नालन्दा पुस्तकसमीक्षा

 

AUTHOR : ABHAY. K

GENRE : NON FICTION

PUBLISHER : Penguin Random House

BOOK BUY LINK :  @Amazon

नालन्दा पुस्तकसमीक्षा

नालन्दा नामानं पुस्तकमिदं तत्रभवता अभयनाम्ना महोदयेन विलिखितं विभाति। साहित्यशास्त्रदृष्ट्या बौद्धधर्मविचाराः सुचारुरूपेण चर्चिताः सन्ति। कविः करोति काव्यानि लालयत्युत्तमो जनः। तरुः प्रसूते कुसुमानि वायुर्वहति सौरभम्। इति श्लोकोक्तिं स्मारयतीदं पुस्तकरत्नम्। पठित ॄणामवगमनात्मकं विषयविवेचनं वाग्विभवैः सरलाङ्गिलभाषया रचयित्रा सुव्याख्यातं विराजते। अस्मिन् पुस्तके विवेचितांशाः यथामति समीक्षारूपेण मया संप्रति दीयते । 

प्राचीनं नालन्दामहाविहारम् तथा बौद्धधर्मस्य चत्वारि आर्यसत्यानि

१. नालन्दा — प्राचीनः ज्ञानकेन्द्रः

नालन्दा भारतस्य बिहारराज्ये स्थितः प्राचीनः विश्वविद्यालयः तथा प्रसिद्धः बौद्धमहाविहारः आसीत्। सा बिहारशरीफनगरस्य दक्षिणपश्चिमदिशि स्थिता आसीत्। नालन्दायाः इतिहासः भगवान् बुद्धस्य महावीरस्य च कालपरम्परया सम्बद्धः अस्ति।

ईस्वीयपञ्चमशतके गुप्तवंशस्य शासनकाले नालन्दायाः विकासः आरब्धः। राजा कुमारगुप्तः प्रथमः तस्याः विकासे महत्त्वपूर्णां भूमिकाम् अवहत्। अनन्तरं राजा हर्षवर्धनः पालवंशीयाः राजानश्च तस्याः विकासाय साहाय्यम् अकुर्वन्। नालन्दा ईस्वीयपञ्चमशतकात् द्वादशशतकपर्यन्तं प्रसिद्धं शिक्षाकेन्द्रम् आसीत्। तत्र भारतस्य अन्येभ्यः प्रदेशेभ्यः तथा चीनदेशात्, तिब्बतदेशात् च विद्यार्थिनः अध्ययनार्थम् आगच्छन्।

२. नालन्दायाः वास्तुकला कलाश्च

नालन्दायां इष्टिकाभिः निर्मिताः विशालाः विहाराः, देवालयाः, स्तूपाः च आसन्। प्रत्येकस्य विहारस्य मध्ये प्राङ्गणम् आसीत्। तस्य चतुर्षु पार्श्वेषु भिक्षूणां निवासाय कक्षाः आसन्। अत्र निवासस्य अध्ययनस्य च व्यवस्था एकस्मिन् स्थाने आसीत्।

शारिपुत्रस्तूपः नालन्दायाः प्रसिद्धेषु स्मारकेषु अन्यतमः अस्ति। उत्खनने बुद्धस्य, बोधिसत्त्वानां, विष्णोः, शिवस्य, गणेशस्य च प्रतिमाः प्राप्ताः। शिलायां, कांस्ये, मृत्तिकायां च सुन्दराः कलाकृतयः निर्मिताः आसन्। एताभिः कलाकृतिभिः तत्कालीनभारतीयकलायाः उत्कृष्टता ज्ञायते।

३. नालन्दायाः शिक्षा प्रसिद्धाः विद्वांसश्च

नालन्दा केवलं बौद्धधर्मस्य केन्द्रं न आसीत्। तत्र बौद्धदर्शनम्, संस्कृतव्याकरणम्, तर्कशास्त्रम्, चिकित्साशास्त्रम्, गणितम्, ज्योतिषम्, साहित्यं च अपि अध्यापितम् आसीत्। वादविवादेन प्रश्नोत्तरैश्च विद्यार्थिनः ज्ञानं वर्धयन्ति स्म।

