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Karna's Alter Ego
Vasu is a loser, a talented loser like Karna of Mahabharata. Misfortune hounds him wherever he goes. Despite being gifted, he is denied all credits in life, rejected in love, misses a medal in the Asian games, gets caught for telling an innocent lie, and is not promoted. Karna’s Alter Ego This is not a mythological tale but a contemporary take on mythology based on a legend from the Indian epic Mahabharata. Does one need to be acquainted with the epic to follow this novel?
NO. All one needs to know about The Mahabharata is there was a character named Karna, who was a much-talented hero, but luck was against him all the time, from his birth until his death. Indeed, gods plotted against him so that Arjuna (another heroic character) could kill him in the final battle. This abridged version is especially meant for those who may not be well-versed with Indian mythology. It comes with a glossary.
The plot is set in the present time and is about a modern protagonist named Vasu, who is quite like Karna. And interestingly Karna appears to him after every debacle to assuage and encourage him.
It seems Vasu is Karna’s alter ego; but will he, finally, break the jinx? Will he win the endgame? This is not a mythological tale but a contemporary take on mythology.
NO. All one needs to know about The Mahabharata is there was a character named Karna, who was a much-talented hero, but luck was against him all the time, from his birth until his death. Indeed, gods plotted against him so that Arjuna (another heroic character) could kill him in the final battle. This abridged version is especially meant for those who may not be well-versed with Indian mythology. It comes with a glossary.
The plot is set in the present time and is about a modern protagonist named Vasu, who is quite like Karna. And interestingly Karna appears to him after every debacle to assuage and encourage him.
It seems Vasu is Karna’s alter ego; but will he, finally, break the jinx? Will he win the endgame? This is not a mythological tale but a contemporary take on mythology.
- GenresFiction
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2015
About the author
Surendra Nath
18 books43 followersSurendra Nath
Books by the author
1. Karna’s Alter Ego
2. Kavach of Surya
3. Kavyanjali Vol. 1
4. Kavyanjali Vol. 2
5. Kavyanjali Vol. 3
6. Kavyanjali Vol. 4
7. Kavyanjali Vol. 5
8. Selected Poems of Haldhar Nag
9. 7 Suspects (Seven Suspects)
Books by the author
1. Karna’s Alter Ego
2. Kavach of Surya
3. Kavyanjali Vol. 1
4. Kavyanjali Vol. 2
5. Kavyanjali Vol. 3
6. Kavyanjali Vol. 4
7. Kavyanjali Vol. 5
8. Selected Poems of Haldhar Nag
9. 7 Suspects (Seven Suspects)
He has a few other eBooks to his credit, namely, ‘Mysteries Surrounding Konark’, How to Self-Publish Your eBook’, Fourteen Folktales from Faraway Lands’. All are available online.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
January 31, 2018
Do you know the feeling of gaining something incredible after you finish reading a book?
That's what I am feeling.
A sense of gaining something awe-inspiring and liberating.
The joy of winning!
Vasu, a well deserving boy has an illegitimate birth history, poor as poor can be and completely out of luck in everything he does.
His fate never shone on him whether it was school, college, love, career - even if he was the most talented person in the arena, he was destined to be a runner-up.
Never making it to the top - A winner in the eyes of everyone - he couldn't become.
He made all efforts to get the glory he deserved, to change the misfortune that occurred to him since his birth. He worked hard, real hard but nobody was to give him prestige his skills merited.
Failed to join the parade in Delhi in Republic Day, failed to become the school captain, misfortune at the ''Game of Luck", failed to get the love of his life, his resignation and many more.
Despite trying his best, Failure in every field he got - but any of it was not making him to go in despair!
One thing life didn't teach him - To let the setbacks hold him down.
Learning from his mistakes was what he knew.
That was the best thing about Vasu!
Although he accepted that his life is fabricated around the thread of misfortunes - he didn't seem to get affected by any of them.
He did what he was supposed to do - He Kept Trying. Relentlessly
Although having a constant grief and sympathy with the protagonist during the whole course of the reading, the spectator doesn't seem to lose faith in him, his efforts and supports him throughout the book.
Unconditionally!
THIS was the best thing about Karna's Ater Ego.
The cover is fantastically crafted - A man's troubled face showing his plight on his forehead and eyes but sheer determination on the rest of his face - demonstrates that this book is going to make you lament about Vasu's fate but in the end you will get strength and determination as Vasu did.
The selection of names from the Indian Mythology Mahabharat was delightful. Just as you get to know the names of the character, you become certain that here comes his rival, his misfortune. This anticipation adds more grief in you towards your hero in this.
Karna's Alter Ego not only urges to have sheer passion and determination but also teaches to have faith in your deeds and hard work.
Narration may take time to get you involved with Vasu's life's tragedy but once you are in, there's no turning back.
The story is fresh and relieving.
In showing light even in the darkest of the time, Surendra Nath has done an applauding job.
His methods of blending mythology and modern realities into one epic story is delightful to
Verdict : If you think you've ever lost, Try to Find this one.
I won't settle until I read the next part.
February 22, 2017
Vasu has had the worst luck right from his birth. He feels that no matter how hard he works or how deserving he is, things never go his way. From being an illegitimate child to struggles through his school life – things only make him want to take charge of his own life. But whether it is his personal life or his professional life, things always slip out of his reach. His luck never seems to look up and smile at him. Vasu feels that his life mirrors the life of Karna – the ‘ill-fated hero of Mahabharata’. He feels so connected to Karna that Karna ‘appears’ to counsel him. The twist in the story comes in late – too late for Vasu? Or just in time after all?
The blurb of this book felt interesting because I loved the idea of a mythological character being re-invented in the modern era. Also, the mention of Karna appearing to assuage the protagonist reminded me of the Munnabhai MBBS movie as well. So, I had to take a chance with it.
Vasu is an interesting character. His life and his attitude towards life catch the attention of the reader right away. He makes the reader to want to get to know him and understand him. I felt it was the biggest asset of the book – the characterization of Vasu. He is someone who not only intrigues the readers but also manages to hold their attention throughout. There are quite a few other side characters that play important roles in the story. They were introduced and developed well enough to keep pace with Vasu. However, I wished that the author had chosen different names for them and wished for slightly different placements. The author’s choices in these two matters actually made the book very much predictable at so many important points. The story flow lagged at a few places where the narration felt a bit pushy and preachy. But for most parts, I felt that the author has done a good enough job with the narrative which was quite simple and restrained. The best part about the book is the way the author has laid out a simple plot that can be looked at many ways. It is up to the reader to decide how much they want to absorb from it.
If you decide to pick up this book, I would recommend that you give it time – it may take a few pages to really get into the story and to ‘get’ the flow. But once you do, you will only put it down after finishing it. A good debut.
http://www.b00kr3vi3ws.in/2016/06/boo...
The blurb of this book felt interesting because I loved the idea of a mythological character being re-invented in the modern era. Also, the mention of Karna appearing to assuage the protagonist reminded me of the Munnabhai MBBS movie as well. So, I had to take a chance with it.
Vasu is an interesting character. His life and his attitude towards life catch the attention of the reader right away. He makes the reader to want to get to know him and understand him. I felt it was the biggest asset of the book – the characterization of Vasu. He is someone who not only intrigues the readers but also manages to hold their attention throughout. There are quite a few other side characters that play important roles in the story. They were introduced and developed well enough to keep pace with Vasu. However, I wished that the author had chosen different names for them and wished for slightly different placements. The author’s choices in these two matters actually made the book very much predictable at so many important points. The story flow lagged at a few places where the narration felt a bit pushy and preachy. But for most parts, I felt that the author has done a good enough job with the narrative which was quite simple and restrained. The best part about the book is the way the author has laid out a simple plot that can be looked at many ways. It is up to the reader to decide how much they want to absorb from it.
If you decide to pick up this book, I would recommend that you give it time – it may take a few pages to really get into the story and to ‘get’ the flow. But once you do, you will only put it down after finishing it. A good debut.
http://www.b00kr3vi3ws.in/2016/06/boo...
December 6, 2015
A very enriching book.
One could easily understand that the author is an experienced person and has beautifully drawn comparisons between the protagonist and the mythical Karna.
I was extremely happy to receive the copy of this book from the author in a giveaway. The genre especially interested me since my book, THE BHAIRAV PUTRAS, too is under this broad genre if not the exact one as this book.
The language is lucid and an endorsement from Mr. Bond adds a lot of value. Given the concept, the book cover could have been a lot better but then that shouldn't take much away from an engaging read.
One could easily understand that the author is an experienced person and has beautifully drawn comparisons between the protagonist and the mythical Karna.
I was extremely happy to receive the copy of this book from the author in a giveaway. The genre especially interested me since my book, THE BHAIRAV PUTRAS, too is under this broad genre if not the exact one as this book.
The language is lucid and an endorsement from Mr. Bond adds a lot of value. Given the concept, the book cover could have been a lot better but then that shouldn't take much away from an engaging read.
March 14, 2016
This review is from the author, because Goodreads has such a provision urging authors to review their own work. This is not really a review but some information about the book. Why 5 stars then? Because I shouldn’t dilute the overall rating. That done. What’s the book about? It’s a philosophical adventure of an unfortunate boy who is born a loser. Practically, all of us, at some point of time, are faced with situations where some smart guy tricks us and takes away our due.
