Book Review: Hiranyakashyap by Kevin Missal | The Narasimha Trilogy Book 2

Book Review

Hiranyakashyap by Kevin Missal

Hiranyakashyap by Kevin Missal

Author: Kevin Missal

ISBN: 978-9353578190

Genre: Myths, Legends and Sagas (Religious Fiction)

Length:  260 Pages

Publisher: HarperCollins India (15^th July 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2DeWCPr

About the author:

Kevin Missal wrote his first book at the age of 14, and at 22, the St Stephens graduate is a bestselling author and a fulltime writer, with the first two books in his Kalki series being runaway successes. Dharmayoddha Kalki: Avatar of Vishnu and its sequel Satyayoddha Kalki: Eye of Brahma have sold one lakh copies in under a year.

Kevin Missal

Kevin loves fantasy fiction and has always been a fan of mythology. His books have been featured in publications like The Sunday Guardian, The New Indian Express, and Millennium Post.

Follow him on Instagram: @kevin_9695

Check out his Facebook Page: Kevin Missal

Twitter Handle: @kevin_missal

Read my review of Narasimha by Kevin Missal (Book #1 of this trilogy) here.

REVIEW

Summary

Hiranyakashyap by Kevin Missal is the second book in The Narasimha Trilogy (previously called, The Mahaavatar Trilogy) – the reimagining of the legend Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Lord Vishnu; depicts the constant conflicts between the father-son duo where Hiranyakashyap – now an invincible Asura king, is all set to win over anything and everything by the means of violence, war, aggression, and destruction using his military forces and the Brahmastra, while Prahlad with his completely opposite ideology has decided to rid his land of scum and evil using the least violence possible; the book addresses several issues that are very relatable in the modern times such as abusive relationships, resistance, bully parents, types of terrorism, etc and also states the importance of having faith in God; while developing and enhancing the well-established characters, the author introduces new characters also; with these legendary figures and a riveting plot, this adventurous book sets out to create an everlasting impression on readers that of unforgettable outlooks.

Narration

Hiranyakashyap is written in third-person narrative, where the chapters are narrated through different POV characters. POV characters for this book include Hiranyakashyap, Prahlad, Narasimha, Holika, and Chenchen (Narasimha’s romantic partner). The writing style absolutely suits the thrilling and mysterious narration with a cliffhanger at the end of each chapter. The language is easy to comprehend, so it can be enjoyed by children also. Kevin Missal has brilliantly illustrated the action scenes, which is one of the best characteristics of this text.

Location and Setting

The story takes place in Satya Yuga, a century after the Samudra Manthana (The Churning of the Ocean) in the world of Illavarti. Illavarti (originally ruled by Devas) is the fictionalized version of the Vedic Age, where Swarg and Pataal are two different islands. Meanwhile, Asura from Pataal migrate to Illavarti and the truce is formed between Devas and Asura. Devlok and Kashyapuri, two major cities of Illavarti are ruled by Indra and Hiranyakashyap respectively. Indra worsens the tension between Devas and Asura by breaking the truce, not once but twice. While the first book revolves around Kashyapuri, Yakshlok, and Sonitpur, this second installment focuses on Naglok, Kashyapuri, and wilderness on the outskirts of Kashyapuri. Again, the magnificent places portrayed by the author make you feel the grandeur of its architecture, be it palaces or sewers.

Theme

Hiranyakashyap is shorter than Narasimha (the books, not characters), but has a lot going on around simultaneously, which really contributes to the ever-progressive plotline. The book involves several themes that make the book what it is – a thriller, relatable saga. Kevin Missal has given a sci-fi touch to it by including various scientific elements such as the extraction of tetrodotoxin from pufferfish, the aircraft, hydrokinesis, and a lot more. On the other hand, there are mystical elements also that demonstrate the magic in ancient India. The Brahmastra makes Hiranyakashyap a superhero-like figure. Just like Narasimha, where Kevin Missal talked about consent, bully parents, and religion, he draws special attention to abusive relationships, terrorism, and the power of art in Hiranyakashyap. There is this outstanding conversation between Prahlad and Hiranyakashyap, which is of course a little dramatic but highlights some of the rhetorical devices very effectively and I shall cherish it forever.

