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In worship of Shiva
The classic stories in this choice selection are a few of the best known ones from the living traditions of Indian mythology. Evocatively and beautifully retold, these stories are enhanced and enriched in symbolic meaning and iconography by the magnificent colour, and black and white illustrations by painter Badri Narayan.
Hardcover
First published January 1, 1986
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September 5, 2025
In Worship of Shiva is an evocative and beautifully retold collection of stories centered on Lord Shiva, enriched with vibrant color illustrations that enhance the symbolic and iconographic dimensions of the narratives. The book offers a visually engaging and spiritually profound exploration of Shiva’s mythology and significance within Hindu tradition.
A distinguishing feature of this book is its integration of visual art with storytelling. The colorful illustrations deepen the reader’s understanding of Shiva’s multifaceted symbolism, from his ascetic yogi form to his cosmic dancer persona (Nataraja). These images serve as visual meditations, inviting readers to appreciate the layers of spiritual meaning encoded in Shiva’s iconography.
Rao’s narrative style balances accessibility with depth, making the tales resonate with both younger readers and adults. The language is poetic yet clear, allowing the myths to unfold with a sense of reverence and intimacy. This retelling captures the essence of Shiva’s paradoxical nature—as destroyer and creator, meditator and cosmic dancer—while emphasizing devotion and spiritual insight.
The combination of vivid illustrations and lyrical storytelling makes it particularly effective as a gift book or an introduction to Shiva’s rich world for newcomers and devotees alike. In Worship of Shiva is a treasured offering that harmonizes art and narrative to celebrate one of Hinduism’s most complex and beloved deities. Through beautiful color illustrations and evocative retellings, it invites readers into a devotional and symbolic encounter with Shiva that is at once timeless and deeply personal.
A distinguishing feature of this book is its integration of visual art with storytelling. The colorful illustrations deepen the reader’s understanding of Shiva’s multifaceted symbolism, from his ascetic yogi form to his cosmic dancer persona (Nataraja). These images serve as visual meditations, inviting readers to appreciate the layers of spiritual meaning encoded in Shiva’s iconography.
Rao’s narrative style balances accessibility with depth, making the tales resonate with both younger readers and adults. The language is poetic yet clear, allowing the myths to unfold with a sense of reverence and intimacy. This retelling captures the essence of Shiva’s paradoxical nature—as destroyer and creator, meditator and cosmic dancer—while emphasizing devotion and spiritual insight.
The combination of vivid illustrations and lyrical storytelling makes it particularly effective as a gift book or an introduction to Shiva’s rich world for newcomers and devotees alike. In Worship of Shiva is a treasured offering that harmonizes art and narrative to celebrate one of Hinduism’s most complex and beloved deities. Through beautiful color illustrations and evocative retellings, it invites readers into a devotional and symbolic encounter with Shiva that is at once timeless and deeply personal.
Displaying 1 of 1 review