MANTHAN - THE KALKI CHRONICLES is very close to my heart.
It was a very proud moment for me to have my book listed among the best of Mythological titles in @ritu.mantri list of favourite mythology books.
Mythology is an important part of our culture. From time immemorial mythology has played an important role in our traditions and customs. Utkarsh has always been a fan of mythology and the lessons the stories based on mythology impart.
Understanding mythology can give us an innate understanding of human nature and the philosophical questions of life and death.
According to Devdutt Pattanaik understanding mythology is part of being human. Unlike plants and animals, he says, humans seek meaning, purpose and value in life. "This comes to us only from stories. Science cannot do that. Logic cannot do that. We need to feel we matter."
"Concepts like nation, patriotism, divinity, liberation, salvation, achievement, heaven, hell, right, wrong, are essentially established through stories. The idea 'you have to make the world a better place' is a human myth; animals have no such urge. We need the myth to feel good about ourselves. Every culture creates these myths and transmits it through stories, symbols and rituals. In the last 100 years, nations were established based on these myths."
Utkarsh wanted to write the story of a boy who was destined to be God, the Kalki Avatar as a story which would touch the hearts of everyone. With the world in the middle of a crisis, the book and it's characters show us the true meaning of destruction of nature and humanity and the importance of values of tolerance and mercy.
WILL THIS BE THE END OF KALIYUGA?
Will the powerful and invincible Kali, the creator of chaos and turmoil on Prithvi win against humanity?
Is Adi Parashakti, the Supreme Goddess left with only two choices… to destroy Prithvi or to summon a power to stand against the might of Kali.
Is the world most eagerly awaiting the Kalki Avatar, signifying the cleansing of the world from all its sorrows?
The story takes on a new meaning during the pandemic, a reminder of what we need to do to protect Earth and it's beings.
Keep writing Utkarsh!