Characters

The author has introduced many new characters besides Hiranya, Holika, Anuhrad, Andhaka, Narasimha, Chenchen, Narada, Prahlad, and Dhriti. The new character cast consists of Parvati – Lord Bhairav’s wife (who plays a major role in the current book), Asamanja – new leader of Vishnusena, Garuda – Narasimha’s long-lost companion (belongs to the Suparn tribe), Matrikas – an all-female mercenary group, and Lord Varuna. There are some majestic characters like a trickster and the goddess of death who may have little roles to play but are critical for the story. Talking about the character arcs, the well-established characters from the first book continue to grow in the second book. Andhaka, being the most mysterious and complex character never fails to surprise you every single time. My favorite character – Holika has the most dynamic character arc. Relationships (romantic and otherwise) between different characters are carried out with utmost care because they define the very objectives of each character involved in this novel.

Plot

The plot is really progressive in the sense, that you will discover something new and mesmerizing in every chapter. There is not a single excerpt from the book, which would make you feel bored. The author has provided all the details that a reader really cares for. Revealing anything from the storyline would mean spoilers. So, if you want me to do a separate spoiler review, then let me know in the comment section below.

"One cannot justify hitting your partner as a form of love. It's not an expression of anything but violence."

My Views

Firstly, the things I loved about the book. I loved how advanced the world of Illavarti has been portrayed. I loved how the book brings to your attention some of the prevailing issues. I find it just and only appropriate of him incorporating these subjects, highly relevant to modern times. Apart from these obvious elements, one thing that stood apart was the revolutionary art.

Having said that, let us move towards the things I disliked. This artistic movement is as clear as mud for the effect it had on people. The book doesn’t give you time nor the details to savor it or even apprehend this movement. Secondly, the book felt really short for the type of content it holds. (Or maybe because of its fast-paced nature, who knows!)

Happy Reading!

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Will see you in the next post. Till then buh-bye. Take Care. Peace. ☮

Book Review: Once There Was Me by Bobby Sachdeva | Changing Perceptions

Book Review

Once There Was Me: The Extraordinary Life of an Unknown Indian by Bobby Sachdeva

Once There Was Me by Bobby Sachdeva

Author: Bobby Sachdeva

ISBN: 978-9389109559

Genre: Semi-autobiography (Fiction)

Length: 420 Pages

Publisher: PanMacmillan India (30^th June 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/3kP7k0d

About the author: 

Bobby Sachdeva is a storyteller and a businessman based in Amritsar. While his profession and his circle of interaction marks him out as an outsider in literary circles, his radical views on religion, society and tradition make him stand out as an unconventional writer from among the non-literary common people. Several of his short stories are under consideration by media houses. He is currently producing short films based on these short stories in Punjabi and Hindi. Apart from 'Once There Was Me', he has a short story collection titled 'Stories of Us' to his name.

Bobby Sachdeva

Instagram: @ibobbysachdeva

Twitter: @iBobbySachdeva

Facebook: iBobbySachdeva

Check out my review of 'Stories of Us', a short story collection by the same author, here.

REVIEW

Summary

Once There Was Me by Bobby Sachdeva is a semi-autobiography sharing the candid-est account of the true events, long and short battles against disgraceful circumstances and some victorious and joyful moments that are entrenched in the author’s heart; narrated with a touch of fiction, it directs your attention to the more serious problems of the Indian society and exterminates the silly notions we are holding on to for so long unnecessarily; exposing the ruthless & corrupt institutions, leaders and con men, it brings us closer to the idea of rationalism; this truly extraordinary journey of a commoner will entertain you and more importantly, will help you as a mirror to this world.

***

Once There Was Me is obviously narrated in first-person POV by Bobby AKA Gurvinder Singh Sachdeva. The language is very simple and consistent throughout the book. The writing style is densely informative, evocative and funny at the moments. The events in the author’s life are portrayed chronologically, divided into plenty of chapters with appropriate titles.

***

The story starts with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots following the assassination of Mrs. Indira Gandhi. It gives you a closer look at the lives of Sikh people in Delhi at that time. What all it took for innocent people to survive. The mass murders, burning of the properties owned by Sikh people, sexual assault, lootings and acid attacks. This all brings back memories associated with one of the darkest times that India has witnessed, the partition 1947. Jasbir Singh, Bobby’s father recounts the horrors of the partition.