धर्मपालः, शीलभद्रः, धर्मकीर्तिः, शान्तरक्षितः, हरिभद्रः च प्रसिद्धाः विद्वांसः आसन्। शीलभद्रः नालन्दायाः प्रमुखः आचार्यः आसीत्। चीनीययात्रिकः ह्वेनसाङ् तस्य समीपे अध्ययनम् अकरोत्। सः भारतात् बहून् बौद्धग्रन्थान् चीनदेशं नीत्वा चीनीभाषायाम् अनूदितवान्। इत्सिङ् नाम अन्यः चीनीययात्रिकः अपि नालन्दायां निवसन् तत्रत्यां शिक्षापद्धतिं भिक्षूणाम् आचारान् च अलिखत्।

नालन्दायां विशालः पुस्तकालयः आसीत् इति तिब्बतीया परम्परा वदति। तस्य नाम धर्मगञ्जः इति कथ्यते। अत्र अनेकाः ग्रन्थाः सुरक्षिताः आसन् इति मन्यते।

४. आचार्यः नागार्जुनः तथा सुश्रुतः

नागार्जुनः महायानबौद्धधर्मस्य प्रसिद्धः दार्शनिकः आसीत्। सः सामान्यतया ईस्वीयद्वितीयतृतीयशताब्द्योः मध्ये जीवितवान् इति मन्यते। तस्य प्रसिद्धः ग्रन्थः मूलमध्यमककारिका अस्ति। तत्र शून्यतायाः प्रतीत्यसमुत्पादस्य च सिद्धान्तौ विवेचितौ स्तः। नागार्जुनस्य नालन्दया प्रत्यक्षः सम्बन्धः निश्चितैः ऐतिहासिकप्रमाणैः सिद्धः नास्ति। तथापि तस्य दर्शनं नालन्दायाः अनन्तरकालीनदार्शनिकपरम्परायाः विकासे महत्त्वपूर्णम् अभवत्।

सुश्रुतः प्राचीनभारतीयचिकित्साशास्त्रस्य प्रसिद्धः आचार्यः आसीत्। तस्य नाम्ना प्रसिद्धा सुश्रुतसंहिता शल्यचिकित्सायाः महत्त्वपूर्णः ग्रन्थः अस्ति। तत्र शरीररचना, रोगपरीक्षणम्, शल्यक्रिया, औषधानि च वर्णितानि सन्ति। किन्तु सुश्रुतः नालन्दायां अध्यापनम् अकरोत् इति ऐतिहासिकप्रमाणं नास्ति। तथापि तस्य चिकित्साज्ञानं भारतीयज्ञानपरम्परायाः महत्त्वपूर्णः भागः अस्ति।

ईस्वीयद्वादशशतके आक्रमणानां कारणात् नालन्दा विनाशिता इति मन्यते। अनन्तरं पुरातत्त्वविदः उत्खननैः तस्याः प्राचीनवैभवं पुनः प्रकाशम् आनयन्। २०१६ तमे वर्षे नालन्दायाः पुरातत्त्वस्थलं यूनेस्को-संस्थया विश्वधरोहरस्थलम् इति घोषितम्।

५. बौद्धधर्मस्य चत्वारि आर्यसत्यानि

भगवान् बुद्धः दुःखस्य स्वरूपं, कारणं, निवारणं, निवारणस्य मार्गं च उपदिष्टवान्। एतानि चत्वारि आर्यसत्यानि बौद्धधर्मस्य आधारः सन्ति।

प्रथमम् आर्यसत्यम् — दुःखम्। जन्म, जरा, रोगः, मृत्युः, प्रियजनैः वियोगः, अप्रियजनैः सम्पर्कः च दुःखस्य कारणानि सन्ति।

द्वितीयम् आर्यसत्यम् — दुःखसमुदयः। तृष्णा, आसक्तिः, द्वेषः, अविद्या च दुःखस्य प्रमुखाणि कारणानि सन्ति। इच्छितवस्तूनां प्राप्तौ अत्यधिकासक्तिः दुःखं जनयति।

तृतीयम् आर्यसत्यम् — दुःखनिरोधः। तृष्णायाः आसक्तेश्च क्षये दुःखस्य अन्तः सम्भवति। दुःखात् पूर्णमुक्तेः अवस्था निर्वाणम् इति कथ्यते।

