THE LOST MARY By James D Tabor

JAMES D. TABOR is a retired professor of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he served as department chair for a decade. His previous ten books include the international bestseller The Jesus Dynasty, The Jesus Discovery, and Paul and Jesus. Over the past three decades Tabor has combined his study of ancient texts with field work in archaeology, and since 2008 he has been co-director of the acclaimed Mt. Zion excavation in Jerusalem. Tabor’s work has been featured in dozens of major magazines and TV documentaries, including on PBS Frontline, BBC, Discovery Channel, Nightline, 20/ 20, and the History Channel. He lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.

STORYLINE: Its one of the best books that every Christian should read to learn about how Christianity was born and evolved over two centuries. The book is full of interesting facts and illustrations about Mary, the biological mother of Jesus and her re-discovery from the lost status in Bible. Equally astonishing are the facts about how she and her surviving family of Jesus have been effaced from the Bible tactically to start an entirely different ideology. Though the book might be appearing highly controversial by followers of Jesus Christ as God, the author produced enough archaeological evidences about Jesus’s birth and life as on ordinary man who inherits the genes of King David. All facts presented in this book point out to the reality that he was a Messiah of God along with John, the Baptist (his elder cousin) but not God himself. The book turns even more interesting when the evidences of Mary’s royal lineage are illustrated and how she is portrayed as a “Virgin” having been the vessel to bring in the Messiah of God into the world. It is also proved that she has six more biological children (four sons and two daughters) after Jesus’s birth. The author mainly concentrated on establishing Mary as the torch bearer of starting and taking forward the Jesus movement after the crucifixion and death of Jesus through his brother James. But her efforts have been diluted in the New Testament by strategically masking her involvement in the birth of Christianity. Instead, Paul, one of the later apostles who haven’t even met Jesus ever, wrote the New Testament of the Bible under the influence of his allegiance to Roman kings.  The main reason behind this cited to be as to present Jesus as a God and not just Jewish Messiah of God for which he needs to be born of divine intervention but not through regular biological methods. This tactical move of Paul silenced the original seeds of Christianity started by Mary and her family, through his original preachings as a Messiah. The author put all his efforts to bring back Mary to lime light whom he considers as the one who bore the brunt of all sufferings during the reign of King Herod the Great to give birth to Jesus and also raising him through the ruthless barbaric killing of thousands of Jews by means of crucifixions in Jerusalem. He considers her as the most important of the greatest women of the world who needs to be given the credit of bringing Jesus, the son of God to the mortal world and also raising him to become the future leader of the deprived and needy, during the most tumultuous periods of Jewish sufferings.

Pros : The wonderful archaeological evidences with graphic, Biblical citations and original illustrations of the proofs of every aspect of Mary’s birth, her life before the birth of Jesus and her being silenced after that is worth reading. The author’s deep inquisitive knowledge about the geographical area of Nazareth, Jerusalem and its surrounding places gives even more strength to his evidences proving every aspect about Mary’s family history. Truly wonderful.

Cons : Though there is quite a believable historic evidence put forward, some to be just imaginations of the author that a particular event might have taken place at that time. Such were again mostly based purely on Biblical citations of New Testament which according to him was a deviation from originality of Christianity.

My rating : 4 out of 5

 

A HISTORY OF KASHMIR By Parvez Dewan

Parvez Dewan was born on 13 October 1954 in Srinagar. Dewan was educated at St Joseph’s, Allahabad; St George’s Grammar, Hyderabad; Stanes, Coimbatore; The Air Force Central School, Subroto Park, New Delhi and St Stephen’s College in Delhi. He did his higher education from the University of Cambridge in 1987 (Wolfson College). Dewan joined the IAS and was allotted the Jammu and Kashmir cadre and he was first posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Basohli where he revived its school of miniature painting. Dewan was the Tourism Secretary of India (2012-14). Dewan asked for and was granted voluntary, premature retirement, in order to concentrate on his career as a writer, especially to work on his South Asian encyclopedia, Indpaedia.com. He has authored a series of books on Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.

