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Krishna Coriolis #1
Slayer of Kamsa
Forewarned by a prophecy, the demonic King Kamsa orders every newborn to be put to the sword. But even in the womb, the unborn Krishna uses powerful magic to cast a spell across the entire kingdom on the night of his birth. The stage is set for the epic clash of the childgod and the terrible forces of evil with the birth of Krishna, the slayer of Kamsa ...
The fantastic adventures of the Hindu god Krishna have entertained and inspired people for millennia. Playful cowherd, mischievous lover, feared demon-slayer the legendary exploits of this super-being in human form rival the most rousing fantasy epics. Now, the author of the Ramayana Series®, the hugely successful epic retelling of the ancient Sanskrit poem, works his magic once again with the tales of Krishna. All the pomp, splendour and majesty of ancient India come alive in this extraordinary eight-book series.
The fantastic adventures of the Hindu god Krishna have entertained and inspired people for millennia. Playful cowherd, mischievous lover, feared demon-slayer the legendary exploits of this super-being in human form rival the most rousing fantasy epics. Now, the author of the Ramayana Series®, the hugely successful epic retelling of the ancient Sanskrit poem, works his magic once again with the tales of Krishna. All the pomp, splendour and majesty of ancient India come alive in this extraordinary eight-book series.
330 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
32 people are currently reading
599 people want to read
About the author
Ashok K. Banker
110 books659 followersBROWN GIRLS RULE Beaming Books Oct 17, 2023 I AM BROWN Book Trust Great Books, Bank Street Prize | A KISS AFTER DYING 2022 | They/them | AuDHD NB BI🇮🇳
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 10, 2014
If it takes a community to raise a child, then it surely takes a nation to build an epic.
May 11, 2013
The most enduring of all Hindu legends could be the story of this one man. A most lovable yet rascally boy, A teenager with a string of affairs behind him, a reputation that seemed to best Casanova at times, diplomat and politician extraordinaire, king maker, negotiator and warrior : Krishna. The labyrinths of history and religion intermingled at some unseen crossroad and Krishna was given one more adornment, that of the incarnation of a god. Be that as it may, Krishna has always been an interesting character for me on account of his stratagems and quick thinking. In ways more than one, he is a character that bears a lot of similarities to Odysseus from the Trojan war times. Krishna however has always seemed to be more well rounded than the king of Ithaca.
The author Ashok Banker is now heralded India's story teller of epic proportions. This is owing to his success in retelling the Ramayana epic in six volumes and his recently begun Mahabharata series. In the same vein, he retells the story of the most human of Hindu gods. The hallmark of Banker's writing is the cinematic way he presents the story and the characters. There is always a reel of film running in my mind when I am reading his books. A film full of extreme emotions, non stop action and larger than life characters. The dramatic elements tend to spill over a bit at times but as an overall package he is an author who knows how to deliver. This one is no exception.
You will notice that I have not mentioned a word about the story here. It is pretty simple : monstrous villain-prophecy-harassed parents-the prophesied slayer is borne ! Krishna's birth story is one that has been copied countless times and hence is a familiar one to behold. He is a character who becomes more complex and interesting as he gets older !
The author Ashok Banker is now heralded India's story teller of epic proportions. This is owing to his success in retelling the Ramayana epic in six volumes and his recently begun Mahabharata series. In the same vein, he retells the story of the most human of Hindu gods. The hallmark of Banker's writing is the cinematic way he presents the story and the characters. There is always a reel of film running in my mind when I am reading his books. A film full of extreme emotions, non stop action and larger than life characters. The dramatic elements tend to spill over a bit at times but as an overall package he is an author who knows how to deliver. This one is no exception.
You will notice that I have not mentioned a word about the story here. It is pretty simple : monstrous villain-prophecy-harassed parents-the prophesied slayer is borne ! Krishna's birth story is one that has been copied countless times and hence is a familiar one to behold. He is a character who becomes more complex and interesting as he gets older !
