Contents [show]
Introduction
Genre: Non-Fiction / India
Publishers: Westland
India, a culture that witnessed the dawn of civilisation. That witnessed the rise of other cultures and watched them turn to dust. It has been celebrated and attacked. Admired and vilified. But through all these millennia, after all the ups and downs of history, it’s still here! And now, after a few centuries of decline, it’s driving a new dawn once again. Ajanaabhavarsh. Bharat. Hindustan. India. The names may change, but the soul of this great land is immortal.
Amish helps you understand India like never before, through a series of sharp articles, nuanced speeches and intelligent debates. Based on his deep understanding of subjects such as, religion, mythology, tradition, history, contemporary societal norms, governance, and ethics, in Immortal India: Young Country, Timeless Civilisation, Amish lays out the vast landscape of an ancient culture with a fascinatingly modern outlook.
Amish is an IIM (Kolkata)educated, boring banker turned happy author. The success of his debut book, The Immortals of Meluha (Book 1 of the Shiva Trilogy), encouraged him to give up a fourteen-year-old career in financial services to focus on writing. He is passionate about history, mythology and philosophy, finding beauty and meaning in all world religions.
Amish has most recently written the Shiva Trilogy (The Immortals of Meluha, The Secret of the Nagas & The Oath of the Vayuputras), which have sold over a million copies in the Indian subcontinent since 2010. The books that he plans to write in the future are also in the areas of mythology & history.
Amish lives in Mumbai with his wife, Preeti and son, Neel.
Having read his books which are mostly mythology and historical fiction, this non-fiction collection of his articles written for various periodicals comes across as a breath of fresh air. It somehow showcases a very different side of the author, one that is not visible while reading his works in fiction. And if I can dare say this, I liked this version of author Amish Tripathi more.The book on many levels is conversational, with it seeming as if the author is talking directly to you through his opinionated articles. Divided into 4 parts namely Religion & Mythology, Social Issues, History and Musings, this book is a very interesting read. Like for e.g. in Religion and Mythology you come to know how deep is his research for his books and in Social issues you come to know what effects him as a citizen of a country who at times is nothing but a mute spectator to all the chaos happening around.
My favourite segment was History where he talks about bygone era and its heroes. My favourite piece has to be about Mumbai, my favourite city. The author made it come alive in those pages as he took me back to the British Era and narrated stories from that time, showing me how Mumbai or then Bombay looked like. Even the one about Wajid Ali Shah. Having read quite a few books on him, I could still see him in a new light after reading this article. I really enjoyed reading each and every piece in History section.
I firmly believe this book needs to be read by each and every Amish Tripathi fan to know him a bit more than what they already know about him. The musings section shows his struggles as a writer much before he became a famous bestselling author. I like the way he spoke about family, support and most importantly understanding which is imperative in today’s times. In this section if I had to choose, then I loved the inspiration behind his first book and how it came into being.
The language is simple and connect-able for every reader. I would recommend this book to one and all, to know our country, its history and mythology better. We need to remember our roots and feel proud of it, this book is one such reminder.
“Immortal India” by Amish Tripathi is a thought-provoking and insightful collection of essays that delves into the complexities of Indian culture, history, politics, and society. Known for his bestselling Shiva Trilogy and Ram Chandra Series, Amish Tripathi is celebrated for his unique approach to storytelling, where he blends mythology, history, and philosophy. In “Immortal India,” however, Amish shifts gears from fiction to non-fiction, offering readers a deep dive into the essence of Indian civilization.
About the Author:
Amish Tripathi is an Indian author and former civil servant. He is best known for his mythological fiction, particularly his Shiva Trilogy (which includes “The Immortals of Meluha,” “The Secret of the Nagas,” and “The Oath of the Vayuputras”) and the Ram Chandra Series (which includes “Scion of Ikshvaku” and “Sita – Warrior of Mithila”). Tripathi’s works often blend Indian mythology with contemporary storytelling, making ancient stories accessible to modern readers. He is known for his bold ideas and refreshing takes on traditional concepts.