StoryLine:

The author has great knowledge about the historical tradition of the land of Kashmir since 6th Century AD. The book consists of 11 Chapters that takes the reader right from the pre-history of Kashmir, starting AD 1200. Right from the legends of origin of the name of the land from Rishi Kashyap to the various dynasties that ruled the land and its elaborate linkage to other parts of the country and the world has been stitched in a very interesting manner. One who is interested in mythology clubbed with historical facts, would be delighted to go through the pages voraciously. The reader will be awestruck to learn how Jesus Christ and Jews are said to have reached Kashmir and made an impact of Christianity also in the Valley, though it cannot be taken seriously. The rise of Islam in Kashmir through various Muslim invasions of the country and the subsequent conversions of the resident original Hindus of the land to Muslims, and how various Muslim sects have influenced the lives of locals, is well explained without much of ambiguity. The impact of Sikhism on Kashmir through Sikh Gurus and their subsequent rulers along with the popular reforms that brought about major changes in the social fabric of the entire population is well elicited. Post 1947, the political changes brought about by politicians of Delhi in making Jammu & Kashmir a part of India with Pakistan constantly trying all its means to occupy the Valley through its religious and extremist provoking of the population, with the secret support of the evil out-going British diplomats, is one of the most transparent material that I have come across. The link between Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and other neighbouring Islamic countries with Kashmir has been clearly established through their influx and settlements after constant invasions. Finally, the regional histories of each and every part of Jammu and Kashmir along with their nomenclature is the best that I loved to read. The author’s extensive research and knowledge about each and every part of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh is the biggest treasure that the reader can garner from reading this book.

Pros : One thing that the reader would have clarity after reading this beautiful book is that the actual problem of Kashmir is not the religious conflict between the original inhabitants, Hindus and later converted, Muslims, but it is only between the local Kashmiris and non-Kashmiris. One of the main reasons why Raja Hari Singh accepted Accession of the State to India instead of Pakistan and Article 370 was accepted by both the public and local Muslim majority politicians. Also, the reader is well informed about some of the pro-poor reforms that Muslim rulers of the State have brought about compared to their Hindu predecessors. A detailed chronological shift of a peaceful territory to the land of mass murders and terrorist activities through proxy tribesmen by Pakistan is the best to learn towards the end of this writing. The transition of the land from a predominantly Hindu majority to a Muslim majority has been well explained with chronological proofs.

Cons: Though the author seemed not to have any bias towards any religion, there appeared to be a slight mockery of Hindu mythology and legends while portraying the facts about origin of the names of some places. I didn’t understand why Mirza Haider Dughlat (1499-1551) from Central Asia, has been chosen as the prime ruler who actually shaped present day Kashmir’s society. A separate chapter allocated to him.

My Rating : 3.75 out of 5

Tales From Kathasaritsagara By Somadeva

The original author in Sanskrit Somadeva was a Kashmiri Shaivite Brahmin who lived in the eleventh century during the times of King Anantadeva. The book is said to behave been composed in around 1070 AD for the wife of King Anantadeva, Queen Suryamati. However Kathasaritsagara is only one part of the larger text called “Brihatkatha” written by Gunadhya, a mythical figure from Lord Shiva’s abode. 

Translated by Arshia Sattar, a PhD holder in South Asian Languages and Civilizations from the University of Chicago, teaches Indian literature at several institutions in India and is contributes to several journals and magazines. She has been working with the Valmiki Ramayana for thirty five years.

Story Line:

The book is divided into 10 parts each consisting of many chapters that make one story each. The 10 parts Kathapitha, Kathamukha , Lavanaka, Madanamanchuka, Ratnaprabha, Alankaravati, Shaktiyashas, Shashankavati, Padmavati, Vishamashila are all interwoven around Naravahandatta, one of the seven eternal rulers of Vidhyadharas. They are entwined within each other in such a way that one story leads to another story and then another and another. Its like an endless thread of stories one within each other that have morals attached to each and every story at the end. The reader enjoys them while reading and imagining how ancient tales used to be narrated over bed time or by gurus to their disciples/students. At some point or the other, I am sure that the reader misses the point where he started and may have to go back to find the previous reference. Its such a complex web of stories that is exciting to sail through. Though there have been some stories taken from Panchatantra and Vikram Betaal, most of them might be new to the reader or never heard before, even from our grandparents. The best part is to know how Gods and Goddesses (particularly Shiva and Parvati) were part of the daily life of commoners as well as the elite across the country, as they very frequently interact with them whenever they are propitiated or wished. I started thinking as to whether Shiva and Parvati and other Gods were actually humans with some magical powers, who were worshipped as Gods later. In fact all Gods seemed to be Super Humans. Out of all, one story really surprised me to the core. This story in Alankaravati is about Sita and her two twin sons. Here Sita is said to have only one biological son called Lava with Rama. His twin brother Kush is said to be made by Valmiki out of the blades of Kush grass, later projected to the world as twin brothers born to Sita. This needs more research and facts brought out by experts. Definitely there must be some concrete evidence to prove this when such tale has been in circulation in the 11th century itself. Rest all stories seemed to be real folklores that bring out the real lifestyle, cultures and traditions of people and kings who lived in not so ancient times. Most of the morals of the stories are relevant even today and have great impact on today’s lifestyle of general public in the country.