What inspired me to write on this theme? You could say, in Vasu I see a reflection of myself. Some incidents I have faced. And some incidents I have created.
Now, where does Karna fit in here? Is he for real or is he only in Vasu’s imagination. I have left it to the reader to find an answer. Do ask me on this forum, if you have any questions. Thanks. Surendra
What inspired me to write on this theme? You could say, in Vasu I see a reflection of myself. Some incidents I have faced. And some incidents I have created.
Now, where does Karna fit in here? Is he for real or is he only in Vasu’s imagination. I have left it to the reader to find an answer. Do ask me on this forum, if you have any questions. Thanks. Surendra
February 11, 2016
The story revolves around the protagonist Vasu.
Vasu is jinxed ,a person destined to lose,but his idol karna is always there to console him and prod him to carry on.The book is not a retelling of epic ;its rather viewing the incidents of those times through a different lens.
For Vasu it was dawn to remember ,at the age of twelve.he suddenly outgrew himself, when he learnt the truth about his birth,the truth about his parents.
The story is interesting & inspirational . I like the way author has narrated the story.
The narration was flawless that will urge you to hooked the book till the end.
To believers karna is the legend of the past who visits Vasu.
It is a mixture of mythological , thriller spiritual , philosophical which you would love to read.
I would rate this book 4.5 out 5 stars.
Vasu is jinxed ,a person destined to lose,but his idol karna is always there to console him and prod him to carry on.The book is not a retelling of epic ;its rather viewing the incidents of those times through a different lens.
For Vasu it was dawn to remember ,at the age of twelve.he suddenly outgrew himself, when he learnt the truth about his birth,the truth about his parents.
The story is interesting & inspirational . I like the way author has narrated the story.
The narration was flawless that will urge you to hooked the book till the end.
To believers karna is the legend of the past who visits Vasu.
It is a mixture of mythological , thriller spiritual , philosophical which you would love to read.
I would rate this book 4.5 out 5 stars.
June 8, 2016
**********This book was an author giveaway for a honest review **********
Surendra has spun an exciting tale to say the least. I was very intrigued on seeing the book cover and lo and behold , the pages flew by... I loved the book preface where Surendra explains each book is unique reading experience and to give some time to grow on you. This book is the same. It grows on you after you finish half the work.
You couldn't say as this is a mythological fiction or philosophical genre nor its a spiritual read . It is mix of all this and some. The story revolves around Vasu , a poverty ridden, luckless youth who grows up idolizing Karna (his inspiration) and experiences all the failures similar to Karna (as in epic Mahabharatha) and how he faces adversity in the face and becomes contented, successful man in the end.
One thing would like to ask the author - was it a conscious decision to name characters to replicate themselves here as mentioned in the epic. I noticed all the names supposedly related to Karna also appear in this work.
(Dhanjay for Arjuna; Vasu Sen for Karna; Suyodhan for Duryodhan; Vrushali ,Vasu's wife is also named after Karna's wife ); Sairandhri for Draupadi; ) - Loved the fact that so much research and effort was put into this book and all the metaphorical and allegorical similarities and drawing analogies from Mahabharat to tell all the moral values here in this book as well and is exquisitely done.
I wish Surendra the best to write more and bring in his best works to tell the world his creative stories and let the readers experience the thrill of reading his book as I have experienced in this book.
Surendra has spun an exciting tale to say the least. I was very intrigued on seeing the book cover and lo and behold , the pages flew by... I loved the book preface where Surendra explains each book is unique reading experience and to give some time to grow on you. This book is the same. It grows on you after you finish half the work.
You couldn't say as this is a mythological fiction or philosophical genre nor its a spiritual read . It is mix of all this and some. The story revolves around Vasu , a poverty ridden, luckless youth who grows up idolizing Karna (his inspiration) and experiences all the failures similar to Karna (as in epic Mahabharatha) and how he faces adversity in the face and becomes contented, successful man in the end.
One thing would like to ask the author - was it a conscious decision to name characters to replicate themselves here as mentioned in the epic. I noticed all the names supposedly related to Karna also appear in this work.
(Dhanjay for Arjuna; Vasu Sen for Karna; Suyodhan for Duryodhan; Vrushali ,Vasu's wife is also named after Karna's wife ); Sairandhri for Draupadi; ) - Loved the fact that so much research and effort was put into this book and all the metaphorical and allegorical similarities and drawing analogies from Mahabharat to tell all the moral values here in this book as well and is exquisitely done.
I wish Surendra the best to write more and bring in his best works to tell the world his creative stories and let the readers experience the thrill of reading his book as I have experienced in this book.
October 11, 2015
Incredible this book is really awesome; it’s an inspirational novel, especially for today’s youth who feel very low when the situation is against them. This entire book is a message; one should follow at the time of adversity. The message of the book is try try until you succeed, similar like Bhagwat Gita gyan. It’s a best combination of mythology with 21st century.
I think everyone has watched the movie Munna bhai MBBS 2 where Bapu (Mahatma Gandhi) talks with Munna (Sanjay Dutt), same happens here in the novel to protagonist, but her the message is totally different from the movie, here the message conveyed to Vasu by Karna is really inspiring. We know each and everyone among us has been faced with a situation where some other guy tricks us and grabs the credit, to overcome this types of situation, read this novel, although there is no solution but it will help you to see a positive outcome in any situation.
Writing style of the author is simple; but I felt the starting was a bit slow although the conversation between Vasu and Karana makes you read further, also I must say the entire novel is written with great creativity. I think this book will help you when you are low and doesn’t find any solution of any problem you are facing.
This is a rare kind of book which will feel you to re read and circulate it with others so that they will feel solace at the time of adversity. A must read book.
I think everyone has watched the movie Munna bhai MBBS 2 where Bapu (Mahatma Gandhi) talks with Munna (Sanjay Dutt), same happens here in the novel to protagonist, but her the message is totally different from the movie, here the message conveyed to Vasu by Karna is really inspiring. We know each and everyone among us has been faced with a situation where some other guy tricks us and grabs the credit, to overcome this types of situation, read this novel, although there is no solution but it will help you to see a positive outcome in any situation.
Writing style of the author is simple; but I felt the starting was a bit slow although the conversation between Vasu and Karana makes you read further, also I must say the entire novel is written with great creativity. I think this book will help you when you are low and doesn’t find any solution of any problem you are facing.
This is a rare kind of book which will feel you to re read and circulate it with others so that they will feel solace at the time of adversity. A must read book.
October 9, 2015
Vasu's life is never the same once his
mother discloses the secret of his illegitimate birth at the tender age of twelve. Instead of losing his cool, Vasu decides to take charge of his life, work hard and change his fate. But it isn't easy for fate seems to take away
everything he desires. From small positions in school to the the gold medal in Asian games to the post of Vise president of the company he worked hard for, he misses out everything; not
because he isn't good enough but because things were snatched away from him. Vasu feels like giving up every time for nothing seems to go in his favor. But there is someone who soothes his disturbed mind and guides him in the right direction - Karna. Yes, Karna the great charioteer from Mahabharatha.
Vasu identifies himself with Karna and
each time something happens, Karna is there to help Vasu remain focused on his work.
Things I Liked:
First of all, I loved the concept. It
is unique and completely out of
the box.
Read the full review here - Escape Reality - Book Reviews
mother discloses the secret of his illegitimate birth at the tender age of twelve. Instead of losing his cool, Vasu decides to take charge of his life, work hard and change his fate. But it isn't easy for fate seems to take away
everything he desires. From small positions in school to the the gold medal in Asian games to the post of Vise president of the company he worked hard for, he misses out everything; not
because he isn't good enough but because things were snatched away from him. Vasu feels like giving up every time for nothing seems to go in his favor. But there is someone who soothes his disturbed mind and guides him in the right direction - Karna. Yes, Karna the great charioteer from Mahabharatha.
Vasu identifies himself with Karna and
each time something happens, Karna is there to help Vasu remain focused on his work.
Things I Liked:
First of all, I loved the concept. It
is unique and completely out of
the box.
Read the full review here - Escape Reality - Book Reviews
September 4, 2015
What a forceful story, with a message! The message - never be disheartened with the results; go on trying hard, results will come. Similar to Gita gyan. Vasu struggled all his youth, and faced humiliations, like Karna. I enjoyed the dialogues between vasu and Karna. The author has stood by the Kauravas and showed us another side of Mahabharata. Who is Karna? Is he Vasu himself? Surendra has left a lot to the readers’ imagination. The situations are similar to those faced by common people, and Karna’s advices to Vasu are practical necessities of living a dignified life. The chapter on rape of Vrishali and Vasu’s acceptance of her speaks volumes of the confidence of a self-made man. The author has used strong metaphors to bring alive everyday problems faced by Vasu.
September 23, 2015
Amazing book. Perfect usage of language and words. Liked the character Vasu who discussed everything with Karna whom he consider his idol and even refers to him as Mahapurush. Follow his teachings and guidance throughout his life to be a good person.
Brilliant.
Kudos to the author for imagining something out of the box and giving readers to read this masterpiece.
Brilliant.
Kudos to the author for imagining something out of the box and giving readers to read this masterpiece.
September 24, 2016
One word is not enough to describe this book . If i say 100 words cant describe the value of this book .
