In this age of rapid technological advancements, our lives are intricately intertwined with the digital world. From online purchases to virtual education and personal communication to financial transactions, all of it is now possible at the click of a button and facilitated by deeply interconnected networks. With such pleasing convenience, however, comes the imminent presence of Cyber threats that can disrupt and compromise our online activities and endanger our privacy, paving the way for Cybercrimes around the world.
In this riveting book, Cyber Encounters, authors Ashok Kumar and O.P.Manocha dive into the notorious Cyberspace and bring forth tales of cybercrime based on real events.
Read this exclusive excerpt to catch a glimpse of one such story.
Cyber Encounter || Ashok Kumar and O.P Manocha
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The Republic of Cameroon is a small country in West Central Africa, bordered by the Republic of Congo and Nigeria. It has a population of 25 million (2.5 crore) and is popularly known as “Africa in Miniature” due to its geographical, linguistic, and cultural diversity. But what not many people know about this remote country is that many cybercrimes originate here.
It was a car accident that killed Dy Commandant Ajay. He was returning from a pilgrimage to Pauri, Uttarakhand, with his wife Madhu and two beautiful daughters, Diya and Sakshi. Madhu, her daughters and the driver of the car escaped unhurt. One month had passed since the accident and Madhu was still shocked and emotionally unstable. Diya, who was 15 years old, was Madhu’s elder daughter and a student of Class 9. After the death of her father, she had become very quiet. She neither watched television nor played online games like her classmates. Her only friend was her sister Sakshi, who was two years younger than her.
The Covid-19 pandemic had resulted in them all being forced to stay home, with classes also being held online. There was fear all around and people were dying. Even children were suffering from depression. “Mom, I don’t have any friends and no place to go. Whom shall I play with?” Diya asked Madhu. “Pihu has such an adorable beagle, why don’t you get me a dog too?”
Madhu had always been apprehensive about getting a dog. Her elder sister, Sanvi, had a three-year old female beagle, Daisy, who kept her and her daughter Pihu on their toes, and Madhu had seen her plight. Sanvi had to give Daisy a bath every week, get her groomed and make frequent visits to the vet during the monsoon, when Daisy got persistent fungal infections on her paws as she could not help playing in the garden and came back wet. And the most arduous job was to walk the dog three times a day without fail! Madhu, who was also grief-stricken due to her husband’s recent death, thought it would be a real nuisance to have a dog. Who would take care of it? So she kept procrastinating and did not pay much heed to Diya’s demand to get a dog.
One day, Madhu was sitting on the balcony with Diya when she got a call from her friend, Neha, who lived in the same society, that their neighbour’s 12-year-old daughter had died due to Covid. this was shocking. Madhu ended the call and looked at Diya with gloomy eyes. Diya asked her what was wrong, so Madhu told her about the girl. though Diya did not know her, she went quiet, her face drawn with fear. She hugged her mother and said, “Mom, are we also going to die?” this brought tears to Madhu’s eyes. She held Diya tight in her arms and said, “No, my dear, God is not so unkind.”
This one moment changed Madhu’s mind. Diya’s 15th birthday was in a fortnight. She would be going to Class 10 and would be giving the board exams next year. Diya was already under great stress and the boards would definitely add to it, Madhu thought. It was now that Madhu decided that she would give Diya a dog on her birthday.
Madhu looked up to Sanvi for advice on every little thing. She called her up and told her about her idea of buying a pup for Diya. Sanvi advised her to go in for a smaller breed as Madhu stayed in a flat and big dogs need a lot of space to move around. She suggested that she buy a cocker spaniel, which is quite a playful and loving breed. So Madhu began her search for a cocker spaniel. She sent a message on the WhatsApp groups she was a part of, asking if any cocker spaniel pup was available for sale. She also searched on Google and came across a few dog sellers whose contacts were listed on a local search engine website.
Madhu always believed that whatever information there was on the internet was authentic. The first listing on the website displayed a picture of a cute cocker spaniel. Madhu had struck gold! Little did she know that she was going to be trapped on a dummy website that offered the sale and purchase of various household goods, and even animals.
The seller had managed to get a good rating through paid reviews and had posted eye-catching pictures of the pup to secure a top position in the listings. The next day was a Sunday. Madhu was sweating as she finished preparing breakfast for the family. She switched on the air conditioner and sat down on the sofa to contact the seller on the number she had obtained from the website the previous night. she preferred contacting the seller on WhatsApp rather than calling as it provided a record of any conversation for future reference. She sent a message asking for details of the pup. She promptly got a reply from the seller, who introduced herself as Shweta.
She sent some cute pictures of the pup to Madhu, who was mesmerised. She immediately responded to Shweta, asking her to send details, including the price and availability, of the pup. Shweta told her that the pup was a purebred. Its registration with the Kennel Club of India (KCI) would be done shortly. It would cost Madhu Rs 15,000 and she would have to pay Rs 5,000 as an advance and the rest upon receiving the pup. Madhu immediately made her a payment of Rs 5,000 on GPay. Booking done, she told Diya about the pup. The girl’s happiness knew no bounds.
Two days later, on June 22, Madhu got an email with a bill of Rs 1,03,300 and the details of an SBI account into which to transfer the money. The charges included the price of the pup, COVID-handling charges, vaccination fees, feeding charges, and transport expenditure.
The mail stated that this amount would be refunded to her once the puppy was transported to Dehradun and the entire cost would be borne by the seller except for the price of the puppy. Madhu sent Shweta an enquiry about the mail and once she was convinced, she registered the account number as a beneficiary and transferred the required amount. She took a screenshot of the transaction and sent it through WhatsApp to Shweta. she got a message that the insurance process would be initiated the next day and the pup would be hers soon.
***
Get your copy of Cyber Encounters from Amazon today.
Dive into the enchanting world of Ruskin Bond, one of India’s most beloved authors, as he takes us on a literary journey through his latest book, All-Time Favourite Nature Stories. With tales that touch the heart and soul, Bond reminds us of the importance of connecting with nature and finding comfort in its earthy embrace. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Bond’s work or have just been introduced to his artistry, let these stories whisk you away into the nostalgia and timeless beauty that surrounds us all.
Read this excerpt from the All-Time Favourite Nature Stories to catch a glimpse.
All-Time Favourite Nature Stories || Ruskin Bond
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The Window
I came in the spring and took the room on the roof. It was a long, low building which housed several families; the roof was flat, except for my room and a chimney. I don’t know whose room owned the chimney, but my room owned the roof. And from the window of my room, I owned the world.
But only from the window.
The banyan tree, just opposite, was mine, and its inhabitants were my subjects. They were two squirrels, a few mynah, a crow and at night, a pair of flying foxes. The squirrels were busy in the afternoons, the birds in the mornings and evenings, and the foxes at night. I wasn’t very busy that year—not as busy as the inhabitants of the banyan tree.
There was also a mango tree, but that came later, in the summer, when I met Koki and the mangoes were ripe.
At first, I was lonely in my room. But then I discovered the power of my window. I looked out on the banyan tree, on the garden, on the broad path that ran beside the building, and out over the roofs of other houses, over roads and fields, as far as the horizon. The path was not particularly busy, but it was full of variety—an ayah pushing a baby in a pram; the postman, an event in himself; the fruit and toy sellers, calling their wares in high-pitched familiar cries; the rent collector; a posse of cyclists; a long chain of schoolgirls; a lame beggar . . . all passed my way, the way of my window.
In the early summer, a tonga came rattling and jingling down the path and stopped in front of the house. A girl and an elderly lady climbed down, and a servant unloaded their baggage. They went into the house and the tonga moved off, the horse snorting a little.
The next morning, the girl looked up from the garden and saw me at my window.
She had long, black hair that fell to her waist, tied with a single red ribbon. Her eyes were black like her hair and just as shiny. She must have been about ten or eleven years old.
‘Hello,’ I said with a friendly smile.
She looked suspiciously at me. ‘Who are you?’ she said.
‘I’m a ghost.’
She laughed, and her laugh had a gay, mocking quality. ‘You look like one!’
I didn’t think her remark was particularly flattering, but I had asked for it. I stopped smiling anyway. Most children don’t like adults smiling at them all the time.
‘What have you got up there?’ she asked. ‘Magic,’ I said.
She laughed again, but this time without mockery.
‘I don’t believe you,’ she said.
‘Why don’t you come up and see for yourself?’ She hesitated a little but came around to the steps and began climbing them, slowly and cautiously. And when she entered the room, she brought a magic of her own.
‘Where’s your magic?’ she asked, looking me in the eye.
‘Come here,’ I said, and I took her to the window and showed her the world.
She said nothing but stared out of the window, first uncomprehendingly and then with increasing interest. And after some time, she turned around and smiled at me, and we became friends.
I only knew her name was Koki and that she had come to the hills with her aunt for the summer; I didn’t need to know anything else about her, and she didn’t need to know anything about me except that I wasn’t really a ghost—at least not the frightening kind. She came up my steps nearly every day and joined me at the window. There was a lot of excitement to be had in our world, especially when the rains broke.
At the first rumblings, women would rush outside to retrieve the washing from the clothes line and if there was a breeze, to chase a few garments across the compound. When the rains came, they came with a vengeance, making a bog of the garden and a river of the path. A cyclist would come riding furiously down the path, an elderly gentleman would be having difficulty with an umbrella and naked children would be frisking about in the rain. Sometimes Koki would run out to the roof and shout and dance in the rain.
And the rain would come through the open door and window of the room, flooding the floor and making an island of the bed.
But the window was more fun than anything else. It gave us the power of detachment: we were deeply interested in the life around us, but not involved in it.
‘It is like a cinema,’ said Koki. ‘The window is the screen and the world is the picture.’
