Vishwamitra by Dr Vineet Aggarwal

"Vishwamitra" by Dr Vineet Aggarwal. This book is published by Penguin Metro Reads in 2014 and has 242 pages.

As the title suggests this is story of legendry Vishwamitra, the man who dared to challenge the Gods, who was born Kshatriya but had a burning desire to become a Brahmarshi.

His hatred for Vashishtha & Devas started from his defeat at the hands of celestial cow Nandini and later Brahmarshi Vashishtha as well as after the Indra-Menaka episode.

Character of Vishwamitra is full of contradictions. He is born Kshatriya but wanted to become Brahmarshi. He leaves material world for penance but falls for the carnal pleasures with Menaka. He is highly intelligent, creative and capable but acts irresponsibly. He achieves highest level spiritually but can not get rid of hatred. He hates Devas, but appeases them with Yagna and sacrifice. A very interesting personality.

Author has used up a lot of page space until Vishwamirtra renounces his kingdome to start his penance. Episode with Menaka is written realistically and is probably the best part of the book. Final transformation of Vishwamitra from a person who wants to avenge Vashishtha to a person who repents happens too suddenly. Author could have spent a few more pages for this part.

Author has narrated the tale in the fashion of historical account rather than a fiction novel. He has also used modern language and scientific terminologies in the book, to explain mystic powers, that did not exist in those times, so the ancient atmosphere is disturbed.

Cover design of the book is good. It shows Vishwamitra in the process of creating new world for Trishanku. But six packs of Vishwamitra are not clearly evident, they should have been prominent (Painters error?).

An OK book. Read if you have time.