SynopsisA bestseller in India, this book’s plot revolves around Bhishma, the patriarch of Hastinapur, who is finding it difficult to keep the empire united. His able Prime Minister Vidur is assisting him in this job.
On the other hand, down South, the powerful Guru of the Southern states is waiting to make his move on Hastinapur. He wants to impose his dark will on all of India at any cost. The kingdom of Hastinapur is being ruled by the blind king Dhritarashtra and his queen with a foreign origin, Gandhari.
The peace of the throne is being threatened by Kunti, who is a rival queen. It is her ultimate dream to see her first-born seated on the throne of Hastinapur. In this sinister quest of hers, an unscrupulous priest comes to her aid and ensures that Prince Duryodhana does not become king.
Parallel to this story, readers will find the character of Eklavya, a young outcast who wants to become a mighty warrior despite being from a lower caste. Other important character who plays a pivotal role in this book is Karna, who travels south to become a mighty warrior and archer. Balrama and Ashwadhama are also given significant roles in the plot.
It is obvious from the book that the author likes to research his facts thoroughly and that’s what makes his books an excellent read. His writing is laid back and he takes his time to present the book to his readers.
Readers who like to read books on mythical characters and are fans of epic stories will find this book very engrossing.
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Binding: PaperBack
About the author
Anand Neelakantan is the bestselling author of Asura: Tale of the Vanquished, which told the story of the Ramayana from Ravana’s unique perspective. He followed it up with the hugely successful Ajaya series. Ajaya Book I: Roll of the Dice and Ajaya Book II: Rise of Kali narrated the Mahabharata from Duryodhana’s point of view. Both Asura: Tale of the Vanquished and Ajaya Book I: Roll of the Dice have been nominated for the Crossword Popular Choice Awards in 2013 and 2014 respectively.
Anand has also written the screenplays for various popular TV shows, including Star TV’s mega series Siya Ke Ram, Sony TV’s Mahabali Hanuman and Colours TV’s Chakravartin Samrat Ashoka. He has also written for major newspapers such as The Hindu, The Times of India and The Indian Express. Besides English, he also writes in Malayalam and has published stories as well cartoons in various Malayalam magazines. He lives in Mumbai with his wife Aparna, daughter Ananya, son Abhinav, and pet dog Jackie the Blackie.
