Loving wife, obedient daughter, loyal friend. But if you provoke her, she will raise her hood and spit poison.
A woman is stalked by a man she had once rejected. A housewife discovers a plot to kill her husband. A blond young girl is chased by an underworld gang.
But these are no ordinary women. Some of them aren't even women.
Do you believe in the hypothesis of shapeshifters? Do you believe that Ichhadhari Nag or Nagin does really exist? Or have you ever probed into the validation of this myth or in its truth? Well! according to Wikipedia, “Ichhadhari Nag or Nagin are mythical shape shifting cobras in Indian folklore”. And this very book holds nine long short stories i.e. sort of novella encircling about the abstract of Ichhadhari Nag or Nagin. The first story was kind of average and didn’t impress me much but the later ones were outright enthralling and charming. I was so much into the book that I readily felt my adrenaline rushing. The nineth story is an exclusive bonus story from the author’s upcoming series featuring bhinna nishacharas and wyadhas. The fifth story in the book, “Haka Mari” was my favourite and I really loved it to its core. In this story, two seven-year-old identical twins went missing during one night. The villagers were convinced that both the little girls were taken by Haka Mari bai! Haka Maris are ghosts controlled by tantricks. They prayed to Nag Devata for the return of the girls. The twin girls themselves daily prayed to their paternal uncles who were Ichhadhari Nags to save their life. The story ahead of how their uncles saved both of them from Haka Mari and bring them home is so fascinating and chilling. Other stories consist of killing or demise through snake bite by Ichhadhari Nag or Nagin where few were done to avenge or few in defence. The writing style of the author is eloquent and straightforward. And this very clean writing will keep you absorbed. At no point, you could guess what’s going to come ahead. Every time you turn a page, you will receive a new surprise. And I really loved that thrill. This book reminded me of umpteen number of serials and Bollywood movies based on this idea. Still, the book holds new tales and a firm plot.
Why to read this book If you love to stretch your reading horizons, then this is the book you clearly need to pick up. It will hold you in its grip and will not let you to pick another book until you’re done with it. It is definitely a delightful and entertaining read.
Icchadhari Nag and Nagin are always a fascinating character in movies, tales, and folklore. Some believe it or some not. However, reading about them is always an entertaining thing. I am totally enchanted by the book cover and I love reading about shapeshifters.
This book contains nine short stories all are based on Icchadhari Nag, Nagin, and mythical creatures.
The first story, ‘The snake in my neighbor’s garden’ narrates a story of Kunal, who sees a snake frequently going into her neighbor’s house. He finds it scary and tries to alert her neighbor. After sometimes, he gets to know the truth.
‘Ranbhool’ is one of my favorite stories in the book. This story resembles the ‘Chakva’ concept (Those who are from Maharashtra may have an idea about this) A man finds a boy alone and decides to drop him to his home. However, he lost his way in Jungle and an old man approach to help him. What happens next is interesting to read!
‘A little poison doesn’t hurt’ is a story of a woman who tries to save her husband’s life with the advice of her complicatedly described grandmother. This story has the mention of Vishkanyas, a group of girls who are poisonous and can kill any man.
‘Watching you’ is the story of a man who is going through with a breakup with her love. After this, the life of the girl seems changed. Who is the responsible? You have to find out.
‘Haka Mari’ is my absolute favorite story. Twin girls get disappeared and everyone believes that Haka Mari has done this. Haka Mari is an entity who can take the form of your deceased loved ones and can trap you through this. The way they have been rescued is totally amazing to read.
‘Laughing heart’ is the story of Nishachara, mythical creatures who love to eat heart and liver of humans. A group of the stand-up comedian is about to start the show. At that time, a girl shows up and tells that there could be Nishachara here. What is going to happen?
‘Winning Ugly’ is a love story of an Icchadhari Nagin who gets married to a human. Things were going smoothly until one day his husband got to know about her secret.
‘How to draw a killer’ is a brilliant murder mystery which takes unexpected twist and turns.
Last story, ‘The fearless one’ is again an amusing story of Nishachara.
Writing style:
The author has narrated the story very crisply. The language is easy and titles are wisely chosen by the author.
My perception:
I enjoyed this book. I thought that the book will contain the typical Nagin’s badla kind of story but there is nothing like this. The author has taken a liberty to extend the concept of shapeshifters and he has succeeded into it. All the stories have a hidden element which makes them super entertaining. The stories are fast-paced and will hook the readers till last. One should read this book for clever writing, a novelty in stories and practical narration. This book can be enjoyed by every type of readers. You shouldn’t miss it!