चतुर्थम् आर्यसत्यम् — दुःखनिरोधगामिनी प्रतिपत्। दुःखस्य निवारणाय भगवान् बुद्धः आर्याष्टाङ्गिकमार्गम् उपदिष्टवान्। सम्यग्दृष्टिः, सम्यक्सङ्कल्पः, सम्यग्वाक्, सम्यक्कर्मान्तः, सम्यगाजीवः, सम्यग्व्यायामः, सम्यक्स्मृतिः, सम्यक्समाधिः च अस्य मार्गस्य अष्टौ अङ्गानि सन्ति।

उपसंहारः

नालन्दा भारतीयज्ञानपरम्परायाः गौरवपूर्णं प्रतीकम् अस्ति। तत्र दर्शनस्य, विज्ञानस्य, चिकित्सायाः, कलायाः, साहित्यस्य च विकासः अभवत्। बौद्धधर्मस्य चत्वारि आर्यसत्यानि मनुष्याय दुःखस्य कारणानि ज्ञातुं शान्तिं प्राप्तुं च मार्गं दर्शयन्ति। अतः नालन्दायाः इतिहासः तथा बुद्धस्य उपदेशाः अद्यापि मानवजीवने महत्त्वपूर्णाः सन्ति।

THE MUSIC MAKERS BY ROHINI PARANJPE SATHE

  

 

 

AUTHOR : Rohini Paranjpe sathe

GENRE : LITERARY &CONTEMPORARY FICTION

PUBLISHER; Om Books International

BOOK BUY LINK :  @Amazon

The title The Music Makers is meaningful and symbolic. It does not simply refer to musicians who create melodies, but to individuals who dedicate their lives to preserving and nurturing the rich tradition of Hindustani classical music. The title reflects the emotional, spiritual, and cultural journey of those who live for music and shape its legacy for future generations.

The novel is written by Rohini Paranjpe Sathe, a sensitive and insightful storyteller. Through her deep understanding of music and human emotions, she presents a narrative that is both realistic and moving. Her writing style is simple yet expressive, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters and their experiences.

The Music Makers is an inspiring and emotionally powerful novel that beautifully blends music, relationships, tradition, and personal struggle. The story is rooted in real-life emotions and experiences, making it touching and thought-provoking. Through its engaging narrative, the book encourages readers to reflect on their own lives, values, and relationships.

The novel revolves around the life of Padma Bhushan awardee Pandit Sadashiv Buwa Shrotri, a highly respected Hindustani classical vocalist. As he grows older, he becomes increasingly concerned about the future of Hindustani classical music. In a rapidly modernizing world, he fears that younger generations and rasikas (music lovers) are giving less importance to this rich musical tradition. His internal struggle reflects a larger concern about preserving cultural heritage.

Sumati Tai, his devoted wife and disciple, plays a vital role in his life. She is not only his life partner but also a strong supporter of his musical mission. Her character represents dedication, loyalty, and quiet strength. Through her, the author portrays the deep bond between guru and shishya, as well as the emotional depth of marital companionship.

The story also introduces other significant characters such as Vibharani and Ashok. Vibharani’s marriage to Sushant, a pharmaceutical industrialist, brings out the darker realities of domestic life. Sushant is portrayed as harsh and insensitive, particularly in suppressing his son Karthik’s interest in music. Karthik’s passion for learning music despite his father’s opposition highlights the conflict between artistic calling and materialistic ambition.

A major turning point in the story is Karthik’s sudden disappearance. This incident creates tension and emotional turmoil within the family. Through this episode, the author explores themes of misunderstanding, emotional suppression, and the consequences of denying one’s true passion.

Music is not merely a background element in the novel—it is the very soul of the narrative. The reference to Raga Bhairav, a peaceful and meditative morning raga, symbolically reflects the spiritual and inward-looking tone of the story. Music becomes a source of identity, devotion, healing, and continuity.

In conclusion, The Music Makers is a heartfelt tribute to Hindustani classical music and the people who devote their lives to sustaining it. It is a meaningful and enriching read that emphasizes the importance of preserving tradition, nurturing relationships, and respecting individual aspirations. The novel leaves readers with a deep appreciation for music as a timeless force that connects generations and transforms lives.

