My Rating - 4 out of 5 stars
Publisher - Simon & SchusterGenre - Mythological Fiction
Publishing year - 2023
Language - English
ISBN - 978-93-92099-92-2
Pages - 355
Book Review -
Krishna by Kevin Missal marks the captivating inauguration of the Maha Vishnu Avatar series, presenting a compelling narrative woven around the enigmatic figure of Lord Krishna. Drawing from the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology, the author offers a refreshing perspective on the aftermath of the Kurukshetra war, delving deep into the intricacies of divine existence and mortal ambition.
Having traversed the realms of the author's literary landscape with Narasimha and Durga, I found this book to be a significant evolution in the author's storytelling prowess. The noticeable improvements in both writing style and character development underscore his dedication to his craft and commitment to delivering a captivating narrative.
At the heart of the story lies the figure of Krishna, the avatar of Vishnu and the king of Dwarka, who is seen as the epitome of Dharma and righteousness, however, with time, his divine presence seems to have faded into obscurity and he was living his life in solitude, leaving a world fraught with uncertainty.
Pradhyuman, Krishna's firstborn son and the current ruler of Dwarka, emerges as a complex and ruthless character whose personal endeavors and greed made the lives of his subjects miserable. Meanwhile, Samva, Krishna's second-born son, embarks on a quest for revenge, driven by a desire to uncover the truth of Pradhyuman to his disappeared father.
Among the myriad characters that populate the narrative, two stand out with particular significance: Balaram, Krishna's elder brother and the esteemed Prime Minister of Dwarka, and Durgajyoti, a trusted confidante of Pradhyuman.
While Balaram grapples with soul-stirring dreams that threaten his sanity, he embarks on a perilous journey aimed at toppling the Pradhyuman from his throne by forging alliances with their erstwhile foes.
Meanwhile, Durgajyoti, consumed by an unrequited love for Pradhyuman, harbours her own hidden demons, quite literally. As a sorceress, she navigates a labyrinth of internal turmoil, evoking a sense of empathy from readers as the plot unfolds.
Against the backdrop of these intricate character arcs stands Krishna himself, burdened by the weight of his past choices and future uncertainty. He must come to comprehend what holds greater importance: his family and close relations, or the subjects he long abandoned?
Kevin Missal skilfully captures Krishna's internal conflict, painting a nuanced portrait of a divine being scuffling with the constraints of mortality, heartache, and the inevitability of fate. In this tale, there is no difference between humans and Gods, as they are all portrayed as complex, confused, grievous, and voracious.
The narrative unfolds at a rapid pace, brimming with unexpected twists and turns that will undoubtedly ensnare readers, keeping them on the edge of their seats throughout. The author skillfully intertwines elements of dark human ambition with the divine realm of immortals.
Anticipation builds for the next installment in the series, as I eagerly await its release. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to those who revel in the rich tapestry of Indian folklore, particularly those intrigued by reinterpretations of Mahabharata characters in a distinctly human light.
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