Azadi: Freedom. Fascism. Fiction.

In "Azadi: Freedom. Fascism. Fiction.," acclaimed author and activist Arundhati Roy delves into the complex interplay of freedom, oppression, and the power of storytelling in a world marred by authoritarianism. Published on September 1, 2020, this collection of penetrating essays, which won the European Essay Prize in 2023, explores the dual cry for "Azadi" (freedom) from both the Kashmiris resisting Indian occupation and the Indian populace protesting against Hindu Nationalism. Roy's narrative weaves through the silent streets during the global shutdown caused by the coronavirus, prompting a profound reflection on borders, freedom, and the collective human condition. She invites readers to see the pandemic as a portal to envision a new, transformed world, emphasizing the roles of language and fiction in challenging and reshaping our realities. Ideal for adult education groups, "Azadi" addresses critical themes of racial, economic, and environmental justice, urging readers to imagine and strive for a more equitable world.