Betrayal and trust in ‘Bahadur Sahiba’ by Ritika Kochhar

‘Bahadur Sahiba’ by Ritika Kochhar is a contemporary literary fiction novel that explores emotional recovery, trust, and resilience through the story of Sanjana, a widowed artist. Set across Delhi, Dehradun, and Coonoor, the narrative follows her efforts to rebuild her life after personal loss. Her relationship with the charming Brigadier Asif Bakhtiyar, a reserved and introspective man, becomes central to the story’s examination of vulnerability and emotional connection.

The novel introduces several female characters including Kainaat, Raqia Firdaus, Gulabo, and Bahadur Sahiba, each shaped by distinct personal histories. These women contribute to the book’s exploration of gender and power, particularly in the context of the #MeToo movement. Kochhar avoids direct commentary, instead using interpersonal relationships to reflect how trust and power operate in everyday life. This character-driven approach allows for a quiet examination of societal dynamics.

Kochhar’s background in education and her work with ArtRadio, a platform focused on South Asian art, gender, and ecology, inform the cultural and social layers of the story. Themes of betrayal and trust are handled with restraint, and the narrative maintains a tone of emotional realism. Romantic development is present but not central; the novel is more concerned with healing and identity reconstruction.

Sanjana’s pottery serves as a recurring symbol of her emotional state, reflecting both fragility and resilience. Meanwhile, Bahadur Sahiba — though not alive during the events of the novel — plays a significant role in shaping its emotional depth. As Brigadier Bakhtiyar’s late sister, she is remembered as his emotional anchor. Her legacy influences his decisions and relationships, and she represents a generation of women who navigated male-dominated spaces with quiet strength.

However, the novel is marked by an overabundance of characters, many of whom appear abruptly and feel underdeveloped. The author often seems to retroactively provide context, which can disrupt the narrative flow and dilute its emotional focus. This makes it harder for readers to fully engage with the central themes.

— The reviewer is Chandigarh-based freelancer