Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata
In the forest of insecurities, is it possible to discover humanity through pleasure? Can we stop seeing each other as predator, prey, rival or mate, and rediscover ourselves as lovers? Does the divine reside in sensual delight, in emotional intimacy and in aesthetic experience? Yes, yes, yes. That is the promise of the Bhagavata. The Bhagavata is the story of Krishna, known as Shyam to those who find beauty, wisdom and love in his dark complexion. It is the third great Hindu epic after the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. However, this narration was composed in fragments over thousands of years, first as the Harivamsa, then as the Bhagavata Purana, and finally as the passionate songs of poet-sages in various regional languages. This book seamlessly weaves the story from Krishna's birth to his death, or rather from his descent to the butter-smeared world of happy women to his ascent from the blood-soaked world of angry men. It isn’t every day that one gets the chance to publish something as beautiful and sublime as Shyam by Devdutt Pattanaik. When I read the first draft I was mesmerized—here, finally, was the story of everyone’s beloved Krishna spanning his life, teachings and legacy, and told in Devdutt Pattanaik’s incredibly accessible style. It is always a pleasure to be working with Devdutt because you know instantly that you’re watching a genius at work—his eye for detail is unparalleled, his storytelling is enchanting, his research is impeccable and, to top it all, his stunning line drawings complement his writing skills admirably. Shyam brings to life the Bhagavata, after the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. Readers will find familiar tales told with utmost charm and simplicity, but also rare, unfamiliar ones. I found my idea of Hindu mythology changing as I delved deeper into the dark and dreamy world of Krishna, and I am certain that readers will feel the same way. This book is not only for mythology enthusiasts, but for anyone looking for a profound, wonderfully told story.
