Why "Cuckold" is the Novel Liberals Don't Want You to Read

Imagine a world where historical fiction challenges the status quo, and you'll find yourself in the pages of "Cuckold" by Kiran Nagarkar. Published in 1997, this novel is set in the 16th-century kingdom of Mewar, India, and follows the life of Maharaj Kumar, the husband of the legendary queen, Meera. The story unfolds in a time and place where tradition and power dynamics are as rigid as they come. But why is this novel a thorn in the side of modern liberal sensibilities? Because it dares to explore themes of masculinity, power, and devotion in a way that doesn't fit the progressive narrative.

First off, "Cuckold" is a masterclass in portraying a male protagonist who is neither a hero nor a villain but a complex character navigating the treacherous waters of royal politics and personal relationships. In today's world, where the male figure is often reduced to a caricature of toxic masculinity, this novel offers a nuanced portrayal that refuses to conform to the simplistic binaries that are so popular in contemporary discourse. The protagonist's struggle with his wife's devotion to Lord Krishna over him is a metaphorical slap in the face to those who believe that traditional gender roles are inherently oppressive.

Secondly, the novel's setting in a historical Indian kingdom provides a rich tapestry of cultural and political intrigue that is often glossed over in favor of more Western-centric narratives. This is a story that doesn't apologize for its cultural specificity, and in doing so, it challenges the liberal tendency to homogenize diverse cultures into a single narrative of oppression and victimhood. The characters in "Cuckold" are not mere victims of their circumstances; they are active participants in a complex social hierarchy that demands both cunning and courage.

Moreover, "Cuckold" delves into the theme of devotion, both spiritual and personal, in a way that is bound to make the secular left uncomfortable. The protagonist's wife, Meera, is a devotee of Lord Krishna, and her spiritual journey is portrayed with a depth and sincerity that is often missing in modern portrayals of religious devotion. In a world where faith is frequently dismissed as backward or irrational, "Cuckold" dares to present it as a source of strength and inspiration. This is a narrative that doesn't shy away from the power of belief, and in doing so, it challenges the liberal disdain for anything that doesn't fit into a secular, materialist worldview.

The novel also tackles the issue of power and its corrupting influence, a theme that resonates with today's political climate. However, unlike the simplistic narratives that dominate the mainstream, "Cuckold" doesn't offer easy answers or moral platitudes. Instead, it presents a world where power is a double-edged sword, capable of both great good and immense harm. This complexity is a far cry from the black-and-white morality that is often peddled by those who seek to divide the world into oppressors and oppressed.

Finally, "Cuckold" is a testament to the power of storytelling itself. In an age where narratives are often weaponized to serve political agendas, this novel stands as a reminder that literature can be a space for exploration and understanding, rather than a tool for indoctrination. It invites readers to engage with its characters and themes on their own terms, rather than dictating what they should think or feel.

In a world where conformity is often disguised as progress, "Cuckold" is a breath of fresh air. It challenges readers to think critically about the narratives they consume and the assumptions they hold. So, if you're looking for a novel that will provoke thought and spark debate, "Cuckold" is the book for you. Just don't expect it to fit neatly into the boxes that modern liberalism tries to impose.