***
Get your copy of Ruskin Bond’s All-Time Favourite Nature Stories from Amazon now.
In a world where the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident, Aakash Ranison brings a refreshing and detailed perspective that empowers individuals to make a positive impact. As an environmentalist, nomadic traveler, filmmaker, and advocate for sustainability, Ranison continues to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage sustainable practices.
Whether you are an environmental enthusiast, or a concerned citizen looking for actionable steps to contribute to a greener future, I’m a Climate Optimist is a call to action that enables readers to view climate change not just as a crisis but as an opportunity for growth and change. And we must change, NOW!
Here’s an excerpt from the book with valuable insights and guidance to navigate the climate crisis and create a better world for ourselves and generations to come.
I’M a Climate Optimist || Aakash Ranison
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The Blind Leading the Blind: A Lack of Vision
What we tend to forget while discussing climate change is the simple fact that our planet doesn’t need our help. Our planet doesn’t need us at all, and would probably prefer to be left alone.
The natural world is no stranger to extinction-level events. From the meteors that destroyed the dinosaurs to ice ages that lasted over 1,00,000 years, our planet has seen many species emerge, thrive, and become lost to the immense power of nature.
Humankind has lived through the longest summer ever recorded on our planet, but just like the dinosaurs and all those who came and went after, there is no guarantee of survival in the future.
While our planet will survive the next extinction level event, and the ones to come after, we very likely will not.
Most of us today are content to go about our lives, droning on through the mundane motions of schooling, building careers, finding a suitable mate, raising a family and dying in our sleep, all while exploiting our natural world and driving the knife deeper into its wounds, barely sparing a sideways glance at the destruction as we do so.
As we die, we leave the world a little worse for us having been there. With every birth, the cycle repeats itself. This is because our generation, like the generations before us, suffers from a lack of vision.
We live in a world of instant gratification—instant deliveries, instant messaging, instant noodles and even instant banking. We have lost our ability to be patient, work hard and see results and invest today in a future that will come to pass tomorrow.
But there are no quick fixes to climate change and global warming.
You see, it’s not about eradicating carbon dioxide, methane or nitrous oxide—these are the ingredients that make life possible. The greenhouse effect is not a force for evil, but it is what makes our atmosphere hospitable for life. It is a state of imbalance that can turn these life-giving forces against us.
But there are no quick fixes to attaining balance, either. We need to realize that even if every person on the planet began fixing their ways now, there would still be a period of transition as our natural world corrects itself.
Think of our consumption patterns as a credit card—if your credit limit is a lakh, and you spend it but replenish it with a lakh of your money, your spending is balanced, and you are free from the danger of debt. However, if you spend two lakh, and do not have the money to pay the bank to offset the debt you have accumulated, you are in for a world of trouble and will have to work to pay it off.
In much the same way, we must offset our debts to our planet, and give back what we have taken from our natural world to keep it from turning against us. But how do we do this?
To save ourselves, we must invest in the future. We must take advantage of the power of knowledge as it can instill trust in our individual choices. We must choose to think bigger, envision sustainable futures and work towards them patiently.
***
Get your copy of I’m a Climate Optimist by Aakash Ranison on Amazon.
If you are a fan of spine-chilling and mind-twisting stories that keep you on the edge of your seat, I Hear You by Nidhi Upadhyay is an absolute must-read. This psychological thriller explores the unsettling life of the six-week pregnant Mahika, who has just walked into her fertility clinic when she discovers an anonymous note that discloses the ugly truth behind her pregnancy. Before Mahika can come to terms with the fact that her husband’s quest for perfection has marked its territory in her womb, she finds herself locked in her own house. But then she discovers that her unborn son has extraordinary powers. As weeks pass by, Rudra calibrates and recalibrates his powers with one aim-Mahika’s freedom. But Rudra needs more than his newly acquired powers to free his mother. He needs to betray his creator, his father. And he must do it before it’s too late.
I hear you || Nidhi Upadhyay
I hear you has garnered significant attention from readers and in this blog, we have compiled a list of compelling reasons for you to dive into this enthralling tale. So, grab a copy and prepare yourself for a riveting and fear-inducing reading experience.
1. Unputdownable: Review by Bookhoarder_neha
I Hear You is a fast-paced thriller based on the lives and experiments of geneticists. The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, including Mahika, Shivam, and even the baby in the womb. The narration maintains a quick pace, avoiding excessive descriptions while keeping the mystery tightly wrapped. When revealed it made me feel like how could I miss this detail?
The author skillfully weaves intricate bonds among the characters, such as the impact of Mahika’s deceased father, the unspoken love and empathy shared between Mahika and her colleagues, and the gradual communication between the mother and the baby in the womb. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this mysterious story of a baby who responded from the mother’s womb and could not put the book down.
Source: Amazon
2. Great Read:Review by Prajjwal Jangra
I Hear You is a captivating sci-fi thriller that took me on an amazing reading experience. As someone who hadn’t tried this genre before, I’m glad I gave it a chance. The story follows the protagonist Mahika and her spouse Shivam, who is fixated on genetic purity. Shivam rejects every pregnancy that does not adhere to his strict requirements, despite Mahika’s wish to have a child in order to rescue her failing marriage. The book is a page-turning thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats right up to the very end while simultaneously posing significant queries about the ethics of science, playing God, and what it means to be human. This book is surely a journey of a roller coaster of emotions. And I am sure that you won’t be able to predict the story’s plot twist. Overall the story was well written.
Source: Amazon
3. Gripping Novel:Review by Hey_readaholic
I Hear You is a gripping novel that combines elements of science fiction and spirituality, chronicling the journey of a woman who is attempting to flee an abusive marriage with the aid of her unborn child. The narrative centers on Mahika’s husband, a man obsessed with achieving genetic perfection in their fetus, resulting in unexpected outcomes. As Mahika learns that her six-month-old fetus possesses extraordinary powers, she gains the courage to confront the reality of her marriage.This book is a captivating novel that features a fast-paced plot, including immoral scientists who manipulate babies for their own unethical gains, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they cheer for Mahika and her child to stay alive. The book not only tells a compelling story but also prompts readers to scrutinize the world around them, making it an extraordinary read.
Source: Amazon
4. Wonderful: Review by Amrita Mishra
I Hear You is an enthralling tale that delves into the world of gene study, recounted through the perspectives of Mahika, Shivam, and even the unborn child in the mother’s womb. Mahika strives to safeguard the infant and unravel its true identity, while Shivam endeavors to safeguard the child and discuss his scientific undertakings. The infant’s sensory perception is heightened, and its reactions are unique. The narrative progresses with a brisk pace, devoid of overwhelming elucidations. The enigma at the core of the plot is captivating, and upon its revelation, one is left dumbfounded by their lack of prior awareness.
I found great enjoyment in a literary work chronicling a remarkable tale of an unborn child who possessed the extraordinary ability to communicate from within its maternal cocoon. So captivating was its narrative that I was compelled to consume its pages without end.
Source: Amazon
5. Highly Recommended: Review by Promita Ghosh
For someone who is very much into thrillers, a novel like this intermingled with science fiction is definitely a treat. The author, Nidhi Upadhyay has amazingly crafted her use of a narrative technique with a plot that is not so conventional: an unborn baby, Rudra, endowed with extraordinary powers, whose mission is to rescue his mother, Mahika, from the clutches of his father, Shivam. The author deserves much appreciation for providing a well-researched backdrop on genetics, adding depth to the story.
The book cover has a lot to offer: a motionless cradle for the baby’s innate sense of infancy is somewhere lost and he would have to take on the role of an adult and save his mother. Notably, the blurred word ‘HEAR’ in the title captures the essence of auditory sensations, mirroring the baby’s extraordinary ability to hear even while residing in the womb.
Source: Amazon
This World Environment Day, embark on a vibrant journey through the pages of these captivating books, and let the wonders of nature ignite your imagination! Get ready to dive into thrilling adventures in the wilderness, uncover heart-warming tales about the natural world, and inspire young minds to become guardians of our precious planet. With every turn of the page, these recommended reads will transport young nature lovers into a world teeming with life and empower them to make a positive impact on their surroundings. So grab a copy, embrace the colourful illustrations, and set off on an eco-friendly expedition that will leave you breathless and inspired!
Passepartout, Is That You? || Menaka Raman
When a shipment of exotic animals is rescued, Shyam discovers that a star tortoise has been accidentally left behind. Entrusted with its care, Shyam’s grandfather, a policeman who was overseeing the rescue operation, sets off in pursuit of the van to reunite the tortoise with the others. Meanwhile, the mischievous tortoise escapes from the police station. With the help of his loyal companion Kanamma, Shyam embarks on a thrilling quest to locate the adventurous tortoise before his grandfather returns.
This heart-warming tale beautifully conveys important messages about our responsibility towards endangered and exotic animals, the value of friendship, and the power of perseverance. Join Shyam on an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, and let this fun hook book, Passepartout, Is That You?, captivate young readers while imparting valuable life lessons.
Strangus Derangus and Other Adventures Of Little Shambu (Book 1) || Reena Ittyerah Puri and illustrated by Savio Mascarenhanes
What would you say of a boy who loves rushing headlong into trouble?
That’s what Little Shambu does with his dog, the loyal Dum Dum, in tow. But as his best friend, Shanti, would tell you, it always leads him into exciting adventures involving lost cats, mysterious carrot thieves, a strange and exotic creature and stolen pandas.
In The Bear’s Den and More Adventures of Little Shambu (Book 2) || Reena Ittyerah Puri and illustrated by Savio Mascarenhanes
What would you say of a boy who continues to find himself in sticky situations?
That’s what Little Shambu does with his dog, the loyal Dum Dum, in tow. But as his best friend, Shanti, would tell you, it always leads him into exciting adventures involving grouchy bears, rattling cattle, slouchy snakes and runaway elephants.