The author narrates his life before 31^st October, 1984; his school life in Delhi and Amritsar and the kind of treatment he received there; categorically for being a Sikh, financial crisis and the gentle Harbir (one of my most favorite chapters), his friend. After the riots, restoration of self-esteem becomes a prime necessity. Hence, Bobby gets influenced by the Sikh hardliners and believes that the extremist Sikh movement will bring back the dignity and identity of his community.

The mental conflicts begin when in his teenage years, Bobby notices that the caste system is prevalent in every community including his own but he also knows that Sikh gurus always preached oneness and love for all. The author send across this profound message that the true meaning of any religion can only be attained by learning its history and origins.

The perceptions change and the hatred offered by the preachers and the separatists find no space in the author’s heart anymore. On the other hand, militancy is at its peak in Punjab and has made it very difficult for businesses. And to top everyone’s miseries, politicians decide NOT to end this violence. Divisive politics is nothing new to India; it has been in practice since British Raj and quite recently we have seen the repercussions that how commoners, especially the poor ones fall prey to this filthy politics and the fight between two ideologies (mostly the religious polarization).

Bribery

We may cry at the top of our voices that corruption needs to end but somewhere deep down we all know the reality. Currently, we often see the media exposing government officials, police and so on, but is that all? Sometimes, people (especially the ones who can afford it) feel the need to get things done via such means because they don’t find it feasible to abide by the rules. As the author encourages you to ask questions, why is it like that? What about the people belonging to the lower socioeconomic classes? Apart from bribery, what about the big scandals of rich people? We know enough causes and consequences of the corruption to start contributing towards the lower Corruption Perception Index (CPI).

The American Episode

Here, Bobby has narrated his journey to the US quite elaborately. America might seem to be more acceptable, but even there discrimination existed on the basis of race. Although, on the other hand, people are treated more equally at the workplace irrespective of their role. The author frequently compares and highlights the major differences between the US and India and their citizens based on his experiences, which help us determine what are our collective strengths and weaknesses as being Indians.

Unethical Medical Practices

This one is a very important subject that the author has addressed. As there are always some defaulters in every profession, medicine is not an exception. There are a lot such doctors who run their hospitals just for money and patients’ health is their last concern. They hide the real situation and keep hoarding money until you run out of cash. This is scary enough that you won’t want to trust doctors so easily. As we are in the middle of this pandemic, several cases have surfaced where the reports were manipulated so that they can loot and mentally torture the families to death, just because they’ve got enough money to pay the bills? Just imagine what all could be going on right now as you read this, how many lives would be lost by now unnecessarily?

Obviously, all doctors are not the same. It’s just a few greedy people who are generally evil-minded. I totally respect all the Covid-19 frontliners who at the risk of their lives, are working hard and fighting against all odds. And I would request you all that don’t add to their difficulties. Stay Safe.

Fraudulent Godmen

Last but not least. I completely agree with the author when he says ‘Where there’s money, there’s a Guru.’ We all are aware of these types of fake babas who have accumulated a large sum of money over the span of a few years, who have neither done well to their followers nor the underprivileged. The author proposes that this excess money should be used for the country’s development. However, there’s another concern that the leaders to whom they help create vote banks; how to trust them with this money?

***

Bobby Sachdeva has successfully sent across the message. All the above-mentioned issues badly impacted the author’s life, but he never gave up. The book comprises a lot of intimidating details (including financial details), which makes you think why are we not getting taught this in academics. The book has the potential to initiate discussions on numerous social issues. I would recommend this book to every Indian, for it will change your perceptions. This book really brings about a good change and encourages you to ask questions, which is the most important take away from the book. Besides, it’s too adventurous to miss out on.

PS: All 'the author' and 'his life' pointers in the above article represent the fictional character and events.

Happy Reading!

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Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Don't forget to subscribe. Don't forget to subscribe for more content. Thank you so much for reading!

Will see you in the next post. Till then buh-bye. Take Care. Peace. ☮

Book Review: Pokhran by Uday Singh | Indian Crime-Thriller

Book Review

Pokhran by Uday Singh

Pokhran by Uday Singh

Author: Uday Singh

ISBN: 978-9387022874

Genre: Crime, Thriller & Mystery

Length: 213 Pages

Publisher: SrishtiPublishers and Distributors (15^th July 2020)

My Ratings: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Order your copy right now: https://amzn.to/2CbYQ1E

About the author: 

Uday is a philosopher, economist, and engineer with a firm belief in the progressive march of humanity towards a better and brighter future. He has traveled and lived across countries and continents, which has given him a unique outside-in perspective on India. With a Masters of Business Administration from Columbia University, when he is not writing, he works at an investment bank in New York City and likes to spend time with his family in Princeton, New Jersey.