September 27, 2012
In spite of knowing most of the story, having been exposed to it in various forms – from Uncle Pai’s Amar Chitra Katha to the local priest’s satsangs – the book holds the attention like a story unheard off. The narration is swift and the palpitations of reading the known, in an unknown setting pushes you the last page. Full review: http://wp.me/p2DEiS-3w
Merged review:
In spite of knowing most of the story, having been exposed to it in various forms – from Uncle Pai’s Amar Chitra Katha to the local priest’s satsangs – the book holds the attention like a story unheard off. The narration is swift and the palpitations of reading the known, in an unknown setting pushes you the last page. detailed review on: http://reshmypillai.wordpress.com
Merged review:
In spite of knowing most of the story, having been exposed to it in various forms – from Uncle Pai’s Amar Chitra Katha to the local priest’s satsangs – the book holds the attention like a story unheard off. The narration is swift and the palpitations of reading the known, in an unknown setting pushes you the last page. detailed review on: http://reshmypillai.wordpress.com
March 2, 2012
cant wait to get hold of the 2nd!
July 19, 2014
Slayer of Kamsa - The first of the Krishna Coriolis series.
Well, the only reason I picked up this one was because I wanted a full fledged insight into the story of Krishna's life. And this book hasn't been a disappointment on that front. Details, so many details. Even before the birth of the child-God, the author gets you hooked. Surely there is much more to follow. Eight books must contain all that one needs to know!
However, I am giving only two stars to this book. The epic story of Krishna is undoubtedly deserving of more, and also, anyone who attempts to share it with the world. Yet, I didn't like the writing style of the author much. (And this is the first I've read by the author) . The language was simple and straightforward. Which is something I do appreciate, because it makes the book a quick and easy read. But, one thing that you can't help but notice if you've read this, is that some events are highly exaggerated! Not just exaggerated, but highly exaggerated. .. Yes, we get that Kamsa is evil and he has no pity and on and on. But seriously, explaining that point in one whole paragraph , over and over again doesn't leave a stronger impression. It kind of gets irritating.
That said, I wouldn't deny that the author has done a nearly-decent job. I hope the other books are better than this though.
Well, the only reason I picked up this one was because I wanted a full fledged insight into the story of Krishna's life. And this book hasn't been a disappointment on that front. Details, so many details. Even before the birth of the child-God, the author gets you hooked. Surely there is much more to follow. Eight books must contain all that one needs to know!
However, I am giving only two stars to this book. The epic story of Krishna is undoubtedly deserving of more, and also, anyone who attempts to share it with the world. Yet, I didn't like the writing style of the author much. (And this is the first I've read by the author) . The language was simple and straightforward. Which is something I do appreciate, because it makes the book a quick and easy read. But, one thing that you can't help but notice if you've read this, is that some events are highly exaggerated! Not just exaggerated, but highly exaggerated. .. Yes, we get that Kamsa is evil and he has no pity and on and on. But seriously, explaining that point in one whole paragraph , over and over again doesn't leave a stronger impression. It kind of gets irritating.
That said, I wouldn't deny that the author has done a nearly-decent job. I hope the other books are better than this though.
June 2, 2014
Had held back on reading this for a really long time due to either personal commitments or due to the huge TBR pile. Completed reading this in four hours flat!
Ashok Banker has been appreciated across continents on his take of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. While I did like the fresh perspective on the epic saga, there were some statements where the author tried to rationalize the language using scientific terminology which did not go down well with me. This however, does not distract from the overall experience of this great epic and would recommend this book to anyone who hasn't read the Mahabharata or isn't aware of the story.
I will definitely look forward to reading the Dance of Govinda.
Ashok Banker has been appreciated across continents on his take of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. While I did like the fresh perspective on the epic saga, there were some statements where the author tried to rationalize the language using scientific terminology which did not go down well with me. This however, does not distract from the overall experience of this great epic and would recommend this book to anyone who hasn't read the Mahabharata or isn't aware of the story.
