Yuvika Sinha

Janaka and Ashtavakra : A Journey beyond by Ashraf Karayath is a really exquisitely woven tale of spiritual attainment and mythological beauty. The story is a descriptive version of a small tale mentioned in Ramayana wherein the great sage Ashtavakra comes to the mighty king Janaka to explain to him the disturbing meanings of his dreams. From this point the author takes the tale and weaves it into a work of fiction and goes on to show the profound spiritual existence through sage Ashtavakra and his ardent disciple King Janaka. The story tells of King Janaka's quest of power and strength. Then comes the danger of an incoming war that might make or break the future of Mithila. But just before this King Janaka's turn to spirituality through the medium of great sage Ashtavakra turns the story in a really different side. The king now knows the sheer value of power and strength and that the truth lies in spirituality. What makes the book interesting to read is the inner monologues that the king has with himself. Also a great insight is shown about King Janaka's strong and intelligent mind and how he conducted his courts and took wise decisions taking all things in view. The way King Janaka devotes himself to Sage Ashtavakra and gains self belief through it , is endearing to read. Each part of the four-part book tries to teach interesting lessons to the reader. The book is a short read of 225+pages and the fast and interesting pace of the book makes it unputdownable. The cover is beautiful and the title is apt. This book is really different from the ongoing genres and really interests the readers with its fusion of history and fiction. A good read.