Book Review: The Last Courtesan by Manish Gaekwad
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Namrata reviews Manish Gaekwad’s The Last Courtesan (Published by Harper Collins, 2023) calling it profoundly moving.
In The Last Courtesan, author Manish Gaekwad invites readers into the world of the kothas, the vibrant and enigmatic courtesan culture that once thrived in Calcutta and Bombay. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous events surrounding the 1993 Bow Bazaar bomb blast, Rekhabai’s memoir offers a deeply personal and poignant account of her journey from the glittering heights of fame to the harsh realities of survival.
The cover of the book features Rekhabai in sepia tones, with a thumbs-up bottle balanced gracefully atop her head, set against the backdrop of a kotha. Her radiant smile captures the essence of resilience and defiance, offering a glimpse into her indomitable spirit amidst the challenges she faces. This evocative image serves as a visual testament to Rekhabai’s strength and determination, inviting readers to delve into her remarkable story with curiosity and admiration.
