An MLA decided to write his autobiography (aatma katha is an autobiography) as it was trending and because he knew no one else would write his life story after his death. Was he always ambitious and a force to reckon with, or was he nothing more than a puppet in a clever friend’s hands? 

The book is a satirical take on a politician’s life from being a pampered and meek guy to becoming an MLA and the decisions he had to make or follow. 

This is my second audiobook and first audio fiction. The story comes in the first-person POV of the main character Venkatappaya. Though he is the narrator, we soon realize that there’s another key character who influences this man right from childhood. 

Venkatappaya, Suseela Rao, Kondaiah, and Mahalingam are childhood buddies. Suseela Rao is the brain behind most events, while Kondaiah is known for his strength and Mahalingam for his cunning (the man who somehow escapes the worst but has access to the best). 

The book starts with a small intro by Venkatappaya and goes into the past. His birth, schooling, and subsequent events are narrated in an order. Though the title mentions his MLA status, e doesn’t become one until we enter the last third of the book. But the details of his growing years are necessary to understand his attitude. 

That the ‘autobiography’ has two dialogues by his wife and two passive mentions, compared to the constant mention of his friends’ names shows their roles in Venkatappaya’s life. Heck, even his parents don’t get the spotlight as Suseela Rao does. 

The story is set in Timmapuram. Incidentally, there are two such places in Andhra Pradesh. After noting the names of other places, I decided that this place is from the Guntur district. After all, the author is also from the same district. Elementary, Watson! 

The book is lighthearted, satirical, and easy to read. The topics are still relevant today- be it the behind-the-scene dealings, caste politics, deals between political parties, the ways to use and wield power, etc. Even the most hard-hitting issues are handled with a light touch. We can’t help but chuckle and shake our heads at the events. 

The ending is hopeful as it finally hints at our MLA growing up and learning to listen to his heart rather than his friends. I love how the last chapter completes the circle and establishes positivity. Though Venkatappaya’s mother has a limited role, we see her importance. She is an example of women from the previous generations- the ones who got things done despite the odds but didn’t call attention to themselves. She is the kind of strength one would know only when the time arose. 

The audiobook worked well, though I admit feeling nauseous after listening to it at a stretch for 2+ hours. Oh, well! 

To summarize, MLA Aatma Katha is a light take on politics and society in general. It’s a good read to understand that media management isn’t something new. ;)