The Queens of Hastinapur

Hastinapur #3

by Sharath Komarraju

Breathe into the silences of the Mahabharata.

'They claim to know her because she is unknowable. They see her form because she is formless. They speak on her behalf because she never utters a word.'

This is the story of Ganga, Madri, Pritha and Gandhari: women of the Mahabharata who, driven by their fears and ambitions, trigger events that lead to an epic war, propelling kings, princes and warriors towards glory and bloodshed, sin and redemption.

What came to an end in Kurukshetra took root in throne rooms and bedchambers, hermitages and sacred lakes, prisons and shrines, on horseback and under the stars.

This immersive, gripping retelling of the Mahabharata through the eyes of its female characters reveals how fates are sealed and destinies altered when women begin pulling the strings.

Genres: Mythology, Fiction, Fantasy

350 pages, Paperback

First published September 3, 2017

About the author

Sharath Komarraju is an author of fiction and nonfiction based in Bangalore, India. Once a software engineer, now he writes for a living, and on lazy days he watches cricket and talks to his wife (often at the same time).

His most popular work to date is the Hastinapur series, in which he speaks into the silences of the Mahabharata story through the epic's many women characters.

Reviews

[Sahitya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember really enjoying the first two books in this series because I’m usually very biased towards well written Mahabharata retellings but I don’t actually remember a lot of the story. But having no time to reread them, I proceeded with this third book and as I’m familiar with the source material, I found it quite easy to follow.

I have developed a lot of interest in reading our epics told through the women’s POVs, so reading this one through the eyes of Ganga, Gandhari and Pritha was a revelation. It’s a tale of destiny and fate, of what happens when celestials meddle in the lives of men, and how long term consequences are written into existence when women take charge of their own desires and fight for what they want. This is a story of motherhood, kingship, ambition and the lust for power - and ultimately what it leads to.

I think the author does a great job giving an interesting spin to the story, especially in portraying the queen mothers as more significant in the events that shaped the Hastinapur empire and I loved getting to know more about these women. They are shown as quite a bit ruthless and power hungry and while it’s something of a new portrayal and might offend some readers, I thought it was written quite well. The next two books seem to concentrate on Krishna’s side of the story but I hope we do get to read about the Pandavas exploits as well. Definitely excited to continue the series.

[dunkdaft · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are a handful retellings of this epic which try to keep things 'grounded', and not talk about divine interventions, gods and their incarnations and of course - magic. Trying to make Mahabharata a story, as a normal tale of kingly tiffs. The Hastinapur series by Sharath Komarraju is one such, while making you view the scenario from women's angles. Ganga, Pritha, Gandhari and Madri - in this third book in the series. First two books amply held your interest while talking about characters that didn't get much words in contemporary versions. However this time, things do not go as well as previous books.

Divided in two parts, the book tells the story of Ganga and Jahnavi, how their efforts fuel ongoing conflicts between Mathura and Magadha. An interesting twist in the world known story of Krishna. While another part of the book takes you back to Hastinapur and its leading ladies. Gandhari, Pritha and Madri. The first part keeps you engaged as the novelty in the storyline is apt to make you so. But the second part is someone dragging lethargically with visions of Gandhari and a humdrum tiff between two wives of Pandu. Pace is a universal issue throughout the book which does make you off at times. However, it's the curiosity of reader (of how the author is going to handle the 'five blessings to Kunti-Pritha') that keeps him going through the remaining pages.

I wonder whether there are any more books in the series, but still a rather dull finale this one had. Recommended only for those who went through the first two books.

[Meghna Roy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Breathe into the silences of the Mahabharata.

'They claim to know her because she is unknowable. They see her form because she is formless. They speak on her behalf because she never utters a word.'

This is the story of Ganga, Madri, Pritha and Gandhari: women of the Mahabharata who, driven by their fears and ambitions, trigger events that lead to an epic war, propelling kings, princes and warriors towards glory and bloodshed, sin and redemption.

What came to an end in Kurukshetra took root in throne rooms and bedchambers, hermitages and sacred lakes, prisons and shrines, on horseback and under the stars.

This immersive, gripping retelling of the Mahabharata through the eyes of its female characters reveals how fates are sealed and destinies altered when women begin pulling the strings.

This is book is the third in the Hastinapur series. Mahabharat has many strong women. The author has done fantastic work in giving a PoV to these often ignored characters.

Its interesting in reading our epics told through the women’s POVs, so reading this one through the eyes of Ganga, Gandhari and Pritha was outstanding. A tale of destiny, and fate, this is a story of motherhood, kingship, ambition and the lust for power - and ultimately what it leads to.

[Kalpana Dokka · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Early reader)

This is book is the third in the Hastinapur series, preceded by The Winds of Hastinapur and The Rise of Hastinapur. Mahabharat has many strong women. Satyavathi, Amba, Gandhari, Kunti and of course, Draupadi - each of whom defied conventions in one way or another. Yet, hardly any attention has been paid to them, except perhaps Draupadi. Sharath has been absolutely fantastic in given a voice to these often ignored characters.