'Nagin' was an entertaining read from start to finish. The stories are mysteries woven around shape-shifters and if you like reading about supernatural beings then you wouldn't be disappointed. The only thing that i didn't like was the title. I didn't think it suited the collection. It deserved something better.
You can read my detailed thoughts about the stories by clicking on the link below: Nagin
Nagin has been trending recently. The revengeful and powerful woman has locked the masses in her immense power, beauty and strange life. Hence, Nagin by Mayur Didolkar has most relevance. The book is a collection of short stories about Icchadhari Nagin and Ichadhari Nag. For the readers who believe in worshipping Nag or snake or those who have witnessed how the Nag Pooja shows the power of Nag or Nagin, the book is an experience.A teenager witnesses and black and yellow cobra going inside the neighbourhood almost daily. Later he realises the secret behind the snake. The revelation is sure to shock the readers. Another story is about a wife who finds out a clandestine relation of her husband. She tries to save her husband from a vile woman with ulterior motive. Who is the Nagin in the story, is the highlight. A man who stalks his ex-girlfriend find that the ones who cross her path are bitten by a poisonous snake and dies on the spot. All his suspicions are directed towards her new boyfriend but the climax is sure to take the breath away from the readers. A child who strays away from his mother reaches a strager who saves him and sets out to reunite him from his mother. On the way they meet someone who tries to harm them. How the man saves the child is the rest of the stories. There are even more stories for the reader. Each story is one different from the other, even though there is a Nag or Nagin. The suspense behind who is the Snake is highlight of the book. Each story will force the reader to start guessing who the snake would be. The first story is apparently a misleading one. A teenager who is a peeping tom gives the impression of the intro of an erotica. This was unwarranted for the book which is literary best among the contemporaries. The relationships are depicted effortlessly intimate without any sleay sequences. Some of the characters stay with us even after finishing the book. The book cover is what deserves special mention. It is fabulous and appeals to everyone. The book is not concentrated to a single genre and hence has a possibility of targeting wide readers. The blurb is however misleading. It gives the feel of a novel while it is an anthology. Verdict
You know, when you are on a routine diet, which is safe but sometimes could get a little boring and you reach out for something spicy to change things a bit, this book was like that. I have been reading "safe" books off late and this book was sent by Indic books. I knew what I was getting into and was half prepared to drop it after into a few pages but was pleasantly surprised when the short stories actually turned out be good. These are a bunch of desi monster mythology some of which I have never heard before. Good read!
I received this book from the publisher for review:
This is a short story collection with a supernatural theme of Icchadhari Naag/Nagin running through all the 8 short stories + 1 bonus short story from the author's next book.
Even though the title of the book is Nagin out of 8 stories only 3 have Icchadhari Nagins while the rest of them had Icchadhari Naags. So kind of a misnomer, but fun nonetheless. Like every short story collection some stories work for me while others fall a little short.
I liked 'A little bit of Poison' and 'Hara-Kiri' the most. but the rest was fun too but I didn't like the bonus story too much.
But you may like some other stories and definitely should give this book a chance and don't be alarmed by the title so read this and keep on reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
The word ‘Nag’ and ‘Nagin’ brought back memories of films where the Ichadhari Nag or Nagin took revenge. The short stories in the book are refreshingly different, even though a tinge of revenge drama is still present which involves the shapeshifters going for the kill or protecting someone from getting killed. All the shapeshifters in these stories are imbued with human emotions which give the readers a clear idea about their motive and even root for them. The author has a deep passion for the occult which comes out in the physical description of Vishkanyas, Vidrupas, Bhinna Nishacharas, Ichadhari Nags and Nagins. The first story is about a young boy Kunal who is enamoured by his beautiful neighbour who happened to be his mother’s friend. Out of curiosity he often secretly stares at her window. One day he discovers a snake entering her apartment. Later he summons courage to inform his neighbour about the snake only to get reprimanded. Later in the story, this boy cleverly manages to unravel the mystery behind the snake and his neighbour. He gets over his shyness and develops a respectful relationship with his neighbour. The character transition in this coming-of-age story can take the reader by surprise. Ranbhool is steeped in folklore tells the story of this young boy who desperately wants to return home to his mother. He is being guided by a young