Am thankful to receive that book
Its a great experience by reading the book .. i highly recommend everyone to read the book and i am sure u will not disappoint .
Am thankful to receive that book
Its a great experience by reading the book .. i highly recommend everyone to read the book and i am sure u will not disappoint .
September 1, 2015
inspiring one...
March 1, 2016
Very powerful book, I really loved it!
December 10, 2015
KARNA’S ALTER EGO by Surendra Nath (Rating: 4½ out of 5)
I have read KARNA’S ALTER EGO by Surendra Nath in October 2015. Actually I wanted to review the book by 15th November, but I couldn’t publish due to my M.A. (English) part I examination. Before scribbling my review, I would like to thank two persons; Yes! First of all I would thank my blogger friend Tushti Bhatia from Author Paradise for her recommendation to read this book, and second one is obviously Author Surendra Nath Mohanty ji. He not only approached my proposal to review this book on my single request but he gave me full liberty to take time and to publish this review. A BIG THANK goes to him.
Detail Analysis/Review and Critical Appreciation of KARNA’S ALTER EGO
COVER and TITLE: Karna’s Alter Ego’s cover is designed by Abinash Panda. He designed an attractive cover which is closely relevant to the theme and plot of the book. Blurry face on front cover looks like a facsimile of Vasu’s unknown face.
Title of the book ‘KARNA’S ALTER EGO’ is very eloquent. It is also printed well on the front cover. A conch (Shankh) between ‘ALTER’ and ‘EGO’ grows attractiveness of front cover. One can observe an archer Karna’s bending image taking a bow carved on the conch. On back cover, forewords by Ruskin Bond and Manoj Das are noted above an another image of archer Karna.
BLURB: Karna, the ill-faced hero of Mahabharata. Many feel he deserved to win. If only luck favoured him.
5000 years later, we have man named Vasu, who is much like Karna – born illegitimate, very talented but denied all credits in life, rejected in love, misses a medal in the Asian games, gets caught for telling an innocent lie, overlooked for promotion. He begins to identify himself with Karna, and interestingly Karna appears to him after every debacle to assuage and encourage him.
It seems Vasu is Karna’s alter ego.
FOREWORDS:
1.“I have been wondering what the genre of this book is. Is it mythological? Or is it social, with a quotidian theme? Perhaps, spiritual or philosophical? May be, a thriller! It’s better you read it and find out yourself.” - Ruskin Bond
2.“A work of fiction that tries to connect millennia past with our age. Surendra Nath’s Karna’s Alter Ego deserves tributes that should go to imaginative handling of an unusual plot.” - Manoj Das
SETTING:
Theme:- Theme of Karna’s Alter Ego is based on Hindu mythology, philosophy, spirituality, social issues and thrill; all the aspects of Karna’s life are connected with Vasu’s life.
Language: Author Surendra Nath used very simple and easy language in Karna’s Alter Ego. However brief narration in middle parts needs to refer a dictionary. Author uses words like ‘thee’ and ‘thou’ (i.e. you and your) from middle/Elizabethan age of English literature to denote quotations from the Mahabharata. Few figurative words used by author are cherry on a cake in Karna’s Alter Ego. First sentence of each chapter starts with CAPITAL letters. There is a proper use of italic fonts to indicate words from regional languages like Hindi, Odishi. Italic font is also used to mention mythological and spiritual words, to emphasize on a sentence and to narrate quotations. In the novel, author uses few abbreviations with their full forms (i.e. RDC- Republic Day Parade, ANO- Associate NCC Officers, IVF- In Vitro Fertilisation, PAP- Prospective Adoptive Parents, IFE- In Flight Executive and ILS- Instrument Landing Systems).
Locations: Plot and story of Karna’s Alter Ego is developed in different locations. Vasu lives his childhood in a village in Nasik (Nashik) district in Maharashtra, Vasu works in Bangalore (Karnataka), Jaipur (Rajasthan) and New Delhi.
Period: Background of the Karna’s Alter Ego’s plot is developed in current age (i.e. 21st century), medieval age and Mahabharata’s period. Karna’s life in unclear period of Mahabharata is significant and reflected with Vasu’s life in 21st century.
Author’s writing style: Author Surendra Nath uses narrative style of writing and this style suits to the theme perfectly. He narrates events in deep; for an instance I would mention an example, to describe a Tilak of sandalwood paste on forehead author writes ‘a Tilak in the shape of large U.’
PLOT
GENERAL PLOT:
Vasu is a protagonist. He is an alter ego of Karna. When Karna answers Vasu’s sensible questions, his answers seem realistic. While reading about NCC parade in Vasu’s school, my school days passed through my eyes though I wasn’t excellent in sports as Vasu is! I remember my mom’s devotion and faith on Hinduism; when I read about devotion and faith of Radha Sen. Author also portrays few romantic scenes in chapter ‘Romance in the Air’ in which readers will find so many surprises which I won’t disclose. Live-in-relationship between Vasu and Vrishali is also full with romanticism. Author compares Vasu’s stuggle to save passangers from hijack with the battle of Karna in Mahabharata. Karna was defeated in that battle but what happens with Vasu? Does he win? Or he lost? I won’t open climax; you have to read a novel to know the result of Vasu’s battle.
Did you ever fly aeroplane? No? I flied! Yes! I have flied an aircraft! How? I have experienced that thrill of flying a plane sitting in cockpit, when I read the scene of plane hijack in last chapter of Karna’s Alter Ego. When Vasu took charge as a pilot in cockpit; I too enjoyed that thrilling experience of flying a plane. Though author Surendra Nath ji acknowledged thank of Captain Zaheed Parwez sir (not a character, but real one), I too would like to thank him individually because of whom author and we readers could virtually experience of hijack.
QUOTES:
1. “Success is ultimately yours if you try just one more time.”
2.“All books are boring until they become interesting.”
3.“They say dreams seen early in the morning come true.”
4.“We must look beyond our tiny world, and we will be able to ignore our little worries.”
5.“Grow, not merely physically, but also in your mindset, and prepare for greater challenges that lie ahead.”
6.“Use setbacks as platforms to launch yourself to great success.”
7.“Don’t mull over the past. Get on with your future. Make your school, your family, particularly your mother proud of you. I have often seen brilliant boys fall in grades as soon as they enter college merely due to their frivolous attitude. Don’t let that attitude take control of you.”
8.“I have got only one life to live and one death to die; there better be a good cause to live and a good cause to die.”
9.“They say everything is fair in love and war, I would go a step further, to say, Nothing is unfair in love and war.”
INSTRUCTIVE PLOT:
I think author Surendra Nath would collect information or he would have gained knowledge or researched about so many aspects which are used in the novel. He tells detail history of Ekalgiri’s name. One should refer the novel to get an idea about medieval period (i.e. 15th -16th century). Information about discovery of Tribal Troves/gold utensils is flawless. Author's research about kidney transplantation process and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) can be seen in the scene. He tries to co-relate the story with touch of real incidents happened in past like The Day of Presidents (13th November 2004). He gives detail information about adoption process. One should read the book to know language used inside cockpit. Author might have researched a lot about aviation and pilot’s work, functioning of aeroplanes and aviation.
QUOTES:
1.“It said that according to the Indian Act of Treasure Trove 1878, if there were no claimants, the treasure would belong to the state, but the finder would be paid the current market value of the treasure.”
2.“A donor should not be above 60 years of age.” (for kidney transplantation)
3.“As per strict Hindu principles, the eldest son, whose father was alive, should not perform the last rites of any person. The funeral rites one must accord to one’s father first and then to any other person.”
4.“The success rate for IVF is at best 35 per cent, by success we mean the successful fertilization of the egg outside the woman’s body. After the fertilized ovum is put back into the uterus, there is still no assurance of its growth into a viable embryo.”
5.“Landing is the most difficult manoeuvre for any aviator, but he most satisfying one too.”
MYTHOLOGICAL, PHILOSOPHICAL and SPIRITUAL PLOT:
Author comments on fate and dream in discussion between Karna and protagonist Vasu… “To understand the nuances of fate, it is very difficult, especially when in worldly affairs one is so engrossed. But when you look back, you realise it was only working matters in your favour.”
We get to know about Eklavya’s story from Karna. Author comments about punishment for committed or not committed sins in previous birth from two different angles in debate between Karna and Vasu by mythological and philosophical point of view… “I think, putting the blame for our sufferings on some unknown sin in the past is only a way of consoling ourselves, when fate deals us an unfair blow.” “When you say ‘he might have committed (sinful actions)’, does it not also imply that he might not have committed.” “How can one be punished without being told what exactly is his sin?”
Author satires on legal system of punishment through the mouth of Karna quoting “If someone kills a single man or ten, he gets the same punishment in your legal system.” Author describes the philosophy of Karma and Moksha (Fate and Salvation).
QUOTES:
1.“Mortals may only guess or estimate their future prospects, but accurate prediction is not meant for the human domain. Accept your prospects with equanimity, and that’s all you need to do. Be not too happy nor be too unhappy at what you receive.”
2.Karna speak his first words of appreciation, “Do you know, twice did Yudhisthira play the game of dice? The first time, everything he lost including Draupadi, but everything he was given back. Everything he had lost in that game was returned to him!”
3.Karna advices: “What you believe you rightfully deserve may not be meant for you at all.”