(May have spoilers)

Gandhari's kingdom was conquered and she herself was married off to a blind man. Did she docilely accept it as her fate? Her blind husband, although the first-born, was deprived of the throne. What did Gandhari think of this? Pritha had to contend with her husband's second wife. No women would ever like or want to be in her shoes. What were her thoughts? I loved reading their thoughts and get to know them as real women and not just names in an epic or goody-two-shoes persona often expected of them.

Sharath's prose and language indeed transported me to the land of mountains and to the fertile river planes. I found it hard to put down this book once I started reading it. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Nandeesh Kadengodlu · Rating 3 out of 5]

Exciting continuation of the Mahabharatha though a new perspective. However, the presence of drama in unexpected places threw me off a bit.
Still eager to continue the series and see what comes next.

[Riya Joseph Kaithavanathara · Rating 3 out of 5]

"There is no hero in this tale of the great war. There is no villain.
There is no victor in this tale. There is no vanquished.
There is no right. No wrong.
There is just humanity and its many faces, all of them beautiful, all of them
hideous, all of them true, all of them false, all of them heroic, all of them drunk with
depravity"

BOOK: The Queens of Hastinapur
AUTHOR: #sharathkomarraju
GENRE: #indianmythology
#indianfolklore #folklore #literaryfiction
RATING: 3.8💫

This story is from the conscience and life of four woman from Mahabharata Ganga, Pritha, Madri & Gandhari who have lived their life from emotions and needs, whether its love, grief, power, or ambitions etc. Ganga who loved her son deeply, giving him away to a mortal life. Gandhari and Pritha who wished to be high queens of Hastinapur, a love for power. Madri who could keep her beloved king in her palms and pull the strings in his judgements and life by her youth and its charms. Madri who was never loved in her life from her king, like the love she experienced with Lord surya.
In book comcludes that woman desire from their emotions and they will feel lose and grief much more stronger than anyone.

If you are interested in the Mahabharat, then this book is for you. The author's writing style is captivating. I could feel the grief of Pritha and the esctacy of Madri.

[Lovely Singh]

Down the lane, I got this habit of reading books which speaks about our mythologies but not in a straight story narrative model, which I had seen in DD serials when I was a kid. My quest for such books made me arrive at this Authors book. Just like his previous books this book does take you through the journey of the characters of the already known people but in a different paradigm. It's currently caught me in it's grip and will be soon immerse me into the quest which I am sure will surprise(in a good way of course). Books like this and others from @Devdutt Patnaik, @Satyadeep do help me in understanding the mindset of our forefathers in epic story telling..

Will update when I complete the book...

[Prerna Neharika · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was the first book I've read from the series and I do not think I would like to continue on this. I usually really enjoy reading Indian Mythology and tales from Mahabharata are my most favourite but this book has failed me! It was full of contradictions and has written with very poor knowledge about the facts and beliefs.
The narration was not very engaging and the first half of the book was unbearable! Every now and then I was like "what the hell"?!?!. The book started on a totally different note and I was quite amazed by the prologue but then, the ending! It ended rather abruptly and on a really opposite note. I can't even tell you how terrible few things were with this book.

You know the cover of this book has fascinated me so much and now I can feel why they say, "Never judge a book by its cover"!
Gosh! Thank god it has ended.

[CMK · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was the first book of the trilogy (or more) that i read. Frankly, i am perplexed by the 4 and 5 star ratings of this book. It is full of contradictions...... Jhanavi on being jailed is unable to lift her wrists to hold her head as they are chained. In the next para she is able to rub her palms together and press them to her cheeks, ears and lips...chained wrists..... remember? so how does she do this...... Gandhari tells Dhritarashtra that she is carrying his child, they even discuss the gender and what would they do if it is girl.....but when she loses the child..... he tells her he was not even aware that she was with child.......It is as if the author and his editing team have forgotten what they have written one para/ few pages back. Everything is left hanging in the story line. What happened to Krishna, how did Jhanavi help in spiriting Devaki's child away without even going back from Meru? She was supposed to use her mystery power not just send Nishanta. Kuber is reduced to an errand boy. It appeared that the author wants to create a contrary personality of each personality as is popular known. So Devavrata is scheming, and so is Gandhari, Pandu is weak, not just physically, Dhritarashtra is a coward and Kunti (or Pritha as author calls her) and Madri are jealous of each other. Even Gods such as Vishnu and sages such as Vashista have been given negative qualities. And the concept of fertility rites is disgusting and insulting. Those known as incarnations of God are not, those known to be Gods mother is not. At the end of the book, i cannot see where the story is going, it started with Ganga sitting near Yudhitirs's lifeless body, but ended much before it reached this point.

Mythology is yes a tale and after Amish it is a fashion to write on mythology, but the writers should be careful that they do not create a completely contrary story, there needs to be some responsibility when writing tales which are based on beliefs of people. My first and last Sharath Komarraju book. He is as irresponsible and careless author.

