Karno's Daughter : The Lives Of An Indian Maid

Karno's Daughter: The Lives of an Indian Maid by Rimli Sengupta is a biography that chronicles the life of a woman known as "Buttermilk," the author's maid in Calcutta, whose story spans the city, the suburbs and her village. Following her experiences over five decades, the book presents a deeply personal account of resilience, family, work and survival while revealing the realities of balancing life as a domestic worker and a rice farmer.

Through an intimate and character-driven narrative, the biography explores themes of migration, identity, hardship and perseverance. It captures both the challenges and moments of joy that shape Buttermilk's extraordinary life, offering readers a nuanced portrait of an individual whose experiences reflect broader social and cultural realities.

About This Book

The narrative traces Buttermilk's journey across multiple generations of family life, her work in Calcutta and her enduring connection to agriculture in her village. As she moves between different worlds, the book highlights the creativity, determination and adaptability that sustain her through betrayal, loss and continual change.

Karno's Daughter: The Lives of an Indian Maid combines biography with social observation, portraying a woman whose life remains closely tied to the land even as she navigates the demands of urban employment. Told with warmth and humour, the book reflects on dignity, endurance and the strength required to face life's uncertainties.

What You'll Discover

• The life story of a woman known as "Buttermilk" over five decades.
• Her experiences as a domestic worker in Calcutta and a rice farmer.
• The connections between family, village life and the city.
• Stories of resilience, betrayal, love and perseverance.
• Reflections on migration, identity and everyday survival.
• A character-driven biography shaped by wit and humanity.

Perfect For

• Readers of biography and life writing.
• Those interested in contemporary Indian society.
• Readers exploring stories of resilience and rural-urban life.
• Fans of narrative non-fiction centred on remarkable individuals.

Why You'll Love This Book

Karno's Daughter: The Lives of an Indian Maid offers an intimate portrait of an extraordinary life shaped by determination, family and an enduring connection to the land. It is a thoughtful biography for readers interested in personal histories and the lived experiences of ordinary people navigating changing worlds.