May You Be the Mother of a Hundred Sons by Elisabeth Bumiller

A Thought-Provoking Journey Through the Lives and Stories of Women Across India

Good Condition – Light cover and edge wear, minor creasing visible, price sticker residue on rear cover.

May You Be the Mother of a Hundred Sons is a powerful and nuanced exploration of women's lives in India during the 1980s, written by journalist Elisabeth Bumiller during her time living in New Delhi. The book blends reportage, interviews, and personal observation to portray the complex realities faced by Indian women across different regions, religions, castes, and social classes. Bumiller examines deeply rooted traditions such as dowry, arranged marriages, and the preference for sons, while also highlighting stories of resilience, change, and empowerment. From rural villages to Bollywood studios and political offices, she brings to life the voices of women navigating societal expectations and gender inequality. The title, drawn from a traditional blessing, becomes a symbol of both cultural reverence for male children and the systemic challenges that women continue to face. With sensitivity and insight, the book offers a thought-provoking portrait of a society in transition, and the central role of women in shaping its future.