A Burning by Megha Majumdar follows the interwoven lives of Jivan, a young Muslim woman falsely accused of terrorism after commenting against the government online; Lovely, a transgender aspiring actress who gains fame by testifying at Jivan's trial; and PT Sir, a gym teacher who exploits Jivan’s situation to advance in politics, all set against the backdrop of contemporary Indian society and its issues of social media, tribalism, and ambition. Sensitive topics include terrorism, false imprisonment, and systemic injustice.

A Burning by Megha Majumdar captivates with its intense, fast-paced narrative and sharp social commentary on contemporary India. Critics praise its compelling characters and keen portrayal of ambition and class struggle. However, some find the plot predictable and the ending unsatisfying. Overall, it's a powerful debut with notable societal insights.

Fans of politically charged, socially conscious narratives will appreciate Megha Majumdar’s A Burning. Ideal for readers of Aravind Adiga’s The White Tiger or Mohsin Hamid’s Exit West, the book offers a gripping, multi-perspective exploration of ambition, injustice, and the quest for a better life in contemporary India.

**Jivan**  
A young Muslim woman whose life is devastated by an unjust system. She is kind, hardworking, and tries to help others, including teaching English to disadvantaged people, but faces severe prejudice due to her religion.

**Lovely**  
Acts as a foil to Jivan, gaining fame and social mobility after a terrorist attack indirectly affects her life. A hijra, she represents contemporary India's fascination with celebrity and embodies resilience and positivity.

**PT Sir**  
An antagonist who contrasts with Jivan by his involvement in political corruption. Initially a physical training teacher with no proper name, he seeks power and influence through unethical means, highlighting societal issues in Indian politics.

- A Burning by Megha Majumdar was longlisted for the 2020 National Book Award for Fiction, marking it as a significant debut in the literary world.
- Megha Majumdar was inspired to write A Burning after witnessing the rapid dissemination of false information on social media, which reflected the power and consequences of public opinion.
- The book explores complex themes of class, fate, and justice, resonating with contemporary social and political dynamics in both India and beyond.

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