Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Nework - Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 25: Renowned writer, journalist, and former member of the Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, Vittori Karkal (Victor Mathias), shared his profound experience of reading 'Malikala Pavitra Pettige', a work by Boluvar, within just two days while in Mangaluru.

He described it as an emotionally stirring journey that opened up like a mystery box, leaving a deep impact on his mind.

Spanning three continents, six countries, and covering events from the 7th century to the 21st century, the novel takes readers on an immersive ride. Karkal recounted how he read the book in a small room in Mangaluru’s Shaktinagar, battling the sweltering heat, with a pedestal fan barely keeping up. Despite the discomfort, the gripping curiosity of discovering what lay inside Malika’s Box pushed him from page to page, making it impossible to put the book down.

Whether one sees it as a travelogue, a novel, or a unique literary genre, the narrative unfolds in a detached yet compelling manner, like a drop of water clinging to a leaf—attached yet free. The storytelling style, devoid of unnecessary embellishments, allows the tale of Boluvar to flow seamlessly.

"Pick up the book, and there is no way you can leave it unfinished," Karkal asserted, encouraging readers to experience the literary magic of 'Mallikala Pavitra Pettige.'