Wednesday, July 4, 2018

Book Review - The Chronicles of Hanuman, Shubha Vilas

The Chronicles of Hanuman, Shubha Vilas (Source - Google)
No matter whether one is a Hindu or an atheist, no matter which sect - within Hinduism - one belongs to, some gods and the tales about them carry a sense of charm and awe always. According to me, Krishna, Ganesh and Hanuman are such a trio. Every child gets pulled towards them and holds at least one of them as their favorite even after growing up. As one grows up listening to the tales about them, one also ends up learning glorious virtues that will make one walk the path of righteousness. This book is one such opportunity - both to teach the children about the heroic deeds of Hanuman and to recall these childhood tales and feel our hearts become light.

Hanuman, the glorious 'Monkey God' of the Hindu pantheon, needs no introduction and almost every worthy Hindu - or one who has read Ramayan - is aware of his contribution and part in Rama's rescue of Sita from the demonic Ravan. This book presents Hanuman's life story in lovely little tales that stoke one's interest for more. Right from Hanuman's birth and childhood to his post-Ramayan 'existence' are all presented here in a manner that will make reading such a pleasurable experience.

Of course, there is nothing much new except the already widely circulated stories about Hanuman, but that never reduces their charm. Also, the 'morals' at the end of every tale that the author tries to derive, sound so mundane and forced. But the tales are what one picks this book for and the book does justice to it. Bonus would be the little guide in the end about the famous Hanuman temples in the country and also the transcription/translation of Hanuman Chalisa.

Read this, keeping aside all your grown-up questions and logic and it will be one pleasant, lovely read. Recommended!


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