(This blogpost is a part of BLogchatter's book review program. Details here : https://www.theblogchatter.com/book-review-program-from-blogchatter)

A FEAST FOR GANESHA – Book Review

 

 

AUTHOR : SUPRIYA BANSAL

PUBLISHER : UKIYOTO PUBLISHING

GENRE : CHILDREN & YOUNG ADULT

BOOK BUY LINK : @Amazon

  

A Feast for Ganesha is a heartwarming children’s book written by Supriya Bansal, a medical doctor by profession and an author by passion. The book gently introduces young readers to the ideas of devotion, kindness, faith, and selfless worship. Written in simple, clear, and child-friendly language, the story is easy to understand and deeply meaningful. It beautifully blends festive joy with moral values, making it an engaging and thoughtful read for children.

One of the strengths of the book lies in its simplicity. The author chooses a storyline that is close to everyday life, making it easy for children to connect with the main character. The emotions, struggles, and hopes of a young child are portrayed with sensitivity and warmth. Through the eyes of a little girl, the author presents the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi, not just as a festival, but as an occasion to practice faith, generosity, and compassion.

The illustrations by artist SRAC greatly enhance the appeal of the book. The visuals are colourful, expressive, and lively, perfectly complementing the narrative. Each illustration captures the mood of the scenes—be it the festive excitement, Tara’s hard work, or her emotional disappointment. For young readers, these pictures add joy and help them better understand the story. The title A Feast for Ganesha is simple yet thought-provoking, hinting at a deeper meaning beyond food and celebration.

The story revolves around Tara, a nine-year-old girl who lives with her poor family. Tara is deeply devoted to Lord Ganesha and eagerly looks forward to celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi. However, her family’s financial condition does not allow them to spend money on festival preparations. Despite these limitations, Tara’s devotion remains strong. She decides to do whatever she can, within her means, to worship the Lord.

Tara’s mother gives her some pocket money to travel to school by bus. Instead of spending it, Tara chooses to walk every day, saving the money for the festival. In the evenings, she works at a small tea shop and earns a little amount, which she carefully adds to her savings. Tara also spends time in the library, reading stories about Lord Ganesha and learning about the significance of the festival. Her dedication, discipline, and determination reflect maturity beyond her age.

When the festival approaches, Tara finally buys modaks, poha, bananas, and durva grass, the traditional offerings for Lord Ganesha. Filled with happiness and pride, she walks back from the market, enjoying the festive atmosphere around her. She watches people decorating pandals, hears music playing, and sees a dancer performing joyfully. These scenes add colour and excitement to the story and show the collective spirit of celebration.

On her way, Tara gets stuck in a traffic jam managed by Constable Patil. Later, she meets Omi Bhaiya, who asks for her help with lighting and sound arrangements for the Ganesh Chaturthi celebration. After finishing her work, Tara goes to the tea stall where she usually works. When she opens her bag, she is shocked and distressed to find that all her offerings are missing.

Gradually, Tara learns what happened. Omi Bhaiya had eaten the bananas, Constable Patil had eaten the modak, the dancer had enjoyed the poha, and a boy at the tea shop had given the durva grass to his goat. Tara is heartbroken. She feels that all her efforts, sacrifices, and dreams have been ruined. Unable to control her emotions, she breaks down and cries.

After some time, however, Tara begins to reflect. She recalls the Sanskrit saying “Daivam Manushya Roopena”, which means God appears in human form. She realizes that her offerings were not wasted. Instead, Lord Ganesha had accepted them through different people. This understanding brings peace to her heart and transforms her sorrow into spiritual joy.

The message of the story echoes a profound teaching from the Bhagavad Gita, which reminds us that a wise person sees the same divine presence in all beings, without discrimination. A Feast for Ganesha thus teaches children that true devotion lies not in rituals alone, but in love, sharing, and seeing God in everyone.

Overall, this book is a meaningful and inspiring read for children. It encourages empathy, faith, and selfless devotion, making it a valuable addition to children’s literature.

(This book review is a part of Blogchatter's Bookreview Programme): https://www.theblogchatter.com/bookchatter-terms-conditions

 

 

LAXMI PANDA BY SAVIE KARNEL

   

Laxmi Panda: Netaji’s Youngest Spy Finally Gets Her Due

Savie Karnel’s new book revives the forgotten heroine of the INA for today’s readers

The Indian National Army (INA) is a name etched into India’s freedom struggle. Yet, one of its youngest and most remarkable members, Laxmi Panda, remains little known outside Odisha. With her new book, author Savie Karnel brings Panda’s extraordinary life to children and young readers, ensuring her story of courage and sacrifice is not forgotten.