Dum Dum To The Rescue and Yet More Adventures of Little Shambu (Book 3) || || By Reena Ittyerah Puri and illustrated by Savio Mascarenhanes
What would you say of a boy who gets into trouble over and over again?
That’s what Little Shambu does with his dog, the loyal Dum Dum, in tow. But as his best friend, Shanti, would tell you, it always leads him into exciting adventures involving homely chickens and a crafty fox, mischievous mice, moustached men and confusing encounters with aliens.
Escape into the fantastic world of Little Shambu with these brand-new adventures of the beloved character from TINKLE.
Trunk Call for Ajju || Anjana Nagabhushana
8-year-old Ajay Kumaraswamy or Ajju was leading a seemingly regular life — getting into trouble with his parents with Kini Maasi, working out countable and uncountable nouns with his best friend Karthik and learning to be a budding guitarist with his music teacher Miss Alva. However, when Kini Maasi shares the story about Molly, a hurt baby elephant in distant Zimbawe needing help, he doubles up with Karthik to figure out how to raise funds. Based on a true story about an injured baby elephant, Trunk Call for Ajju is sure to warm your heart. Sensitively written, Anjana’s debut novel is a sensitive tale about the love for animals and change of heart. Simply told with a lot of humour, the book is peppered with black and white illustrations which would help a reluctant young reader to pick this book.
The Girl Who Was a Forest Janaki Ammal || Lavanya Karthik
Janaki is on an enchanting journey as she dreams of a secret world beyond the confines of her town. In this beautifully illustrated 48-paged biography, young readers will be inspired by Janaki’s connection with nature and how it guides her to become India’s first woman botanist. Through vivid pictures and easy-to-comprehend narrative, this book will ignite the imagination of children and encourage them to bring a change in their environment. A delightful addition to any young reader’s collection, this book from the Dreamer’s Series is sure to spark curiosity and a love for nature.
All Time Favourite Nature Stories || Ruskin Bond
This collection of 25 gorgeously illustrated short stories curated by Ruskin is a celebration of his love for nature. Part fiction and part real, and a continuation of the All-Time Favourite series by him, these stories will inspire a renewed love for nature – one of the most powerful and mysterious forces of the universe.
An homage to his childhood spent in the hills of Kasauli, Shimla, Dehra, and Landour, the collection takes you to a land and time when man thrived in the natural beauty around him.
Unearthed: An Environmental History of Independent India || Meghaa Gupta
Through meticulous historical research, the author takes us on a journey through time, exploring the significant events that have shaped the country’s ecology and environment policies. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the Green Revolution and Milk Revolution to nuclear energy advancements, the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, the Taj Mahal crisis, water scarcity in Chennai, and many more pivotal moments in history. What sets this book apart is its unique environmental perspective, providing a chronological documentation of these events and their ecological impact making it a captivating read for children as well as adults.
Naturalist Ruddy || Rohan Chakravarthy
Embark on a thrilling adventure across India’s diverse natural habitats with the curious protagonist, Ruddy, as he unravels the captivating mysteries of the natural world in this one-of-a-kind comic book. Perfect for parents seeking engaging reads for their children, this book offers an easy and quick reading experience. Mystery and detective story enthusiasts will be captivated by the collection, as it introduces a cast of characters drawn from the rich wildlife, flora, and fauna that the author encountered during his expeditions to various sanctuaries. This World Environment Day, embark on an exciting journey with Ruddy Mongoose and discover the wonders of nature in a truly entertaining and educational way.
As extreme weather patterns reshape our world, from relentless monsoon rains to rising heat disrupting lives and landscapes, the urgency to understand and combat climate change has never been greater. Check out our curated list of must-read books about climate change and conservation that offer insights and inspiration to help us rethink our relationship with the environment.
It’s one Earth, one future—let’s make the change today!
Sea Ice? Now You Don’t ! || Rohan Chakravarty
The multi-award winning series of comics,Green Humour is back as the third anthology Sea Ice? Now You Don’t! From penguins balancing their nests on thin ice to tigers basking in their own glamour whilst worrying about their future, from ghazal-loving bats to whales dumping marine plastic waste right back at us- meet an array of wild animals with their own list of concerns, and their own brand of humour. The comics will take you from the high skies to geothermal mines in the very bottom of the ocean, and from sweltering tropical mangroves to the icy poles, engaging you in discussions about ecology, biology, nature conservation, and the politics of governing nature. This is a wild ride for sure, but NOT one which needs you to leave your brains at home!
I’M A Climate Optimist || Akash Ranison
Whenever climate change as a topic pops up in a conversation, someone ends the conversation with ‘What can I do about it?’ I’m A Climate Optimist is the answer to those all, what can I dos. Covering all the aspects of day-to-day life like food, textile, transportation, tourism, beauty, home, education, business, etc along with Industry specific expert comments. Get hold of this June release to learn the art of making our planet more liveable and sustainable.
Get hold of this book to learn the art of making our planet more liveable and sustainable.
Greening The Earth || Edited by K. Satchidanandan & Nishi Chawla
Greening the Earth is a rare anthology that brings together global poetic responses to one of the major crises faced by humanity in our time: environmental degradation and the threat it poses to the very survival of the human species. Poets from across the world respond here in their diverse voices-of anger, despair, and empathy to the present ecological damage prompted by human greed, pray for the re-greening of our little planet and celebrate a possible future where we live in harmony with every form of creation.
The Case For Nature || Siddharth Shrikanth
In a world where carbon emissions and climate financing are rightly rising up the agenda, there exists another catastrophe that is often overlooked but just as dire-the global collapse of our ecosystems. Siddarth Shrikanth’s The Case for Nature presents a compelling vision for tackling this other crisis by rethinking our relationship with nature in economic, social, and even personal terms.
The Case for Nature is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand how nature can help us forge a more sustainable future and what they can do to contribute to this vision.
Pugmarks and Carbon Footprints || Rohan Chakravarty
Pugmarks and Carbon Footprints is a collection of gag cartoons and comic strips based exclusively on wildlife and nature. Staying true to their theme, the cartoons and comics in the book will speak about wildlife, ecology, interesting trivia about the lives of wild animals, and how the lives of these creatures are entwined with ours. Other than providing some much needed comic relief during environmental doomsday, the book will equip the reader with snippet-sized information about environmental issues in an easily palatable manner.
Superpowers on the Shore || Sejal Mehta
The Indian coastline hosts some magnificent intertidal species: solar-powered slugs, escape artist octopuses, venomous jellies, harpooning conus sea snails, to name just a few. It is as biodiverse as a forest wildlife safari, and twice as secretive. From bioluminescence and advanced sonic capabilities to camouflage and shape-shifting, these cloaked assassins are capable of otherworldly skill. Superpowers on the Shore by Sejal Mehta is a dazzling, assured look at some of the creatures with whom we share our world, our water, our monsoons, our beaches, and the sandcastles therein.
The Heartbeat of Trees || Peter Wohlleben
In The Heartbeat of Trees, renowned forester Peter Wohlleben draws on new scientific discoveries to show how humans are deeply connected to the natural world. In an era of cell-phone addiction, climate change and urban life, many of us fear that we’ve lost our connection to nature. But Wohlleben is convinced that the age-old ties linking humans to the forest remain alive and intact. Drawing on science and cutting-edge research, The Heartbeat of Trees reveals the profound interactions humans can have with nature, exploring the language of the forest, the consciousness of plants and the eroding boundary between flora and fauna.
Leopard Diaries || Sanjay Gubbi
In Leopard Diaries: The Rosette in India, Sanjay Gubbi, who has studied and documented the leopard for nearly a decade, gives us a close look at this fascinating creature. From detailing its food habits to throwing new light on how the young are reared, from offering suggestions on tackling leopard-human conflict to imagining the future of this arresting animal, this book is a 360-degree view of the leopard, its ecological context, its fraught relationship with the human world, and how wildlife and human beings can find a way to co-exist.
Flood And Fury || Viju B
The floods that devastated large parts of Kerala in 2018 were not an isolated, freak phenomenon; rather, they signalled something graver-the ecological devastation of the Western Ghats. Travelling in this region, documenting the devastating large-scale mining, quarrying, deforestation and mismanagement of water resources, at the same time mapping its culture, history and ecology, Viju B. investigates the crisis in the Western Ghats and suggests policy measures urgently required to mitigate it.
Working To Restore || Esha Chhabra
Journalist Esha Chhabra draws on her decades of reporting to explore the nuanced realities and promise of regenerative business operations. Working to Restore examines revolutionary approaches in nine areas: agriculture, waste, supply chain, inclusivity for the collective good, women in the workforce, travel, health, energy, and finance. The companies profiled are solving global issues: promoting responsible production and consumption, creating equitable opportunities for all, encouraging climate action, and more. Chhabra highlights how their work moves beyond the greenwashed idea of ‘sustainability’ into a new era of regeneration and restoration.
Bare Necessities || Sahar Mansoor, Tim De Ridder
Bare Necessities is your one-stop guide on how to move towards a more sustainable lifestyle in India. Filled with activities, insights, recipes, tips and how-to guides, it is a must-read for anyone wanting to make a positive change in their life and in the environment.
The Nutmeg’s Curse || Amitav Ghosh
Written against the backdrop of the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter protests, and interweaving discussions on everything from climate change, the migrant crisis, and the animist spirituality of indigenous communities around the world, The Nutmeg’s Curse offers a sharp critique of Western society, and reveals the profoundly remarkable ways in which human history is shaped by non-human forces.
