Book - The Naraka Cycle: Ravan’s Trial by Sundar Nathan
Genre - Mythological Fiction

If you’re a fan of mythical fiction, this book should be on top of your TBR. Filled with intrigue, brimming with secrets and packed with action, Sundar Nathan presents an adrenaline fuelled series book: The Naraka Cycle: Ravan’s Trial.

Sundar Nathan weaves an enchanting alternative mythology surrounding the Lankan prince Ravan. The young prince Ravan, who is about to go through a Trial per the ceremony, is the main character of the tale. With little supplies and resources, the “twice-born” eldest son of the Lankan king sets out into the Aranya with the intention of surviving for seven days before making his way back to Sri Lanka. Ravan fears what lies ahead and but teachings of his Guru keep him afloat.

For a span of two weeks, Ravan confronts a diverse range of creatures. From half-Narakan and half-nagas to Simurghs, the Lankan prince with fortitude fights off dangers and fosters unlikely friendships with the other creatures. After surviving the trials and tribulations for over 2 weeks, he retraces his steps back to the palace with Sharabha, his baby simurgh, that he rescued from the jungle. But, new surprises await him. Neither the royals nor the city people are there to welcome him. As Ravan is informed of the current situation at the palace, the young prince is compelled to take on newer challenges.

The book is a little over 190 pages and spread across 15 chapters. Nathan, with simple language and in-depth research has carefully built the narrative of Ravan – his dynamics with his siblings, his teachers, and also his principles. Throughout the narrative you’ll find the young prince in constant conflict with his own thoughts, replete with mental-verbal conversations. However, throughout the journey, at times of dire need, Ravana finds that his Teacher’s warnings, praises, and caustic remarks help him choose the right course of action.

Furthermore, Nathan deals with a few significant questions, concerning existence, morality, and even ethics. As a narrator, he, has consistently reminded both Ravan and the readers how nature is independent, how our identities are bound to each other.

“You are small as the leaf is small. As the ant is small. As the viper is small. Each in the way of its nature, the way of its perfection.”

As I leafed through the novel, I was mesmerized by Ravan, his ethos, his emotions, rationality, love, respect, and even courage— virtues that make him a man, or a superior being of refined values. For instance, as he enters the jungle he’s aware of his Asura pedigree as much as he considers himself an intruder in the jungle. He understands his entry into the solem yet dark realm of the Aranya can do more than just ruffle a few feathers. Ravan respects the jungle and it’s laws as much as he respects other creatures that inhabit it.

Another character who took me by surprise is Surpanakha. As a kid, we’ve read how notorious she was and the wrath she suffered. But, in this novel you see her from close quarters, her love for Ravan, her memories of her father, her interests in Ayurvedic sciences, her inclination towards curing children with her magical skills, and most importantly her love for Harsha. Surpanakha plays a pivotal role in the second half of the plot and with every challenge we get a glimpse of her child-like demeanour and her mature strategies. This goes on to show the dexterity of the author in fleshing out the characters. Those that have had a negative persona in our minds for decades get a makeover and we begin to see them in a new light.

Overall, this enamouring tale of the Naraka where Ravan undergoes a trial can be one of the best reads this season. Packed with action, mythical creatures, magical settings, and a mighty man’s adventure, The Naraka Cycle: Ravan’s Trial by Sundar Nathan is an unputdownable piece of work.

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The Naraka Cycle: Ravan's Trial by Sundar Nathan

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