4.“Confuse not between untruths and lies. A lie is a falsehood intentionally done, but an untruth is not a lie; it is merely uttered by someone who is, of the truth, unaware. Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth a lie.”
5.“If you condone a child’s lie, it is encouraged to tell more lies until he grows up to be a big liar.”
6.“Man still needs to show faith in God’s creation and do good in all he does. If he does good, good will result, and if he does bad, bad will result. And so the circle of karma (fate) goes on.”
7.“As a man, casting off robes that are worn out, putteth on others that are new, so the embodied soul, casting off bodies that are worn out,entereth other bodies that are new.” –Shree Krishna says in Mahabharata (Bhagwad Geeta)
8.“Man is never the agent of his acts, right or wrong. Indeed, like a wooden machine, man is not an agent, in all he does. In this respect, three opinions are entertained: some say that everything is ordained by God; some say that our acts are the result of free-will; and others say that our acts are the result of those of our past lives.” –Mahabharata
SOCIAL PLOT:
Author comments on several social issues like mid-day meal, teachers’ absence in schools. He describes how few rich people use poor as an object to fulfill their lust. Why poor boys like Vasu join NCC? Author narrates a fact about gambling, connection between master and Jambura, dealer and helper and their trick. He alerts about result of covetousness. Author warns gamblers that realization of mistake couldn’t correct. While reading this scene, I remembered my worse experience in gambling. Yes! I am not a gambler but I too have lost Rs. 500/- in a bet sometime in December 2013. I am not covetous but I had lost Rs.500/- within less than a minute. At that time no one asked me to promise as Karna asks Vasu, “promise me this day that never in your life you shall ever gamble.” But I promised myself as Vasu promises to his Mahapurush Karna, “Never, Mahapurush, never in my life I shall gamble again!” Author also remarks on fact about illegal gambling in train. I think this picture should come to an end. Author shares his worry about small smarts like painters’ unemployment. He satires on a relationship built on internet.
Author brings readers’ attention at women’s physical assault by their drunk husbands. He also gives an example of Vrishali’s molestation. He does not only criticize on women’s assaults but slap on educated people who boycott or ignore victims indirectly, He set an example that how people should react with victims through Vasu’s decent and helpful behavior with Vrishali. Author satires on female feticides and gives a massage to save girl child in scene of adoption quoting “We hear so many parents committing female foeticide, and worse, female infanticide. When we have a choice, why don’t we give the girl child a chance? Let us choose sensibly rather than go the way thousands of people in this country are going today. Let’s not insist on a male progeny, let’s not reject a girl child.” He comments about financial problems of middle class family.
People don’t even help accident victims, they ignore beggars as they borne poor but author shows humanity through the character of Vasu when he offers funeral rites on dead body of a beggar Aditya. Author satires on superstitious attempts to fulfill wishes. He comments on dark against fair complexion through philosophical point of view and peoples’ tendency about apartheid in quotes “Think of Gandhi who fought against discrimination based on colour. Elsewhere, in the world Mandela eradicated a curse of Apartheid. And here we are stuck on skin colour. Isn’t a shame, ‘reserving’ a fair looking child?” and “If you truly wish to adopt a child, choose not like you are picking some commodity. If it had been naturally born to you, and come with some physical deformity, would you then seek and alternate child?” He also appeals to stop apartheid and to stop discrimination on basis of complexion.
QUOTES:
1.“As in most orthodox families, the girl’s opinion was considered irrelevant. The girl was only supposed to blush to imply her consent for getting married. An arranged marriage is all right but not a forced one.”
2.“It is customary for the boy’s parents to call on the girl’s house with a proposal of marriage.”
UNIQUE FEATURES:
Author uses an asterisk (*) to define few incidents in brief. Brief Narration of Related Incidents is enclosed at the of novel. I would like to mention those 29 incidents below:
DRAWBACKS:
Though the book is highly appreciable, let me inform you about few drawbacks of Karna’s Alter Ego:
1.Fainted Printing: Few words printed in the book are fainted.
2.Over-use of Italic Fonts: Though I appreciated italic fots’s use in a book as positive aspect, I must share that I feel over use of italic fonts inappropriate instead of single/double inverted commas to describe a quotations.
3.Hindi words are not explained in English.
4.Stretched Story: I feel the story stretched in chapter seven and eleven, otherwise book might be short.
5.Print Mistakes: Editor and publisher would check the draft so many times before print, but still I noticed three print mistakes in Karna’s Alter Ego. Two mistakes among them are about mis-spelling the name of Vrishali. Vrishali is mis-spelled as ‘Varishali’ and ‘Vaishali’ on page no. 122 and 177 respectively. Third print mistake is about Ghatotkacha’s name which is mis-spelled as Ghatokacha on page no. 148.
6.Use of Real names: Author has used real names of presidents without their permission.
7.Author’s brief introduction is missing in the book.
REVIEWER’S NOTES:
I read the book and liked very much. A famous author Ruskin Bond asks a question about selective theme of Karna’s Alter Ego. Yes! He is right. Karna’s Alter Ego does not fit in any one theme but all themes are fit perfectly for the book. Surendra Nath ji covers several themes like mythology, social, quotidian, spiritual, philosophical and thriller in a single novel Karna’s Alter Ego.
I would highly recommend all to must read this page-turner. And if you are seeking to enjoy, learn, grow your knowledge about Hindu mythology and experience a thrill in a single novel; you must read Karna’s Alter Ego. These kind of books do not publish every year, so you won’t afford to miss reading this novel. I would highly recommend Karna’s Alter Ego to all of you interested to read and enjoy different themes in single book.
RATING:
According to my detail analysis, Karna’s Alter Ego deserves 4.35 but I would give extra 0.15 to the author Surendra Nath Mohanty ji for covering various themes in a single novel. So I will give 4½ out of 5 which is EXCELLENT!
KARNA’S ALTER EGO in brief
Title: KARNA’S ALTER EGO
Author: SURENDRA NATH MOHANTY
Publisher: Dream House Publication
First Published by Dream House Publication, in 2015
Copyright: ©Surendra Nath 2015
Format: Paperback
Printed and Bound in India
ISBN Number: 978-93-84180-11-9
Price: Rs. 175/- (incl. all taxes)
Pages: 249 (excluding first 12, last 3 and cover)
Forewords by: Ruskin Bond and Manoj Das
Preface by: Surendra Nath
Cover Designer: Abinash Panda
Genre: FICTION
My Rating: 4.5/5 | EXCELLENT
Reviewer: RAJESH D. HAJARE (RDH)
Notes:
1.This is my personal opinion about Karna’s Alter Ego and your feedback may be vary.
2.The Book Karna’s Alter Ego was sent to me by it’s author Surendra Nath Mohanty ji for an honest review.
3.(Reviewer of this book is the Gondia district’s President at Akhil Bhartiya Marathi Sahitya Parishad, Pune)
Read this review on my blog post in detail.
I have read KARNA’S ALTER EGO by Surendra Nath in October 2015. Actually I wanted to review the book by 15th November, but I couldn’t publish due to my M.A. (English) part I examination. Before scribbling my review, I would like to thank two persons; Yes! First of all I would thank my blogger friend Tushti Bhatia from Author Paradise for her recommendation to read this book, and second one is obviously Author Surendra Nath Mohanty ji. He not only approached my proposal to review this book on my single request but he gave me full liberty to take time and to publish this review. A BIG THANK goes to him.
Detail Analysis/Review and Critical Appreciation of KARNA’S ALTER EGO
COVER and TITLE: Karna’s Alter Ego’s cover is designed by Abinash Panda. He designed an attractive cover which is closely relevant to the theme and plot of the book. Blurry face on front cover looks like a facsimile of Vasu’s unknown face.
Title of the book ‘KARNA’S ALTER EGO’ is very eloquent. It is also printed well on the front cover. A conch (Shankh) between ‘ALTER’ and ‘EGO’ grows attractiveness of front cover. One can observe an archer Karna’s bending image taking a bow carved on the conch. On back cover, forewords by Ruskin Bond and Manoj Das are noted above an another image of archer Karna.
BLURB: Karna, the ill-faced hero of Mahabharata. Many feel he deserved to win. If only luck favoured him.
5000 years later, we have man named Vasu, who is much like Karna – born illegitimate, very talented but denied all credits in life, rejected in love, misses a medal in the Asian games, gets caught for telling an innocent lie, overlooked for promotion. He begins to identify himself with Karna, and interestingly Karna appears to him after every debacle to assuage and encourage him.
It seems Vasu is Karna’s alter ego.
FOREWORDS:
1.“I have been wondering what the genre of this book is. Is it mythological? Or is it social, with a quotidian theme? Perhaps, spiritual or philosophical? May be, a thriller! It’s better you read it and find out yourself.” - Ruskin Bond
2.“A work of fiction that tries to connect millennia past with our age. Surendra Nath’s Karna’s Alter Ego deserves tributes that should go to imaginative handling of an unusual plot.” - Manoj Das
SETTING:
Theme:- Theme of Karna’s Alter Ego is based on Hindu mythology, philosophy, spirituality, social issues and thrill; all the aspects of Karna’s life are connected with Vasu’s life.
