Possession

novel by Markandaya

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June 17, 2026

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"Possession" is a 1963 novel by Kamala Markandaya that explores the complexities of art, possession, and colonialism. The story centers on Valmiki, an Indian shepherd inspired to become an artist by a swami. He is taken to England by Caroline Bell, a British aristocrat who sees him as an exotic discovery. The novel examines the nature of art, which requires surrender regardless of location. It also critiques the possessive instinct, as Valmiki loses loved ones and Caroline loses Valmiki. The dynamic between the swami and Caroline serves as a commentary on colonialism.1

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Kamala Markandaya
Literary career
She examined this dichotomy in Possession (1963), in which an Indian shepherd, Valmiki, is inspired by a swami (sage) to pursue his calling as an artist. Valmiki is taken to England by Caroline Bell, an aristocratic British woman, who views him as an exotic find. The novel has a tripartite…
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She examined this dichotomy in Possession (1963), in which an Indian shepherd, Valmiki, is inspired by a swami (sage) to pursue his calling as an artist. Valmiki is taken to England by Caroline Bell, an aristocratic British woman, who views him as an exotic find. The novel has a tripartite…
Read More