The Epic of ‘Shantaram’
Gregory David Roberts' 2003 novel, "Shantaram", takes readers on an eternal journey of self-discovery and redemption. With the help of his close friend Prabaker, Roberts embarks through rural India in search for a life beyond what he once knew. At every step of this epic quest is a magical world full to the brim with captivating characters who each bring their own unique stories that entangle themselves together like threads in intricate tapestry - weaving one emotionally charged narrative as they go along. Unfolding layer upon layer until reaching its climatic peak where it ends not simply as just another story but instead an unforgettable parable about finding inner peace even through chaos...
In 1978, an Australian citizen named Lin Roberts was sent to Pentridge Prison for a 19-year sentence after being convicted of armed robbery and heroin usage. But this didn't stop him from making the daring escape in broad daylight! With a fake passport in hand, he fled Australia and managed to remain on their most wanted list for nearly ten years before "Shantaram" took place. This novel chronicles his unique experiences during that time period while living as one of Australia's most notorious outlaws ever - all within India! According to Internet Archive, Lin revealed that it was intended to be genre fiction aimed at providing readers with escapism through heartwarming stories full of adventure.
“With respect, ‘Shantaram’ is not an autobiography, it’s a novel. If the book reads like an autobiography, I take that as a very high compliment, because I structured the created narrative to read like fiction but feel like fact.”
Lin came to India intrigued by the cultural experience, but he never expected that his vacation would transform into a life-altering journey. After facing tragedy in the slums of Bombay when robbed of all his money and possessions, Lin finds himself not just an outsider watching these exotic customs from afar - now one with them; as if called there for this very reason. Staying with Prabaker amidst desperation and pain at its rawest form due to a raging fire consuming tents in their community was too much for even someone hardened against anything – so naturally it awoke something within him which let loose reserves of compassion he had been storing away since childhood. Finding purpose through forming lasting connections while simultaneously providing aid felt like finding home after being lost on foreign soil...and thus began Lin's true immersion into Indian culture upon turning overwork prospects such as becoming a tour guide or drug hook-up back towards helping those around him who needed shelter during hard times most - regardless if they were locals or travelers alike!
After years of anticipation and Hollywood rumors, Shantaram has finally made its debut on Apple TV+. Starring A-listers Johny Depp and Russell Crowe, the series is being hailed as a hit by fans—averaging an audience score of 7.8/10 on IMDb and 81 percent approval rating from Rotten Tomatoes audiences. Critics seem to be less impressed with a 56 percent score; either way, viewers can now get their first glimpse into this captivating narrative since it premiered October 14th!
With its thrilling plot points, engaging characters and unique insight into Indian life from a foreign perspective, "Shantaram" is an exhilarating read. Despite the book's daunting 936 pages (not to mention some occasional clichés that can stall its momentum), readers of fiction and non-fiction alike will find it well worth their time. Be prepared for explosive scenes full of action - all building up to a memorable climax sure to leave you wanting more!