The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni- 

A Modern Feminist Retelling of the Mahabharata

(Updated Dec 2025)

Have you ever wondered what the Mahabharata would look like through a woman's eyes?

The Palace of Illusions is the story of one of India’s oldest and most celebrated epic, the Mahabharata. 

As someone who grew up reading multiple versions of this epic, I was captivated by this unique retelling through Draupadi's perspective - the woman who witnessed the great battle of Kurukshetra firsthand and was believed to be the catalyst for this historic conflict.

The book begins with a fascinating story of her birth and ends with her death. In between we are taken on a journey through her childhood, her marriage, her becoming the queen of the palace, the sad event of her humiliation at the hand of the Kauravas, her life after that in the forests for 12 years, the penultimate battle that changed history, and her life after the battle.

The Palace of Illusions takes us on an intimate journey through the life of Panchaali (also known as Draupadi), from her extraordinary birth from fire to her final moments.

We experience her childhood dreams, her complex marriage to five brothers, her rise as a queen, the devastating humiliation she faced at the hands of the Kauravas, her twelve years of forest exile, and finally, the great battle that changed the course of history.

The beauty of this book lies not just in its story but in how it's told. Here are some quotes that took my breath away

On Power and Destiny

"She who sows vengeance must reap its bloody fruit."

This quote haunted me because it perfectly captures how vengeance shaped Panchaali's journey - and ultimately, the fate of an entire kingdom.

"Aren't we all pawns in the hands of time, the greatest player of them all?"

When you think about it, this line sums up the entire epic - even the mightiest warriors couldn't escape their destiny.

On Love and Relationships

"Love comes like lightning, and disappears the same way. If you are lucky, it strikes you right. If not, you'll spend your life yearning for a man you can't have."

The complexity of Panchaali's feelings, especially about Karna, comes through so powerfully in these words.

"The heart itself is beyond control. That is its power, and its weakness."

This resonated deeply with me because it speaks to the eternal struggle between heart and duty that every character faces.

On Identity and Self-Discovery

"There was an unexpected freedom in finding out that one wasn't as important as one had always assumed!"

What makes this line particularly striking is how it shows Panchaali's growth from a proud princess to a woman who understands true power.

"Because ultimately only the witness -- and not the actors -- knows the truth."

This line gave me chills - it perfectly explains why Draupadi's perspective on the epic is so crucial.

On Women's Experience

"A woman's life is never easy. But it's up to her to learn to find joy even in difficult times."

Reading this, I was reminded of all the strong women in my own life who embody this wisdom.

"I am no victim, I am a queen."

This declaration shows the fierce spirit that made me fall in love with this version of Draupadi.

On Wisdom and Philosophy

"A situation in itself is neither happy nor unhappy. It's only your response to it that causes your sorrow."

Such a profound truth that feels relevant even today!

"Expectations are like hidden rocks in your path—all they do is trip you up."

In moments of disappointment, I often think back to this quote.

On War and Peace

"Victory comes at a terrible price - one that the victors must pay as well as the defeated."

This insight about war's true cost hits differently when seen through Draupadi's eyes.

Draupadi/Panchaali

"I am no victim, I am a queen."

When Panchaali says this during her humiliation in court, it shows her unbreakable spirit. I get goosebumps every time I read this line.

"Love comes like lightning, and disappears the same way. If you are lucky, it strikes you right. If not, you'll spend your life yearning for a man you can't have."

This reflection about Karna reveals her deepest regret and the complexity of her heart.

"There was an unexpected freedom in finding out that one wasn't as important as one had always assumed!"

A moment of profound self-realization that shows her growth from a proud princess to a wise woman.

Krishna

"A situation in itself is neither happy nor unhappy. It's only your response to it that causes your sorrow."

This typical Krishna wisdom reminds me of the Bhagavad Gita's teachings about detachment and acceptance.

"The heart wants what it wants. That's its dharma. But that doesn't mean you must follow."

I love how Krishna always balances divine wisdom with human understanding.

Karna

"Honor has its own rewards, and they're better than any kingdom."

