The curse of Brahma by Jagmohan Bhanver

"The curse of Brahma" by Jagmohan Bhanver. This book is published by Rupa publications India private Ltd. in 2015 and has 378 pages. This is Book 1 of Krishna trilogy. 

Brahma cursed his favourite disciple, Amartya Kalyanesu, for no fault of his, 200 years ago, and banished him to the deepest level of hell - tamastmah prabha, never to return. Kansa is the noblest of men and loves his sister Devaki and his close friend Vasudev. The Dark Lord is rising.

Why did Brahma curse? What is the objective of Dark Lord?  Who is Bhargava? Who is the Dark Lord? What is Jarasandha's plan? What happened to Kansa?

This is the story of Krishna, alright! But the author tells it in a way it was never told before. He has used a conspiracy that involves Patal, Mrityulok and Swarg to play out the story. It would not just be the battle  between Pandav's and Kaurav's eventually. But that  id's for the sequels.

This book takes us through the story of Kansa. The noble, affable Kansa who loves his little sister Devaki, close friend Vasudev and father Ugrasen. He is also considered one of the most accomplished fighters in Bharat.

Author has used smart imagination and convincing narration to explain Kansa's behaviour,  the grand plot and the mega battle that is in the offing. Author has written the story boldly. He does not hesitate to use modern terminology and concepts to carry the story forward. Credit to author that although he uses the modern concepts, it doesn't appear out of place or like an appendage. 

Jagmohan also takes us to the nether world inhibited by Asuras, Bonara, Kalakanjas, Pisacas, Bhutas, Pretas etc. There is also a society of assassins called Zataka Upanshughataks. And then there is Bhargava.

The story ends at a point where Krishna is poised to be born. Books 2 & 3 should take the story forward to conclusion. Reader's will meet Krishna in next book.

Its a very good rendition of the known story.  It's this ability to look at the known thing from an entirely abject perspective and pen it credibly that makes an author stand out. Jagmohan Bhanver has this ability.

This book was published in 2015. Almost 3 years ago and Book 2 is still not published. I wonder what happened. I would wait for it. 

Why did I read this book?  Blurb.  

What I didn't like? Minor deficiencies (e.g. Ghora fights valiantly but his teacher Ugra is defeated easily)   

What did I like? Idea and narration.

Recommend reading.