The Immortals of Meluha

Just finished reading this book called - The Immortals of Meluha. I liked the simple and yet engrossing style of writing of the book. The author doesn't hesitate to use contemporary ideas, culture and language while describing the characters set in 1900 BC India. This makes the plot interesting and understandable to a person unaware of ancient Indian history. The main theme of the novel seems to be a search for meaning. Meaning as conveyed by concepts such as good and evil. The author suggests that varying from the norm is often considered or portrayed as evil. He brings this idea to the fore by delving into the root cause for war between the two sparring tribes, each of whom are counting on the same legend to redeem their way of life.

Another undertone in the novel is about the makings of the present day Indian society. The author explores the two ways of life which have interwoven themselves into the Indian society - the stratified society bound by systematic laws and a democratic society founded on individual freedom. The idea is to provide an explanation to the emergence of the present society from two distinct social orders, each with their own advantages. The book is the first in a three part sequel and so the story doesn't end with this part. The author leaves the audience guessing in the end. The protagonist Shiva and his consort Sati are under attack by the Nagas. Have to wait and read to know how the plot unfolds :)