man. They get lost in the forest where they encounter an old man. This old man tries to dissuade the young boy from trusting his guide. What was the old man’s intention? Who was more worthy of trust? The ending was full of surprises. The story ‘A little poison doesn’t hurt’ shows how Ichadhari Nags and Nagins are not always seeking revenge but can also save lives and stand up for what is right. Here the readers will learn about the mythical Vishkanyas or the ‘Poison girls’ who can use their venom to set the situation right. The story ‘Watching You’ reiterates how Nagins have the human quality of jealousy and possessiveness. While they are not humans nor their actions have any moral grounding but their heart is at the right place. In the story ‘Haka Mari’ two girls were beckoned by a ghost who disguised itself as a loved one they had lost. Everyone in the village had gathered to pray for their safety. This gathering was attended by journalists from the city who thought all this was nothing but superstition. One of them get a call from Haka Mari but the story does not end the way one imagines. It is the sudden twists that will keep the reader hooked. The visual imagery will surely give one goosebump. It reminds me of ‘Nishir Daak’ which is a ghost that traps by calling out in the voice of a loved one who has deceased. ‘Laughing Heart’ gives the reader a peep into the world of stand-up comedians and how these programs are conducted. One such day when a stand-up performance was due to take place, the protagonist was warned by a mysterious lady of an impending attack by Bhinna Nishacharas. These creatures resemble Werewolves and devour the hearts of their prey. The protagonist was finding it hard to believe this lady. He was mentally occupied with the performance he was about to deliver to pay much heed. However, as the last performer for the night was just finishing off all hell broke loose. While the Bhinna Nishacharas did cause a rampage and killed many, there were Wyadhas or monster-hunters who saved the day. The fight between the Wyadhas and Nischacharas was captivating. The bonus story ‘The Fearless One’ give further insight into the characteristics of the Nishacharas and how effectively one can escape the jaws of death. One just needs to be fearless like the protagonist. Witty and humorous dialogues effectively eased the tension and could not help laughing out loud in many places. This story sets the pace for the reader to pick up the next book by the author that entirely focuses on the Nishacharas. ‘Winning Ugly’ is a story of love between a human and a shapeshifter. Is that possible? Does society accept such a union? What touches the heart is the respect and depth of feeling the couple has which effortlessly make them sacrifice their comfort for each other. ‘How to Draw a Killer’ is a story of how the shapeshifters turn the tables on those who were out to harm them. How they tricked their killers and made them succumb to their fate made an enthralling story. All the short stories on these mythical creatures had a modern city setting which made it an interesting read. The sudden twists, the drama and vivid characterizations are the biggest takeaways of reading ‘Nagin’. It will break all perceptions one has about these shapeshifters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ #qotd Have you read a story or a book about a "SHAPESHIFTER" before or on the topic of METAMORPHIS? Do you like such tales?
If yes, read further, you are in for a FeAsT!
#aotd This is my First Interface with a book on such a topic & I am oh so Excited & Delighted about it because I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED IT!!
GENRE: Fiction, FANTASY FICTION, SHORT STORIES.
🐍 This book encompasses 9 DIFFERENT STORIES, penned down in 277 pages. Published by @juggernaut in 2018; it is written by #MayurDildolkar
🧒 Mayur is a CRIME AND HORROR WRITER.
..the possibility of things going dreadfully, irrevocably wrong in ordinary situations..inspires his work.
He has written two books previously; #thedarkroad & #tearsforstrangers other than many short stories.
He is a marathon runner, does stand-up comedy occasionally & runs an investment advisory firm.
🐍🍂 Have you ever heard of "ICHADHARI NAGIN" or beings who have the power to take any form according to their wish...??❓!!
Well, it's a very enchanting topic & a program based on it is running successfully on Indian Television!
🐍 This book presents 9 beautiful, captivating & delightful tales based on "SHAPESHIFTERS".
🍂 It takes our fantasy & imagination to a whole new level.
.🐍 The concept of ICHADHARI NAGIN is very old in the Indian Scenario.. This book has given it a modern twist, to meet & delight, the expectations of the present reader.
🍂 The STORY- LINE & PLOT is alluring being different in each story with the base/ basics being the same.
🐍 The WRITING STYLE is the USP of the stories/ book, written perfectly to charm the reader into READIng the next story & next..the end leaving us wanting for more & satiated with what we read, at the same time.
🍂🐍 The book being an AMALGAMATION OF DIFFERENT STORIES also adds to the positives, rather than being a single story which may have sound monotonous.
🍂 The NARRATION is such, that it doesn't give any clue about the CLIMAX.
🐍 It us SPOOKY & ENTERTAINING.
