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Book Review : Rama of the Axe - Ranjith Radhakrishnan

 

Brilliant !!! Absolutely breathtakingly Brilliant !!! Written as fiction, the author creates the period in the imagination of the reader seamlessly as we witness a prophecy turn into a divinity. The transition from the world of Rama to Mahavidya is so enchanting and beautifully written, one is transported to a ringside seat of the unfolding events. The imagination is very rich and detailed to ensure that the reader has an exquisite experience, but is not overwhelmed by the details beyond a point.

The book is interspersed with gems of philosophy and wisdom as part of the narrative. For example, in a simple  where Rama observes his mother, the concept of emptying one’s mind & trusting one’s instincts is emphasised so beautifully. The discussion between Rama and his father cum preceptor Jamadagni exploring the meaning of fires is yet another masterclass in Dharma and its unique nuances. What is very heartening is the liberal and extensive usage of Indic words like Nimisha, Muhurtha etc. As a reviewer, I may sound a bit greedy to expect Skull replaced by Kapala. However, author’s amazing consistency is something to be very appreciative of. The antagonist of the tale i.e. Arjuna is introduced in a grand style with Dashagreeva being a speck in the midst of the former’s presence. The lucid imagination to create a magical description of the palace is quite exemplary.

In the chapter named “Banalinga”, the experiences of Rama is quite vividly described. I applaud the ingenuity and brilliance of the author to interweave the Avadhuta Gita in the dreams of Rama. This was quite unexpected, but a fantastic surprise element. There are some dramatic phrases that are philosophical and reminiscent of famous movie dialogues. For example, Renuka’s comment to her son that light is shone on the path, but he has to walk through it brings the iconic phrase of Morpheus in the movie Matrix. The merge of Kirata-Arjuna episode within Rama’s journey is absolutely fantastic and shows the depth and brilliance of the author in creating an engaging narrative while interweaving some interesting episodes from other itihasas and puranas. The scene where the ancestors of Rama visit him during the fight is just magnificent and induced goosebumps.

Whether by design or accident, there are many anecdotes which remind one of favourite movies or TV series. For example, the scene where Rama holds the axe high followed by the theatrics of the nature reminds one of the iconic sequence from He-Man and the masters of the universe. The concept of Rama connecting with the Axe reminds one of the deeply philosophical tenet of oneness with nature so brilliantly portrayed in Avatar movie.

The author’s brilliance is in ample display in some of the most amazing phrases of the book. To address Guru Dattatreya, a suffix “blessed be his name” is added to the same. Author’s ingenuity in integrating or rather reverse appropriation is absolutely brilliant. This was just an appetiser for the genius about to unravel in the later pages of the book. Inspired by the commonly held belief, he positions the protagonist as Uddhatr (I am omitting the English word - Read the book to be surprised). However, the absolute virtuosity of the author is on full display when Tripura is described, wherein the author weaves in a social commentary about the modern day realities like beliefs of certain sections of society to Communism. Vadin as a character modelled on a modern day leader was absolutely bang-on. The commentary on the society of Arjuna is quite reminiscent of the modern incorrect comprehension of Manusmriti. The author has been clever to weave this into the narrative so subtly that it may not stand out an eye sore. Brilliant !!!

The author has to be applauded for weaving a commentary on modern society in the form of the story. The part on Varnaashrama is quite relevant in the modern charged atmosphere. Added to this is the brilliant background story of Akritavarna, reflective of a similar concept from a different belief. The battle scenes at the concluding portions of the book have been etched masterfully and narrated magnificently. Definitely one of the very best descriptions. The book ends on a high note with a very divine tribute to Lalitha Tripurasundari. The merging of concepts into the main story is absolutely wonderfully done.

One very special mention: The author’s penchant for poetry is in ample display with the generous garnishing of poetry spread all over this delicious meal !!!

This book could be considered from various perspectives. For one, it could be a simple story of the journey of a man, from being amsha to avatara. However, it is also filled with rich vedantic concepts that’s baked into the narrative. This book could also be considered as a social commentary or satire of sorts on the modern society and the fault lines that lie within. No matter which perspective one chooses, there is one common conclusion : ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT !!! Fantastic story-telling. MUST READ BOOK !!! Highly Recommended !!!



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