A mythological adventure story

Author: Amish Tripathi

Publisher: Tara Press

Price: Rs295

Classification: Fiction

Set in the same period as the Indus Valley Civilization, The Immortals of Meluha dwells on how Lord Shiva, due to his karma, is born a mortal and slowly rises above his mortal bonds  to become the legendary Lord Neelkanth.

The story commences when Lord Shiva's tribe migrates from Mount Kailash to the paradise town of Meluha. Meluha is nothing less than perfect, having been under the rule of Lord Shri Ram, whose reign is praised by everyone. On reaching Meluha, which is under the rule of King Daksha at the time, Shiva gradually learns about his destiny. The kingdom of Meluha looks up to him as its saviour against the evil clan of Chandravanshis and Nagas. Whether Shiva succeeds in living up to the trust of Meluha residents in him forms the rest of the gripping narrative. Shiva's romantic inclinations towards Sati, the only daughter of King Daksha, forms an important part of the narrative.

The Immortals of Meluha is a fast-paced and absorbing book. The character of Shiva is  interestingly portrayed. Right from his light-hearted sense of humour to the various shades of his personality — the soulful dancer, loyal lover and  valiant warrior — each aspect of his personality is highlighted. Sati as his love interest is shown to be the embodiment of beauty, valour, pride and intelligence. The other vital characters in the book like Nandi, Shiva’s right-hand man and devotee, and Parvateshwar and Kanakhala, the commander-in-chief and prime minister of King Daksha, respectively, add charm to the tale.

It is likely to appeal to those who are interested in the intriguing subject of mythology. The first book in the trilogy about Lord Shiva, Immortals of Meluha has a ending that serves to whet the appetite and generate curiosity and eagerness in readers as to the sequel. The creative treatment of a mythological story is probably what earned it its bestseller position in leading bookstores.