Bishnu, the Dhobi Singer
Illustrator: 
Tapas Guha
age group: 
9+ yrs
Number of pages: 
60
Publisher: 
Pratham Books
Themes:
Tansen perseverance Mughals historical great musicians of India
Genre:
realisitic fiction,
 

Children will love this endearing tale of Bishnu, a dhobi’s son who loved to sing. The author has cleverly combined several interesting elements in this story, set during the reign of one of India’s greatest rulers - Akbar.

Bishnu is passionate about music and attends music performances whenever he can.
Once, during a qawwali session, he eagerly exchanges notes with a peron seated next to him, little realising that he was the legendary singer from Akbar's court - Miyan Tansen!  Impressed by Bishnu's passion and understanding of music, Tansen invites him to Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, to become his student.

The story whilst narrating the turn of fortune in Bishnu’s life, not only educates the reader on the nuances of classical music and different ragas but also imparts information on Akbar’s court and his ‘Navratnas or nine gems.

Subtly woven through the story is a message to the reader. Follow your dreams, and some day they will come true.

The full page colour illustrations are vibrant and detailed, and reminds one of the great Moghul miniatures

The book could be a great supplement reader for schools, to complement studies of the Moghul period.
 

Reviewed by Shamim Padamsee