Mahabharata Unravelled Paperback – 18 July 2021

I am really glad I invested in this amazing and a must have book about our ancient history, cultural heritage and most importantly the foundation of this entire existence of this amazing chunk of our glorious past.This is a well researched book and so amazingly written whilst taking care of the true essence of that time , language and literature at its best. I had seen some interviews/ podcasts of Ami Gantara on YouTube and that firstly spiked my interest in her writings. After reading the first few pages , one can instantly feel the immense respect for the efforts she put in while writing this beautiful book. It's a MUST READ AND A MUST HAVE IN COLLECTION for anyone who is a book geek and doesn't want to miss out on GEMs of a literature like this.🤌🏻This is not any usual mythology fan fiction which I personally despise because it doesn't messes with the truth , the facts of characters and the events that occurred just to please the readers and force a happy/ otherwise ending.The best part about this book is , it sticks to the fact and it unravels many facts that are far unknown from the common folks and are too interesting to learn. That's how it truly justifies it's title as well.💯Again I can't express enough gratitude to the respected author for writing this amazing book and I'm eagerly looking forward to read her other creations as well. Highly recommended from my end!🔥💯👍🏼

Mahabharata Unravelled - Lesser known facets of a well-known history, like the title says, the chapters are replete with a spectrum of lesser known facets of Mahabharata.Ami has diligently weaved each chapter to keep a sense of continuity and interest for the reader for a history, the ambit of which is very vast.The book starts by summarising the story line which to me is a bright technique, which allowed me to bring all my varied readings and memories to a starting point for the book to go where it wants to take you.Ami has passionately, like the various characters of Mahabharata who take vows and make them non-negotiable - come hell or high water, had probably taken a vow to write factually, separate myth from available Itihas and present it like a researcher would. This book is the result of that powerful 'pran' and 'sankalp'.An influential and potent narrative, authentically posited for conversations of discovery, and replete with awe on more pages than one can imagine._________________________________________________________Extra Notes about the bookThe book also highlights the acceptability of polygamy and polyandry and how even children born out of wedlock were accepted in the fabric of society was very refreshing and empowering to read. How love and attraction crossed various boundaries like in the case of Hidimba and Bheema or Shakuntala's Gandharva Vivah with Dushyanta and many other interesting inter-connections of relationships.Though the book does not touch upon psychological facets, for the keen reader there are various offerings. Ambika and Ambalika's state of mind in the niyoga relationship with Vyas. The boundaries of each of the Pandavas in maintaining relationships with Draupadi and amongst themselves (Polyandry exists for various reasons in many parts of the hills in northern India and Nepal even today) and many more. Splendid work here, too.The highlight for me has been the sidebars. The ones that fascinated me for the information that was not known to me Page 31- 'The only warriors who did not participate in the Kurukshetra', Page 45- 'Different types of Marriages mentioned in Hindu Scriptures', Page 89- 'Myths about Draupadi', Page 167-'The defence of Dwarka', Page 266-'Shikhandini' (immensely intriguing and fascinating).The notes section is also extremely informative. Keep referring to the notes to make your reading experience of the narrative a lot richer than it would be without it. For eg, Chapter 22, Note 2, Anustabh meter of writing poetry. Read it. ;-)Sidebars that are as good as any contemporary psychological take on human behaviour Page 190- 'Story of Rishi and the Nuance of Dharma and Truth', Page 218 'Yaksha Prashna' (these 3 pages can sums up all the work a person can do with self), Page 273-'Discourse on the Deathbed', Page 281- 'Vidura Niti'.

Ami Ganatra’s Mahabharata Unravelled is a well-researched and insightful take on the epic, drawing from original Sanskrit texts to clarify myths and misconceptions. The book provides a balanced analysis of characters, portraying them with depth rather than as mere heroes or villains. It effectively separates fact from later interpretations while maintaining an engaging and accessible narrative.While the book offers deep research and an authentic perspective, it leans slightly towards a traditionalist viewpoint and assumes some prior knowledge of the Mahabharata. Overall, it is a compelling read for anyone looking to understand the epic beyond popular retellings, offering a fresh and fact-based perspective.

Amazing book.with lots of details. Without any fantasy. You will get answers to the point..

Good quality, good read

Thank you Ami for writing this book in an absolute reader friendly and detailing on each character, telling stories that were unknown and lots of myth gone with the wind!! I am going to read all the 4 book of yours!! This was an inspiring work

i have tried many times to start reading bookings but every time it felt boring. info in the book is quite good but i did not like summary part in the start, it should be in last because it spoils the story for a new readers like me , although the book was great, waiting for 2nd part to be delivered. thanks ami ji to get me into reading. jai shree ram

Good for reading