Apr 24, 2025
A genuinely sweet and lovely short manga about the experiences of women and how they inspire each other, as well as a love letter to India as a whole.
One could think that a manga about a Japanese woman drawing manga visiting India would fall into the traps of sensationalist Orientalism, but this is however not the case. What it is though, is a sincere and genuine testament to the struggles of women and the strength they find to combat it.
While the ending might feel a little bit on the rushed side, the manga finds place for thorough insight about the role of women in society.
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I particularly enjoy the way it tackled the story of Mumtaz Mahal, as well as relating it to the story of Natsume and Ruby.
Despite taking jabs at outdated views on the role of women, the manga still finds the time to humanize those with such beliefs, like Natsume's boyfriend and Ruby's father. It shows that people can change and/or their views don't always come from a place of malice, even if they are misguided and ultimately harmful.
The story aims to empower every woman to never give up on their dreams and to go after for what they want out of life. To never give up and to never settle for less than they are worth.
What is however also very refreshing, is the way it depicts all the women, who weren't able to fulfill all their dreams not as helpless victims of the system, but as equally strong individuals, loving mothers and hard workers. It isn't a story just about "strong and independent" women who make a name for themselves, even when it goes on to be very idealistic, it never diminishes the women who make up society and do their absolute best at it. In this regard, it is brimming with hope, and seeks to give power to all women, regardless of circumstance.
While I do believe a little more romance between Ruby and Natsume would've helped elevate the story about nonconformism, going after one's personal happiness in spite of societal norms and the world around them, I can't really be angry at the fact it didn't go in that direction, as the relationship between Ruby and Natsume feels very genuine and is positively adorable.
For how short it is, it's really hard not to recommend this one shot, as it is a love letter to India, going after your dreams, and first and foremost — women.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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