A Melody In Mysore by Shruthi Rao – shows significance of gramophone records in the freedom movement

A Melody in Mysore is an inspiring and heartwarming historical fiction that highlights the impact and significance of gramophone records in the freedom movement, as well as the quiet courage and unity of those who fought for the nation’s freedom.

Synopsis

Mysore, 1932

The rest of India is ablaze with the fervour of the freedom movement, but Mysore remains tranquil under the maharaja’s benevolent rule. For twelve-year-old Leela, the movement feels distant, just words in the pages of newspapers—until Malathi Akka moves into her neighbourhood, bringing with her thrilling ideas, new perspectives, and . . . a gramophone!

As Leela gets swept up by the winds of change, it dawns on her that participation in the freedom struggle can take on forms she hasn’t even imagined . . .

The Songs of Freedom series explores the lives of children across India during the struggle for independence.

Review

Before reading A Melody in Mysore, I had always thought most princely states in pre-independent India struggled either under British rule or due to the British actively suppressing any involvement in the freedom movement, which surged across India in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. I was surprised to learn that Mysore, a princely state, remained relatively unaffected by this turmoil.

A Melody in Mysore follows the story of Leela, a 12-year-old motherless girl living with her grandmother in Mysore. Leela, like me, was curious about the freedom movement and puzzled by how the people in Mysore seemed oblivious to the nationalist fervor sweeping the rest of India.

Her perspective changes when her Malathi Akka moves to the village. Through regular visits, Leela discovers the truth via gramophone records, secret meetings at Malathi Akka’s house, and their conversations. The place she once thought detached from the movement was, in fact, a safe haven for freedom fighters, shielding those fleeing British arrest.

I was fascinated to learn how songs, folk tunes, and gramophone records played a pivotal role in spreading the message of freedom. With India’s vast diversity in languages and a largely illiterate population, newspapers were inaccessible to many, making music an ingenious way to reach the masses.

It was inspiring to see how people gave up their jobs, traveling across regions to educate others about the movement. Their small, consistent efforts soon became so effective that the British began imprisoning them. It was heartbreaking to read how, beyond imprisoning freedom fighters, the British police also ransacked homes, seizing valuables.

Leela’s curiosity, bravery, and intelligence were clear as she sought to be part of the movement. But as a young girl, she was kept at a distance, and it took her time to realize that even teaching songs to young girls was a meaningful contribution. Her love for music, her family, and Malathi Akka was endearing, and I particularly enjoyed how she questioned the lack of female involvement in the movement. The answer she received was both enlightening and empowering.

A Melody in Mysore also beautifully portrayed the unsung role of women. While many men were active in the movement, women at home were equally vital—helping hide valuables, feeding freedom fighters, and offering them shelter. Even the smallest acts of resistance, known as alilu seve in Kannada (a reference to the squirrel story from the Ramayana), made a significant impact. This spirit of collective action, no matter how small, formed the heart of the story.

In the author’s note, I finally understood why Mysore had served as a sanctuary for the movement— After Tipu Sultan’s defeat in 1799, the British appointed high-caliber Indian officials to oversee the kingdom’s administration. Along with the king and an assembly of educated landlords, they established a progressive government. This allowed Mysore’s rulers considerable autonomy, making it one of the earliest democratic organizations in India before independence.

The book’s climax was especially powerful as Leela found her place in the movement. Her growing understanding of her father, Ajji, and the people of Mysore deepened as she recognized the subtle yet crucial ways they resisted British rule.

Overall, A Melody in Mysore is an inspiring and heartwarming historical fiction that highlights the impact and significance of gramophone records in the freedom movement, as well as the quiet courage and unity of those who fought for the nation’s freedom.

Book Links

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