Uday Singh

Instagram: @uday_singh_0000

Twitter: @udaysingh007

Author's interview at GovernanceNow: ‘Always write (or live life) with all passion and heart in it’

REVIEW

Summary

Pokhran by Uday Singh is a thriller fictional novel based on the true events that took place in India following the ‘Smiling Buddha’ operation – a successful nuclear bomb test, in 1974; the book shows how it impacted the lives in Pokhran; moreover, the story follows the protagonist whose life is closely connected with ‘Smiling Buddha’ operation; with a wonderful cast of supporting characters and an excellent fast-pacing and enthralling plot, the book touches numerous thought-provoking subjects highly relevant to the current circumstances; packed with shocks and surprises at every page, surely makes it an enjoyable read.

Narration

Pokhran is narrated in first person POV most of the times by Chaitanya, the protagonist. The writing style is natural and easily comprehensible, perfect for the kind of novel it assembles. The language is simple and can be read by anyone including children. The structure of the novel complements the mystery element of the book that makes you eager to read more every time the chapter ends.

Setting and Characters

Pokhran by Uday Singh, as it suggests, begins with the ‘Smiling Buddha’ operation at the Pokhran Test Range, Rajasthan, and a prologue with a glimpse of the situation in 2019. Firstly, the book focusses on the childhood and school-life of Chaitanya in Pokhran and his trips to Payradanga, Calcutta, and Kakekapura, a village his best friend belonged to. The portrayal is so vivid that it makes us reminisce about those invaluable moments of our golden age. Chaitanya’s character arc remains tremendous throughout the book with the same amount of ups and downs. Apart from these locations, the book travels you through MIT, Boston, and Syria.

The supporting characters include Paramvir, his father who brought up Chaitu to be strongest. Radhika, Chaitanya’s sister who stands by her brother throughout her life and supports him at every stage. Ramesh Sir, Chaitanya’s favorite teacher and his mentor who sees the great potential in his student. Divyani, her childhood friend and crush from Payradanga. Zara, his wife, and a persecuted Yazidi from Syria having a fearless and lively personality. There are even more pivotal characters from diverse backgrounds.

Theme

The theme of the book can be collectively described as crime, thriller, and mystery. The book addresses many subjects varying from religion to human trafficking. It sheds light on the communal riots in parts of West Bengal after the Bangladesh Partition. It also discusses land redistribution and greedy politicians. The subjects that are highly relevant at this time in 2020 such as discrimination, equality, refugees, immigration, and encounters to conceal their felonies. The author shares the objective behind writing this novel, an idea of the formation of the government and society that eradicates the generational build-up of the wealth gap, which I strongly disagree with. But the intent is indeed very good that of level playing field.

Plot

The plot is about the ups and downs in Chaitanya’s life. There are several heart-breaking moments in his life. There are delightful moments too, marking his success and celebrating emotional bonds with other characters. The book is filled with meaningful dialogues providing different perspectives.

My Opinion

The book is engrossing that I never felt bored reading the book. It is a fast-paced book that lures you to complete the book in one sitting. There are a lot of elements involved that somewhat don’t keep up with what readers might be expecting which makes it highly unpredictable. The plot and the concept, as I said earlier is excellent. However, the purpose of writing the book, introduction to ‘Paracratic society’ which I think is very unrealistic and dangerous for humankind. Instead, I would like to take away this great thought from the book – “It is in the service of others that you will find true joy and happiness”.

I also think that my difference of opinion should not be considered a part of this evaluation. The author has done a commendable job in jotting down this remarkable story of Pokhran and her son. If Pokhran doesn’t get recognized by the readers all over the country, then I'll consider it an underrated work of Indian literature. I’m truly looking forward to reading more from the author.

Happy Reading!

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Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Don't forget to subscribe. Don't forget to subscribe for more content. Thank you so much for reading!

Will see you in the next post. Till then buh-bye. Take Care. Peace. ☮