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Book review
The divine sage Narada is the most popular figure in Puranic lore. No event of significance takes place in the Puranas that Narada does not have a hand in. He is depicted as a messenger always on the move, visiting the devas, the manavas and the asuras and honoured by all. Although Narada is always referred to with respect in mythology, he is often misunderstood and ridiculed by the common people as a carrier of tales and a mischief-maker. However, Narada’s so-called mischief invariably brings about the downfall of the wicked and furthers the cause of the good. A great devotee of Vishnu, he is credited with the invention of the Veena – a musical instrument, the authorship of the code of laws and of ‘Narada Bhakti Sutra’ (aphorisms on devotion). The three tales included here are based on the Shiva Purana and other popular legends. They tell us how Narada, although a divine sage, at times falls prey to temptation and became conceited. Fortunately for Narada, Vishnu was beside him to pull him up every time he succumbed to human weakness. Gradually, Narada became free from human failings and attained true equanimity of mind.
The divine sage Narada is the most popular figure in Puranic lore. No event of significance takes place in the Puranas that Narada does not have a hand in. He is depicted as a messenger always on the move, visiting the devas, the manavas and the asuras and honoured by all. Although Narada is always referred to with respect in mythology, he is often misunderstood and ridiculed by the common people as a carrier of tales and a mischief-maker. However, Narada’s so-called mischief invariably brings about the downfall of the wicked and furthers the cause of the good. A great devotee of Vishnu, he is credited with the invention of the Veena – a musical instrument, the authorship of the code of laws and of ‘Narada Bhakti Sutra’ (aphorisms on devotion). The three tales included here are based on the Shiva Purana and other popular legends. They tell us how Narada, although a divine sage, at times falls prey to temptation and became conceited. Fortunately for Narada, Vishnu was beside him to pull him up every time he succumbed to human weakness. Gradually, Narada became free from human failings and attained true equanimity of mind.
Amar Chitra Katha
Yet More Tales from the Jatakas - By Anant Pai
All living creatures die to be born again – so the Hindus believe Siddhartha, who became the Buddha, was no exception. It is believe...more>>
All living creatures die to be born again – so the Hindus believe Siddhartha, who became the Buddha, was no exception. It is believe...more>>
Vishnu to the Rescue - By Anant Pai
In all the Vaishnavaite temples is invariably erected a stone flag-post covered with a metal plate, with an image of Garuda on top. ...more>>
In all the Vaishnavaite temples is invariably erected a stone flag-post covered with a metal plate, with an image of Garuda on top. ...more>>
Vishnu the Saviour - By Anant Pai
This special issue presents three titles, which have been brought out in deluxe editions. Devout Hindus believe that whenever e...more>>
This special issue presents three titles, which have been brought out in deluxe editions. Devout Hindus believe that whenever e...more>>
The Sons of the Pandavas - By Anant Pai
Abhimanyu’s father was the great Arjuna. His mother, Subhadra, was the sister of Lord Krishna. In spite of being overshadowed by suc...more>>
Abhimanyu’s father was the great Arjuna. His mother, Subhadra, was the sister of Lord Krishna. In spite of being overshadowed by suc...more>>
The Ramayana - By Anant Pai
Valmiki’s Ramayana is believed to be the first poetic work written in Sanskrit; it is, therefore, referred to as the Adikavya. I...more>>
Valmiki’s Ramayana is believed to be the first poetic work written in Sanskrit; it is, therefore, referred to as the Adikavya. I...more>>