Language: Author Surendra Nath used very simple and easy language in Karna’s Alter Ego. However brief narration in middle parts needs to refer a dictionary. Author uses words like ‘thee’ and ‘thou’ (i.e. you and your) from middle/Elizabethan age of English literature to denote quotations from the Mahabharata. Few figurative words used by author are cherry on a cake in Karna’s Alter Ego. First sentence of each chapter starts with CAPITAL letters. There is a proper use of italic fonts to indicate words from regional languages like Hindi, Odishi. Italic font is also used to mention mythological and spiritual words, to emphasize on a sentence and to narrate quotations. In the novel, author uses few abbreviations with their full forms (i.e. RDC- Republic Day Parade, ANO- Associate NCC Officers, IVF- In Vitro Fertilisation, PAP- Prospective Adoptive Parents, IFE- In Flight Executive and ILS- Instrument Landing Systems).
Locations: Plot and story of Karna’s Alter Ego is developed in different locations. Vasu lives his childhood in a village in Nasik (Nashik) district in Maharashtra, Vasu works in Bangalore (Karnataka), Jaipur (Rajasthan) and New Delhi.
Period: Background of the Karna’s Alter Ego’s plot is developed in current age (i.e. 21st century), medieval age and Mahabharata’s period. Karna’s life in unclear period of Mahabharata is significant and reflected with Vasu’s life in 21st century.
Author’s writing style: Author Surendra Nath uses narrative style of writing and this style suits to the theme perfectly. He narrates events in deep; for an instance I would mention an example, to describe a Tilak of sandalwood paste on forehead author writes ‘a Tilak in the shape of large U.’
PLOT
GENERAL PLOT:
Vasu is a protagonist. He is an alter ego of Karna. When Karna answers Vasu’s sensible questions, his answers seem realistic. While reading about NCC parade in Vasu’s school, my school days passed through my eyes though I wasn’t excellent in sports as Vasu is! I remember my mom’s devotion and faith on Hinduism; when I read about devotion and faith of Radha Sen. Author also portrays few romantic scenes in chapter ‘Romance in the Air’ in which readers will find so many surprises which I won’t disclose. Live-in-relationship between Vasu and Vrishali is also full with romanticism. Author compares Vasu’s stuggle to save passangers from hijack with the battle of Karna in Mahabharata. Karna was defeated in that battle but what happens with Vasu? Does he win? Or he lost? I won’t open climax; you have to read a novel to know the result of Vasu’s battle.
Did you ever fly aeroplane? No? I flied! Yes! I have flied an aircraft! How? I have experienced that thrill of flying a plane sitting in cockpit, when I read the scene of plane hijack in last chapter of Karna’s Alter Ego. When Vasu took charge as a pilot in cockpit; I too enjoyed that thrilling experience of flying a plane. Though author Surendra Nath ji acknowledged thank of Captain Zaheed Parwez sir (not a character, but real one), I too would like to thank him individually because of whom author and we readers could virtually experience of hijack.
QUOTES:
1. “Success is ultimately yours if you try just one more time.”
2.“All books are boring until they become interesting.”
3.“They say dreams seen early in the morning come true.”
4.“We must look beyond our tiny world, and we will be able to ignore our little worries.”
5.“Grow, not merely physically, but also in your mindset, and prepare for greater challenges that lie ahead.”
6.“Use setbacks as platforms to launch yourself to great success.”
7.“Don’t mull over the past. Get on with your future. Make your school, your family, particularly your mother proud of you. I have often seen brilliant boys fall in grades as soon as they enter college merely due to their frivolous attitude. Don’t let that attitude take control of you.”
8.“I have got only one life to live and one death to die; there better be a good cause to live and a good cause to die.”
9.“They say everything is fair in love and war, I would go a step further, to say, Nothing is unfair in love and war.”
INSTRUCTIVE PLOT:
I think author Surendra Nath would collect information or he would have gained knowledge or researched about so many aspects which are used in the novel. He tells detail history of Ekalgiri’s name. One should refer the novel to get an idea about medieval period (i.e. 15th -16th century). Information about discovery of Tribal Troves/gold utensils is flawless. Author's research about kidney transplantation process and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) can be seen in the scene. He tries to co-relate the story with touch of real incidents happened in past like The Day of Presidents (13th November 2004). He gives detail information about adoption process. One should read the book to know language used inside cockpit. Author might have researched a lot about aviation and pilot’s work, functioning of aeroplanes and aviation.
QUOTES:
1.“It said that according to the Indian Act of Treasure Trove 1878, if there were no claimants, the treasure would belong to the state, but the finder would be paid the current market value of the treasure.”
2.“A donor should not be above 60 years of age.” (for kidney transplantation)
3.“As per strict Hindu principles, the eldest son, whose father was alive, should not perform the last rites of any person. The funeral rites one must accord to one’s father first and then to any other person.”
4.“The success rate for IVF is at best 35 per cent, by success we mean the successful fertilization of the egg outside the woman’s body. After the fertilized ovum is put back into the uterus, there is still no assurance of its growth into a viable embryo.”
5.“Landing is the most difficult manoeuvre for any aviator, but he most satisfying one too.”
MYTHOLOGICAL, PHILOSOPHICAL and SPIRITUAL PLOT:
Author comments on fate and dream in discussion between Karna and protagonist Vasu… “To understand the nuances of fate, it is very difficult, especially when in worldly affairs one is so engrossed. But when you look back, you realise it was only working matters in your favour.”
We get to know about Eklavya’s story from Karna. Author comments about punishment for committed or not committed sins in previous birth from two different angles in debate between Karna and Vasu by mythological and philosophical point of view… “I think, putting the blame for our sufferings on some unknown sin in the past is only a way of consoling ourselves, when fate deals us an unfair blow.” “When you say ‘he might have committed (sinful actions)’, does it not also imply that he might not have committed.” “How can one be punished without being told what exactly is his sin?”
Author satires on legal system of punishment through the mouth of Karna quoting “If someone kills a single man or ten, he gets the same punishment in your legal system.” Author describes the philosophy of Karma and Moksha (Fate and Salvation).
QUOTES:
1.“Mortals may only guess or estimate their future prospects, but accurate prediction is not meant for the human domain. Accept your prospects with equanimity, and that’s all you need to do. Be not too happy nor be too unhappy at what you receive.”
2.Karna speak his first words of appreciation, “Do you know, twice did Yudhisthira play the game of dice? The first time, everything he lost including Draupadi, but everything he was given back. Everything he had lost in that game was returned to him!”
3.Karna advices: “What you believe you rightfully deserve may not be meant for you at all.”
4.“Confuse not between untruths and lies. A lie is a falsehood intentionally done, but an untruth is not a lie; it is merely uttered by someone who is, of the truth, unaware. Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth a lie.”
5.“If you condone a child’s lie, it is encouraged to tell more lies until he grows up to be a big liar.”
6.“Man still needs to show faith in God’s creation and do good in all he does. If he does good, good will result, and if he does bad, bad will result. And so the circle of karma (fate) goes on.”
7.“As a man, casting off robes that are worn out, putteth on others that are new, so the embodied soul, casting off bodies that are worn out,entereth other bodies that are new.” –Shree Krishna says in Mahabharata (Bhagwad Geeta)
8.“Man is never the agent of his acts, right or wrong. Indeed, like a wooden machine, man is not an agent, in all he does. In this respect, three opinions are entertained: some say that everything is ordained by God; some say that our acts are the result of free-will; and others say that our acts are the result of those of our past lives.” –Mahabharata
SOCIAL PLOT:
Author comments on several social issues like mid-day meal, teachers’ absence in schools. He describes how few rich people use poor as an object to fulfill their lust. Why poor boys like Vasu join NCC? Author narrates a fact about gambling, connection between master and Jambura, dealer and helper and their trick. He alerts about result of covetousness. Author warns gamblers that realization of mistake couldn’t correct. While reading this scene, I remembered my worse experience in gambling. Yes! I am not a gambler but I too have lost Rs. 500/- in a bet sometime in December 2013. I am not covetous but I had lost Rs.500/- within less than a minute. At that time no one asked me to promise as Karna asks Vasu, “promise me this day that never in your life you shall ever gamble.” But I promised myself as Vasu promises to his Mahapurush Karna, “Never, Mahapurush, never in my life I shall gamble again!” Author also remarks on fact about illegal gambling in train. I think this picture should come to an end. Author shares his worry about small smarts like painters’ unemployment. He satires on a relationship built on internet.
Author brings readers’ attention at women’s physical assault by their drunk husbands. He also gives an example of Vrishali’s molestation. He does not only criticize on women’s assaults but slap on educated people who boycott or ignore victims indirectly, He set an example that how people should react with victims through Vasu’s decent and helpful behavior with Vrishali. Author satires on female feticides and gives a massage to save girl child in scene of adoption quoting “We hear so many parents committing female foeticide, and worse, female infanticide. When we have a choice, why don’t we give the girl child a chance? Let us choose sensibly rather than go the way thousands of people in this country are going today. Let’s not insist on a male progeny, let’s not reject a girl child.” He comments about financial problems of middle class family.
People don’t even help accident victims, they ignore beggars as they borne poor but author shows humanity through the character of Vasu when he offers funeral rites on dead body of a beggar Aditya. Author satires on superstitious attempts to fulfill wishes. He comments on dark against fair complexion through philosophical point of view and peoples’ tendency about apartheid in quotes “Think of Gandhi who fought against discrimination based on colour. Elsewhere, in the world Mandela eradicated a curse of Apartheid. And here we are stuck on skin colour. Isn’t a shame, ‘reserving’ a fair looking child?” and “If you truly wish to adopt a child, choose not like you are picking some commodity. If it had been naturally born to you, and come with some physical deformity, would you then seek and alternate child?” He also appeals to stop apartheid and to stop discrimination on basis of complexion.
