By NEETU SHARMA
In THE WITCH, THE PRINCESS AND THE TOWER OF DOOM, author Rajesh Talwar immerses readers in a lush, mystical world influenced by Eastern cultures, offering a gripping and modern spin on the classic Western fairy tale of Rapunzel. With flowing black hair in place of golden locks and a complex witch in place of the traditional antagonist, this story is both recognisable and startlingly new.
The story begins when the kind king and queen strike a last-ditch deal with Churailamma, a powerful and feared witch, in the fictional kingdom of Pandya. The legend claims that years later, the witch reappears to kidnap Princess Pihu and imprison her in the evil Tower of Doom.
The opening scene alludes to a classic fairy tale, but Talwar quickly breaks with convention. Instead of focussing just on a prince’s heroic rescue, the story explores Pihu’s inner journey. Pihu is a fascinating heroine because of her strength, curiosity, and changing viewpoint. The plot revolves around her agency, which challenges the archetype of the powerless princess. Churailamma begins as a stereotypical witch but becomes into a nuanced, enigmatic figure. Is she a bad guy? Or simply misunderstood?
When a prince does show up, he is not the perfect, valiant hero that readers might anticipate. Rather, he is physically weak, frail, and in need of assistance
The story becomes more complex as the plot develops. An enigmatic disease starts to spread throughout the kingdom. Naturally, the witch is suspected, but the story challenges readers to see past the obvious. Is there another person responsible for the mayhem? Could the cure lie with the same person whom everyone fears?
Talwar skilfully strikes a mix between magic and mystery, creating a story that quietly challenges preconceptions while delivering a number of shocks. Simple moral classifications do not apply to the characters. The witch—possibly both intelligent and wicked—is much more than she initially seems, the princess is courageous and kind, and the prince is weak but resolute.
The story is both enjoyable and significant since it skilfully combines themes of empathy, resiliency, and the perils of prejudice.
With 42 books to his name, Rajesh Talwar is a remarkably versatile author, celebrated for his wide-ranging works. His portfolio spans plays, novels, children’s literature, self-help guides, and non-fiction that addresses pressing issues of social justice, culture, and law. In The Witch, The Princess, Talwar brings the same depth of storytelling and thoughtful nuance to children’s fiction.
This is more than just a fairy tale—it’s a tale of transformation. The narrative urges readers to view the world with greater compassion, discover strength in vulnerability, and question superficial judgments.
Talwar’s latest work is a delightful yet meaningful read for audiences of all ages, offering magic intertwined with substance. With its graceful prose, charming characters, and impactful message, it stands poised to become a modern classic.