I will definitely look forward to reading the Dance of Govinda.
May 7, 2011
I am a great fan of Banker's Ramayana series and hence was really excited to find this first of a proposed 8-part series on Krishna's life and times. Krishna being my favourite from all the gods and deities having grown on a healthy diet of Shrimad Bhagwat Puran and Sukhsagar.
I finished the book on one flight from Delhi to Bangalore so I can't say that it was not unputdownable. I was a little disappointed that Kamsa seemed so unidimensional . Banker's Ravana was a multi-layered, complex character and in comparison Kamsa falls very flat. Maybe because Kamsa in general was a lesser man than Ravana, or maybe the character will develop in the coming volumes, which I am looking forward to.
I finished the book on one flight from Delhi to Bangalore so I can't say that it was not unputdownable. I was a little disappointed that Kamsa seemed so unidimensional . Banker's Ravana was a multi-layered, complex character and in comparison Kamsa falls very flat. Maybe because Kamsa in general was a lesser man than Ravana, or maybe the character will develop in the coming volumes, which I am looking forward to.
Read
July 23, 2022Not my cup of tea..
November 6, 2014
I had noticed Ashok Banker's books on the shelves of bookstores for a very long time and despite my keen interest in religion/mythology, I never felt I would enjoy them. Until now. I could not put this book down. The beauty of this book and Mr. Banker's writing lies in the detail. You may have heard or watched the stories of Krishna like so many of us before, but this book will make you feel like you are THERE. Right there. Watching, as Vasudeva confronts Kansa, as Kansa throws Vasudeva in jail.
You will not be able to put this book down. It is recommended for everybody - readers, non-readers, the pious, the non-pious ... everybody. For a Krishna-bhakt like me, reading this was that much more special and spiritual but even beyond that, this is just a great story, in the truest sense of the word.
You will not be able to put this book down. It is recommended for everybody - readers, non-readers, the pious, the non-pious ... everybody. For a Krishna-bhakt like me, reading this was that much more special and spiritual but even beyond that, this is just a great story, in the truest sense of the word.
January 22, 2011
A refreshing change from his earlier books. His style of writing seems to have matured. A very interesting retelling of Krishna related mythology.
November 14, 2014
Mmm...Somehow, it is interesting read but also has lots of gaps. Hopefully the subsequent parts will take care of that.
February 11, 2021
You will become a fan of kamsa if you read it .
June 13, 2012
Another beautiful series beginning by Ashok Banker.
In depth review at my blog http://bit.ly/MN0MKJ
In depth review at my blog http://bit.ly/MN0MKJ
July 9, 2018
The birth of a Savior portrayed beautifully.
The saviours, the messiahs, the prophets of this world are born under extremely tough circumstances and stand out as leaders in support of the people who are oppressed. I am reminded of Krishna's proclamation in the Bhagavad Geetha:
"Wherever Dharma is broken and Adharma crops up, I shall be born there to curb the Adharma and make Dharma stand again" says He.
The life and times of Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, are not only inspirational to all but legendary in Indian mythology. Whether seen as a Historical character with great vigor and energy or as a Mythological character with super human powers, His life stands out as an exemplification of Knolwedge and Action.
The main theme of this first book in the Krishna Coriolis series is the birth of the Slayer of Kamsa. The cruelty of Kamsa as a crown prince, as a commander of the armies and as a self coronated King, is limitless. Beginning with cruelty to animals his misdeeds give trouble to everyone around him. He is mighty, he is superbly skilled in the arts of war and he is someone who is cruel because he can be and no one can do anything about it. Ahsok Banker captures this essence in the myraid situations that he creates to show off Kamsa's cruel mind and sinister ways of expressing cruelty.