[Sonali Dabade · Rating 5 out of 5]

[Early reader review]

I got a copy of this amazing book in exchange for an honest review. And like Sharath Komarraju’s first two books in this series, I’m absolutely floored.

I have always been a huge Sharath Komarraju fan, even surprising him by my ardor, I think. But it is what it is. His stories seem to have a beauty that is hardly found in books these days. Mythology is his strongest point and he fuses his way with words and his strength to bring out wonders such as this.

While women have not largely been part of the actual wars, they weren’t uninvolved. And to write, thinking of what they might have been thinking and going through at the time is absolutely commendable. It makes even a modern woman feel worthy and think of something on the lines of empowering ourselves. I say “ourselves” because that is the impact the book has had on me. For once (broadly speaking, or rather, narrowly), the men (Kubera, Nishanta, Kamsa, Bheeshma, Pandu, Dhritarashtra) take a backseat and let the ladies tell their stories. So satisfying!

With the book chugging along at the pace it does, it’s a treat to the imagination. I found it neither fast nor slow, but the speed was enough to make me want to read just one more page and not succeeding.

All in all, Sharath Komarraju has proven himself to be a master at alternative mythology yet again with his gripping narratives and well rounded off characters!

[Monisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sharath Komarraju’s second book in the series (Rise of Hastinapur) ended on a high promising all manner of adventure in subsequent books and I couldn’t wait for book 3 to be published. Of course I was delighted to be one of the early readers – a housebound week ensued as I worked my way through the first two books again and then attacked the third with gusto.

Queens of Hastinapur kept the momentum of the series going with an added intensity as you become reacquainted with previous characters and immerse yourself even deeper into their lives and are introduced to new, equally vivid characters. Having read various alternative versions of the Mahabharata, this one wins hands down in terms of its credibility. Whilst I know that this is the product of the author’s own imagination, I find myself willing it to be true, so very believable is it. It is almost disappointing to think that the truth is probably different….although who knows!

Some realistic rationalisations explain the alleged miracles and marvels of the original Mahabharat. However, what makes it real is that, readers can identify with the characters – they aren’t perfect, in fact quite far from it. They reveal an array of flaws that make them all the more human. Yet….perhaps having grown up with this epic, I do struggle a little with accepting that the noble Bhishma, the devoted Gandhari and even quiet Madri are so imperfect – perhaps I want to believe that they were special and deserved to be put on a pedestal. In this series, they become normal human beings warts and all.

I feel the focus on women clicked into place with this book. Maybe because I spent the first two books, accustoming myself to the style or writing (which is quite different – but a good different). However, with the exception of young Jahnvi (who gives birth to Krishna) who epitomises everything perfect – I can’t say I like the women very much. They are all self-centred, egocentric, greedy and utterly unlikeable. Yes, ok, I accept that many of them have reason to be, but Satyavati – ugh! And even Madri – how annoying was she??? Having said that, I can’t say the men in the book made much positive impact either – I mean could Pandu be any more spineless? And Shantanu lusting after the fisher girl – for goodness sake, you are king so start acting like one! As for Bhishma…I won’t even go there.

What Sharath Komarajju does remarkably well is that he manages to uphold the suspense even though we all know the story. That is quite a feat….to get the readers to keep turning those pages even though they know what happens in the grand scheme of things, now that’s something.

Would I change anything? Yup, a couple of minor bits….

e.g. the fighting section with Jahnvi (my fav), Kubera and Nishantha - personally I could have done without the detail on their military prowess. But maybe that’s a girl thing!

And while we’re on girl stuff – I would love to read more about how they looked, their clothes, their expressions etc. There is some but not enough for me. It helps me visualise the characters much more powerfully. But again girl thing!!

Not sure this one was pacey enough – some sections went into detailed, drawn-out description that I would have preferred to skip.

Finally one suggestion – can the next book include a map of the area at the time. This would be super helpful when visualising the strategy, the journeys etc.
Similarly a list of characters with explanation of who they are – maybe just me but I keep having to remind myself every now and then of the minor players in the story.

All in all - the author has done a bril job on this book too. Sharath, please tell us Book 4 (and 5 and 6…) is not too far around the corner?

[Soumyabrata Sarkar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Early Reader

Among all the three books of this series, that came out till now, this third book is perhaps the only one, which have strayed away from the Mahabharata arc, the most. At least the first half of the book can boast of the extraordinary talent of the author to spun a vivid and convincing backstory in setting the mood of this novel. Herein lies the beauty of alternative mythology/history, where the author have bring in, an altogether new story arc, purely of his notion and worldview, creating a story out of his imaginative universe that is as much rich and beautiful, as that of the main story of the epic, which is still going slow, and thanks for that as well, for we can relish and embed ourselves much more into the lives of the Queens of Hastinapur.

