Tirukkural: The Book Of Desire

Written by the poet Thiruvalluvar, the Kamattu-p-pal is the third part of the Tirukkural - one of the most important texts in Tamil literature. The most intimate section of this great work is also the part that has been most heavily censored. Although hundreds of its translations by men have been published, it has only ever been translated by a woman once before.

In her feminist reclamation of the Kamattu-p-pal, Meena weaves a magic spell with her trademark wit, lyricism and passionate insight. Remaining true to the desire throbbing through the lifeblood of the text, she retains the drama that pervades the quintessential Tamil world of exaggerated hurt, lover's quarrels and evenings lost to longing. The result is a fresh, vital and breathtaking translation. Fizzing with energy, this book conveys powerful messages about female sensuality, agency and desire. It is a revolution 2,000 years in the making.