The Great Derangement || Amitav Ghosh
In The Great Derangement, a groundbreaking return to non-fiction, Ghosh examines our inability-at the level of literature, history and politics-to grasp the scale and violence of climate change. The climate crisis asks us to imagine other forms of human existence-a task to which fiction, Ghosh argues, is the best suited of all forms. The Great Derangement serves as a brilliant writer’s summons to confront the most urgent task of our time.
Garden Up || Dr. Ekta Chaudhary
YouTube sensation Ekta Chaudhary has been teaching gardening to her millions of followers, and for the first time, she is putting it all down in an easy-to-use, fun and simple beginner’s guide to growing plants at home. Rich in information on the amount of light plants need, the kind of soil to use and plants that can thrive indoors and outdoors, with answers to all ‘silly’ questions, Garden Up will gift anyone a green thumb.
How To Raise A Plant Baby || Vinayak Garg
Written for all plant parents trying to raise their plant babies in an urban setting, How To Raise A Plant Baby is built on basic principles that keep plants healthy and covers all topics that any plant parent need to know-how to prepare their space, how to choose the right plants for their home, how to care for the plants and keep them happy and how to get family and friends started with plants of their own.
This Handmade Life || Nandita Iyer
This Handmade Life is all about finding a passion and becoming really good at it. Divided into seven sections-baking, fermenting, self-care, kitchen gardening, soap-making, spices and stitching-this book tells us it is all right to slow down and take up simple projects that bring us unadulterated joy.
Get ready for a magical journey into the world of children’s literature with our selection of June releases! From delightful picture books that bring stories to life, to captivating chapter books and sparkling illustrations, these tales will take kids and parents alike on literary escapades. Join us as we unveil stories that will inspire laughter, spark curiosity and create cherished memories.
My First Sudha Murthy Collection: A Set of Four Chapter Books || Sudha Murthy
From India’s favourite writer comes a curated collection of 4 heartwarming stories packaged as charming chapter books. Each book offers a splendid introduction to Sudha Murty’s world through captivating illustrations, endearing characters and deliciously written tales in her unique style.
Magical, beautiful and full of wonder this boxset is a perfect gift for beginners.
Bipathu and Very Big Dream || Anita Nair
When school reopens in the village of Kaikurussi after the pandemic lockdown, nine-year-old Bipathu makes new friends-Madama, a blind lady who has moved to the village, Maash, a neighbour, Rahul, a boy who loves football as much as she does, and Duggu, a rescued puppy. When Madama gifts Bipathu’s brother Saad, a special needs child, a pair of braces, Bipathu starts believing in the power of the universe. So, when Suleiman, the class bully, roughs up Rahul to prevent him from training for the football match selections, Bipathu looks to the universe for help.
The Girl Who Loved To Run: P.T. Usha || Lavanya Karthik
Quick as a bird, fast as a train-there she goes! This is the story of P.T. Usha, before she became a legend in Indian sports.
The Paper Plane Flew || Bharti Singh
One afternoon, Mithi and her father make a paper aeroplane and send it into the sky. How far it will travel?
Simi Stands Tall || Arti Sonthalia
Simi has to join a new school in a new city. But the three-time academic award winner of Bhaarti Bhavan is suddenly a nobody at Newton International School. She discovers that a boy named Parth, who dresses in shabby clothes and torn shoes, is much smarter than her. The popular girl, Alisa, has a mean streak. Simi’s only confidant is her pet goldfish, Goldie, as she navigates annoying older siblings and her mother’s chemotherapy.
With so many changes in her life, will Simi learn to choose her human friends wisely, stand up tall for herself and defend her real friends?
Don’t miss out on the joy and wonder that await in our June collection!
With summer kicking in in full gear, it is the perfect time to indulge in the pleasure of reading. Whether you are lounging on the beach, sipping an icy drink in a cafe, going on a road trip, or simply unwinding on a lazy weekend, our June releases are here to keep you company through the summer. So, whether or not you have your summer body ready, your summer BUDDY is ready to go! Browse our hottest June new releases now:
Welcome to Aarampur by Dhruv Nath
Welcome to Aarampur||Dhruv Nath
Welcome to life in the sleepy little hill town of Aaraampur where you will meet Kaptaan Sahib who got his name because he ‘almost’ got into the Army. And the Pahalwaan Nai a wrestler who used his skill of pulling out the hair of his opponents to become a barber. And of course, Chetu the painter who specialized in making the walls of his customers’ homes appear patchier than earlier. You will visit the classy Aaraampur Club which would put the lesser-known Delhi Gymkhana Club to shame. You will also figure out why Aaraampur Cabs-that famous startup-was never available between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Not to forget the famous engineering college of Aaraampur popularly known as ‘The PITS’. Sit back and enjoy this charming and amusing book which will momentarily transport you far from the din of everyday life to a slower more agreeable rhythm.
I’m A Climate Optimits By Aakash Ranison
I’m a Climate Optimist||Aakash Ranison
Whenever climate change as a topic pops up in a conversation, someone ends the conversation with ‘What can I do about it?’ I’m A Climate Optimist is the answer to those all, what can I dos. Covering all the aspects of day-to-day life like food, textile, transportation, tourism, beauty, home, education, business, etc along with Industry specific expert comments. Get hold of this June release to learn the art of making our planet more liveable and sustainable.
Icelight by Ranjit Hoskote
Icelight || Ranjit Hoskote
Ranjit Hoskote’s eighth collection of poetry enacts the experience of standing at the edge of life, a landscape, a world assuming new contours of going up in flames. Yet the protagonists of these poems also stand at the edge of epiphany. Icelight transits between audacious exploration and contemplative retreat, doubt and belief, melancholia and momentum. This is a book about transitions and departures, eloquent in its acceptance of transcience in the face of mortality.
Madam President By Sandeep Sahu
Madam President || Sandeep Sahu
Madam President is the first-ever comprehensive and authentic biography of Droupadi Murmu, the fifteenth President of India, by senior journalist Sandeep Sahu. Murmu’s long and eventful political journey is a story of true perseverance and inspiration. Having battled early years of struggle in securing quality education, being struck by a series of personal tragedies such as the loss of her husband and two sons in quick succession, and suffering electoral victories and losses, Murmu has risen through her circumstances with grace, fortitude, and resilience that make her the well-revered leader she is today.
In this stellar biography, Murmu’s historic feat as the first Indian President from the tribal community, her phenomenal rise as an earnest and ambitious young woman, who would, with dedication and rigour, go on to become the most powerful woman in the country, presents a fascinating study of democratic empowerment in India.
India’s Secret War by Ushinor Majumdar
India’s Secret War || Ushinor Majumdar
Triggered by the US-backed Pakistani junta’s brutal measures against the Bengalis, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman proclaimed the independence of East Pakistan on 26 March 1971. They needed the world’s support, and India was their first ally. The Border Security Force (BSF), an elite Indian force, was only five years old at the time and became central to India’s sustained military response in East Pakistan for nine months until the alliance of Indian and Bangladeshi forces won Dacca. The BSF’s founding chief, K.F. Rustamji, and his men went beyond their charter of policing borders to respond to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises that was unfolding right next door to India.
With access to classified records and through exhaustive interviews with surviving veterans, award-winning investigative reporter Ushinor Majumdar has crafted this first comprehensive historical account of the BSF’s role in the Bangladesh liberation war, which changed the course of South Asian history.
Feeling Kerala By J Devika
Feeling Kerala || J Devika
The living, pulsating, and ever-changing entity that is Kerala is best represented by its astute, critical, and deeply insightful writers of the Malayalam short story, and in Feeling Kerala, a selection of some of the best and sharpest narratives from the region is now translated and curated for English readers to love and cherish.
While staying true to its literary form, these stories provide a tour into the heart and soul of contemporary Kerala and aim at getting past the twentieth-century characterizations of the state, say, as defined by communist egalitarian spirit or matrilineal families. After all, Kerala is unique in more ways than one, thanks to the heightened experience of migration and transnationalism, among other things.
Impactful Data Visualization by Kavita Ranganathan
Impactful Data Visualization || Kavita Ranganathan
Bringing her clear classroom-teaching style, which has helped hundreds of data wranglers, to this book, Kavita Ranganathan walks you through the myriad ways that graphs can mislead, helping to spot visualization traps and prevent misinterpretations. She illustrates core design principles for creating truthful and effective data visualizations, assisting you to master the art and science behind creating impactful and accurate graphs. Packed with examples to clearly explain the dos and don’ts of data visualization and backed by empirical research, this book will transform the way you create and analyse graphs and charts.
Office Secrets by Harish Bhatt
Office Secrets || Harish Bhatt
In the book, The OfficeSecrets, Harish Bhatt offers a selection of fascinating and useful secrets that can help you be far more successful at your workplace. As a bonus, they can make you happier as well. You will find within a range of subjects-whether the best methods of fighting exhaustion, organizing your work desk, the power of listening, why kindness is so important, workplace lessons from Hercule Poirot, and what you can learn from the cookies that your colleagues eat.
Harish Bhat wields his pen with his signature insight to delight, inspire, provoke, and change the way you see offices forever.
The Art & Science Of Happiness by Swami Mukundanda
The Art and Science of Happiness|| Swami Mukundananda
Happiness is a beautiful feeling. It floods our hearts with gratitude and enriches us with the exuberance of life. Happiness is what makes living worthwhile. That is why we pursue it in all we do. Yet, despite our best efforts, it remains elusive. Why?
This is the puzzle we must solve in life. What is the secret of finding everlasting bliss? What is the art of experiencing joy that is immune to vicissitudes? And what is the science of achieving happiness that is not dependent on externals?
In The Art and Science of Happiness, internationally acclaimed authority on mind management, renowned saint and bestselling author Swami Mukundananda draws on the ancient wisdom of the scriptures and current scientific research to address these questions. He also explains strategies for happiness in relationships, at work, and in the face of adversity. By applying these concepts in your daily life, you can be happy everywhere and at all times.