Character wise, I felt that this book has much more new characters, compared to its predecessors, and they play quite a vital role in the story they inhibit. As I was saying, the first story arc is of the character Jahnavi, who would later take up the pedestal for the maiden of the river, and in turn would become Ganga, and the task besotted upon her, the apparent fear of the Meru people against the grand ruler of Magadha and their appeasement of the ruler of Mathura in need, as well as the plan that fall back on them, jeopardizing the lives of the few who were sent to met out the job really transported me to a new corner of the story of this epic, that wasn't even there, and though seems far-fetched, felt normal and really convincing to me. Finding out plots and making them persuasive enough to be believed in, is one of the strong points of the author, which comes out in this book.

Going back to the story arcs, that we are already familiar of, from the main epic, like that of Gandhari, Pritha(Kunti) and Madri, the author still makes you think deep, as we zoom into the lives and skin of these characters. The point-of-view chapters, in between the narrated ones, bring out sudden nuances and a strong sense of characterization to the multi-layered personalities. You get to see, why are these characters doing what they do, their reminiscence and plan that went the right way as well as down the wrong path. Their hopes and despairs and in all likelihood, their wishes of "What if!".

The male counterparts, however, take a back-front here, though there are many. Kubera, Nishanta, Kamsa, Dhritarashtra, Pandu, Bhisma Devavrata, Vidur though are at many places, hardly come out of their shell. This is in sync with the first two books, where we were given glances, layered viewpoints of the male-characters through the female gaze, exact opposite to what is in the main Mahabharata, except that of the character Draupadi, Kunti and Satyavati that is.

Story wise, this book tells a brief period only, but if you look at geographical expanse it covers and the characters it fetches and fits into its bound, you will see, we are going for huge story-arcs for the next books. The plot is expanding and many more things are coming into play. It fits into the premise of grand things. I hope the author succeeds in building the pace as well the story that he has set out to carve out of the monolithic pot of the grand epic.

All hungry and set for the next book!

[Santosh Vasudevan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Early Reader
Mythology always fascinated me and Mahabharata in its own very complexities allows various view points. With none of the characters being purely ‘good’ or ‘bad’, the story can have multiple interpretations and the author brings forth a completely new and fresh point of view. Though knowing basic premise of Mahabharata is helpful, the book requires you to read without any pre conceived notion about characters because it shatters all the images created by the famed BR Chopra’s TV series.
The book is the third in the series of Hastinapur series and I havnt read the previous two stories. So when I was asked to be among the early reader for the book I was skeptical if I’ll be able to comprehend. But I had read ‘Dear Sakhi’, a collection of short stories on Mahabharata by Sharath which prompted me to read the whole novel and since I know the basic premise of Mahabharata, there was no difficulty. Though there are some references of previous books, it does not impact the flow of the story nor does it confuse the new reader on the plot lines.
The story is divided in two parts and the second part completely outscores the first. The first part covers the story of Mathura and Magadha and speaks about birth of Krishna- probably the most important character of Mahabharata. The take on story behind Krishna’s birth is completely new and the traditionalists/ hardliners may not like twist. Though the first part begins on a pacey note, it loses grip in between. The whole setting up security system in Mathura section looked stretched and I was flipping pages to see when something new will come. Though the section would be 10-15 pages, that was the only time I marginally lost interest. The second section however was a masterpiece and it never lets you keep the book down. Interpretation of Gandhari was extraordinary and completely unheard of. The whole way of looking at Mahabharata changes in the portrayal of Gandhari. Though story of Kunti and Madri were on predictable lines, it still keeps you hooked wondering about birth of Pandavas.
Though Mahabharata is considered stories of Panadavas and Kauravas, we always miss that the big trigger point in the story always involved women. And still in traditional interpretation women are just support members and not central characters in the story. The Author here tries to bring a women’s view of the story with women being the central characters pulling strings for men to act on their wishes.
Definitely recommended for readers with penchant for mythology.

[Neha Garg (thereadingowl_) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first two books in the series and this part held up to my expectations. It picks up the life at the court of Hastinapur from where the second book ended.

Even though we all know the great epic and have read/heard/seen it multiple times, I had many WTF moments while reading this book. The baseness of human desires and the power they have to push a person to do the meanest of things never fails to amaze me. I pity my naivety at such times. And like all Sharath's works the book is full of people bending to their dark natures, be it Kamsa who held his father, sister, and brother-in-law captive to keep the throne, or Gandhari, who would not think twice before poisoning another woman, or the revered Meru people, who would sustain on the lifeforce of others.

The book focuses on bringing out the voice of women present during this mythological period and outline the roles they might/might not have played in defining the destinies of men around them. Even though the book fulfills what it claims, I could relate much better to the characters in first two books. They were more independent and ruthless. Here women were shown more dependent on their sons and husbands. Their desires more easily stepped upon by what men around them wanted.

"Whether you like it or not, you shall be known to the world by first your husband, then your children. A woman has no other purpose."

The story is well-paced and the prose engaging. The suspense is properly upheld and leaves the reader wanting for more. It is a true page turner and I read late into the night. The writing also appealed to the dreamer inside me.