Vasudeva, also Kamsa's Brother In Law, is the stark opposite. He is an embodiment of Dharma and peaceful co-existence. With a lot of difficulty he brokers a peace accord between the Vrishnis and the Andhakas, gaining heartfelt appreciation from all people. The only threat to the accord is Kamsa who barges into the very hall where the accord is being made and attempts to kill Vasudeva. That is when Kamsa encounters the protective force behind Vasudeva. A second encounter with him leaves Kamsa and his soldiers completely disoriented and Kamsa disappears for a while. A brief reign of peace comes over as Kamsa takes refuge in Magadha.
Magadha is built by Jarasandha by giving refuge to all outcasts. Outcasts here are the people born as a result of the union between Varnas. Many times the Dharma of the Varnas remains silent on how these illicit born children need to be dealt with. Intermarriage is not allowed between Varnas. But lusty humans are always breaking rules. As a result, these outcasts would not only be given any status in the Arya society but also are ill-treated and sometimes exploited. These are the people whose anger against the unjust Varna Dharma Jarasandha nurtures into an Army of relentless, merciless warriors and builds them into the state of Magadha, feared by everyone. One can imagine what kind of training Kamsa would have received from Jarasandha.
When Kamsa returns to Mathura, he is a new man. He is not just a cruel person. To his cruelty is now added strategic thinking. Though not as original and as cunning as Jarasandha, Kamsa is a formidable person. He usurps the kingdom and is forewarned that the Slayer will be born as the eighth child of his sister Devaki and Brother In Law Vasudeva. As discovered earlier, he can kill neither Devaki nor Vasudeva and hence chooses to kill all the offspring till the eighth child.
When the eight child escapes miraculously, he orders to kill all infants and begins with the infants just born to his own soldiers. When his soldiers can kill their own kin, they would not show mercy to any others. This is his logic and it works its magic through the army. At the end of the massacre, Kamsa would not only have eliminated the source of his threat, but also would have created an army as relentless and as merciless as that of Jarasandha, if not more.
Hair raising scenes of cruelty, heart wrenching stories of exploitation and a magical being that can bring peace to the world. This is what the story is about. Refreshingly told with piety and brilliance. Recommended to all those who are in love with Mythology and Fantasy. I am moving on to the second in this series. My goal is to finish all the books in this series within the year.
The saviours, the messiahs, the prophets of this world are born under extremely tough circumstances and stand out as leaders in support of the people who are oppressed. I am reminded of Krishna's proclamation in the Bhagavad Geetha:
Yadaa Yadaa Hi Dharmasya Glaanirbhavati Bharata
Abhyuthaanam Adharmasya tadaatmaanam srujaamyaham
"Wherever Dharma is broken and Adharma crops up, I shall be born there to curb the Adharma and make Dharma stand again" says He.
The life and times of Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, are not only inspirational to all but legendary in Indian mythology. Whether seen as a Historical character with great vigor and energy or as a Mythological character with super human powers, His life stands out as an exemplification of Knolwedge and Action.
The main theme of this first book in the Krishna Coriolis series is the birth of the Slayer of Kamsa. The cruelty of Kamsa as a crown prince, as a commander of the armies and as a self coronated King, is limitless. Beginning with cruelty to animals his misdeeds give trouble to everyone around him. He is mighty, he is superbly skilled in the arts of war and he is someone who is cruel because he can be and no one can do anything about it. Ahsok Banker captures this essence in the myraid situations that he creates to show off Kamsa's cruel mind and sinister ways of expressing cruelty.
Vasudeva, also Kamsa's Brother In Law, is the stark opposite. He is an embodiment of Dharma and peaceful co-existence. With a lot of difficulty he brokers a peace accord between the Vrishnis and the Andhakas, gaining heartfelt appreciation from all people. The only threat to the accord is Kamsa who barges into the very hall where the accord is being made and attempts to kill Vasudeva. That is when Kamsa encounters the protective force behind Vasudeva. A second encounter with him leaves Kamsa and his soldiers completely disoriented and Kamsa disappears for a while. A brief reign of peace comes over as Kamsa takes refuge in Magadha.