The Perfect Way by Osho
The Perfect Way || Osho
In The Perfect Way, Osho answers fundamental questions about what meditation is and how we can begin and sustain it in our lives. He does this with precision, thoroughness, humour, and compassion. Here is someone who knows, but who also knows how to convey what he knows. His genius in full flight, he points us as far as one can with words towards the inner world of the self, towards the zone of silence.
The Bikshu’s Love by Nandini Vijayaraghavan
The Bikshu’s Love || Nandini Vijayaraghavan
After successfully fending off the Chalukya’s siege of Kanchi, the Pallava emperor Mahendra Varmar drives the enemy king, Pulikesi, to call for a truce. The statesman in Pallavar is keen to convert a foe into a friend, but a vengeful Pulikesi reneges on his commitment. While the Pallavas are successful in chasing the Chalukyas away, Pallava Nadu bears the brunt of Pulikesi’s wrath.
Fate wields its unpredictable hand further. A rash decision by the sculptor Aayanar and his daughter Sivakami results in her being abducted by the Chalukyas. Sivakami takes a momentous vow, little realizing how far-reaching the consequences will be.
The Bikshu’s Love, the action-packed third volume of Sivakami’s Vow, is unputdownable and sets the stage for the startling climax of this magnum opus in the fourth and final book in the series.
The Defiant Optimist by Durreen Shahnaz
The Defiant Optimist || Durreen Shahnaz
When she launched the world’s first stock exchange for social enterprises, Durreen Shahnaz started more than a new financial system; she sparked a movement. Defiant optimism-the stubborn belief that systems that enrich the few can be transformed for the good of the many-requires an indomitable spirit. In these pages, Shahnaz illuminates what investing in those excluded from networks of power and opportunity requires.
From growing up with constrained life chances to working as the first Bangladeshi woman on Wall Street to becoming a global leader in impact investing, Shahnaz takes us on a mesmerizing trek of innovation, compassion, and enterprise. Changing how systems work and who they work for-isn’t for the faint of heart. But The Defiant Optimist offers strategies for placing women, the underserved, and the planet at the heart of systems. Together we can locate the levers of power and pull them defiantly in a new direction.
Dreams of a Healthy India edited by Ritu Priya & Syeda Hameed
Dreams of a Healthy India || Edited by Ritu Priya, Syeda Hameed
Dreams of a Healthy India, the ninth volume in the Rethinking India series, is an attempt to demystify the issues of health care and health systems for the general reader and to simultaneously provoke rethinking on several critical dimensions through writings by policymakers and academics. Its introductory essay and the thirteen subsequent essays lay out the scenario as well as the challenges in this regard, and provide actionable solutions. These are solutions for the present times that can simultaneously contribute to sustainable health care for the future. Complex ideas are not made simplistic but are presented in simple language, with some illustrative case studies, vignettes, and data that speak for themselves.
Published in collaboration with the Samruddha Bharat Foundation, This volume suggests that an indigenously developed healthcare system, based on public-community partnerships, and respect for the plurality of needs, experiences, and knowledge, can generate such healthcare for every Indian.
Varavara Rao: A life In Poetry edited by N.Venugopal & Meena Kandasamy
Varavara Rao || Edited by N. Venugopal & Meena Kandasamy
Varavara Rao: A Life in Poetry is the first-ever collection in English of poems by the Telugu poet, selected and translated from sixteen books that he has published. Having begun to write poetry in his early teens, Varavara Rao, now in his early eighties, continues to be a doyen of Telugu modern poets. He was a consistent comrade-in-letters to all the social movements from the 1960s to the 2010s, and this volume is a capsule of momentous social history captured in his poetic imagination.
The Mistress Of Bhatia House by Sujata Massey
The Mistress of Bhatia House || Sujata Massey
India, 1922: Perveen Mistry is the only female lawyer in Bombay, a city where child mortality is high, birth control is unavailable and very few women have ever seen a doctor. In The Mistress of Bhatia House, Perveen is seen as a symbol of perseverance and rebellion in a time when gender roles controlled one’s life. She is the sole female attorney in Bombay, and her very existence speaks volumes about her unflinching attitude. Perveen breaks the glass ceiling with unrelenting will as she fights the ingrained prejudice that surrounds her with each stride she takes.
Pugmarks And Carbon Foorprints by Rohan Chakravarty
Pugmarks and Carbon Footprints || Rohan Chakravarty
Pugmarks and Carbon Footprints is a collection of gag cartoons and comic strips based exclusively on wildlife and nature. Staying true to their theme, the cartoons and comics in the book will speak about wildlife, ecology, interesting trivia about the lives of wild animals, and how the lives of these creatures are entwined with ours. Other than providing some much-needed comic relief during environmental doomsday, the book will equip the reader with snippet-sized information about environmental issues in an easily palatable manner.
So, which book is going to be your next June read?
Bestselling author Devdutt Pattanaik has penned over 25 books and over 500 articles on the relevance of mythology in modern times. He worked in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries for 15 years before devoting all his time to his passion for decoding beliefs of all cultures, modern and ancient, located beneath the veneer of rationality. Extremely knowledgeable and exceptionally insightful, Pattanaik also boasts of the added skill of simplifying his mythological accounts into delightful reads that engage young readers. He is the master storyteller of the very popular Fun in Devlok series and Pashu. Here are the must-reads by India’s favourite mythology writer Devdutt Pattanaik:
Sita: An Illustrated Retelling Of The Ramayana||Devdutt Pattanaik
It is significant that the only character in Hindu mythology, a king at that, to be given the title of ekam-patni-vrata, devoted to a single wife, is associated with the most unjust act of abandoning her in the forest to protect family reputation. This seems a deliberate souring of the narrative, made even more complex by Ram’s refusal to remarry despite the pressure on royalty to produce an heir. The intention seems to be to provoke thought on notions of fidelity, property and self-image. And so mythologist and illustrator Devdutt Pattanaik narrates the Ramayan, drawing attention to the many oral, visual and written retellings composed in different times by different poets, each one trying to solve the puzzle in their own unique way. This book approaches Ram by speculating on Sita-her childhood with her father, Janak, who hosted sages mentioned in the Upanishads; her stay in the forest with her husband who had to be a celibate ascetic while she was in the prime of her youth; her interactions with the women of Lanka, recipes she exchanged, emotions they shared; her connection with the earth, her mother; her role as the Goddess, the untamed Kali as well as the demure Gauri, in transforming the stoic prince of Ayodhya into God.
Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling Of The Mahabharata||Devdutt Pattanaik
High above the sky stands Swarga, paradise, abode of the gods. Still above is Vaikuntha, heaven, abode of God.
The doorkeepers of Vaikuntha are the twins, Jaya and Vijaya, both whose names mean ‘victory’. One keeps you in Swarga; the other raises you into Vaikuntha. In Vaikuntha there is bliss forever, in Swarga there is pleasure for only as long as you deserve.
What is the difference between Jaya and Vijaya? Solve this puzzle and you will solve the mystery of the Mahabharata. In this enthralling retelling of India’s greatest epic, the Mahabharata, originally known as Jaya, Devdutt Pattanaik seamlessly weaves into a single narrative plots from the Sanskrit classic as well as its many folk and regional variants, including the Pandavani of Chattisgarh, Gondhal of Maharashtra, Terukkuttu of Tamil Nadu, and Yakshagana of Karnataka.
Richly illustrated with over 250 line drawings by the author, the 108 chapters abound with little-known details such as the names of the hundred Kauravas, the worship of Draupadi as a goddess in Tamil Nadu, the stories of Astika, Madhavi, Jaimini, Aravan and Barbareek, the Mahabharata version of the Shakuntalam and the Ramayana, and the dating of the war based on astronomical data. With clarity and simplicity, the tales in this elegant volume reveal the eternal relevance of the Mahabharata, the complex and disturbing meditation on the human condition that has shaped Indian thought for over 3000 years.
Jaya: Mahabharat Ka Sachitra Punarkathan||Devdutt Pattanaik
High above the sky stands Swarga, paradise, abode of the gods. Still above is Vaikuntha, heaven, abode of God. The doorkeepers of Vaikuntha are the twins, Jaya and Vijaya, both whose names mean ‘victory’. One keeps you in Swarga; the other raises you into Vaikuntha. In Vaikuntha there is bliss forever, in Swarga there is pleasure for only as long as you deserve. What is the difference between Jaya and Vijaya? Solve this puzzle and you will solve the mystery of the Mahabharata. In this enthralling retelling of India’s greatest epic, the Mahabharata, originally known as Jaya, Devdutt Pattanaik seamlessly weaves into a single narrative plots from the Sanskrit classic as well as its many folk and regional variants, including the Pandavani of Chattisgarh, Gondhal of Maharashtra, Terukkuttu of Tamil Nadu, and Yakshagana of Karnataka. Richly illustrated with over 250 line drawings by the author, the 108 chapters abound with little-known details such as the names of the hundred Kauravas, the worship of Draupadi as a goddess in Tamil Nadu, the stories of Astika, Madhavi, Jaimini, Aravan and Barbareek, the Mahabharata version of the Shakuntalam and the Ramayana, and the dating of the war based on astronomical data. With clarity and simplicity, the tales in this elegant volume reveal the eternal relevance of the Mahabharata, the complex and disturbing meditation on the human condition that has shaped Indian thought for over 3000 years.