At just sixteen, Laxmi Panda joined the INA’s espionage wing. Using her wits and courage, she carried out intelligence work against the British. But after India won independence, her life slipped into poverty and obscurity. She lived unrecognised as a freedom fighter for much of her life — a fact that makes her story both inspiring and heartbreaking.

“Jai Hind!”

 Laxmi Panda’s spirited greeting at every meeting echoes her lifelong patriotism.

 The book spans 232 pages, tracing Panda’s journey from childhood to her final days. Karnel uses simple language and a storytelling style that makes it particularly accessible to children. In doing so, she brings history to life and makes it relatable.

As Lord Rama told Lakshmana, “Janani Janmabhoomischa Swargadapi Gariyasi” — one’s mother and homeland are greater than heaven itself. For her homeland, Panda made sacrifices beyond imagination. Although she was not recognized in her lifetime, she upheld the timeless principle: do not ask what your country has done for you; ask what you have done for your country.

 

I quote: “There is no bravery in getting caught and going to jail.
A smart soldier never gets caught by the enemy.”
— Laxmi Panda

One of the most striking parts of the book is Panda’s own account of her methods as a young spy. In her words:

“We would catch frogs and enter British camps to sell frog meat to the officers. … She was never caught.”

It is this blend of ingenuity and daring that makes her story so compelling for young readers. What looked like a simple errand was, in reality, a covert mission under the enemy’s nose.

More than a biography, the book is a reminder of how freedom was won — through small, often unacknowledged acts of bravery. It also raises an uncomfortable truth: how easily the nation forgets its heroes once their work is done.

As India steps into its 79th year of independence, stories like Panda’s need to be told more widely. They instill patriotism, gratitude, and a sense of responsibility in the next generation.

Savie Karnel has succeeded not only in documenting the life of an unsung heroine but also in lighting a path for readers. Laxmi Panda: The Story of Netaji’s Youngest Spy is more than a children’s book; it is an act of remembrance — and a call to never let such sacrifices fade into silence.

 

 

THE TIGER'S SHARE

  

The ancient spiritual dictum “Asti me asti sylagre vastu pyathamaham dhanam” underscores the enduring significance of wealth and inheritance across generations. In The Tiger’s Share by Kesava Guha, this theme is reimagined through the prism of patriarchal succession, contested property, and the familial tensions that erupt in the aftermath of a patriarch’s death.

The novel situates itself within the framework of legacy, where identity, status, and dignity are deeply bound to the family name and inherited assets. However, once the head of the family departs, these bonds give way to disputes over wills, unspoken desires, and latent rivalries among heirs. Guha’s narrative captures the irony that while the deceased no longer participates in worldly affairs, their past decisions and preferences continue to exert influence over the living.

The title, The Tiger’s Share, is both evocative and thematically precise. The tiger, emblematic of power, dominance, and possession, reflects the magnitude of the inheritance struggles portrayed in the novel. Just as the tiger commands the forest, the notion of inheritance looms large, overshadowing personal relationships and shaping individual destinies.

Placed in a comparative framework, Guha’s exploration of inheritance and family disputes resonates with long-standing literary traditions. Within Indian literature, parallels may be drawn to R.K. Narayan’s The Financial Expert or Vikram Seth’s A Suitable Boy, both of which illuminate how familial obligations and material possessions intertwine with individual aspirations. On a global scale, echoes of Guha’s narrative can be found in classics such as Thomas Mann’s Buddenbrooks, which portrays the decline of a bourgeois family dynasty, or Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, where inheritance laws shape women’s futures and familial bonds.

By aligning with these traditions, The Tiger’s Share underscores how property and legacy serve not merely as material concerns but as cultural and moral battlegrounds. Guha’s contribution lies in localizing this universal theme within the complexities of Indian familial structures, thereby offering both a mirror to contemporary society and a continuation of an enduring literary discourse on wealth, power, and human relationships.