Overview of the Book:
“Immortal India” is a collection of essays in which Amish Tripathi offers his reflections on the current state of India and its future. The book is divided into thematic sections that explore a wide range of topics, including Indian history, society, religion, politics, and the legacy of ancient Indian civilizations. Amish uses his signature blend of philosophical reflection and modern-day insights to present a personal, thoughtful, and at times controversial view of India.
Some of the core topics Amish touches upon in the book include:
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The Legacy of Indian Civilization:
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Amish reflects on the ancient wisdom embedded in Indian civilization, emphasizing that spirituality, science, and philosophy have always been an integral part of India’s rich cultural heritage. He delves into the idea that India’s immortal legacy is rooted in its ancient traditions and belief systems that have evolved over millennia.
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Modern India and its Contradictions:
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One of the central themes of the book is the contrast between India’s ancient values and its modern-day realities. Amish explores the challenges faced by the country in terms of economic progress, education, and social issues while trying to preserve its cultural identity. He discusses the challenges of reconciling traditional values with the demands of a globalized world.
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The Role of Religion in India:
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As a nation where religion plays a key role in the lives of millions, Amish explores the role of religion in contemporary Indian society, religious tolerance, and the idea that India should focus on spirituality rather than dogma. He also reflects on the role of Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and other religions in shaping India’s socio-political landscape.
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Political Landscape of India:
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Amish doesn’t shy away from commenting on the political system of India. The book contains reflections on the dynamics of power, the Indian democracy, and the need for reforms to address the inequalities present in the country. He offers critiques and suggestions for improving the system, along with an acknowledgment of the challenges the country faces.
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The Concept of Dharma:
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A recurring theme in Amish’s works is the concept of Dharma. In this book, he reflects on Dharma not as a rigid, dogmatic set of rules but as the pursuit of righteousness and the moral responsibility individuals have towards their society, family, and nation. Amish sees Dharma as a guide for individuals and nations to navigate through life’s challenges.
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Indian Youth and the Future:
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Amish dedicates a section to India’s youth and their pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation. He talks about the aspirations, the potential of the youth, and how they can drive change in a rapidly evolving world. He emphasizes that the younger generation has the power to balance the rich legacy of the past with the possibilities of the future.
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Cultural Identity and Globalization:
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The tension between globalization and cultural identity is another significant issue discussed in the book. Amish explores how India can maintain its cultural essence while participating in the global conversation. The idea is to strike a balance between adapting to modernity while staying true to the core values of Indian civilization.
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Writing Style:
Amish’s writing style in “Immortal India” is engaging, insightful, and thought-provoking. He combines personal anecdotes, historical references, and philosophical reflections to present his ideas in a compelling manner. His writing is accessible and easy to follow, making complex issues related to culture, spirituality, and politics understandable for a general audience.
The book is written in a conversational tone, and Amish’s personal perspectives add a relatable element to the overall narrative. He does not present one-sided arguments but allows for a broader discussion that reflects on India’s past, present, and future.
Reception:
“Immortal India” has been well-received by readers and critics alike. Fans of Amish Tripathi’s previous works appreciate his philosophical insights, his deep understanding of Indian culture, and his ability to translate complex concepts into engaging narratives. The book has been praised for being thought-provoking and relevant, especially in the context of India’s modern challenges.
The book is particularly appreciated for its refreshing perspective on Indian society and its bold views on issues like religion, politics, and modernity. Amish’s arguments have sparked discussion about India’s need for cultural introspection while balancing modernity with tradition.
Conclusion:
“Immortal India” by Amish Tripathi is an insightful and provocative exploration of India’s cultural and spiritual legacy. With its deep reflections on history, politics, and philosophy, the book offers readers a thoughtful discourse on how India can preserve its ancient values while navigating the complexities of the modern world. It is an essential read for those interested in Indian culture, spirituality, and the future trajectory of the nation.
For readers who enjoy philosophical discussions and exploring societal challenges, “Immortal India” provides a rich narrative and invaluable insights into the workings of the country and its people.