Indian Mythological-Fictions That All Book Fanatics Need To Be Reading Right Now
Indian mythology, with its rich tapestry of gods, goddesses, and epic tales, has always been a source of fascination and inspiration. In recent years, several authors have taken the age-old myths and legends and breathed new life into them with modern narratives that offer fresh perspectives and reimagined characters.
These books not only entertain but also provide insightful reflections on timeless themes. In this article, we'll delve into some must-read Indian mythological-fantasy books that have captured readers' hearts and minds, from Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's "The Palace Of Illusions" to Kavita Kane 's "Karna’s Wife." These tales of gods, goddesses, and mortals will transport you to a world where mythology meets modern storytelling.
The Palace Of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Published way over a decade ago, The Palace Of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni is a modern twist on the Mahabharata that offers a fresh perspective by narrating the epic from Draupadi's point of view. Known as Panchali, she shares her unique journey from child to womanhood in a gripping historical fiction that blurs the lines between myth and history. With an enchanting romantic subplot, this book is a must-read for lovers of the epic, offering a magical and introspective experience.
The Shiva Trilogy by Amish Tripathi
Amish Tripathi's Shiva Trilogy tops the list of must-read Indian mythological-fantasy books. Set against the backdrop of the Indus Valley civilisation and Mehrgarh's architectural wonders, it weaves intricate details into its narrative. What sets it apart is its blend of mythical concepts explained through scientific reasoning, making it a captivating read. The humanised portrayal of Lord Shiva is a constant delight, and its balanced exploration of the age-old good vs. evil theme adds an appealing depth to the series. Book fanatics, this one's a gem!
Ahalya by Koral Dasgupta
Don't miss "Ahalya" by Koral Dasgupta, a captivating start to the Sati series. This thought-provoking series delves into the lives of five remarkable women, revered for their purity despite having partners other than their husbands. Ahalya, wed to the sage Gautam Maharishi , faces his rejection after a physical relationship with Indra. In a patriarchal society, Ahalya finds her voice in this concise yet powerful read, offering a fresh perspective on mythological narratives. A must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking exploration of women's roles in ancient tales.
Sita: An Illustrated Retelling of the Ramayana by Devdutt Pattnaik
Focused on the resilient female protagonist, Sita, it offers a fresh take on the Ramayana. Sita emerges as a strong-willed, courageous character, shaping her own destiny. This book masterfully weaves together various Ramayana retellings, crafting a beautiful tapestry of relationships and conversations. Plus, it's a visual delight with gorgeous artwork in every section.
Karna’s Wife by Kavita Kane
Karna’s Wife by Kavita Kane is an intriguing take on the Mahabharata that unfolds through the eyes of Uruvi, a brave princess who defies convention to marry Karna, the Sutaputra . The novel explores the depths of Uruvi's devotion against societal pressures in a narrative that shines a spotlight on a character often overshadowed in the epic's backdrop of the Pandavas and Kauravas strife, making this book a must-read for all Karna fans.
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