Myth=Mithya||Dedutt Pattanaik
A decoding of Hindu mythology Hindus have one God. They also have 330 million gods: male gods; female gods; personal gods; family gods; household gods; village gods; gods of space and time; gods for specific castes and particular professions; gods who reside in trees; in animals; in minerals; in geometrical patterns and in man-made objects. Then there are a whole host of demons. But no Devil. In this groundbreaking book Dr Devdutt Pattanaik; one of India’s most popular mythologists; seeks an answer to these apparent paradoxes and unravels an inherited truth about life and death; nature and culture; perfection and possibility. He retells sacred Hindu stories and decodes Hindu symbols and rituals; using a unique style of commentary; illustrations and diagrams. We discover why the villainous Kauravas went to heaven and the virtuous Pandavas (all except Yudhishtira) were sent to hell; why Rama despite abandoning the innocent Sita remains the model king; why the blood-drinking Kali is another form of the milk-giving Gauri; and why Shiva wrenched off the fifth head of Brahma. Constructed over generations; Hindu myths serve as windows to the soul; and provide an understanding of the world around us. The aim is not to outgrow myth; but to be enriched and empowered by its ancient; potent and still relevant language.
Pregnant King||Devdutt Pattanaik
‘I am not sure that I am a man,’ said Yuvanashva. ‘I have created life outside me as men do. But I have also created life inside me, as women do. What does that make me? Will a body such as mine fetter or free me?’
Among the many hundreds of characters who inhabit the Mahabharata, perhaps the world’s greatest epic and certainly one of the oldest, is Yuvanashva, a childless king, who accidentally drinks a magic potion meant to make his queens pregnant and gives birth to a son. This extraordinary novel is his story.
It is also the story of his mother Shilavati, who cannot be king because she is a woman; of young Somvat, who surrenders his genitals to become a wife; of Shikhandi, a daughter brought up as a son, who fathers a child with a borrowed penis; of Arjuna, the great warrior with many wives, who is forced to masquerade as a woman after being castrated by a nymph; of Ileshwara, a god on full-moon days and a goddess on new-moon nights; and of Adi-natha, the teacher of teachers, worshipped as a hermit by some and as an enchantress by others.
Building on Hinduism’s rich and complex mythology-but driven by a very contemporary sensibility-Devdutt Pattanaik creates a lush and fecund work of fiction in which the lines are continually blurred between men and women, sons and daughters, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers. Confronted with such fluidity the reader is drawn into Yuvanashva’s struggle to be fair to all-those here, those there and all those in between.
Book Of Ram||Devdutt Pattanaik
He is Eka-vachani, a king who always keeps his word; Eka-bani, an archer who strikes his target with the first arrow; and Eka-patni, a husband who is eternally and absolutely devoted to a single wife. He is maryada purushottam Ram, the supreme upholder of social values, the scion of the Raghu clan, jewel of the solar dynasty, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, God who establishes order in worldly life. Hindus believe that in stressful and tumultuous times chanting Ram’s name and hearing his tale, the Ramayan, brings stability, hope, peace and prosperity. Reviled by feminists, appropriated by politicians, Ram remains serene in his majesty, the only Hindu deity to be worshipped as a king.
The Sita Colouring Book||Devdutt Pattnaik
Relive the fabulous story of the Ramayana through 108 illustrations to be coloured in. The Sita Colouring Book, based on Devdutt Pattanaik’s bestselling retelling of the Ramayana, is a fascinating colouring journey for you to embark on.
From the very beginning of the great epic, the birth of Dashratha’s four sons, to the passing of Lakshman and Ram at the very end, the remarkably simple yet multilayered story of the Ramayana comes alive through Devdutt’s wonderful illustrations.
Rediscover some of the most dramatic moments of the great Indian epic, from Ram’s breaking of the great bow to the abduction of Sita, from the sacking of Lanka to the building of the bridge across the sea, from the slaying of Ravana to Sita’s trial by fire.
Imagine the way the Dandaka forest, Kishkindha, Lanka and Ayodhya might have looked, and colour them in all their glory, along with portraits of unforgettable personages like Hanuman, Jambuvan, Jatayu, Surpanakha, Kumbhakarna and Ravana.
This is a great colouring adventure that readers of all ages will thoroughly enjoy.
The Jaya Colouring Book||Devdutt Pattanaik
Relive the great Indian epic the Mahabharata through 108 illustrations to be coloured in. The Jaya Colouring Book, based on Devdutt Pattanaik’s bestselling retelling of the Mahabharata, is a tremendous colouring adventure for you to embark on.
From the very beginning of the great epic (which Vyasa narrates as Ganesha writes the story down) till the dramatic end (when Yudhishtira is horrified to discover the Pandavas and Draupadi in Naraka), the entire story of the Mahabharata unfolds through Devdutt’s inimitable illustrations.
Relive the drama of the greatest story ever told, from the birth of the Kauravas and Pandavas to Draupadi’s swayamvara, the game of dice, the years in exile, and finally the great war of Kurukshetra.
Let your imagination run riot as you colour in the battle scenes-Krishna narrating the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, Bhima’s slaying of Dusshasana and Duryodhana, and the deaths of Karna, Drona and Bhishma.
This is a great colouring adventure that readers of all ages will thoroughly enjoy.
Devlok with Devdutt Pattanaik||Devdutt Pattanaik
Based on the immensely successful TV show on EPIC channel, this ultimate collection comprises Devlok with Devdutt Pattanaik 1, 2 and 3. Get ready for an entertaining and educational ride with India’s favourite mythologist as he answers all your questions on religions, the holy texts, Indian cultures and more!
Olympus||Devdutt Pattanaik
· Olympus is the home of the Greek gods, much like Amravati of the Hindu devas.
· Zeus, leader of Olympians, wields a thunderbolt like Indra, and rides an eagle like Vishnu.
· The feats of the Greek hero Heracles, known to Romans as Hercules, reminded many of Krishna, as did his name, ‘Hari-kula-esha’ or lord of the Hari clan.
· The Greek epic of a husband sailing across the sea with a thousand ships to bring his wife, Helen, back from Troy seems strikingly similar to the story of Ram rescuing Sita from Lanka.
Is there a connection between Greek and Hindu mythology then? Does it have something to do with a common Indo-European root? Or maybe an exchange of ideas in the centuries that followed the arrival of Alexander the Great, when Greek emissaries travelled to the kingdoms of Mathura and Magadha?
In this book, mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik turns his attention to ancient Greek tales, and explores a new world of stories. Long have Europeans and Americans retold Indic mythologies. It is time for Indians to reverse the gaze.
Devlok with Devdutt-2 (Hindi)||Devdutt Pattanaik
Are the illustrious clans of the Mahabharata from Surya Vansh or Chandra Vansh?
Which yuga does the Ramayana occur in, and does it occur only once?
What do haldi, kumkum, bhasm or chandan signify in a puja thali?
After the sensational response to Season 1 of EPIC Channel’s Devlok with Devdutt Pattanaik, Devdutt invited his viewers and readers to ask him questions about Hindu mythology, which he has answered over thirty thrilling episodes. Prepare to be educated, entertained and moved as Devdutt delves into the exhilarating variety of Hindu mythology.
In this volume, you will discover the difference between dhyan and darshan, aastik and nastik, Surya Vansh and Chandra Vansh. There are amusing stories about your favourite Hanuman and fascinating facts about the dark Vishnu avatars, Varaha and Narasimha. Learn why Lakshmi or Saraswati are always in conflict, and how women have the most intriguing characters in mythological tales.
Journey deeper into the magical world of Hindu mythology with Devdutt, and you’ll never want to turn back.
Sita (Hindi)||Devdutt Pattanaik
It is significant that the only character in Hindu mythology, a king at that, to be given the title of ekam-patni-vrata, devoted to a single wife, is associated with the most unjust act of abandoning her in the forest to protect family reputation. This seems a deliberate souring of the narrative, made even more complex by Ram’s refusal to remarry despite the pressure on royalty to produce an heir. The intention seems to be to provoke thought on notions of fidelity, property and self-image. And so mythologist and illustrator Devdutt Pattanaik narrates the Ramayan, drawing attention to the many oral, visual and written retellings composed in different times by different poets, each one trying to solve the puzzle in their own unique way. This book approaches Ram by speculating on Sita-her childhood with her father, Janak, who hosted sages mentioned in the Upanishads; her stay in the forest with her husband who had to be a celibate ascetic while she was in the prime of her youth; her interactions with the women of Lanka, recipes she exchanged, emotions they shared; her connection with the earth, her mother; her role as the Goddess, the untamed Kali as well as the demure Gauri, in transforming the stoic prince of Ayodhya into God.
The Book of Ram (Marathi)||Devdutt Pattanaik
He is Eka-vachani, a king who always keeps his word; Eka-bani, an archer who strikes his target with the first arrow; and Eka-patni, a husband who is eternally and absolutely devoted to a single wife. He is maryada purushottam Ram, the supreme upholder of social values, the scion of the Raghu clan, jewel of the solar dynasty, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, God who establishes order in worldly life. Hindus believe that in stressful and tumultuous times chanting Ram’s name and hearing his tale, the Ramayan, brings stability, hope, peace and prosperity. Reviled by feminists, appropriated by politicians, Ram remains serene in his majesty, the only Hindu deity to be worshipped as a king.
Devlok with Devdutt Pattanaik 3||Devdutt Pattanaik
Where did the name Radha come from?
When did Christianity first come to India?
What is the connection between sanskar and dharma?
After the enormous success of the first two seasons of EPIC Channel’s Devlok with Devdutt Pattanaik, India’s favourite mythologist is back with a third instalment to answer these questions and more, this time delving deeper into Hinduism and other religions as well!
In this volume, you will read about the various versions of the Ramayana found across Asia. There are chapters on Buddhism and Jainism and their fascinating histories. Learn where the concept of marriage comes from, the reasons behind the many riti-riwaz in Hinduism and the place of fathers and fatherhood in Indian mythology, among myriad other topics and lesser-known tales-all tackled by Devdutt in a Q&A format.