"'It does not help any of us that we cling to old memories.' She turned her face away from the window, and looked at where she thought Shubrasi was sitting, across the table. 'They are like dust from the mines. They linger for a moment, but the wind will blow them away."

Characters are well developed. Their thoughts, their ruthlessness is haunting. I would have loved to read more of Devaki's and Madri's side of the story too but then it will turn into an epic itself.

There are a million possible stories to fill the silences with and Sharath has picked up the best of them. He writes brilliantly and leaves the reader wanting for more. I am eagerly waiting for the next parts in the series to come out. I would recommend the series to anyone who is not satisfied with what is fed to us all life long in these epics and needs a fresh perspective.

This is an early reader review.

[Geeta Nair · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story-line/ Plot - Interesting, intriguing and a fresh take on an epic that has stood the test of time and till this day continues to draw the attention of young and old alike to look into it and try to find something new, something not thought of till date.

'The Queens of Hastinapur' as the blurb states, is the story of Ganga, Madri, Pritha and Gandhari the women of the Mahabharata who, driven by their fears and ambitions, trigger events that lead to an epic war, propelling kings, princes and warriors towards glory and bloodshed, sin and redemption.

What is interesting in the story is the sway the women characters hold over the men that matter, men whom we have all along thought to be tough .

A journey into the lives, the thought processes and the ways of these women at handling incidents, manipulating events, etc., etc., makes the book not only an insightful read but also brings to the fore the creative side of the story-teller in the author Sharath Komarraju and his mastery over words and skill in weaving magic with them, magic that leaves one entrenched in the story even long after it is over.

The plot, the style of narration, the imagery and the personality of the protagonists have the power to keep one hooked to the book till the end.

Characterization: The characters are well developed and are easily relatable. Their actions and reactions speak volumes of their strengths and weaknesses.

Language: Crisp, lucid and easy on the reader. Devoid of jargon that often tend to be stumbling blocks, the book takes the reader on a roller-coaster ride of the events without so much as making him/ her grimace at ill-fitting words or phrases.

Pace: Even. Neither too fast nor too slow.

VERDICT

A must read for the ones interested in Indian Mythology especially the Mahabharata. The book throws up a lot of surprises as far as some of the lesser discussed women characters of the original Mahabharata are concerned and at the same time reveals the potential of this great epic which is open to interpretation till this day.

I received an ARC copy of the book from the Author and I must say I'm truly impressed by his style of writing and versatility.

[Shwetha H.S. · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Queens of Hastinapur is third in the Hastinapur series. First two were Winds of Hastinapur and Rise of Hastinapur. Hastinapur series is a retelling of Mahabharath. This retelling shows how humane and materialistic the characters of the epic saga are compared to their depictions in the original and other versions.

Gandhari is striving to secure her chance to be the queen and the future queen-mother of Hastinapur. Pritha is striving to secure her place in the heart of her husband, the king of Hastinapur, Pandu, who has taken Madri as his second wife. The gods on Mount Meru are striving to resist the flourishing of Hastinapur to prevent the great empire, under the aegis of Devavrata, invading their abode on the holy mountain. Devaki is striving to keep her new-born alive so that he can grow up to kill his uncle Kamsa. King Kamsa is striving to keep his kingdom Mathura safe by coming into an alliance with King Jarasandha. The gods on Mount Meru have to now strive to keep themselves safe from the strong alliance of Kamsa and Jarasandha because Kamsa will definitely try to avenge the theft of the black stone magic by the gods from his kingdom. Jahnavi, Ganga’s apprentice, sent by the gods to Mathura, along with Kubera and Nishantha, gets caught by Kamsa and they all strive to get out out of the prison. What happens to all these women who are striving in this game of power? What happens to the men whose lives are entangled with the lives of these women? Ganga continues to tell you the epic story of Mahabharath.

Since the Queens of Hastinapur is third in the Hastinapur series, you need to read the first two books too to understand what is happening. After watching B R Chopra’s Mahabharath on television, this fresh retelling that shows each character in a different angle is welcoming. But, compared to the first two books, the Queens of Hastinapur’s narration seems pale, especially the part of Jahnavi, Kubera and Nishantha. Rest of the book’s narration is tolerable.

Hoping that the birth and upbringing of Krishna will not make women suffer more, hoping that the fourth book in the Hastinapur series will have a better narration than the third one, do give the Queens of Hastinapur a read.

[Keirthana T S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mythology interests me because of the varied interpretations it can offer to the reader and what intrigues me with such books is that we can never know the real truth as it happened (or not). When I read "The Palace of Illusions", it rekindled the remnant embers of my interest in Mahabharata as a story and so I picked up "The Queens of Hastinapur". What better than reading the story as it was viewed by the women who played a pivotal role.

However, the book made me realize that it is not the entire story as perceived by the women of the story but the key incidents (according to their perspectives) that shaped the great epic. Nevertheless, the narration was seamless and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. What I loved most was the commonality of the characters rather than idolizing them into some super humans or gods. I have always thought that people who live so many eons ago would have had abilities that were common to them but seems supernatural to us. The fact that the book went along with this thought helped me connect to it more.

