These narratives highlight Gokhale’s talent for merging historical and emotional richness with modern storytelling.
