Book Review 100: Mohini: The Enchantress by Anuja Chandramouli
Mohini: The Enchantress by Anuja Chandramouli is a wonderful retelling of the tale of Mohini, from her own perspective. A perfect amalgamation of Indian mythology with fiction, this book is quite a refreshing and insightful read.
From the creation of Mohini, from the essence of Vishnu; to Mohini being the Enchantress and meandering her path in the tumult between the Devas and the Asuras; this book covers it all. Mohini is loved and desired by all; and yet, she is elusive—a tantalizing temptress. The author beautifully tells the tale of Mohini through her book. And not just Mohini, there are a lot of mythological characters whose stories we get to know from this book. The author has done extensive research, and the book reflects that. It is quite an informative read.
The character of Mohini, as has been portrayed in Indian mythology (which is basically from a patriarchal point of view), is quite different from what we see in this book. Hence, female characters often go unheard and misinterpreted. It feels really good to read about the women of Indian mythology from their own perspective. However, the book is a bit confusing as it begins. Things got clearer as the story proceeded. The writing style is not very engaging and hence, the book is not an easy one to read. And it is excessively descriptive at times, making the plot, not a very gripping one.
Overall, Mohini: The Enchantress by Anuja Chandramouli is an insightful and informative read. If mythology interests you, and you like reading mythological fictions, you can give this book a read.
An accomplished TEDx speaker and storyteller, Anuja Chandramouli regularly conducts workshops on creative writing, mythology and empowerment in schools and colleges across the country. She is also a student of classical dance and yoga.
Buy this book from Amazon.
Thanks to the publisher, Rupa Publications, for the review copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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