Ganga, Gandhari, Kunti and Madri are the key women whose perspectives have shaped this book. The fight, subtle and otherwise, among the queens to ensure they get the throne and then their children is interesting. Sharath has highlighted the fact that however nice and kind you are, the politics of a palace and the throne in itself will change you. If you cannot beat them, join them - that's what happens to everyone, eventually. Such is kingship and the woes that come with it. The book has brought in this plot so well that I found myself wanting to read more and more.

And the portrayal of who we call as Gods as celestial beings with mysteries that enable them to appear super human to our eyes was a nice touch to the entire story. And the fact that even the celestials could not resist being pulled into such politics of land and rulership drives home the fact that no one is beyond the flow of time and destiny.

Overall, I would say this is a good read if you are a fan of mythological interpretations.

[Surendra Nath · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Hastinapur series by Sharath Komarraju. Quite imaginatively written like the earlier ones. It’s about four queens of Hastinapur, the ancient city that forms the backdrop of the epic THE MAHABHARATA. The first half of the book, Book One, is all about Ganga, her life on Meru and in Hastinapur. Book Two is about three contemporary queens Gandhari, Pritha, and Madri.

The queens are mostly engaged in scheming, which is apparently what MAHABHARATA is mostly about, unlike RAMAYANA where the theme revolves mostly around love, sacrifice, friendship, selflessness, brotherhood, respect, help, etc..

The language is good, smooth and easy and at the same time, it has a style befitting a mythological narrative. The plot is not the mythology we know, but imaginatively created by Sharath in his inimitable style, as in his previous books. The story is anchored onto the key Mahabharata plot, but the characters take their own directions, thoughts and actions. Bhishma (as also Dhritarashtra and Pandu) is constantly plotting in his mind to achieve his agenda.

Sharath creates this unique characterisation of Gods and Goddesses and sages in a manner that they are not eternal, but new generations take over the mantle from the previous ones. So the characters (like Durvasa in his earlier book; Bhrigu and Ganga in this book) appear young when they have just taken over the reins from their predecessors. My general opinion is these Gods and sages are everlasting.

The ending is rather abrupt. It skips a lot of time, and Pritha concludes with her thoughts when the war has ended. We don’t get to know the minds of the two queens of Hastinapur during the better part of MAHABHARATA, when their children are vying for the throne, fighting and dying.

[Saumya Mohanty · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Early Reader Review)

I am a mythology fan and pick up every book that can bring a different perspective to my mind on any of the said stories in this category. Believe me, the titles in the series are intriguing and truly 'Breathe into the Silences'. Sharath Komarraju brings on board stories weaved around the gaps that we may find in Mahabharata and he definitely has weaved some interesting ones with the scope those gaps or silences provided him.

Mahabharata is one of the most retold stories among our epics and it already has some interesting and strong characters around. Sharath definitely had a difficult job of filling in the gaps of these strong characters with equally strong and interesting anecdotes to connect their behaviour or decision making that impacted the process leading to the epic war!

My favourites are the women in Mahabharata but till date only Draupadi has managed to get some limelight. It was interesting to know and get into the minds of the others like Ganga who married a human for a purpose at hand, Gandhari who willing accepted marrying a blind man and entered into the family which tortured her own and lost all her sons to a war, Prita who dealt with a 'pre marital relationship' and then had to accept the second woman his man brought home and be on run though she and her sons were the rightful heir to the throne. How did these women deal with these situations literally thrown at them by destiny and the men in their lives? What went around their mind and why did they deal the way they did is what this book talks about .....

Beautifully weaved with a decent pace of events to keep readers engaged with great descriptive language which one may hardly find in many current Indian writers.

[Aparna H S · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Early Reader)

I was very much awaiting the third book in the Hastinapur series and was delighted to be one of the early readers of this amazing book by Sharath Komarraju.

While Mahabaratha is one of the most told stories to us since childhood, little do we know of the intricacies of some characters, especially female characters. The series has been revolving around that theme, telling the story of our great epic through the voices of much ignored but infact highly prominent women!

This book, the Queens of Hastinapur, especially throws light on Gandhari. The many thoughts in her mind, how they play out into her actions, how these actually have influenced the story line in Mahabaratha has been beautifully delivered by the author.

I also enjoyed reading about Jahanavi, Kunti and Devaki. Devaki's appearances in the book though not a lot, brings out her nature, nature of the relationship she shared with Vasudev, and how they effect the course of story. Though I missed the strong presence of Bhishma like in the prequels, I thoroughly enjoyed "The Queens of Hastinapur" and I strongly recommend this to people who love mythology and also to those who like reading stories through eyes of different characters. Also, its a must read to realize how actually women who are kind of sidelined in most story tellings of Mahabratha, nut have in fact played a pivotal role in the entire course of events.