This line captures Karna's tragic nobility perfectly - a quality that made Draupadi question her choices later.

"Some things are worth dying for. And some things are worth living for."

The complexity of Karna's character shines through in moments like this.

The Pandavas

Yudhishthira:

"Truth is not always kind, and kindness not always true."

Arjuna:

"Doubt is the greatest enemy of a warrior."

Bhima:

"Sometimes love shows itself in fury."

The Palace Itself (as a character)

"The Palace of Illusions watched, its walls echoing with secrets it would never tell."

I love how the author gives voice to the palace itself, making it a silent witness to history.

Kunti

"A mother's heart is not her own. It belongs to her children, even when they disappoint her."

This quote gives us a glimpse into the complex relationship between duty and maternal love.

Each character's words reveal something unique about their perspective while adding depth to Draupadi's story. What fascinates me is how differently each character views the same events - just like in real life!

Why These Words Matter

Each of these quotes showcases what makes this retelling special - it maintains the philosophical depth of the original while adding a deeply personal, feminine perspective. When I first read the scene where Panchaali reflects on being a pawn of time, it made me think about how often women in epics are portrayed as catalysts for events rather than active participants in their own stories.

Is The Palace of Illusions historically accurate?

It's a feminist retelling of the mythological Mahabharata epic, not a historical account. Divakaruni stays true to the main events while adding Draupadi's inner perspective and emotional journey.

Do I need to know the Mahabharata to enjoy this book?

No! This works perfectly as a standalone. Divakaruni explains everything you need to know. In fact, it's a great introduction to the epic.

Is this book suitable for beginners to Indian mythology?

Absolutely. The writing is accessible, contemporary, and easy to follow. It's one of the best entry points to Indian epics.

How is this different from other Mahabharata retellings?

This is told entirely from Draupadi's first-person perspective. Most versions focus on the Pandavas or Krishna. This centers the woman at the heart of the story.

Is there romance in the book?

Yes, but it's complex. Draupadi's relationships with her five husbands and her forbidden feelings for Karna are explored with emotional depth.

What age group is this appropriate for?Young adults and above (16+). There are mature themes including the disrobing scene, though it's handled tastefully.

Where can I buy this book in India?

Available on Amazon.in, Flipkart, and most bookstores. Also available as Kindle ebook and audiobook.

How long does it take to read?

Most readers finish it in 1-2 weeks. At 360 pages with engaging prose, you can also binge it over a weekend.

If you've ever felt invisible in your own story, this book will resonate.

Draupadi refuses to be a footnote. She claims her narrative, her anger, her complexity. Divakaruni gives her that space beautifully.

While we must credit sage Vyasa for the original Mahabharata, this retelling proves ancient stories can speak to modern struggles. Draupadi's questions about agency, identity, and power feel urgent today.

Who should read this:- 

• Fans of Madeline Miller (Circe, Song of Achilles)- 
• Anyone curious about Indian mythology-
• Readers who love character-driven historical fiction-
• People seeking feminist perspectives on classics

Who might struggle:- 

• Readers who prefer fast-paced plots (this is introspective)- 
• Those uncomfortable with non-linear storytelling-
• People seeking 100% mythological accuracy

Start here if you want to understand why Indian epics still matter. Draupadi's voice will stay with you.

After all, isn't that why we turn to our ancient stories - to find wisdom that still speaks to us today?

If you loved this feminist retelling, try these other magnificent Indian retellings:

• "Until the Lions" by Karthika Naïr - Poetic retelling focusing on women of the Mahabharata 
• "The Forest of Enchantments" by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni - Sita's perspective on the Ramayana
• "The Liberation of Sita" by Volga - Radical feminist take on the Ramayana
• "Yajnaseni" by Pratibha Ray - Another powerful Draupadi-centered retelling

**Want more Indian literature?**

Check out my guide to

18 Best Books by Indian Authors Below 200 Pages and 

100 Best Indian Books and

13 Indian Translated Books Everyone Must Read. 

for more recommendations.

What's your favorite retelling of an Indian epic? Let me know in the comments below!