A wonderful, unique read acting as a fresh breather in the mundane life..& it's chores.
Nagin consists of nine short stories (eight from the present book with a bonus from the author's upcoming series) that revolve around Ichhadhari nags and nagins, Vidharbas, Bhinna Nishacharas and the monster hunters- wyadhas. It is well written and you don't see the twists coming even if you think you do. The stories manage to give you chills especially 'Ranbhool' and 'Haka Mari'. The one titled 'Laughing Hearts' was very detailed regarding how the world of stand-up comedy works and that makes sense now that I know that the author has tried his hand at stand-up comedy. The book reminded me of the TV series Supernatural that I used to follow very religiously until last year. The shape shifters, the monsters, the hunters, the wit, the planning and the execution were very Sam-and-Dean-ish and I loved it. I was glad that the author researched real legends and based his stories on them rather than reinventing the wheel. The fact that he gave credit to those old stories raised my opinion of him ten fold. In a day where people have stopped believing in the supernatural and where science has advanced enough to provide an answer to many of life's mysteries, it is nice to be reminded of such stories that have been passed on from generation to generation. It is a fun exercise to try to see what made the people of that era think up of such legends. The wasting of the body and extreme susceptibility to infections after exchange of bodily fluids with a Visha Kanya could very well be an example of people suffering from AIDS after unprotected sex. While it is easy for us to dismiss all stories of the old, it is interesting to see that some may have a bearing even in the present day and age.
Do you believe that there are snakes who can change form into humans at will? Do you believe in the myth of the “mani” (a stone that holds immense power and which is guarded by “Ichchadhari” or shapeshifter snakes?
I have been fascinated by the many mysteries surrounding these mythical creatures and after watching the famous “Nagin” film, a Bollywood movie, starring Sridevi, I became even more enamored with these myths. As a result, when I heard about Nagin by Mayur Didolkar I immediately picked it up to read.
This book features short stories centered around the fantasy concept of “Ichchadhari Nagin”.
Short, engaging and crisply written, I enjoyed reading the stories in this book. Not all stories are alike in their treatment and this is what makes this book worth picking up to read.
The author’s writing style is simple, eloquent and vivid. He manages to create a colourful mental picture and had me hooked throughout. I finished this book in one sitting and totally loved his narration style.
In conclusion, Nagin by Mayur Didolkar is a book will keep you turning the pages with interest and then leave you happy. 4 out of 5 stars to it and Njkinny recommends this anthology to everyone. If you are interested in the Indian mythical tales surrounding “Ichchadhari Nagin” and are looking for interesting books to read then this book is for you.
Nagin by Mayur Didolkar is a refreshing retelling of the ever-popular Indian tale of the Nagin. It’s not a novel but a collection of short stories, each of which are uniquely enjoyable and can frankly be compatible for a TV series. Each story engages the reader and you cannot put down the book unless you have read it whole. Another interesting aspect is the introduction of many new characters – Ashwanas, Vidrupas adds to the richness of the lore. Nagin is a must have book in your collection, especially if you love thrillers, because the stories will keep you guessing. The author has broken the conventional mould for the Nagin and set a new precedent. I would not be surprised if these stories became adapted to a TV series. As a reader I’m thoroughly satisfied and in fact look forward to reading the authors second release.
Mayur Didolkar's classic Nagin book, in which he presented that they can be nice and friendly if you are good, but they can destroy you if you try to offend them. The book not only contains Nagin but Nag. The author wrote the nine stories astonishingly, as we can literally visualize and perceive the situation in our heads. I started with this book with the impression that it'd be like all Nagin stories, but it went on to a second level when I read the chapters of the book. The story, "Watching you," was great because there was a twist in the plot at the end. And not only this, but all the stories are different in their fusion with the modern world.
You will not regret reading the book and you will not stop till you finish it, just by opening the book.
Nagin is a collection of nine short stories by Mayur. The stories are well fleshed out, with a lot of detailing, and provide riveting plots.
The story plots involve women in different situations who counter their tormentors. The offbeat themes involve some women being snakes (no other spoilers, the name and the cover already conveys this much).
Writing nine stories without being repetitive and unreasonable on related themes is not easy. Mayur has done a commendable job stringing the plot twists.
Disclosure - Mayur gifted me a copy of the book to review.
interesting short stories. they are not horror but more like fantasy. I finished this book in two days. The plots for the short stories are so nicely written, something fresh from all the movies and all based on this snake shape shifting category
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.