Souls of Someone: Myth, Magic and Mourning in Koovagam By Shino Cherian

STEP INTO THE HEART OF ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST EXTRAORDINARY CULTURAL FESTIVALS WITH SOULS OF SOMEONE, A STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHIC ODYSSEY BY SHINO CHERIAN.

For eighteen days every Chithirai month in the Tamil calendar, the sleepy hamlet of Koovagam in central Tamil Nadu transforms into a vibrant epicenter of faith, identity, and community as thousands of transgender women gather from across the country. While the initial days feature beauty pageants, workshops, and festive markets, the festival crescendos during its final forty-eight hours when participants enter the Koothandavar temple to marry Lord Aravan—commemorating his legendary self-sacrifice from the Mahabharata—only to mourn his ritual death the following day.

Part memoir, part travelogue, and part breathtaking photobook, Souls of Someone guides readers deep into the sacred mythology and living magic of Koovagam. Through powerful imagery and deeply reflective prose, Shino Cherian invites us to look far beyond prejudice, capturing an unforgettable journey of community resilience, devotion, and an artist's profound self-discovery.

Why this book is a must-have:

• Extraordinary Visual Curation: Features stunning, immersive photography that captures the raw emotion, color, and grandeur of the Koovagam festival.

• Unique Narrative Blend: Seamlessly weaves memoir, travel writing, and photojournalism into a deeply moving literary experience.

• Cultural & Social Significance: Explores the rich traditions, visibility, and lived realities of transgender communities in India.

• Essential Non-Fiction: A mandatory addition for lovers of fine art photography, cultural studies, travel writing, and inclusive literature.

Witness the magic and majesty of Koovagam. Add Souls of Someone: Myth, Magic and Mourning in Koovagam to your collection at Beetle Bookshop today—enjoy 10–14% off and Free Shipping on orders above ₹500!