Book: Ramayanam
Author: Dushyanth Sridhar
Publisher: Harper Collins
Genre: Mythology
Rating: 5/5
Book review:
After reading Ramayanam, my memories of the epic Ramayana got fresh in my mind. The tales are like a treasure trove of knowledge, and the artwork makes it an incredible read.
In this volume, the author retells the Ramayana as a conversation between Valmiki and Narada. Infused with a dash of creativity that is accepted even by traditional scholars and drawing upon lesser-known works, this timeless epic has been recreated in a never-before manner.
The book is a gold mine of information, with itemised research and natural subtleties presented with the most profound Bhakti. For anyone with any interest in Sanatana Dharma, Sridhar's book is a must-peruse. It perfectly captures the essence of the Ramayana, giving new points of view and bits of knowledge, making it an enhancing experience for readers, everything being equal. The portrayal, upgraded by Keshav's adept representations, is true and upheld by various ancient rarities as proof. Sridhar's reverence for the incredible radiates through, making this book a strong demonstration of persevering through the tradition of the Ramayana.
In Sanatana Dharma, if one is asked to do a mantra jaap, he is advised to do it 108 times. In the same manner, this book comprises 108 chapters that enlighten the readers with immense knowledge and depict different facets of Rama's life.
The book begins with the Rama and Sita conversation, where Ram happily observes his pregnant wife and guides her about a few facts. He understands well that her body is a bit weak due to pregnancy and has become fragile. But in the next chapter, after hearing the rumours being spread about his beloved wife, he is compelled to abandon her in the forests. It is very hard for him, but he is helpless in front of his duties and responsibilities.
I was overwhelmed by the scene where Sita is taken on a chariot along with Lakshmana. She is startled to know her destiny, how she is abandoned by her husband, and that she also needs him the most in this stage of her life.
Later, she is provided shelter in the ashram of Risi Valmiki, who considers her his daughter. Rsi Valmiki's past and how he came to be known as Valmiki is also vividly depicted. The best part is how Lord Brahma guides him to be the pensmith of this epic Ramayana, especially when it is completely in the form of poems.
There are plenty of tales that I want to mention but the grace of reading them will become a bit less if I start narrating how beautifully each tale is narrated by the author. The range of tales varies from Rama's birth, first visit for a battle, his marriage, his exile, Bharat's visit, and many more.
I appreciate the way the author has narrated these stories in a lucid and evocative manner that I didn't realize when I finished the book in two sittings. His attempts to make the epic stick in the minds of the reader through beautiful illustrations and impactful storytelling are commendable.
Highly recommended!
Purchase: Ramayanam
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Having lost faith in Gods, I would rather keep this sort of books away though I have a couple of Ramayanas and Gitas on my bookshelf. I have come to the strong conviction that the world needs less of scriptures and more of plain sanity.
ReplyDeleteThere are countless versions of the holy epic Ramayana. They tell the story from distinct cultural, regional, and religious perspectives.
ReplyDeleteWITH EACH NEW VERSION COMING UP ON RAMAYANA, it reaches with more number of people.
While I agree with Tomichan sir's comment, our epics make for an interesting read. They also serve as great discussion points about life choices and philosophies, which is why they need to be read. Unfortunately we have lost the ability of debating in a sane manner when it comes to religion.
ReplyDeleteFor me, Ramayana will always be the animated version I saw on Cartoon Network. I have read and enjoyed Chitra Divakaruni and Devdutt Pattnaik's versions too.
ReplyDeleteI didn't know of this book, and as you mention the author has kept creativity within the reasonable bounds, I am sure it will be a great read. Hopefully people do get inclined to find and cherish life lessons through ancient scriptures, keeping them alive in our present day conversations.
ReplyDeleteThe book appeals to me going by your description, We all know the basic Ramayana but the format mentioned in your review lends a different touch and sounds fascinating.
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ReplyDeleteI love how you’ve captured the essence of this retelling of the Ramayana. The vivid storytelling and deep reverence for the epic make it sound like a truly enriching read. Adding it to my list!
What I feel from your review is that if I pick to read it it will give me a new angle of exploring the story of Ramayana. Am I correct?
ReplyDeleteThis review of Ramayanam by Dushyanth Sridhar truly highlights the unique approach of retelling the epic through a dialogue between Valmiki and Narada. The integration of creativity with traditional scholarship sounds intriguing, and the inclusion of detailed illustrations seems to enhance the narrative even further. It’s exciting to see a timeless story presented in a new light, making it accessible and engaging for both new readers and those familiar with the Ramayana.
ReplyDeleteThe bit about the book having 108 chapters in topical reference to Sanatana Dharma has my interest piqued the most. I'm definitely inclined to check out and read this one based on your rave review. Thanks for the recommendation, Shifali
ReplyDeleteSounds like an imaginative book. Unique perspectives make mythological stories even more interesting. I find it particularly interesting because I recently translated a book titled Ramrajya (By Ashutosh Rana). And I just checked, it's illustrated.
ReplyDeleteLovely review.
My exposure to Ramayan has been the original TV show and the countless Amar Chitra Kathas I have read. Each version and retelling brings forth an interesting aspect.
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