QUOTES:
1.“As in most orthodox families, the girl’s opinion was considered irrelevant. The girl was only supposed to blush to imply her consent for getting married. An arranged marriage is all right but not a forced one.”
2.“It is customary for the boy’s parents to call on the girl’s house with a proposal of marriage.”
UNIQUE FEATURES:
Author uses an asterisk (*) to define few incidents in brief. Brief Narration of Related Incidents is enclosed at the of novel. I would like to mention those 29 incidents below:
DRAWBACKS:
Though the book is highly appreciable, let me inform you about few drawbacks of Karna’s Alter Ego:
1.Fainted Printing: Few words printed in the book are fainted.
2.Over-use of Italic Fonts: Though I appreciated italic fots’s use in a book as positive aspect, I must share that I feel over use of italic fonts inappropriate instead of single/double inverted commas to describe a quotations.
3.Hindi words are not explained in English.
4.Stretched Story: I feel the story stretched in chapter seven and eleven, otherwise book might be short.
5.Print Mistakes: Editor and publisher would check the draft so many times before print, but still I noticed three print mistakes in Karna’s Alter Ego. Two mistakes among them are about mis-spelling the name of Vrishali. Vrishali is mis-spelled as ‘Varishali’ and ‘Vaishali’ on page no. 122 and 177 respectively. Third print mistake is about Ghatotkacha’s name which is mis-spelled as Ghatokacha on page no. 148.
6.Use of Real names: Author has used real names of presidents without their permission.
7.Author’s brief introduction is missing in the book.
REVIEWER’S NOTES:
I read the book and liked very much. A famous author Ruskin Bond asks a question about selective theme of Karna’s Alter Ego. Yes! He is right. Karna’s Alter Ego does not fit in any one theme but all themes are fit perfectly for the book. Surendra Nath ji covers several themes like mythology, social, quotidian, spiritual, philosophical and thriller in a single novel Karna’s Alter Ego.
I would highly recommend all to must read this page-turner. And if you are seeking to enjoy, learn, grow your knowledge about Hindu mythology and experience a thrill in a single novel; you must read Karna’s Alter Ego. These kind of books do not publish every year, so you won’t afford to miss reading this novel. I would highly recommend Karna’s Alter Ego to all of you interested to read and enjoy different themes in single book.
RATING:
According to my detail analysis, Karna’s Alter Ego deserves 4.35 but I would give extra 0.15 to the author Surendra Nath Mohanty ji for covering various themes in a single novel. So I will give 4½ out of 5 which is EXCELLENT!
KARNA’S ALTER EGO in brief
Title: KARNA’S ALTER EGO
Author: SURENDRA NATH MOHANTY
Publisher: Dream House Publication
First Published by Dream House Publication, in 2015
Copyright: ©Surendra Nath 2015
Format: Paperback
Printed and Bound in India
ISBN Number: 978-93-84180-11-9
Price: Rs. 175/- (incl. all taxes)
Pages: 249 (excluding first 12, last 3 and cover)
Forewords by: Ruskin Bond and Manoj Das
Preface by: Surendra Nath
Cover Designer: Abinash Panda
Genre: FICTION
My Rating: 4.5/5 | EXCELLENT
Reviewer: RAJESH D. HAJARE (RDH)
Notes:
1.This is my personal opinion about Karna’s Alter Ego and your feedback may be vary.
2.The Book Karna’s Alter Ego was sent to me by it’s author Surendra Nath Mohanty ji for an honest review.
3.(Reviewer of this book is the Gondia district’s President at Akhil Bhartiya Marathi Sahitya Parishad, Pune)
Read this review on my blog post in detail.
March 29, 2020
There are few stories that could link two individuals who belong to a different era. “Karna’s Alter Ego” is one of those books which involve some course of events in the protagonist’s life that highlight some of the most important lessons. A story that includes mythological aspects of human life, the gods and mankind, which is source of inspiration to a certain extent.
The author definitely chose a different subject for writing which is noteworthy. The story mainly comprises of two characters, Karna and Vasu Sen, which establish a unique connection. Vasu’s life comprises several hardships and he has to deal with disappointments that compound into sorrow and despair. Amidst these troubles, Karna enters into his life as a confidant. From that point of time, Vasu turned on to Karna for any of his problem or bewilderment. Right from his childhood, Karna was his guide.
Talking about the first impression of the book, the catchy title drew my attention towards it. However, I felt that the cover could be more attractive. The blurb is short but, gives the reader a sense of excitement.
The characters in the book are quite interesting. The protagonist resembles Karna a lot. He belongs to a poor family but, his persistent efforts, dedication and sharp mindedness is very much similar to Karna, who was a warrior in Mahabharata. Despite of all the sufferings, Karna insists him to have hope and move forward in life. Besides, the protagonist’s wife and family members seem to fit well in the plot.
Karna’s appearances before Vasu change his perspective about life. The dialogues between the two having the conversation about quotidian situations of life are captivating and solves many queries that often go through our mind.
Several anecdotes mentioned from the epic Mahabharata are intriguing. I liked how they are well put together. Moreover, the ones who are not familiar with the incidents and characters of Mahabharata can refer to the references on the last pages of the book. These short instances in the book also show the author’s deep research.
The story line is based on myths and traditional stories and hence, this would not necessarily appeal to everyone who is not fond of reading religion and mythology based books. One may interpret it to be a history book, but there’s a powerful message in it. Furthermore, it gives insightful details about the great epic Mahabharata, which reveals so much about Karna and other characters. The zeal to learn from every struggle and finding good in everything is something that I have comprehended after reading it.
Altogether, it is a unusual and motivating story. The ones who are keen to find out about hindu mythology and narratives can certainly give it a read.
The author definitely chose a different subject for writing which is noteworthy. The story mainly comprises of two characters, Karna and Vasu Sen, which establish a unique connection. Vasu’s life comprises several hardships and he has to deal with disappointments that compound into sorrow and despair. Amidst these troubles, Karna enters into his life as a confidant. From that point of time, Vasu turned on to Karna for any of his problem or bewilderment. Right from his childhood, Karna was his guide.
Talking about the first impression of the book, the catchy title drew my attention towards it. However, I felt that the cover could be more attractive. The blurb is short but, gives the reader a sense of excitement.
The characters in the book are quite interesting. The protagonist resembles Karna a lot. He belongs to a poor family but, his persistent efforts, dedication and sharp mindedness is very much similar to Karna, who was a warrior in Mahabharata. Despite of all the sufferings, Karna insists him to have hope and move forward in life. Besides, the protagonist’s wife and family members seem to fit well in the plot.
Karna’s appearances before Vasu change his perspective about life. The dialogues between the two having the conversation about quotidian situations of life are captivating and solves many queries that often go through our mind.
Several anecdotes mentioned from the epic Mahabharata are intriguing. I liked how they are well put together. Moreover, the ones who are not familiar with the incidents and characters of Mahabharata can refer to the references on the last pages of the book. These short instances in the book also show the author’s deep research.
The story line is based on myths and traditional stories and hence, this would not necessarily appeal to everyone who is not fond of reading religion and mythology based books. One may interpret it to be a history book, but there’s a powerful message in it. Furthermore, it gives insightful details about the great epic Mahabharata, which reveals so much about Karna and other characters. The zeal to learn from every struggle and finding good in everything is something that I have comprehended after reading it.
Altogether, it is a unusual and motivating story. The ones who are keen to find out about hindu mythology and narratives can certainly give it a read.
August 6, 2019
Is it just me, or does everyone feel karna is one of the greatest heroes of the mahabharata? Sans karna, this book is good enough to stand as a brilliant contemporary thriller. With the addition of karna, and his subtle intertwining with his alter ego vasu "sen", the parallels drawn to justify the tag of alter ego, the philosophical discourses, this book becomes so much more than just a brilliant thriller. Excellent read. Strongly recommend.
already half way through the enchanting sequel...
already half way through the enchanting sequel...
May 15, 2025
Loved the book. The life of the protagonist Vasu is analogous to the life of Karna. Vasu learns the truth of life the hard way through prejudices, betrayals, deceits. Engrossing tale of a man who emerged victorious at the end.
August 15, 2017
Firstly, I would like to thank the author for sending me a personally signed copy of the book.
I received this book just before I was departing on a long train journey. Subsequently, this is one of the few books in my recent time-constrained years that I have finished off in one sitting. However, having said that, I must also add that the primary reason for finishing off the book in one sitting would be the fact that Karna's Alter Ego is a well-written book built on a really interesting premise.
Despite coming from the stable of Indian mythological fiction being increasingly churned out by present-day Indian authors, this book stands out by seamlessly weaving elements from Indian mythology into a story set in contemporary times. Classifying this book into any particular genre is a task better left untouched as Ruskin Bond very rightly points out in his blurb, "I have been wondering what the genre of this book is. Is it mythological? Or is it social, with a quotidian theme? Perhaps, spiritual or philosophical."
