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.