This book is an in depth study of selected novels of Shashi Deshpande from the perspective of an everlasting dichotomy between tradition and modernity. It is important to understand what tradition is and what is modern especially from the point of view of a woman in a patriarchal society. This book traces the trajectory of progress in the Indian society keeping in mind significant issues like popular mindset vis a vis traditional beliefs and generation gap to name a few. Deshpande’s novels are seen and analysed from a completely new viewpoint in this critical book based both on primary texts and critical readings published so far. Roy’s book is a happy departure from the cliché of postcolonial or feminist approach. Shashi Deshpande is rather seen as a writer who belongs to the rich tradition of socially committed writing in Indian English fiction. The book is a trustworthy guide for students and scholars of Indian English fiction.