YASHODHARA Paperback

Yashodhara: A Novel" by Volga, translated by P.S.V. Prasad, is a compelling and feminist reimagining of the life of Yashodhara, the wife of Siddhartha, who would become Gautama Buddha. The narrative courageously fills the historical gaps surrounding her, presenting her not as a passive figure left behind, but as a quick-witted, compassionate, and intellectually vibrant woman. The book explores her inner world, her understanding of Siddhartha's spiritual quest, and her own journey toward spiritual learning, challenging traditional portrayals by highlighting her agency and her profound desire for women to be recognized as equals in the pursuit of enlightenment, making her an active, integral part of the Buddha's story rather than merely an afterthought.