Author: Alpna Das Sharma
The book is a beautiful modern-day take on the epic Mahabharata. The characters represent the Pandavas and the two Kaurava brothers in terms of their characteristics, demeanour, and overall personality. For instance, Yaj Thakur embodies Dharmaraj Yudhishtra and is shown to be righteous, despite the setbacks he faces. The modern-day Draupadi, Dwija has to face similar tribulations and her honour is at stake. Yaj faces similar despair and helplessness for a while. However, just like in the epic, the show takes a turn when Kannan assumes the role of Lord Krishna and steers them towards victory. Eventually, truth triumphs and other intertwined threads of interpersonal relationships of the current Pandava clan straighten out and there is light at the end of the proverbial tunnel. But Kannan disappears as suddenly as his appearance. Was Kannan for real? Unlike in the versions of the original epic, the author has given a beautiful happy ending to the tale. Eventually, the essence of the Geeta (Chapter 18) is brought about. The lord is in us… He is us! The lessons put forth aren’t preachy at all and even someone who isn’t a fan of mythology can relate to the character arcs and the plot flow.
A beautiful read…