Covering over fifteen informative and inspiring episodes, this volume is a heady mix of education and entertainment.
Devlok 3: Devdutt Pattanaik Ke Sang||Devdutt Pattanaik
Where did the name Radha come from?
When did Christianity first come to India?
What is the connection between sanskar and dharma?
After the enormously successful runs of the first and second seasons of EPIC Channel’s Devlok with Devdutt Pattanaik, and their book editions, the trailblazer of Hindu mythology Devdutt Pattanaik is back with a third instalment to answer these questions and more! Covering over fifteen informative and inspiring episodes, this volume is a heady mix of education and entertainment. The show delves into myriad topics and lesser-known tales and questions that will be revisited by Devdutt in a Q&A format, making mythology more interesting for everyday audiences.
The Pregnant King (Hindi)||Devdutt Pattanaik
‘I am not sure that I am a man,’ said Yuvanashva. ‘I have created life outside me as men do. But I have also created life inside me, as women do. What does that make me? Will a body such as mine fetter or free me?’
Among the many hundreds of characters who inhabit the Mahabharata, perhaps the world’s greatest epic and certainly one of the oldest, is Yuvanashva, a childless king, who accidentally drinks a magic potion meant to make his queens pregnant and gives birth to a son. This extraordinary novel is his story.
It is also the story of his mother Shilavati, who cannot be king because she is a woman; of young Somvat, who surrenders his genitals to become a wife; of Shikhandi, a daughter brought up as a son, who fathers a child with a borrowed penis; of Arjuna, the great warrior with many wives, who is forced to masquerade as a woman after being castrated by a nymph; of Ileshwara, a god on full-moon days and a goddess on new-moon nights; and of Adi-natha, the teacher of teachers, worshipped as a hermit by some and as an enchantress by others.
Building on Hinduism’s rich and complex mythology-but driven by a very contemporary sensibility-Devdutt Pattanaik creates a lush and fecund work of fiction in which the lines are continually blurred between men and women, sons and daughters, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers. Confronted with such fluidity the reader is drawn into Yuvanashva’s struggle to be fair to all-those here, those there and all those in between.
An enthralling retelling of India’s greatest epic, the Mahabharata, Jaya seamlessly weaves into a single narrative plots from the Sanskrit classic as well as its many folk and regional variants. With clarity and simplicity, the tales in this elegant volume reveal the eternal relevance of the Mahabharata and the complex and disturbing meditation on the human condition that has shaped Indian thought for over 3000 years. Sita approaches Ram and the Ramayana by speculating on the titular character: her childhood with her father, Janaka, who hosted sages mentioned in the Upanishads; her stay in the forest with her husband, who had to be a celibate ascetic while she was in the prime of her youth; her interactions with the women of Lanka, recipes she exchanged, the emotions they shared; her role as a goddess, the untamed Kali as well as the demure Gauri, in transforming the stoic prince of Ayodhya into God.
The Bhagavata is the story of Krishna, known as Shyam to those who find beauty, wisdom and love in his dark complexion. Shyam tells the story of Krishna’s birth and his death, bringing together the fragments of this great epic composed over thousands of years, first as the Harivamsa, then as the Bhagavata Purana, and finally as the passionate songs of poet-sages in various regional languages.
The Best of Indian Mythology Box Set||Devdutt Pattanaik
Shyam: The wisdom of the Bhagavata for the modern reader
Sita: An unheard voice from the Ramayana
Jaya: Folklore from the epic Mahabharata
Olympus: Indian parallels for classic Greek myths
Eden: A unique take on Abrahamic lore
For curious first-time readers of Indian mythology, this new collection of Devdutt Pattanaik’s five best-selling books is the perfect gift.
Take an epic voyage with Devdutt through ancient and mythological worlds. This captivating, richly illustrated narrative will regale readers with the many legends and parables that make our collective cultural heritage. Through decades of research, Devdutt decodes ancient epic tales and presents them with a blend of simplicity, candidness, and elegance. This box-set is sure to ring in the festive spirit this holiday season.
Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling Of The Bhagavata||Devdutt Pattanaik
In the forest of insecurities, is it possible to discover humanity through pleasure? Can we stop seeing each other as predator, prey, rival or mate, and rediscover ourselves as lovers? Does the divine reside in sensual delight, in emotional intimacy and in aesthetic experience?
Yes, yes, yes.
That is the promise of the Bhagavata.
The Bhagavata is the story of Krishna, known as Shyam to those who find beauty, wisdom and love in his dark complexion. It is the third great Hindu epic after the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. However, this narration was composed in fragments over thousands of years, first as the Harivamsa, then as the Bhagavata Purana, and finally as the passionate songs of poet-sages in various regional languages.
This book seamlessly weaves the story from Krishna’s birth to his death, or rather from his descent to the butter-smeared world of happy women to his ascent from the blood-soaked world of angry men.
Eden: An Indian Exploration Of Jewish, Christian And Islamic Lore||Devdutt Pattanaik
Eden is the garden of happiness that humankind lost when Adam and Eve the first human couple, disobeyed the one true god, i.e., God, and ate the fruit of the forbidden tree. To this garden all humanity shall return if we accept God’s love and follow God’s law. It represents paradise in Abrahamic lore, which emerged over 4,000 years ago in the Middle East and has since spread to every corner of the world in three forms: Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
Like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, Jewish, Christian and Islamic tales too are cultural memories and metaphors, i.e. mythologies. They seek to make life meaningful by establishing a worldview based on one God, one life, and one way of living based on God’s message transmitted through many messengers. But these stories contrast Indian mythologies that are rooted in rebirth, where the world is without beginning or end, where there are infinite manifestations of the divine, both within and without, personal and impersonal, simultaneously monotheistic, polytheistic and atheistic.
Eden explores the vast world of Abrahamic myths from a uniquely Indian prism, through storytelling that is intimate but not irreverent, and to introduce readers to the many captivating tales of angels, demons, prophets, patriarchs, judges and kings. It also retells stories from Mesopotamian, Egyptian and Zoroastrian mythologies that in?uenced Abrahamic monotheism over time.
Penguin 35 Collectors Edition: The Book of Ram||Devdutt Pattanaik
He is Eka-vachani, a king who always keeps his word; Eka-bani, an archer who strikes his target with the first arrow; and Eka-patni, a husband who is eternally and absolutely devoted to a single wife. He is maryada purushottam Ram, the supreme upholder of social values, the scion of the Raghu clan, jewel of the solar dynasty, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, God who establishes order in worldly life. Hindus believe that in stressful and tumultuous times chanting Ram’s name and hearing his tale, the Ramayan, brings stability, hope, peace and prosperity. Reviled by feminists, appropriated by politicians, Ram remains serene in his majesty, the only Hindu deity to be worshipped as a king.
Shikhandi: And Other Queer Tales They Don’t Tell You||Devdutt Pattanaik
Patriarchy asserts men are superior to women
Feminism clarifies women and men are equal
Queerness questions what constitutes male and female
Queerness isn’t only modern, Western or sexual, says mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik. Take a close look at the vast written and oral traditions in Hinduism, some over two thousand years old, and you will find tales of:
Shikhandi, who became a man to satisfy her wife
Mahadeva, who became a woman to deliver a devotee’s child
Chudala, who became a man to enlighten her husband
Samavan, who became the wife of his male friend
and many more . . .
Playful and touching—and sometimes disturbing—these stories when compared with tales of the Mesopotamian Gilgamesh, the Greek Ganymede, the biblical Sodom or the Chinese ‘cut sleeve’ Emperor reveal the unique Indian way of making sense of queerness.
Devdutt Pattanaik’s new book builds on profound ideas that our ancestors shared but which we have rarely inherited.
This book has content for mature audiences. Discretion advised.
Namita Gokhale is an award-winning writer and festival director. She is the author of eleven works of fiction and has written extensively on myth as well as the Himalayan region. Her acclaimed debut novel, Paro: Dreams of Passion, was published in 1984. She is committed to supporting translations and curating literary dialogues across languages and cultures. She is also co-founder and co-director of the vibrant and world-famous Jaipur Literature Festival. Here you’ll find a list of unmissable books by Namita Gokhale:
Book of Shadows||Namita Gokhale
Part ghost story, part erotic romance, The Book of Shadows is an ambitious book that investigates the nature of reality, love and faith. It is a work of startling originality by one of India’s most daring and talented writers.
Gods, Graves & Grandmother||Namita Gokhale
‘Before mother left, in a long-ago time, we had been very rich. My grandmother had been a great singer, a kothewali whose voice was more liquid and beautiful than Lata Mangeshkar’s. Eleven nawabs and two Englishmen were besotted with love of her.’ From these great heights Gudiya’s world plunges into the depths of almost complete penury when she arrives in Delhi with her ancient grandmother, Ammi, fleeing small-town scandal and disgrace. Just when all seems lost, Ammi works a miracle: a slab of green marble stolen from a building site, and five rounded pebbles from a sahib’s garden, are transformed by the power of her singing voice into an inviolable place of worship. From here on, Gudiya’s life takes on an extraordinary momentum of its own. Ammi dies a small-time saint, Pandit Kailash Nath Shastri predicts a future of impossible luck, the irrepressible Phoolwati becomes an unlikely guardian, and the inhumanly handsome Kalki rides in on his white horse and steals her heart. As we follow the twists and turns of Gudiya’s story, we see unfold before us the peculiar dance of chance and will that is human existence.
