Hisila: From Revolutionary to First Lady presents an intriguing memoir that offers a glimpse into the life of Hisila Yami, a key figure in Nepal's Maoist movement and the wife of former Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai. The narrative is richly detailed, aiming to paint a picture of her revolutionary zeal and commitment to the so-called "people's war." However, the book failed to gloss over some crucial realities of the Maoist insurgency, particularly the alleged support from external entities like India and RAW, which complicates the narrative of an organic, homegrown revolution.While the memoir attempts to uplift Hisila's image and contributions, it falters in addressing the moral and ethical paradoxes surrounding the leadership of the Maoist party. The mention of top leaders indulging in behaviors they publicly condemned, such as consumption of alcohol, extramarital affairs, and engaging in dubious financial practices, she herself alleged involvement (abuse of authority) in corrupt dealings while serving as the Minister for Physical Planning (which she tried here to justify), raises questions about the integrity of the movement. Her legal battles against media outlets that reported on corruption are how powerful leaders manipulate information, and also leave readers skeptical about transparency.
The book serves as a stark reminder of the corruption and moral decline that have plagued the Nepalese political landscape in the wake of the Maoist insurgency. Despite the intent to inspire, it is well known that her husband, Baburam Bhattarai, failed to provide true leadership for the people of Nepal, adding a disheartening layer to the falsified narrative tried to explain.
Ultimately, Hisila: From Revolutionary to First Lady is a 'thought-provoking' read that unravels the complexities and contradictions within the Maoist revolution, emphasizing that, for many leaders, the insurgency served more as a pathway to wealth than a genuine quest for social justice. Readers are left pondering the cost of the decades spent embroiled in conflict that has seemingly enriched a few while leaving the broader population in stagnation and despair.
One should read this memoir to know and compare the black part of the so called social revolution.
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