The book traces the life of Vasu, who as a young boy begins to get visions of Karna, one of the protagonists from the great Indian epic, the Mahabharata. Through these visions, Karna guides Vasu as he passes through misfortunes of varied proportions like Yoda guiding a young Luke Skywalker. As event after event (and mostly misfortunes at that) in Vasu's life draw parallels to various events in Karna's life, Karna encourages Vasu and helps him pick up the pieces and move on.
What fascinated me the most in the book where two different dialogs that Vasu has with Karna, where the author touches upon some ethical conundrums from Karna's life. The author's interpretation of these grey areas provide a very interesting insight into the author's philosophical and spiritual understanding of the Mahabharata. It makes me wish I could meet the author sometime and pick his brain further on these topics. The fact that the author discusses these topics without being preachy is another achievement by itself, in my opinion.
I would like to say that Karna's Alter Ego is a breath of fresh air. A book with a strong story, good morals and definitely leaves you thinking after you have turned that last page over, which is what I expect from a book.
I wish the author all the best in future endeavors.
I received this book just before I was departing on a long train journey. Subsequently, this is one of the few books in my recent time-constrained years that I have finished off in one sitting. However, having said that, I must also add that the primary reason for finishing off the book in one sitting would be the fact that Karna's Alter Ego is a well-written book built on a really interesting premise.
Despite coming from the stable of Indian mythological fiction being increasingly churned out by present-day Indian authors, this book stands out by seamlessly weaving elements from Indian mythology into a story set in contemporary times. Classifying this book into any particular genre is a task better left untouched as Ruskin Bond very rightly points out in his blurb, "I have been wondering what the genre of this book is. Is it mythological? Or is it social, with a quotidian theme? Perhaps, spiritual or philosophical."
The book traces the life of Vasu, who as a young boy begins to get visions of Karna, one of the protagonists from the great Indian epic, the Mahabharata. Through these visions, Karna guides Vasu as he passes through misfortunes of varied proportions like Yoda guiding a young Luke Skywalker. As event after event (and mostly misfortunes at that) in Vasu's life draw parallels to various events in Karna's life, Karna encourages Vasu and helps him pick up the pieces and move on.
What fascinated me the most in the book where two different dialogs that Vasu has with Karna, where the author touches upon some ethical conundrums from Karna's life. The author's interpretation of these grey areas provide a very interesting insight into the author's philosophical and spiritual understanding of the Mahabharata. It makes me wish I could meet the author sometime and pick his brain further on these topics. The fact that the author discusses these topics without being preachy is another achievement by itself, in my opinion.
I would like to say that Karna's Alter Ego is a breath of fresh air. A book with a strong story, good morals and definitely leaves you thinking after you have turned that last page over, which is what I expect from a book.
I wish the author all the best in future endeavors.
October 15, 2015
When anybody tells me their life story, about their struggles, their achievements on their own, it makes me feel special and priviledged. A similar kind of experience I had with Karna’s Alter Ego. I felt as if somebody is narrating to me Vasu’s story, somebody is conversing with me about his life.
Vasu, a young 12 year old, is born in to a poor family. He calls himself ill-fated as nothing seems to work in his favour. On one such fateful night, he learns from his mother that he was born out of wedlock and that she conceived him when she was sexually assaulted at her work place. He takes time to digest the reality. Over time, he begins to compare himself to Karna as Karna too had a fateful life like Vasu! He prays to Karna and his Lord appears before him.
Vasu’s struggle does not end with his schooling. Bad luck haunts him throughout his college and work until the age of 46. Many incidents occur when Vasu finds himself a step behind the success and fate ruins it for him. He always has moral support from his guru, Karna who gives him lessons in order to cope up with his problems and failures.
What incident occurs when Vasu turns 46 which completely re-define his luck? Does Vasu emerge successful?
I usually do not mention any quotations from the book in my review. But these are the ones I couldn’t help sharing.
What you believe you rightfully deserve may not ne meant for you at all.
A lie is a falsehood intentionally done, but an untruth is not a lie; it is merely uttered by someone who is, of the truth, unaware. Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth a lie.
What is given away out of your surplus is merely charity, but what we give away through personal deprivation is above charity, it is sacrifice.
Grow up! Let not little setbacks hold you down.
The narration style is good. The author has said in the preface that every chapter is a story in itself and it is true! Every chapter is a short story and gives you a message / lesson for life. The flow of the chapters is quite good. The ‘Brief Narrative of Related Incidents’ serve as cherry on the cake. Any person having zero knowledge about Mahabharata will be able to absorb this story.
I must mention that this novel has changed my outlook on failures and life!
I rate:
Cover: 3/5
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4/5
My overall rating for Karna’s Alter Ego is 4/5 stars.
Vasu, a young 12 year old, is born in to a poor family. He calls himself ill-fated as nothing seems to work in his favour. On one such fateful night, he learns from his mother that he was born out of wedlock and that she conceived him when she was sexually assaulted at her work place. He takes time to digest the reality. Over time, he begins to compare himself to Karna as Karna too had a fateful life like Vasu! He prays to Karna and his Lord appears before him.
Vasu’s struggle does not end with his schooling. Bad luck haunts him throughout his college and work until the age of 46. Many incidents occur when Vasu finds himself a step behind the success and fate ruins it for him. He always has moral support from his guru, Karna who gives him lessons in order to cope up with his problems and failures.
What incident occurs when Vasu turns 46 which completely re-define his luck? Does Vasu emerge successful?
I usually do not mention any quotations from the book in my review. But these are the ones I couldn’t help sharing.
What you believe you rightfully deserve may not ne meant for you at all.
A lie is a falsehood intentionally done, but an untruth is not a lie; it is merely uttered by someone who is, of the truth, unaware. Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth a lie.
What is given away out of your surplus is merely charity, but what we give away through personal deprivation is above charity, it is sacrifice.
Grow up! Let not little setbacks hold you down.
The narration style is good. The author has said in the preface that every chapter is a story in itself and it is true! Every chapter is a short story and gives you a message / lesson for life. The flow of the chapters is quite good. The ‘Brief Narrative of Related Incidents’ serve as cherry on the cake. Any person having zero knowledge about Mahabharata will be able to absorb this story.
I must mention that this novel has changed my outlook on failures and life!
I rate:
Cover: 3/5
Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 4/5
My overall rating for Karna’s Alter Ego is 4/5 stars.
November 18, 2015
It is not a formal assessment of a novel, but a reader's perspective on the newly launched book "Karna's Alter Ego". But how many people shows spending spree, buying new books for oneself or, for some one to gift! Recently I heard people talking about mythological block bluster movie like Bahubali , even few days ago people were impulsive to buy movie tickets in black This is so because the 75 mm screen of film mesmerize us for 3 hrs. Within couple of months one forgets about the screen drama. Rarely one sticks to read something worthwhile rather than instant pleasure of movies.
An effective answer to all those people who find "reading" as a work of bookworm, has been published in the form of a book : One of its own genre of novel "Karna's Alter Ego": Which is set in our ultramodern society. It has a super mythological persona Karna in the form of an alter ego. The hero of this novel 'Vasusena', his tryst, hunt for goodwill in his life, failures and fighting back; all shades of life painted nicely with a majestic pen by the author Sri Surendra Nath. By chance I have come to know this great author who's life is also full of adventures and learnings about the philosophy of life.
This novel is more than a movie, while reading readers tend to feel, watching Karna and Vasu in front of their eyes. The style of English used will captivate any reader to immerse inside the story. The novel ends but yet it's not an end. "Is there a chance of its sequel novel?"I will put this question in front of the author of this marvellous book.
Miss Barna Sengupta.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2016
My opinion
Personally, Karna is my favorite character from mythology. And the theme of this book caught my attention in a jiffy. The author has chosen a subject that is seldom dealt with. Beginning with the cover, it is mesmerizing. The color scheme and the title is so catchy that judging the book by its cover you can only classify it as a mythological read. But wait, because something else is in store for you. The plot of the story is non-boring, relatable and nicely paced. The author has taken care to avoid long monologues and monotonous descriptions.
As said by our dearest Ruskin Bond, the genre of the book is still hanging question for me. There is mythology, there is fiction, there is mystery and there is spiritual aspect associated as well. The plus point of the book is the lucid and easy narration which captivates the reader’s attention. The only thing that was not palatable to me was the speech used for Karna. The inversion of words (figure of speech) would have been fine in some dialogs. But the usage in every dialog, befuddled me a little.
The character sketch of Vasu, as the alter ego of Karna, has been done beautifully and successfully. Not only does this book provide an insight into his life but also gives a sneak peek into the great Mahabharata.
Overall an entertaining read with all the essential elements of a good story!
Drawbacks
There are some printing errors in the book.
(Review first published on IWW (http://www.induswomanwriting.com/book...)
Personally, Karna is my favorite character from mythology. And the theme of this book caught my attention in a jiffy. The author has chosen a subject that is seldom dealt with. Beginning with the cover, it is mesmerizing. The color scheme and the title is so catchy that judging the book by its cover you can only classify it as a mythological read. But wait, because something else is in store for you. The plot of the story is non-boring, relatable and nicely paced. The author has taken care to avoid long monologues and monotonous descriptions.
As said by our dearest Ruskin Bond, the genre of the book is still hanging question for me. There is mythology, there is fiction, there is mystery and there is spiritual aspect associated as well. The plus point of the book is the lucid and easy narration which captivates the reader’s attention. The only thing that was not palatable to me was the speech used for Karna. The inversion of words (figure of speech) would have been fine in some dialogs. But the usage in every dialog, befuddled me a little.