Pros : The collection of stories have great significance and relevance to how society was functioning in those times. Though there is a mention of Chaturvarna system in force actively, there seemed to be no major hatred or exploitation by the upper castes over lower castes. Moreover, both good and bad people have been portrayed equally with relevant stories with morals ending in a tragedy for the bad ones. On the lighter note, one can find across the length of the book, scores of beautiful novel Hindu names for their new born sons and daughters. Also, I loved how Gods are portrayed as not the invisible ones but those who regularly interact and invite deserving mortals to their abodes to and fro. Wish it could be the same today also. This I think used to motivate those who were narrated these stories to be virtuous and pious in order to be in the good books of the powerful Gods and Goddesses.

Cons: There seems to be a lot of literature that belittles women throughout. Most of the stories are having some reference or the other to portray women as the lustful ones and those who were not faithful to their husbands or one man, but always luring other men for physical pleasures. This is very disturbing to a rational reader. Men on the other hand were shown as loyal to their wives and lovers but fought with each other just to win over their faith on their spouses. Was this the kind of society that existed at that time? Food for thought.

My rating : 2.5 out of 5

The Fisher Queen's Dynasty Written By Kavita Kane

The Fisher Queen's Dynasty by Kavita Kané
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Kavita Kane, a senior journalist for over two decades quit her job to become a writer on Indian mythological fiction. A pet lover and post graduate in English Literature & Mass Communication, she has over four best selling books in her kitty till date. And probably more to come.

Storyline:

This is the story of Satyavathi, the unceremonious Queen of the Kuru dynasty. Not much about her is discussed when it comes to Mahabharata, though she is one of the root queen of the infamous Kuru dynasty, which later perish in the great Kurukshetra war between the Kauravas and the Pandavas. Satyavathi, also known as Matsyagandha (the girl who has the scent of a fish), or Kali (the dark one) was the abandoned daughter of Uparichar Vasu- the King of Chedi, born to a fisherwoman. She goes through the hardships of poverty in the fishermen village but carries the zeal and burning desire to become a Queen, one day. Shantanu, the mighty king of Hastinapur, the most powerful kingdom of the land, once while wandering across encounters the beautiful Satyavathi and falls in love with her.
Opportunity seemed to have struck Satyavathi, to cherish her long pending wish. Her father Dasharaj, loses no time in striking a deal with Shantanu. For him to agree to the marriage, Dasharaj demands that neither Shantanu’s already existing multi talented warrior son and Crown Prince, Devavrat, nor his offspring, should ever ascend the throne of Hastinapur or be in competition to the same in future, against the offspring of Shantanu and Satyavathi. Devavrat agrees to this condition and pledges that he shall never marry. He thus becomes Bhishma of Mahabharata. Later, after Satyavathi’s marriage to Shantanu, she will never be able to live happily due to this guilt of her backdoor entry as the Queen of Hastinapur. Later she gives birth to two sons, Chintragad and Vichitravirya who happen to be not so healthy and successful rulers of Hastinapur. Bhishma, the grand Regent of Hastinapur continues to protect the kingdom from its dangerous enemies ever since. Satyavathi, ultimately, commits suicide, unable to bear the burden of curse on her for having deprived Bhishma, the right to be the King of Hastinapur and also for not having been able to give the rightful and healthy warrior princes, as heirs to the Kuru dynasty.

