Reviewed by Sudha S. Balagopal

Shiva Dancing is Bharti Kirchner's debut novel. In her first novel-length foray into the land of fiction, Kirchner proves adept at straddling both the American world and the far-off and culturally distant world of India. Set in both countries, this novel is fast-paced and interesting.

The protagonist, Meena Kumari, is adopted by American parents and brought up in the United States where she excels academically and establishes herself in her career. Sounds quite ordinary? Well, not so fast. The character endures quite an incredible journey to the United States--from the deserts of Rajasthan to the beautiful beaches of California. 

Meena is married at age seven... yes, seven. And the surprises don't end there. The story almost reads like a Hindi film script. Meena Kumari is kidnapped by bandits on camels on her wedding day-and no, she is not with her new husband. At about this point, one starts to wonder about how a young kid in rural Rajasthan ended up in California. Eventually, the bandits fail in their attempts to subdue and possess Meena, and she is adopted by an American couple.

Kirchner's India is a multidimensional and sometimes contrary world. While Meena communicates with her friend in India via the internet, she addresses her as Laxmiji. I was a little surprised by the 'ji' suffix. It would seem that Laxmiji is too respectful a term of address for a close friend in today's internet world. Kirchner also throws in some Indian political excitement to the mix, in the form of the Moxans, a volatile militant political group that doesn't hesistate to use violence in realizing its goals.

Kirchner's American world is far more believable. Meena's character, her world, both at work and at play, are easy to relate to. She is American enough to live alone, date and have male friends. The story takes on an interesting twist when Meena, 35 and still single, decides to find her long-lost childhood love and husband, Vishnu Rathan, in India. Does Meena go back to India and find Vishnu? What happens next will not be revealed here! Let's just say Meena chases after her dreams, while close behind, her dreams chase her.

In the end, all the diverse elements--the romances, the politics and Meena's own life--come together in a 'happily ever after, all's well that ends well,' conclusion. 

All in all, Bharti Kirchner's Shiva Dancing is neither emotionally heavy nor excessively cerebral. If you are in the mood for a fast read that is entertaining, Shiva Dancing is the book for you--perfect for your next plane ride!