The character sketch of Vasu, as the alter ego of Karna, has been done beautifully and successfully. Not only does this book provide an insight into his life but also gives a sneak peek into the great Mahabharata.
Overall an entertaining read with all the essential elements of a good story!
Drawbacks
There are some printing errors in the book.
(Review first published on IWW (http://www.induswomanwriting.com/book...)
April 22, 2016
The plot is about a poor but intelligent and hard working person Vasu and his journey of life. Fate is not always with Vasu and he faces many problems in each phase of his life. He gets inspired by Karna, a mythological character in the Hindu epic Mahabharatha and relates himself to Karna as they both struggled to withstand against fate. Be it an illusion or through meditation, whatever may be the reason, Karna appears before him to listen to his problems and guides him in a right direction.
Interesting right?
I too loved this plot by reading the blurb and wanted to see how the author can give advice for current generation through the mythological character Karna. The narration is very simple to follow and I enjoyed the book till half. But, after that, it seemed like dragging by providing more lectures on morals through Karna. It became boring, repetitive and very preachy. The climax is good, though.
I loved the bonus information provided at the end of the book about Karna's life incidents. It is refreshing to read Mahabharatha in the perspective of Karna. The questions raised by Vasu to Karna and Karna's replies are justifiable. This book teaches positive spirit.
The moral at the end is loud and clear -
Always raise up high when stuck with problems and never lose hope. The best always waits for you which you deserve the most.
My Rating: 3.5/5 - See more at: http://www.fantasticfeathers.in/2016/...
Interesting right?
I too loved this plot by reading the blurb and wanted to see how the author can give advice for current generation through the mythological character Karna. The narration is very simple to follow and I enjoyed the book till half. But, after that, it seemed like dragging by providing more lectures on morals through Karna. It became boring, repetitive and very preachy. The climax is good, though.
I loved the bonus information provided at the end of the book about Karna's life incidents. It is refreshing to read Mahabharatha in the perspective of Karna. The questions raised by Vasu to Karna and Karna's replies are justifiable. This book teaches positive spirit.
The moral at the end is loud and clear -
Always raise up high when stuck with problems and never lose hope. The best always waits for you which you deserve the most.
My Rating: 3.5/5 - See more at: http://www.fantasticfeathers.in/2016/...
April 30, 2016
Some books are so good that you never want to leave them. They are not just the books but a life itself. Such book is Karna’s Alter Ego by Surendra Mohanty. This book talks about a very simple boy who is living is a village and is finding pretty difficult to move on in his life and then suddenly his own alter ego guides him on his journey. This book is not about mythology of Mahabharata and even not a fiction only but is the blend of both. Basically this book talks about the ‘life’ and how it should be dealt with.
This book takes you on a journey that talks about everything about Mahabharata but from other perspective, from Karna’s prospective and the meaning of those things in our today’s life. Author has developed both the characters so sensibly that sometimes you’ll get indulged in one of the character and will start to live the conversation between them. This is a kind of book that you’ll love to refer at some time of your life to find out the reasons and solutions of problems you’ll be facing in your life.
The book ends with lots of things that author leaves for the readers to anticipate and that was the beauty of the story and the writing of the author. There's a lot to take from this book but in the end, it's all on the reader himself.
This is a rare kind of a book and it should find a prestigious place on your bookshelf, for sure. I’ll rate this book 4.5/5.
This book takes you on a journey that talks about everything about Mahabharata but from other perspective, from Karna’s prospective and the meaning of those things in our today’s life. Author has developed both the characters so sensibly that sometimes you’ll get indulged in one of the character and will start to live the conversation between them. This is a kind of book that you’ll love to refer at some time of your life to find out the reasons and solutions of problems you’ll be facing in your life.
The book ends with lots of things that author leaves for the readers to anticipate and that was the beauty of the story and the writing of the author. There's a lot to take from this book but in the end, it's all on the reader himself.
This is a rare kind of a book and it should find a prestigious place on your bookshelf, for sure. I’ll rate this book 4.5/5.
October 9, 2015
Surendra Nath has done a great job in characterizing the protagonist of the story Vasu Sen with Karna. In the process he has depicted how their lives are entwined. Like Karna he faces misfortunes and is in the losing side most of the times. But having Karna by his side gives him the strength to fight against all odds and to move forward in life.
The author has tried to share important life lessons though the characters and the circumstances that engulf them at various situations. I wonder if the situations are imaginary or his life experiences, either way I had a great time reading the book.
I wish I have my Mythological Friend Krishna, by my side at times of need like Vasu had Karna in the book.
I would recommend all of you to read the book and find out how Karna helps the protagonist in rising above the problems and have a different angle of view of life.
I was given the book in exchange of an honest review and I would like to thank Surendra for giving me the opportunity.
The author has tried to share important life lessons though the characters and the circumstances that engulf them at various situations. I wonder if the situations are imaginary or his life experiences, either way I had a great time reading the book.
I wish I have my Mythological Friend Krishna, by my side at times of need like Vasu had Karna in the book.
I would recommend all of you to read the book and find out how Karna helps the protagonist in rising above the problems and have a different angle of view of life.
I was given the book in exchange of an honest review and I would like to thank Surendra for giving me the opportunity.
April 17, 2016
It would be a herculean task to put forth the praise in words, which for sure would not suffice and neither do justice to this amazing story. It is not just a book, its rather a masterpiece carved out of time and is going to be immortal in the memories of those who have read, reading, or will read. Each and every para is so well knitted and so grasping that you choose delaying other chores over putting the book down. This is certainly a book that you cannot get your hands off without completing. It has a compelling yet attractive factor to it and it is so well described that it feels like a movie (or I would take a step further as if it is happening in front of you that very moment). So guys as you just cannot get wet with the word called water and have to experience it, similarly anything written about the book would not suffice and you have to read it to experience it. May this book reach the top of the charts and get its story imprinted in millions of minds. God bless!
October 5, 2015
Marvellous. Karna's Alter Ego was a flowing, easy to follow introduction for me into Indian literature, with mythological and realistic themes intertwined. As a non-Indian, and British person, I found the novel to have taught me cultural and sociological lessons about lifestyle, societal expectations as well as of epic characters from the ancient Mahābhārata. The chronology of the book I found particularly enjoyable, as the main character Vasu, is followed from early childhood right up to middle age, which shows the struggles, realities and difficulties faced by individuals in society through the various periods of life, particularly for this troubled character. I would strongly suggest this book to all international readers who are interested in getting a taste of Indian writing style, and those keen on dipping their toes into their ancient and contemporary culture.
December 14, 2022
A very interesting, inspiring story that urges you to introspect throughout the book.
Firstly, I would like to congratulate the author for envisioning a story with a unique plot as this. Standing out in a time where many Indian authors are writing books keeping Indian Mythology as a central theme is an achievement and Surendar Nath’s book stands out like a beacon in the ocean.
As we read the book, we find ourselves being able to relate to the incidents that have happened in Vasu’s life. The author through the story shows us in a unique way how we can view those incidents and overcome disappointment, discontentment and heart ache.
This book is a must read for everyone, especially people who like Mahabharata and Karna. This book surely lead me to look at Mahabharata in a different perspective and I too have become a huge fan of Karna.
Firstly, I would like to congratulate the author for envisioning a story with a unique plot as this. Standing out in a time where many Indian authors are writing books keeping Indian Mythology as a central theme is an achievement and Surendar Nath’s book stands out like a beacon in the ocean.
As we read the book, we find ourselves being able to relate to the incidents that have happened in Vasu’s life. The author through the story shows us in a unique way how we can view those incidents and overcome disappointment, discontentment and heart ache.
This book is a must read for everyone, especially people who like Mahabharata and Karna. This book surely lead me to look at Mahabharata in a different perspective and I too have become a huge fan of Karna.
December 9, 2022
I picked this book based on the reviews. Also for my admiration for Karna as a character from Mythology. Hugely disappointed as this book was worst then a an average bollywood drama. There were instances where it felt like utter nonsense. Pick this book only if you are a Bollywood buff and want to read not using your logical and rational mind. Inspiration is the last thing one could expect from this book.
September 8, 2015
As I read the book, I started wondering that the thought of wanting to make it big in life or being something that would make your life worth it comes to everyone. This book shows how a simple village boy who does not even have the means to feed his family has been able to create a life that is filled with growth and great life lessons, and most importantly due to his belief (his alter ego - Karna). This book makes you want to choose the good paths in life inspite of all the hardship and feel the bliss of coming out on the other side with grace and having done good.
A book that makes you want to be righteous and feel great while being so.
A book that makes you want to be righteous and feel great while being so.
September 30, 2015
A brilliant novel by Surendra Nath with messages so subtle and inspiring at the same time that they could strike a chord with anyone no matter how old the reader be! A brilliant analogy between 5000 years ago and now- Karna and Vasu- truly engrosses the reader completely. The parallels, the subtle satires, the humour, the juxtaposition of situations and every other device used in the book beautifies the plot so much so that anyone could associate with and understand the story! The story of struggles, sacrifices, destiny, fate; Karna's Alter Ego" has a captivating plot and is definitely worth a read! :)
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