Book Review: Mahadevi – The Unseen Truth Behind Existence

Title: Mahadevi – The Unseen Truth Behind Existence
Author: Priyanka Sharma Kaintura
Genre: Hinduism, Indian Mythology
Publisher: Rumour Books India

Rating: 5/5

Hello, dear readers! Today, I have a review of a special book. It is special because this is not your usual novel. Mahadevi- The Unseen Truth Behind Existence by Priyanka Sharma Kaintura is a trove of insight on ancient Hindu wisdom, retold from the perspective of Mahadevi herself.

Also, just look at the cover! Isn’t it beautiful and angelic!

Here’s a summary of the book for you.

This book is an attempt to draw closer to the essence of the Divine and shatter the several myths we might be dwelling on. It is branched into two parts. Part 1 is a narration by Mahadevi for a rational mind. An account of some enthralling events through the multiverse, inhabited by numerous celestial beings, in the backdrop of the genesis of this universe. A chronicle of Gods and Goddesses, their struggles, the devious web of right and wrong, love in its complete glory, its absence, ecstasies, miseries, and the wars of the worlds. Part 2 is an anthology of entrancing stories based on the nine forms of Mahadevi described vividly in Part 1, revealing her qualities in the every day women of Kali Yuga. These tales set in today’s times ask a silent yet germane question to all those who worship Her – if they can identify their Durga when they see one. Do they have the Eye for Durga!

As the summary states, the book is divided into two parts. Part one consists of the events that led to the birth of the universe and the respective Gods (so interesting!) Part two is about how Devi can be found in women of our times.

Mahadevi is a unique book that talks about mythology but with an interesting perspective. Through the divine eyes of Mahadevi, we are enlightened about the creation of life, as we know it, from its very beginning. The different avatars of Devi teach us different virtues and purposes each of them has. But the highlight is the second part of the book where these instances are weaved together with the teachings and are brought to us through modern-day stories and situations. These stories touch the heart and reveal much to learn from.

It is simply brilliant how profound our ancient texts and knowledge are. They not only talk about how to lead an optimum way of life but also answer the many ‘whys’ we thought about as children.

I’m floored by the author’s writing style! The book is simply impossible to put down once you’ve started with it and to talk about a subject as mythology in such an absorbing manner is a feat in itself that is effortlessly achieved by the author.

There are multiple places in the book where I have made notes and highlighted them because, in my opinion, these are pearls of wisdom one can use every day.

The book is not a long, boring take on something that we already know. It is a beautiful, interesting rendition of the birth of the universe, the avatars of Devi and how she exists in each one of us. It is bound to leave you content and happy.

Mahadevi is truly a fulfilling read that makes one want to dive deeper and drink at least a drop of the vast ocean that is our ancient Hindu wisdom.