Himalayan Love Story||Namita Gokhale
With this haunting novel about romantic loss and fatalism, Namita Gokhale confirms her reputation as one of PBI – India’s finest writers, and one with the rare gift of seeing and recording the epic in ordinary lives. This is the story of Parvati, young, beautiful and doomed, and Mukul Nainwal, the local boy made good who returns to the Nainital of his youth to search for the only woman he has ever loved. Told in the voices of these two exiles from life, this spare, sensitive book is a compelling read.
Shakuntala: The Play Of Memory||Namita Gokhale
On the ghats of Kashi, the most ancient of cities, a woman confronts memories that have pursued her through birth and rebirth. In the life she recalls, she Shakuntala of the northern mountains-spirited, imaginative, but destined like her legendary namesake to suffer ‘the samskaras of abandonment’. Stifled by social custom, hungry for experience, she deserts home and family for the company of a Greek horse merchant she meets by the Ganga. Together, they travel far and wide and surrender to unbridled pleasure, as Shakuntala assumes the identity of Yaduri, the fallen woman. But an old restlessness compels her to forsake this life as well-and court tragedy.
In Search Of Sita: Revisiting Mythology||Namita Gokhale, Malashri Lal
In Search of Sita presents essays, conversations and commentaries that explore different aspects of her life. It revisits mythology, reopening the debate on her birth, her days in exile, her abduction, the test by fire, the birth of her sons and, finally, her return to the earth-offering fresh interpretations of this enigmatic figure and her indelible impact on our everyday lives.
Priya: In Incredible Indyaa|| Namita Gokhale
India is shining, and Suresh Kaushal, the stout lawyer -of sober habits’, has propelled himself up the political ladder to become Minister of State for Food Processing, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Canneries. His wife Priya can’t believe their luck and, determined to ensure it doesn’t run out, struggles valiantly with -social vertigo’, infidelity and menopause. Along the way she also learns vital lessons on survival, as she watches her glamorous new friend Pooonam chase status, sex and Jimmy Choo shoes, and her radical old friend Lenin ride a donkey and lose his bearings. In this wickedly funny, occasionally tender, book, Namita Gokhale resurrects some unforgettable characters from her 1984 cult bestseller Paro, and plunges them neck-deep into Delhi’s toxic waste of power, money and greed.
Paro: Dreams Of Passion||Namita Gokhale
Paro is a heroic temptress, alluring and rapacious, the stuff of legend. Wandering through the world of privilege and Scotch whiskey that the rich inhabit, she is observed constantly by the acid Priya, eternal voyeur and diarist, who identifies strongly with the heroine of her favourite novel, Rebecca, and vicariously follows the melodrama of Paro’s life. Priya herself is in love with her boss, the irresistible BR, sewing-machine magnate and ‘the Housewife’s Friend’. Paro, inevitably, marries him, to Priya’s fury. But BR is merely one among a whole string of admirers; Paro has seduced many. Eventually, as in all moral tales, Paro succumbs to life and circumstances, but not before the reader has been wildly entertained by social comedy without parallel in Indian writing.
The Habit Of Love||Namita Gokhale
The Habit of Love is a collection of stories about the inner lives of women. Some of these women inhabit the ancient past, some the present day but they share the whimsical humour with which they speak of themselves. Delicately poised between irony and grief, The Habit of Love is both elegant and acute, arch and melancholic. In these moving stories she displays both sympathy and understanding as she unveils the workings of a woman’s heart.
The Book Of Shiva||Namita Gokhale
Shiva: Destroyer and Protector, Supreme Ascetic and Lord of the Universe. He is Ardhanarishwara, half-man and half-woman; he is Neelakantha, who drank poison to save the three PBI – Worlds—and yet, when crazed with grief at the death of Sati, set about destroying them. Shiva holds within him the answers to some of the greatest dilemmas that have perplexed mankind. Who is Shiva? Why does he roam the PBI – World as a naked ascetic covered with ash? What was the tandava? What is the story behind the worship of the linga and what vision of the PBI – World does it signify? Namita Gokhale examines these questions and many others that lie within the myriad of stories about Shiva. Even as she unravels his complexities, she finds a philosophy and PBI – Worldview that is terrifying and yet life affirming—an outlook that is, to many, the essence of PBI – Indian thought.
Finding Radha: The Quest For Love||Namita Gokhale, Malashri Lal
Who was Radha, and why has she captured the imagination of so many writers across centuries? No other goddess combines the elements of bhakti and shringara quite as exquisitely as the divine milkmaid. She spans a vivid rainbow of imagery-from the playfulness of the Ras Lila to the soulfulness of her undying love, from the mystic allure of her depictions in poetry, art and sculpture to her enduring legacy in Vrindavan. In a way that sets her apart from other female consorts, Radha is idealized and dreamed of in a way that is almost more elemental than mythical. Namita Gokhale and Malashri Lal, who brought us In Search of Sita: Revisiting Mythology, now present an anthology on the mysterious Radha, the epitome of love, who defies all conventional codes yet transcends social prohibitions through the power of the spiritual and the sensual, the sacred and the erotic. Finding Radha is the first of its kind: a collection of poetry, prose and translation that enter the historical as well as the artistic dimensions of the eternal romance of Radha and Krishna.
Double Bill: Priya And Paro||Namita Gokhale
Magnificent gin-drinker Paro, heroic temptress, glides like an exotic bird of prey through the world of the rich in Bombay and Delhi. She lives life recklessly, caring about nothing and nobody. Not even Priya, eternal voyeur and diarist, who views this femme fatale with wonder, trepidation and jealousy until she comes into her own. Two unforgettable women bring a glittering, toxic world of power, money and greed to life, with the scandalous cult classic Paro: Dreams of Passion. Priya: Take Two continues this ride through a world best viewed through a glass of Scotch, as Priya battles social vertigo and learns lessons in survival on her spirited journey to the top.
Published in 1984 and 2011 respectively, Paro and Priya remain incisive and witty commentaries on the movers and shakers of the business and power capitals, invoking all the contradictions of urban India. Namita Gokhale’s pioneering debut and its sequel span a generation and an era, moving from the eighties to the post-millennial Indian society. Wicked, hilarious and utterly amusing, with echoes of Dorothy Parker ringing through their vigorous prose, for the first time the two novels come together in one classic volume, taking the liberated, brazen and all-too human Paro and her natural counterpart, the more timorous Priya, to new readers and old.
Things to Leave Behind||Namita Gokhale
Kumaon, 1856. History has already begun its steady march. Six native women clad in black and scarlet pichauras huddle around Naineetal Lake, attempting to cleanse it of ominous influences. These are the days of Upper Mall Road (for Europeans and their horses) and Lower Mall Road (‘for dogs, servants and other Indians’). Amidst a theatre of British impunity, feisty young Tilottama Dutt, whose uncle is hung when he protests the reigning order, and her daughter, Deoki, confront change as Indians and as women.
Winner of the Sahitya Akademi Award for 2021, Things to Leave Behind brings alive the romance of the mixed legacy of the British-Indian past. Full of the fascinating backstory of Naineetal and its unwilling entry into Indian history, throwing a shining light on the elemental confusion of caste, creed and culture, illuminated with painstaking detail, here is a fascinating historical epic and Namita Gokhale’s most ambitious novel yet.
Ghatotkach Ke Mayajal Mein||Namita Gokhale
Young Chintamani Dev Gupta, on holiday in a bird camp near Lake Sattal, is transported via a wormhole to the days of the Mahabharata. Trapped in time, he meets Ghatotkacha and his mother, the demoness Hidimba. But the gentle giant, a master of illusion and mind-boggling rakshasa technology, wields his strength just as well as he knows the age-old secrets of the forest and the elemental forces. And in his enlightening company, Chintamani finds himself in the thick of the events of the most enduring Indian epic.
An intense yet tender look at a rare friendship as well as the abiding puzzles of the past, this is a fascinating read.
Jaipur Journals||Namita Gokhale
From a septuagenarian who has completed her semi-fictional novel but does not want to publish it, to an author who receives a threat in the form of an anonymous letter, from a historian who reunites with a past lover, to a burglar who is passionate about poetry, from a young woman who has no idea what this world has in store for her, to an American woman looking for the India of her hippie youth, this metafictional, wryly funny, pacey novel is an ode to literature. Told from multiple perspectives, set against the backdrop of the vibrant multilingual Jaipur Literature Festival, diverse stories of lost love and regret, self-doubt, and new beginnings come together in a narrative that is as varied as India itself.
Partly a love letter to the greatest literary show on earth, partly a satire about the glittery set that throngs this literary venue year on year, and partly an ode to the millions of aspiring writers who wander the earth with unsubmitted manuscripts in their bags, Jaipur Journals is a light-footed romp that showcases in full form Gokhale’s unsparing eye for the pretensions and the pathos of that loneliest tribe of them all: the writers.
The Blind Matriarch||Namita Gokhale
The blind matriarch, Matangi-Ma, lives on the topmost floor of an old house with many stories. From her eyrie, she hovers unseeingly over the lives of her family. Her long-time companion Lali is her emissary to the world. Her three children are by turn overprotective and dismissive of her. Her grandchildren are coming to terms with old secrets and growing pains. Life goes on this way until one day the world comes to a standstill-and they all begin to look inward.
This assured novel records the different registers in the complex inner life of an extended family. Like the nation itself, the strict hierarchy of the joint-family home can be dysfunctional, and yet it is this home that often provides unexpected relief and succour to the vulnerable within its walls.
As certainties dissolve, endings lead to new beginnings. Structured with the warp of memory and the weft of conjoined lives, the narrative follows middle India, even as it records the struggles for individual growth, with successive generations trying to break out of the stranglehold of the all-encompassing Indian family.
Ebbing and flowing like the waves of a pandemic, the novel is a clear-eyed chronicle of the tragedies of India’s encounter with the Coronavirus, the cynicism and despair that accompanied it, and the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
