The author is non-Indian; he doesnt belong to the native culture, but tries to tell a period story with a very misleading title. It is very clear he likes many of the wisdom in Indian culture- and, like all people who are half learnt in the Indic knowledge system, he too is confused. Good thing for him is- in pouring out his confusions, he has managed to write a best-selling novel. If you are an Indian- dont bother reading this book- your confusions will only exaggerate multifold.