Based on the repercussions of the Burma War between British India and the Japanese Army, the book centres around Raji and her sisters who are sent off to live in Manikoil, in their mother’s village in 1944. Away from the war but also terribly embroiled in it through her brother who decides to enlist in the British Indian Army, Raji feels the whiff of independence in the air. When Ilavarasi, her new friend, also lets on that she’s a refugee of the war, Raji is forced to come to terms with its devastation. Amidst all this, rumours swirl that Gandhi thatha might be assassinated prompting the freedom fighters to enlist the help of Raji and her friend Lakshmi to deliver secret letters discreetly.

The book provides a glimpse into the role South had to play during the freedom struggle apart from touching upon themes such as girls’ education and empowerment.

Our podcast delves into the Behind the Scenes journey of Aditi's experience while writing the book.