 

( Details here about THE BLOGCHATTER BOOKLIST 2025)

BOOK REVIEW - STORIES OF THE NORTH EAST - LAPBAH - VOLUME I

 

 

Editor: KYNPHAM SIONG NONGKYNRIH and RIMI NATH

Publisher: PENGUIN BOOKS

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Book buy link:  @Amazon

Edited by Kynpham Siong Nongkynrih and Rimi Nath, Lapbah – Volume I, a collection of stories from the North-East, is a charming anthology that is both uplifting and deeply moving. It is an encouraging and heartwarming read. Bringing together fifty-seven wonderful stories from fifty-two writers, the volume delivers timeless inspiration and emotional resonance that readers will love and cherish. This collection invites readers to pause for a few reflective moments, allowing them to reconnect with the goodness, culture, and traditions of the world.

The stories in this volume, connected by an intricate web of themes and sensibilities—delicate as a spider’s silk—draw from the eight North-Eastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. They offer readers a rare feast: a kaleidoscopic fiesta that captivates with its magical richness and stunning variety.

The authors vividly portray the natural beauty of the North-East—the ever-raining clouds, thundering skies, challenging rivers, overflowing reservoirs—and intricately weave them with indigenous traditions, customs, and cultural expressions. Each story carries a special message, leaving the reader mesmerized by their dazzling variety and compelling appeal.

What makes these stories particularly unique is their ability to convey the characteristic features of North-Eastern literature. The region, lying at the bio-geographic frontier—where Indic, Sinic, and Malaysian-Burmese influences meet—has produced a remarkable treasure trove of flora, fauna, and avian biodiversity. These influences are richly mirrored in the literary works.

 

Laburnum for My Head by Temsula Ao is narrated in the first person by an elderly Naga woman who harbors a simple but unusual wish: she wants a laburnum tree to be planted on her grave after her death. Though she dies before seeing it bloom, her children fulfill her quiet desire by burying her beneath the tree. The story subtly meditates on death and memory.

The Sanskrit phrase "यथा यथा हि पुरुषः चिन्तयति तथा तथा स भवति।"
(Source: Chāndogya Upaniṣad 3.14.1) meaning “As a person thinks, so he becomes”—aptly reflects the woman’s inward transformation. Her wish to plant a sapling becomes a symbol of peaceful acceptance and continuity.

 

The Manuscript is a metafictional narrative that explores the blurred lines between reality and imagination, creator and character. The writer’s imagined thoughts begin to take on a life of their own.

The phrase "मनसो हि गतिर्नाम न ज्ञेया केनचित् क्वचित्।"
(Source: Mahābhārata) meaning “Truly, the movement of the mind is unfathomable by anyone, anywhere”—encapsulates the wild, unpredictable course of the writer’s imagination where fictional characters defy even their creator.

 

In Falling by Jahnavi Barua, the protagonist Maya falls in love with John Wallang, unaware of the challenges ahead.

The Mahābhārata says:
"न हि मन्यसे कृतं तत्सर्वं भवति यथाविधि।"
(Śānti Parva) — “What one intends does not always happen as planned.”
and
"दैवमेव हि सर्वत्र कारणं नात्र संशयः।" — “Fate alone is the cause of everything—of this, there is no doubt.”

These verses mirror the core of the story: while human effort is vital, fate often has the final say.

 

Momos by Ashim Basnet contains a cautionary message about thoughtless action, conveyed through the character Hari, a momo-seller.

The Sanskrit subhāṣita:
"यस्य नास्ति स्वयं प्रज्ञा शास्त्रं तस्य करोति किम्।
लोचनाभ्यां विहीनस्य दर्शनं किं करिष्यति॥"
— “Of what use is scripture to one who lacks intelligence? What use is sight to one who has no eyes?”

This reminds us that wisdom is not in knowledge alone, but in one’s ability to comprehend and apply it. Hari’s actions are a poignant reflection of the consequences of lacking inner wisdom.

 

Haflong Hills features Minati, a character who exemplifies bravery. Her courage earns her admiration, grace, and success, especially during crises.

Several Sanskrit proverbs resonate here:

"धैर्यं सर्वत्र साधनम्।" (Pañcatantra) — “Courage is the means to everything.”

"उत्साहो बलवान् आर्य न अस्ति उत्साहात् परं बलम्।"
(Rāmāyaṇa, Yuddha Kāṇḍa 36.19) — “Enthusiasm and courage are true strength; there is no greater power.”

"साहसे श्रीः प्रतिष्ठिता।" (Subhāṣita-ratna-bhāṇḍāgāram) — “Fortune abides in courage.”