Magadha is built by Jarasandha by giving refuge to all outcasts. Outcasts here are the people born as a result of the union between Varnas. Many times the Dharma of the Varnas remains silent on how these illicit born children need to be dealt with. Intermarriage is not allowed between Varnas. But lusty humans are always breaking rules. As a result, these outcasts would not only be given any status in the Arya society but also are ill-treated and sometimes exploited. These are the people whose anger against the unjust Varna Dharma Jarasandha nurtures into an Army of relentless, merciless warriors and builds them into the state of Magadha, feared by everyone. One can imagine what kind of training Kamsa would have received from Jarasandha.
When Kamsa returns to Mathura, he is a new man. He is not just a cruel person. To his cruelty is now added strategic thinking. Though not as original and as cunning as Jarasandha, Kamsa is a formidable person. He usurps the kingdom and is forewarned that the Slayer will be born as the eighth child of his sister Devaki and Brother In Law Vasudeva. As discovered earlier, he can kill neither Devaki nor Vasudeva and hence chooses to kill all the offspring till the eighth child.
When the eight child escapes miraculously, he orders to kill all infants and begins with the infants just born to his own soldiers. When his soldiers can kill their own kin, they would not show mercy to any others. This is his logic and it works its magic through the army. At the end of the massacre, Kamsa would not only have eliminated the source of his threat, but also would have created an army as relentless and as merciless as that of Jarasandha, if not more.
Hair raising scenes of cruelty, heart wrenching stories of exploitation and a magical being that can bring peace to the world. This is what the story is about. Refreshingly told with piety and brilliance. Recommended to all those who are in love with Mythology and Fantasy. I am moving on to the second in this series. My goal is to finish all the books in this series within the year.
June 16, 2020
Highly readable narrative of a familiar story. Familiar retellings are usually bland. Ashok Banker fills in lots of rich details while maintaining the integrity of these epics. Just his recounting hundreds of characters in these epics as cousins, sisters and brother in laws is just breath taking and impressive! He weaves in other stories that merit their own telling also. On to book 2 in this series. Very nice reading!
June 21, 2019
My rating does not reduce by 'fan' devotion of Ashok Banker in anyway. But somehow the expectations have a way of getting to you. I had expected this series to have a better start than one given here.
It's pretty average, though am hoping the series improves as I progress.
I recommend this book any any person who is a sucker for Indian Mythology, like I am.
It's pretty average, though am hoping the series improves as I progress.
I recommend this book any any person who is a sucker for Indian Mythology, like I am.
April 8, 2020
the sheer power that this book radiates is magnetic. richly detailed, it really managed to transfix me and even make me a more fervent worshipper of The Lord. well deserved 5/5. recommended to anyone who is keen on learning about Lord, his past and his mystical power.
February 14, 2024
I read this book again since I want to read the series. I am glad I did because I did not remember a large chunk of it. Either the book changed or I just forgot. It is well written, though exaggerated. I wish the whole birth of Krishna was covered in detail and not in such a shortened way.
dnf
May 25, 2020I totally agree with this review..
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
April 18, 2022
A retelling setting itself up nicely. Different in tone and pace from the Ramayana series - this shows Kamsa in a more detailed light than usual.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2023
Nice Book of India
June 18, 2024
Poorly written, poorly edited, poorly formatted for Kindle.
February 4, 2019
Well written and explained.i just complete this book and I feel blessed that I read it I think everyone should read this book if u are mythology fan .well done sir do something more like this
January 24, 2024
PLEASE read this review before starting this series.
I love Krishna, and I’m so so grateful to the author for giving my love an outlet like this. The writing and description is beautiful, and I look forward to reading more! The author does, however, retreat a bit into cliche - it seems like he keeps justifying an innately patriarchal ancient Indian power structure, for example. But if you can overlook that, this is a really great read!
