Some books are written to tell stories and some are written to heighten tales. Abhijit Basu’s Marvels & Mysteries of the Mahabharata is of the latter category. The sub title ‘Probing the Folds of India’s Epochal Tragedy’ sums the intent of the book clearly.

I personally am quite a fan and truster of Mahabharata. When Basu credited the epic and gave explanations I smiled. When he questioned and raised doubts I gave it a thought as well. This is the same effect it will have on you. A believer or a non-believer it is food for thought for both.
A friendly warning, this book is meant for readers who are familiar with the epic of Mahabharata. Debutants to the epic can read it but might not be able to extract the maximum from this. It is definitely not a light read as it is full of perspectives, fact and incidents. What really is of help is the Glossary, Names & Places and Supplementary Notes chapters.
Rating: 4/5
Thanks for the nice and crisp review. In particular, I am glad you the way have summed up the spirit of the book: by referring to its intent to 'heighten' the tale; and to provide food for thought both to the believer and the non-believer. The reviewer and the author seem to be on the same wavelength there.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the kind words! Feels great to see that the author appreciates it :) I did really enjoy the book. Look forward to reading more of your work.
DeleteExcellent review. Makes me want to pick the book up, although I'm not such a big fan of Indian mythology. Well done, Daakshi.
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