The guardians of karma by Mohan Vizhakat

"The guardians of karma" by Mohan Vizhakat. This book is published by Shrishti publishers & distributers in 2013 and has 315 pages.

More than 10,000 years ago, global warming is causing increase in sea levels and landmasses & islands are going under water. There is a tension between Dev and Daitya empires. War is inevitable. Bhishma Monk (Warrior Monk) Hara and his guru Parashu, followers of the Bhishma order (An ancient order instituted by Ganga putra Bhishmacharya) are on a secret mission to the Daitya capital Atlantapuri and Tripura palaces.

What is the secret mission? Will the Bheeshma monks succeed? Will there be romance? What happens to Tripura and Atalantapuri? Who are Dev and Daitya?

Author calls this book, a mythological science fiction. And that it is. The concept that the ancient civilizations were more technologically advanced than today is not new. Author has used this concept and topped it with extraterrestrial presence, legend of Tripura, advanced weaponry like laser and atomic weapons, genetic engineering, spirituality, new extremist religion, karmic path and basic human emotions to weave a very interesting story. I would give full marks to author for thinking of and writing a mythological science fiction. All the magic and superpowers of Gods are shown as scientific advancement.

The legend of an advanced civilization prospering on an island that eventually went under water, destroying the civilization, appears in various countries. Atlantis in Greek mythology, Dwaraka in Indian mythology, Canoli in South American mythology all are based on same legend. Mohan has applied this legend to the mythological tale of Tripura in this book.

Characterization is good. Impact of global warming and increasing sea levels on human life is relevant even in today's time. The story drags on a few occasions but keeps you interested. Sometimes author could not resist the temptation of giving a sermon.

The book lunges into action from the first page without preamble. Character of the monk Hara is based on God Shankar and that of Uma on Parvati. Indra, Brahaspati, Vashishta, Prahlad, Mahishasur, Narakasur etc also make appearance.

The book cover is futuristic but it appears more like a comic cover. Could have been better. It's a book with small font. It must have reduced the number of pages by about 50.

It's a longish book based on a legend woven with mythology to create a science fiction.

Recommend reading.