 

Koinar Mūlya: An excerpt by Lummer Dai

In a conversation between Kargum and his wife Yabam about their daughter Gumba, Kargum says, “She must be sent away to her owner (husband) right away.” This thought is echoed in the classical Sanskrit worldview expressed in:

"अर्थो हि कन्या परकीय एव।"
— “For indeed, a daughter belongs to another.”
This line, found in classical Sanskrit drama, reflects the traditional perspective on a daughter’s marital transition, though modern sensibilities may differ.

 

Like these, many gems lie hidden within this anthology. It showcases that while anybody may write something, only somebody can write everything. Altogether, it affirms:

"यदिहास्ति तदन्यत्र, यन्नेहास्ति न तत्कचित्।"
(Mahābhārata) — “Whatever exists in the world can be found here; what is not here exists nowhere.”

This collection truly becomes the apple of the reader’s eye, celebrating the spirit, landscape, and literature of North-East India.

 

(This blog post is a part of Blogchatter's Book Review Program: https://www.theblogchatter.com/book-review-program-from-blogchatter)

BOOK REVIEW OF RAM C/O ANANDHI

   

 

Author: Akhil P. Dharmajan

Publisher: DC Books in Malayalam;

        Harper Collins India (Harper Fiction) in English

Translated by:  Haritha C.K

Genre: Literary & Contemporary fiction

Book buy link:  @Amazon

 

Akhil P. Dharmajan, the author of this book titled “Ram C/O Anandi” is a bestselling novelist and a scriptwriter too.  His previous books are Mercury Islands and Ouija Board.

Haritha C.K. is the translator of this reputed fiction who holds a master's degree in Social Work.  Her acclaimed works of fiction and non-fiction from English to Malayalam, such as The Girl on the Train, Warren Buffett’s Management Secrets, The Hidden Hindu and The Midnight Library reveal her ability and skill of translation.  Haritha is proving herself as a valuable asset in the literary and translation community by working on several popular Malayalam novels into English.

In this book, the author Akhil P. Dharmajan portrayed the characters with passion, motives, thoughts, and feelings.  The plot, characters, dialogue, time and place of action, style are found with suitability. The role of writing aids as an important connecting tool between the two main characters of the story.

“Ram C/O Anandi” is nothing but a different type of a travelogue by a young Malayali by name Ram (Originally Sriram), to the City Chennai in Tamil Nadu.

The book offers a vivid description of localities like Porur, VadaPalani, Guindy and Kathipara, Nungambakkam, BesantNagar and its beach in Chennai.

Ram’s journey along with Anandhi to the native village of Patti, will remind the readers of the movie “Jab We Met”.

The adventurous journey of Reshma and Vetri to investigate the identity of Anandhi is well knitted.

Finally Anandhi rushed to Australia to see her brother Raja and separated herself from her friends and particularly from Ram.

The author keenly described the role of Ram, how, he  accustoms to the day-to-day life in the city of Chennai, such as residing in the flat with his friends Bineesh and Kiran, joining in the film institute, travelling through trains and buses, watching the people around him, etc.

The Narrating power of the author is also a feature which grabs the attention of the readers.  In this book, good dialogues greatly brighten a narrative and it’s judicious.

 A broad and intimate knowledge of human nature at large, a keen insight into the workings of its common motives and passions, creative power and dramatic sympathy, all these were brought out in a quite well balanced way in the story.  The cruel nature of the particular Superintendent of Police and his associate towards the transgender people makes the readers to feel sympathy to the victims.

Through the conversation of Anandhi with Ram and others, the author made the readers visualize and feel the inconvenience of the barbarian deeds of the army men of Sri Lanka towards the Tamil people related with LTTE.

Any literary work will makes the reader to be bold from the downfalls.   Here also, When Reshma hesitated to participate in the audition, his friends particularly Anandhi boosted her by soothing and inspiring words which enhanced the confidence of Reshma.

Moreover, the author's technical skill in writing is evident in many states.

The dialogue of the characters constitutes the elevation of this story.  In this, the dialogues of the characters have immense value in the exhibition of emotions and the reaction of the speakers like Ram, Anandhi, Reshma, Patti and others to the event in which they are taking part.  And their influence upon one another.

This book itself is a gift of storytelling to the best possible way to the readers is nothing but the ultimate goal of the author.

(  "This review is powered by Blogchatter Book Review Program"   : details here :  https://www.theblogchatter.com/book-review-program-from-blogchatter)