If you want to dive into the fascinating world of mythology, the best mythology books really bring the threads of different stories from around the world to life. These aren’t just books for adults; they show you the honest truth behind these classic stories. You’re in for a treat if you like mythology as much as I do and are ready for some great reading. Along my own path, I’ve come across works that not only talk about the myths themselves, but also make interesting comparisons and come up with theories about the world of mythology that make me think.
Mythological books are a popular genre that has flooded the Indian market in the last decade, starting with the infamous Amish Tripathi trilogy and ending with Devdutt Pattnaik’s work. It found its way into films like Ra.One and Lajja. Even Shashi Tharoor wrote a retelling of the Mahabharata – The Great Indian Novel, albeit from the perspective of the Indian independence movement. Today, the retellings of Indian mythology help illuminate many perspectives, such as that of the women in the stories. Mythological fiction, then, is always worthwhile. below we have mentioned the best mythology books.
Best Mythology Books
Immortals of Meluha by Amish Tripathi
Features:
- A reimagining of Indian mythology, specifically the story of Lord Shiva.
- Set in the ancient land of Meluha, where Shiva embarks on a journey to fulfill his destiny.
- Explores the themes of good versus evil, love, and the pursuit of truth.
The first part of a very famous trilogy, this book by Amish Tripathi is a unique blend of ancient tales and fiction. Set in the lands of Meluha, this book tells of the arrival of Shiva – chief of the Guna group.
Meluha is under threat, as she sometimes faces attacks from the eastern lands. Shiva must do all he can to save the earth. Supported by his destiny, his luck and his rediscovered love, can he become the next Mahadev – The God of Gods?
“My Gita” by Devdutt Pattankaik
Features:
- Presents a contemporary interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Indian scripture.
- Explores the philosophical and spiritual teachings of the Gita.
- Provides insights into the practical application of its lessons in modern life.
In My Gita, renowned mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik reveals the mystery of the Bhagavad Gita to the modern reader. Its distinctive approach – themed rather than verse-by-verse – makes the ancient pamphlet very comfortable, combined with the pictures and simple diagrams in its trademark.
In a world where dialogue seems to be rich in debates over sam-waad, such as vi-waad, Devdutt points out that Krishna encourages Arjuna to understand Arjuna’s relationship instead of judging it. It’s that we become more and more self-absorbed and isolated (self-improvement, self-awareness, self-awareness – even selfies!) So we can feed each other with food. we forget that we live in the ecosystem of others. , love and meaning, even when we fight.
The Ramachandra Series by Amish
Features:
- A retelling of the epic Ramayana, one of the most revered texts in Hindu mythology.
- Explores the life and adventures of Lord Ram, his wife Sita, and their companions.
- Blends mythology, history, and philosophy to create a compelling narrative.
Indian writer Amish Tripathi, a banker and award-winning Indian writer, is best known for his debut novel, The Immortals of Meluha. The novel, which is an amazing collection of Indian mythology and fiction, became instantly popular. Within a few weeks of its launch, its record-breaking sales confirmed Amish not only as India’s best-selling author, but also as an internationally recognized author.
There is no doubt that Amish is a modern science fiction writer. Its popularity is reflected in the 5 million copies sold in 19 different Indian and international languages. His Shiva trilogy is the best-selling book series in the history of Indian publishing, followed by his Ram Chandra series, which is the second best-selling book series.
Anyone interested in mythology and history will find his books an amazing read. Interestingly, Amish was also the first author of Write India for the debut season of India’s largest short story writing competition. And the best-selling author is another installment of Write India magazine in its third season. Here we list all the works of the Amish Tripati to date, most of which are best-selling novels.
“Lanka’s Princess” by Kavita Kane
Features:
- Focuses on the character of Surpanakha, Ravana’s sister, from the Indian epic Ramayana.
- Offers a fresh perspective on Surpanakha’s life, motivations, and struggles.
- Explores themes of power, desire, and the consequences of one’s actions.
The book retells a mythological retelling of Surpanaka’s POV, which was the cause of the war between Lord Rama and King Ravana of Lanka in Indian mythology. The Queen of Lanka has been loved by her parents less since childhood and will follow Surpanaka until she reaches puberty.
He is a misunderstood hero in mythology and Kane asks us if he is the manipulative beast we have identified or a victim in the male world. He had to make decisions about his life, defend himself, and fight for his rights, which justified his actions in the last part of the book.
The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Features:
- Retells the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata from the perspective of Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas.
- Provides a female-centric view of the epic, delving into Draupadi’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
- Explores themes of love, honor, duty, and the complexities of human relationships.
This bestselling author and these poets tell us the story of the Mahabharata, one of the epic Sanskrit sagas of ancient India. This book tells this classic tale of Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, frame of reference.
A suspenseful story, Divakaruni embarks on an insightful journey through an era of history woven with myth and magic. Draupadi is a fiery woman who seeks to reclaim the birthright of her five husbands, leading us down a path of love, war, and magic. The Palace of Illusions is a fantastic starting point for those wishing to delve into Indian mythology.
The Krishna Key by Ashwin Sanghi
Features:
- A thriller that weaves together elements of Indian mythology, history, and religion.
- Follows a historian who becomes embroiled in a quest to uncover a hidden secret linked to Lord Krishna.
- Blends fact and fiction to create a gripping narrative with twists and turns.
A suburban mix of history and mythology, this epic adventure tale comes highly recommended. This tale provides its readers with detailed information about the Vedas, one of the oldest Hindu scriptures.
Following a history professor who must prove his innocence against a murder charge, this mythological thriller is the perfect read for anyone who enjoys modern literature laced with ancient myths. A best-selling author, Sanghi is considered a pioneer in historical and mythological storytelling. This is a book that is no different.
The Rise Of Hastinapur By Sharath Komarraju
Features:
- Explores the origins of the Kuru dynasty, the royal family from the Indian epic Mahabharata.
- Focuses on the early life of Satyavati, the great-grandmother of the Pandavas and Kauravas.
- Delves into political intrigue, power struggles, and the complexities of familial relationships.
The first of The Rise of Hastinapur series is about Ganga and her seven dead children. It talks about Satyawati and King Shantanu’s infatuation. This is the story that precedes everything, the story of the birth of Devavrata, and how he assumed the role of Bhishma Pitamah, the protector of the throne of Hastinapur and the grandfather of the Pandavas and the Kauravas.
The second book, The Rise of Hastinapur tells the story of Amba, the fiery princess who has sworn revenge against the Bhishma Pitamah, Kunti and how she saves her brother Vasudev and the sacrifice of Gandhari as she decides to marry the blind king of Hastinapur. The final episode, The Queens of Hastinapur, tells the stories of Gandhari’s rise to power as queen, Pritha trying to establish herself in her husband’s heart, and Pandu’s second marriage. In Mathura, Kamsa spares no effort to reign supreme by taking all control.
The Daughter from a Wishing Tree by Sudha Murty
Features:
- A collection of mythological tales and folklore from various regions of India.
- Showcases the diverse cultural traditions and belief systems found in Indian mythology.
- Offers moral lessons, insights into human nature, and the power of storytelling.
Looking for the best Indian mythology books for a little trip to the parallel universe? This book by Sudha Murty may be the one for you. It tells enchanting stories about women in Indian mythology. From tales about Parvati to Mandodari, it shows how women were the backbone of their families.
These powerful women are fearless, skilled in slaying demons and protecting their devotees. A highly inspirational and motivational read, this book features a strong characterization of women who will stop at nothing to protect and love what is dear to them.
