It’s raining mythology in the world of books

From the epic Ramayana to Mahabharata, there is a trend of retelling these popular ­stories, and readers seem to be lapping up these ­reinterpretations like never before. So, if you’re a fantasy fan, add these to your list.

It’s raining mythology in the world of books. From the epic Ramayana to Mahabharata, there is a trend of retelling these popular ­stories, and readers seem to be lapping up these ­reinterpretations like never before. So, if you’re a fantasy fan, add these to your list.

Shikhandi by Devdutt Pattanaik
This new book builds on ­profound ideas that our ancestors shared but which we have rarely inherited. Written by mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik, the book will witness a new angle to the powerful character.
Price: To be released in July
Publisher: Penguin

Simian by Vikram Balagopal
This book is a retelling of the Ramayana from Hanuman’s point of view, highlighting the implication of war. The story is based around the often glossed-over episode in the Mahabharata where Hanuman and Bhima meet, though it delves into the story of the Ramayana.
Price: Rs 750
Publisher: HarperCollins

Winds of Hastinapur by Sharath Komarraju
The story revolves around Ganga, the river goddess, who is dying. Bereft of a virgin to pass her knowledge and being to, she is fading away and seeks to tell the story of the Mahabharata as she saw it.
Price: Rs 299
Publisher: HarperCollins

The Vigil by Sarah Joseph
This novel is about the ­turbulent journey of Angadan, who believes that Raman killed his father, Vali, against all principles of dharma. In The Vigil, the familiar rhythm of the ­original poem is disturbed by the touch of Angadan’s ­acerbic touch.
Price: Rs 350
Publisher: HarperCollins

Bhima — Lone Warrior by M. T. Vasudevan Nair
This book retells the epic war from Bhima’s point of view. It takes into account Bhima’s life as a person – his ­insecurities as a child, ­forever trying to please Draupadi, of trying to ­constantly prove himself among the other four ­brothers. The book takes a new look at the Mahabharata – story of a warrior who could not be defeated, who killed thousands and yet survived to tell his tale. Bhima is ­intriguing and a fast-paced read.
Price: Rs 350
Publisher: HarperCollins

(Compiled by Subuhi Parvez)