Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's book The Palace of Illusions to be adapted for the screen

Author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's bestseller The Palace of Illusions is coming to the big screen. The novel, published in 2009, tells the events of the Mahabharata from Draupadi's viewpoint. Her character Panchaali acts as narrator during the epic and takes readers back to a time that is "half-history, half-myth, and wholly magical" according to the novel's synopsis.

Producers NR Pachisia and Dipankar 'Jojo' Chaki have acquired the rights to the book and have brought on board author Anand Neelakantan to develop it for the big screen. Neelakantan is the author of several books based on the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The news was announced today.  

The author confirmed the news of the book's adaptation to film and said, "I am excited as The Palace of Illusions is perfectly suited for a spectacular on screen adaptation. Mahabharat as a story is powerful, dramatic and most importantly relevant to our lives both as men and women today. I am sure this is going to be a grand as Mr Pachisia and Dipankar da will get the best team on board for every aspect."

NR Pachisia has produced films like Khuddar (1994), Haqeeqat (1995), Arjun Pandit (1999) and Julie (2004). Dipankar 'Jojo' Chaki is a National Award-winning sound designer known for his work in the Bengali film industry.

There is no word yet on the film's casting or release date.