The Monsoon War review: women unchained

Bina Shah’s “The Monsoon War” is a captivating novel set in a fictional Middle Eastern country ruled by a totalitarian regime that systemically strips women of their freedoms. In the aftermath of an apocalyptic nuclear war, the autocratic regime effectuates reproductive enslavement to repopulate the country, reducing women to mere hapless vessels for its domineering agenda.

Against this Orwellian backdrop, a clandestine resistance movement known as ‘Hamiyat’ emerges in a dilapidated southern province of the country, determined to break free from the nightmarish shackles.

At the heart of this movement are three iconoclastic women — Fatima Kara, Katy Azadeh, and Alia — aided by a sympathetic government minister, Raana Abdallah. These women represent the courage, strength, and resilience needed to defy patriarchal norms and reclaim dignity for their gender. The novel, through the struggle of this indomitable trio, explores the diverse experiences of women at various stages of life, challenging the stereotypical objectification of women as mere reproductive tools. The trio’s resilient fight and perseverance pay off as it successfully pushes for gender equality and freedoms.

The author skillfully spotlights the jarring realities faced by women in the male-dominated society, including the commodification and exploitation of their bodies and chronic patriarchal attempts to control them. While recounting the Hamiyat’s struggle, the story digs into the complexities of resistance — both physical and ideological — against entrenched patriarchy. It portrays their attempts to challenge the dystopian regime, resulting in the transformation of The Green City, the regime’s heavily fortified stronghold where surveillance is so pervasive that escape seems literally impossible.

The Hamiyat’s daredevil mission to capture Sheba City, a strategic town crucial for rallying popular support, introduces an interesting twist to the narrative. The mission, however, receives a serious blow when Abdallah is arrested, exposing a treacherous betrayal that could spell doom for their struggle. Azadeh manages to uncover the trap and warns Kara, who perseveres in the face of unexpected events, quickly rejigging their military strategy. In a gripping sequence, the Hamiyat fighters deploy innovative tactics, including digging of a tunnel along the city walls to avoid detection, and work to neutralise the Zaalims, a lethal high-tech weapon deployed by the regime which threatened to keep the Hamiyat at bay.

With the help of the resolute assets of the Hamiyat, Marzi, who sabotages the regime’s defences, and Laleh, who creates discord among enemy divisions, the Hamiyat crusaders triumph over the adversary. Kara nods the resumption of the operation, and the movement’s determination and morale strikes back up which ultimately leads to the fall of Sheba City. The guards give in, marking an important victory in their quest to topple the regime and herald the dawn of a new era where men and women work in harmony to create an equitable society bound by no stereotypical boundaries.

This novel is a powerful testament to women’s empowerment and resilience. The names of the characters carry a lot of symbolism: Hamiyat (courage), Azadeh (freedom), and Marzi (willingness), highlighting the importance of unity, courage, perseverance, and ingenuity in the face of oppression. The story brilliantly shows how womenfolk, often degraded as nazuk (weak), can rise to dare tyrannical rulers and bring about a transformative change.

The compelling narrative is also a poignant reminder of the need to document history to prevent such atrocities from recurring. It inspires readers to reflect on the value of gender equality and the need for sustained advocacy for women’s rights. With its gripping plot, masterfully crafted characters, beautifully woven narrative, and evocative prose, “The Monsoon War” is a true page-turner. Bina Shah’s exquisite storytelling and profound message make “The Monsoon War” a must read for anyone interested in the stories of resilience, perseverance, liberation, and the fight for justice.

Mikael Hussain is a freelance contributor

All facts and information are the sole responsibility of the author