ASURA

by Anand Neelakantan

on Dec 06, 2024

The Ramayana has been recounted innumerable times. Every Indian is familiar with the captivating tale of Rama, the divine incarnation who defeated Ravana, the King of Wrath. And as is always the case, the narrative as told by the winners endures in the annals of history. What if, however, Ravana and his people told a different tale?

For more than 3,000 years, the persecuted outcasts of India have treasured the epic tale of the defeated Asura people, known as Asura. No Asura has yet to dare share this story. However, it could be time for the defeated to speak:

"I have been demonized for thousands of years, and every year in India, people celebrate my death. Why? Was it that I defied the gods for my daughter's sake? Was it because I aimed to liberate a race from the oppression of Deva authority based on caste? You've heard the Ramayana, the story of the victor. I am Ravana, the Asura, and my story is the story of the defeated; thus, listen to the Ravanayana.

Under the Devas' heel, the ancient Asura empire was broken up into numerous fighting minor kingdoms. The Asuras turn to Ravana, a young savior, in their hour of need. Common men like Bhadra choose to follow the young commander into battle because they think that Ravana would lead them to a better world. With unwavering determination and ferocious desire, Ravana guides his people to successive triumphs and carves out a large dominion from the Devas. The unfortunate Asuras discover that not much has changed for them, despite their victory. Maybe there is yet hope, but is Ravana able to permanently alter the path of history?

For whom is this intended?

Fans of legendary bestsellers such as the English Ramayana, The Forest of Enchantments, and Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's The Palace of Illusions will love Asura. Anyone interested in Indian mythology, mythological fiction, spirituality, or historical fiction should read it as well. This book is a fascinating addition to your library if you prefer religious and mythological literature like Amish Tripathi's Ram Chandra Series, which includes War of Lanka, Sita: Warrior of Mithila, Raavan: Enemy of Aryavarta, and Scion of Ikshvaku.

Asura's epic tale and nuanced characters will appeal to readers who have enjoyed The Way of Kings and The Lord of the Rings book series. Asura is a must-have addition to any library, whether of your interests in fiction, English bestsellers, or a fresh take on the Ramayana.