Having read the book in single sitting, I wanna now go back and re-read some parts which I consider have been defining moments in Mahabaratha.! Waiting dearly for Hastinapur #4!

[Salil Sathe · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Queens of Hastinapur is the third book of the Hastinapur series, the first two being The Winds of Hastinapur and The Rise of Hastinapur.

The Queens of Hastinapur is the first book of the series that I have read. It is basically a mytho-fantasy book based on the epic "Mahabharata". Many storytellers have retold the story of Mahabharata from various angles, but mostly from a man's point of view, be it Karna, Krinshna, Arjun or Yudhishthir. We all know that all these characters have a grey shade, they are neither being right nor wrong. But what about women's point of view. What is their story? Just like the men, do they also have grey shades... There are many things unsaid in Mahabharata. This book tries to fill in the blanks and provide answers to the silences of the story from the women's point of view.

The Queens of Hastinapur is a fast paced novel and an engaging read. It is written from the point of view of Ganga, Jahnavi, Gandhari and Pritha. It takes you back in the days of Kuru rule.

It consists of 2 parts: First part is based on the intervention done by Meru-ites in the lives of people of North countries which is a story of Ganga and Jahnavi which serves as a prologue to Krishna's tale. The second part Victory and Defeat is based on the lives of Gandhari and Pritha. It dwells on the time in which the seeds of the great war of Hastinapur were sown.

An interesting read for anyone who likes the stories of Mahabharata and for those who will not mind a bit of fiction added to give voice to the silences of the Mahabharata story.

I was fortunate to be one of the early readers of this book...

[Arvind Yerram · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Early reader)

Having been a reader of all books of Sharath, I got this book for a honest review and here I am presenting my review. I say, Sharath views things from an angle which no one has ever seen before. There have been many alternate mythology versions of Mahabharath but none from the leading ladies point of view. He answers the simple question apt for those generations, 'what if it is the ladies who ran the show, with men being in the forefront?' I believe, it all started off with his initial book which talks about 17 fascinating women from Mahabharatha. By the end of the series, we would have the version of all the fascinating women I suppose.

Queens of Hastinapur is the third installment of the Hastinapur series and continues to showcase Mahabharatha from the ladies point of view. If it was Ganga, Satyavati, Amba, Gandhari, Prita, Devaki in the previous versions, we get to see Saraswati in this installment along with Gandhari and Prita taking up more prominent roles with support from Devaki and Madri. Though the narration at times was slow, the gripping story telling makes up for it.

I got this book to be a part of the advanced readers and I must admit I am not dissapointed with this. Infact, it has been exciting to read books like this but still had my own doubts on a yet to be released book. I gave my nod, only because it was from one of my favourite authors.

Sharath wrote books in many genres but I believe, his best comes up when he writes alternate mythology closely followed by horror and romance genres. His financial book has been a top notch as well. Sharath is competing by himself. Waiting for the 4th installment of the series...

[Sneha Das · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third and final installment of the Hastinapur series and whew! It flew away like a breeze.

I would give this 4 stars out of 5.

⭐- This would be the first book in this series in which I loved almost all the protagonists. I admired the strength in them, be it Jahnavi, be it Gandhari or Pritha.

⭐- Once again I fell in love with the way the author pulled the women to the forefront, distinguished them.

⭐- The emotional tussle between Pritha, Pandu and Madri got all my heart. I could place myself at Pritha's place, feel all those which she felt.

⭐- The scene where Gandhari lost her child brought tears to my eyes. It's been quite a while since some book gave me tremors.

⭐🚫- I don't know what exactly I take away this star for. You know the feeling when you love a book, but don't want to give it 5 stars? It's good but not excellent.

🐱- How can this series end without Draupadi's POV? When you decide to narrate Mahabharata from the eyes of the women present there, you have to include her! She is the most important one!!

🐱- I loved how the fertility ritual was portrayed. It beautifully brought out the difference between lust and love. The difference between being physical with someone and making love.

🐱- I would recommend this series to everyone. It's worth your time!

[Srivastava · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best part of this book, as in the first two, is the introduction of logic in the world of myths. The story is totally believable. Details are vivid; you can almost 'see' what's happening! His writing is indeed commendable. Who says only eyes read? Sharath's description evokes all senses.

I've grown up reading tales which show royals of Kuru clan to be perfect, godly, almost unreal. Sharath's characters are not untouched from dark human qualities such as envy, hatred, pride, longing-ness, etc. The growth of each character can be traced. I esp. liked the character of Ganga. From being the young maiden of 'Winds' to becoming a gorgeous lady who is so well versed with the ways of the world- she has come so far!

The cover cannot be any more beautiful. The title is apt. The writing is crispy. It's like a smooth ride. Not a single scene is a misfit. The author delves into innermost thoughts and feelings of each character. I particularly liked this. The Book ends leaving you with an urge to read the next book as soon as possible. I hope the author is listening.

P.S.: This is an early review. I got a copy from the author.