Pros: Any story is always interesting when narrated from the vanquished side. This is one such part of the origin of the grand Hindu epic, Mahabharata, wherein very little is spoken about this great iconic character, of Kuru dynasty. The author, has brought about every emotion out of a woman who was abandoned at her birth, taken by the most powerful king, sustained as a Queen of the most powerful kingdom, becomes the matriarch of a powerful dynasty but ultimately succumbs to the guilt of usurping her position in the wrong way. A woman’s angle is very well elicited in every chapter of the book. Satyavathi, who is perceived as a clever, ambitious, but wicked woman in the regular citation of Mahabharata of every Indian home, shall garner sympathy and love, if one reads this book.

Cons: The author seems to have missed a chord in maintaining a steady tempo in the flow of the book. There are some instances in-between when the reading gets boring and the reader tends to see the page number.

My rating is 3 out of 5


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Don't Tell the Governor Written by Ravi Subramanian

Don't Tell The Governor by Ravi Subramanian
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The author is a well known star writer from South India, also known as John Grisham of India, who spent most of his professional life in senior positions of Indian national banks, after his management degree from IIM, Bangalore. His previous books have National award winning status. His fans and film producers eagerly wait for his next creation always.

Storyline:

India would never forget 08th Nov,2016, when its iconic Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced demonetization of Rs.1000 and Rs.500 notes with immediate effect on his address to the nation on television. This book’s storyline revolves around this daring incident, fictionalized in the author’s style.

The much flaunted Reserve Bank of India’s Governor Aditya Kesavan, brought in as a replacement to the earlier Governor, handpicked by the Prime Minister of India, gets involved in a secret love affair with Pallavi Soni, a model cum not so successful film actress married to an ambitious businessman, Vicky Malhotra. It all starts well when Vicky starts some ambitious projects in India like an online E-Commerce portal, a stake in one of the star teams in IPL Cricket, and Suyog Monthly Gold Scheme. He befriends Aditya in one of the company’s high level parties which leads to Pallavi getting physically attracted to Aditya and later falling in love with him. All goes well until all of Vicky’s businesses crumble, due to lack of customer patronization and change in Government policies. Vicky abandons Pallavi, when it was found that Indian Government was about to arrest Vicky for huge bank defaults. This is when Aditya comes to the rescue of Pallavi for the repayment of the 300 crores, due to the banks, by using his power as an RBI Governor. He diverts that amount secretly from the amount paid by the Government to a terrorist organization of Pakistan to get hostages released from an Indian Airlines hijack event. The story ends with a bang when the Prime Minister announces demonetization of high denomination currency one day suddenly, thus invalidating all the money siphoned off by Aditya as well as that paid to the terrorists. Aditya is caught off hook when the PM forces or rather blackmails him to approve this demonetization as an RBI Governor in return to squash his theft charges on him.

Many other characters like Dhanish Khosla, who works as a lobbyist, under cover for the PM to unearth such secret deals in his Government, Mehul Modi, who escaped the country after defaulting more than Rs.5000 crores to the banks, De La Spire, a Swiss company which supplies currency paper to print Indian currency have been juxtaposed to create some spice in the story. The overall experience of the much talked about demonetization is rolled into an interesting story covering many recent events that stormed the headlines of press /media but forgotten by the people of the country.

Pros : The author very tactically put forward how Government of India manipulates the so-called autonomous apex body Reserve Bank of India to fund the former’s financial emergencies, just like a fly in the bottle. Also, one gets to know how the terrorist organizations in Pakistan are being funded through fake Indian currency for infiltration as well as destabilizing the economy. The book has hair raising twists and turns. The author links different events in the end with proper justification for every wrong action. He once again proves the fact that the wrong doers cannot get away forever but one day will be brought to justice either by God or fate. The famous saying “Never Sleep with Someone whose troubles are more than yours” is quite relevant to Aditya’s sexual perversion towards Pallavi that ultimately led to his professional as well as moral downfall. I bet that this book if made into a film would fetch huge profits to the Bollywood industry.

Cons: There are some open ends left in the story when it comes to Vicky and Mehul that ran away with huge money defaulted from the banks. Maybe, its because similar situation are still unsolved, in the current scenario of such real life characters in recent Indian financial scandals. The Indian monetary policy and loopholes in the banking industry are shown to be quite weak and prone to easy money laundering by clever businessmen, which might not be very true always.

My rating is 4 out of 5


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