Published by Notion Press in both formats, 5000 Years Back by Neetika Maheshwari Kasat is an engrossing novel inspired by Mahabharata. A close look reveals that the novel is a modern teenage retelling of Mahabharata. However, its delivery has changed but the message remains same.
The novel is divided into two parts: story of boxing and episodes. As the story commences, we see that Yudi and his four brothers (Bobby, Aarj, Nick and Dave) take a dive in the past, where they had to endure a lot for justice.
They lost their father at a young age; as a consequence, they are often mistreated and expelled from the family business by their cousins like Duro (similar to Duryadhan from Mahabharata). The story is led by Aarj, and Kris –a common uncle for all. Aarj is as good as Arjun. But this time, instead of being an archer, the author brought boxing as a tool of skill and battle.
The objective of the book is not to recount the battle of Mahabharata but to shed light on the teachings that emanated from that epic war. Kris is a rich influential businessman, he is like Lord Krishna. In the story, everything looks like as it was in Mahabharata except the backdrop and its lighter tone. The book is delivered with lovely perfection so that the current generation of youth at least grabs the teaching from Bhagwad Gita.
As one chugs ahead with the novel, he/she will be surprised by its depth and insights. The first part where Aarj and Duro prepare for boxing championship is riveting. The novel slows down when the preaching begins. Yet it’s a highly readable book. Neetika’s narration is simple, easy-going with beautiful illustrations. If you are looking to read Mahabharata in a lighter tone, way different from its traditional approach – this is the novel for you.
Buy from Amazon.
About the Author:
Author has a few professional qualifications and is running an international corporate advisory business. Having spent more than a decade in the USA, author has further firmed her believes in old age Indian teachings, Gita Shlokas and other valuable treasure of knowledge. Now staying in Hyderabad with her family, is trying to learn more on ancient Sanatana values, culture, and heritage.
A strong believer in our ancient scriptures, this is her humble attempt to translate the Krishna teachings into a light teenage conversational book. She loves reading to her son and other children. Author is a strong believer in Vedic astrology and committed to perform any services for benefits of the society while guiding people by way of Jyotish. One has to go through miseries if taken birth on this planet but mankind needs to understand the science behind karmas and make this journey a contented one, even while walking on the path of thorns.
From her birth city, Ujjain to having seen both western and material side of the world, having achieved material success and even earned a reputation of one of the successful entrepreneurs, author is inclined to spend more time diving into the ocean of vast ancient knowledge which helps in finding ones true self.
Quite enthusiastic towards life, her interest ranges from philanthropic to start ups, reading Bhagwad Gita to playing golf and guitar. A nature and animal lover by heart is committed to Lord Krishna’s teachings.
Got inspiration from her teenage son Samatva – especially when one day during the readings, he asked – Mom, can you make it bit more interesting for me? And that’s how the idea was incepted.