[Umesh Rao · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Queens of Hastinapur is the 3rd book in the Hastinapur series by Sharath Komarraju. I was pleasantly surprised at how easily I could start getting pulled into the story without reading the initial 2 books of the series. The story gives a feeling of knowing about the characters in a much deeper sense than just hearing their names in the Mahabharata story. It goes in depth into the psyche of the women characters of Mahabharata and explores the side of the characters who have been silenced in the usual telling and retellings of the Epic.

The pace in which the tale unfurls is very gripping and makes the book hard to shelve after beginning to read it. The language is very crisp and clear making it a wonderful reading experience. The interesting thing about the plot of the book was that you feel you know the story but yet the book is able to show that there are so many different aspects which have remained silent in the epic. The unique aspect of the book is that it gives voice to the women characters of the epic and brings out the story from their perspective.

I was an Early Reader of this book and highly recommend this book.

[Rahul Vishnoi · Rating 4 out of 5]

OUR OWN TOLKIEN
(An early reader's review)
Sharath has been excellently writing Mahabharat, molding the story like clay refining the blobs and smoothing the bumps. The series is three books rich now god knows that it's something I have never heard or seen of. He has balanced magic with rationality, heroism with vulnerability. His characters aren't like the outlandish caricatures you have seen in the mythological shows. He has rationalized the story of Mahabharat to a great extent. While we still have a 'mountain' where people drink from a 'Crystal Lake', we also have a prison where Devaki has been locked and, unlike those shows l, no locks open of their own accord in Sharath's books. He has an explanation for everything. The pace, I fear has slowed the story a bit but Sharath compensate it with the solid, living and breathing characters he has carved out with so much heart. Watch out for Kunti's repeated attempts to free her sister in law. Pritha is my favorite character from the novel and Gandhari is someone I sympathies with.
Way to go Sharath.

[Nishtha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I asked to be an early reader, mostly because the last two books left a strong good impression. The Hastinapur series has managed to get better with every book. I was wary about wanting to read the first; rewriting mythology is an arduous task and my experience with other works has usually left me disappointed. However, Sharath has managed to keep the story line clean, with very strong and well-rounded characters who evolve like characters in any work of fiction. The writer is taking a huge risk, however, Mahabharatha allows him the space to take logical liberties with them as well.

The start of the book is slow; something that I'm grudgingly getting used to now. But once you get past the long monologues, it's hard to put down. As always, the structure of sentences and dialogues are never halting, mostly natural, and the book will leave you wanting more.

Why should you pick this book: If you're interested in mythology/fantasy and good writing, it is worth the experience of what good fiction should read like.

[Ashmeet Kaur · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been an early reader, a dedicated one, of Sharath's work for a long time now.

I am a Sikh and it has always been very embarrassing for me when all my Hindu friends discussed about Mahabharata and I had no idea who was who. But since I had this realization later in my life, that I should read Hindu epics, I was sure that I won't read the ones which demean women. I wanted to hear more about the women. And what they thought. I know Sharath's work is not a retelling but more about his interpretation of the events that are not mentioned in the epic and could have happened and that's exactly what makes his books interesting. I loved, absolutely loved reading The Queens of Hastinapur and I think it's unfair that I have to wait for another year for his next book. I won't get into what was in the book as I genuinely want people to enjoy it anyway. But trust me, it's worth it. If you enjoy stories, not Mahabharata, not Hinduism, not India, but stories in general, then pick this book up and you won't regret it!

[Eraneh Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

What comes in your mind when you think of great epics like Iliad, Mahabharata, Ramayana and Odyssey??? In my mind the battles between two sides with each side using it's greatest weapons to destroy the other side start playing when I think of any of these epics. This book shows the story of the epics without the physical battles rather the battle which is fought with strong will and wits. The book tells about four different women which played an important role in setting up the stage for Mahabharata which basically wasn't their initial intention. Each women has doubt in the beginning, thinks she doesn't have any power and is meant only to observe and act according to the orders given by others but as we continue reading we see how these characters grow and understand the kind of power they hold in their hands which not only makes them significant but also changes their lives. I loved the way in which all the queens faced their internal battles and came out to be victorious afterwards. Great story and perfect way of writing it.

[Kapil Dev · Rating 4 out of 5]

Last night I finished reading Queens of Hastinapur and I wasn't disappointed. I had read Puppeteers of Palem recently and the expectations were high from this one, too.
To begin with, I loved the character of Kamsa. He was the character which truly stole the show from the ladies (Jahnavi, Ganga and Pritha to be precise) who are flamboyantly represented in this masterpiece.
The first two chapters bored a lil bit because they were longer than the others, but, the book eventually caught up the pace and the intrigue prevailed to the end.
The book stands true to its name with women being the key characters throughout and I think readers who are inclined towards feminism might find the book appealing.
A pleasant read, indeed.
Also, it helped me learn how the mythological fiction should appear like and will make it easier for me to write my second book which is of the same genre.


Note- I am one of the early readers of this book and I enjoyed being a part of them.