HarperCollins has announced the upcoming release of “Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons” by Anand Neelakantan.
NEW DELHI, December 16, 2024 — HarperCollins India has announced the upcoming release of “Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons” by bestselling author Anand Neelakantan. The Ramayana is not just one single story; it is a symphony of tales that span centuries, cultures, and languages. Interwoven with numerous threads—from the traditions of Southeast Asia to the retellings of Central Asia—this epic reveals new truths, perspectives, and worlds to explore.
In “Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons,” myth-master Anand Neelakantan weaves together captivating stories and insightful commentary to explore the possible intentions behind Valmiki’s original narrative. He examines how the epic has transformed and evolved over thousands of years, sometimes in difficult-to-imagine ways.
What does the Ramayana mean to you? Is it a Dharma Shastra—a guide to life’s ideals? A holy book for spiritual practice? A source of timeless wisdom and enjoyment? Or is it all of these things at once?
The Ramayana has captivated generations with its countless retellings across Asia, spanning centuries, cultures, and languages. From oral traditions to ancient manuscripts and modern texts, these interpretations offer a variety of perspectives on its characters, their circumstances, and the lessons they teach.
In “Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons,” myth-master Anand Neelakantan brings together engaging stories and insightful commentary to examine what Valmiki may have intended in his original narrative. He explores how the epic has transformed and evolved over thousands of years, often in surprising ways. Neelakantan invites us to delve into its depths, reflect on its nuances, and discover the most resonating versions.
The Ramayana is not just one story; it embodies multiple narratives that reflect various truths and wisdom.
Author Anand Neelakantan explains, “There are countless versions of the Ramayana, many of which are oral traditions. Each version is shaped by its unique geography, time, and culture, yet all convey universal lessons. While only a few versions have gained prominence in recent years due to popular media, this has led to the decline of a rich tradition across Asia. Inspired by my audiobook ‘Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons,’ this book aims to highlight the richness of the Ramayana tradition and its teachings.”
Ridhima Kumar, Commissioning Editor at HarperCollins India, expresses excitement about publishing Anand Neelakantan’s groundbreaking work on the Ramayana. This unique retelling celebrates the epic’s plurality, showing how multiple truths can coexist. Anand skillfully blends thorough research with his storytelling to present the Ramayana in a new light, uncovering hidden stories and fresh perspectives that will change how readers view the epic.
Anand Neelakantan is a notable author, screenwriter, and television personality known for his reinterpretations of the Indian Puranas. He has written bestsellers like Asura: Tale of the Vanquished and Vanara: The Legend of Baali, Sugreeva, and Tara. Neelakantan has also scripted popular TV series, including Siya Ke Ram and Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat.
Source: HarperCollins India
CitiTimes 