Edit : After second read
PLEASE read this review before starting this series. This is a fine series if you want to understand the story of Krishna as a lone figure, not associated with the Mahabharat. But that's about it. There is no emotional value anywhere in this series. I read the first seven books, but I absolutely cannot tolerate this slow-paced writing long enough to finish the last book - because frankly, it starts off as pretty good, but keeps getting worse with every book. The characters are not fleshed out well at all - there are no scenes dedicated to exploring the love or resentment in Krishna's relationship with different people, including, surprisingly, Balarama. Instead, the author proceeds to give us long winded descriptions of fights that go on for chapters and chapters. The whole thing reads like a bad daily soap, where everyone is very baselessly dramatic - except we rarely see the characters between chunks of writing explaining the physics behind fighting. Every chapter starts and ends with "suspense," to the point that the reader loses track of everything that's going on. There is absolutely no sense of climax. Oh, and I don't know where the Vortals come from, I don't know if that is accurate to Hindu mythology. I'd never heard the word before. The weak characters and plot is made worse by the author's clear internalised misogyny and stereotypical views about gender, so much so that reading becomes unbearable at points. If you wish to see Kanha embodied as a full blooded character, and if you are a young, modern reader, PLEASE do not read these books
I love Krishna, and I’m so so grateful to the author for giving my love an outlet like this. The writing and description is beautiful, and I look forward to reading more! The author does, however, retreat a bit into cliche - it seems like he keeps justifying an innately patriarchal ancient Indian power structure, for example. But if you can overlook that, this is a really great read!
Edit : After second read
PLEASE read this review before starting this series. This is a fine series if you want to understand the story of Krishna as a lone figure, not associated with the Mahabharat. But that's about it. There is no emotional value anywhere in this series. I read the first seven books, but I absolutely cannot tolerate this slow-paced writing long enough to finish the last book - because frankly, it starts off as pretty good, but keeps getting worse with every book. The characters are not fleshed out well at all - there are no scenes dedicated to exploring the love or resentment in Krishna's relationship with different people, including, surprisingly, Balarama. Instead, the author proceeds to give us long winded descriptions of fights that go on for chapters and chapters. The whole thing reads like a bad daily soap, where everyone is very baselessly dramatic - except we rarely see the characters between chunks of writing explaining the physics behind fighting. Every chapter starts and ends with "suspense," to the point that the reader loses track of everything that's going on. There is absolutely no sense of climax. Oh, and I don't know where the Vortals come from, I don't know if that is accurate to Hindu mythology. I'd never heard the word before. The weak characters and plot is made worse by the author's clear internalised misogyny and stereotypical views about gender, so much so that reading becomes unbearable at points. If you wish to see Kanha embodied as a full blooded character, and if you are a young, modern reader, PLEASE do not read these books
March 7, 2011
It is a story which we all know. But to put down the same story into a series of eight novels right from the rise of Kamsa till his end at the hands of Lord Krishna is no mean feat. This book is only the first in the series, and has told with all grit and gumption of a master storyteller. I have read Dr. Banker’s book on Rama(the Ramayana series)-Exile from Ayoddha, and I knew that it would be engrossing. So much so, that I am looking forward to the next book in the series. The book starts with the signing of the peace treaty between Vasudeva, the Sura King and the Ugrasena, the Andhaka king, who is the father of Kamsa. It is at the celebrations that Kamsa makes his first appearance and from the word go he has been described as a violent man, incapable of normal human feelings of pain or pity. As the story unfolds, he gets indoctrinated into the politics of king making not by legal means, but through death, torture and destruction. His makeover from human to rakshasa is completed when he loses all human characteristics as he flings Vasudeva and Devaki’s first born into the wall. This transformation has been very skillfully portrayed by the author. The events leading to Krishna’s birth has been encapsulated in a befitting manner as it has been handed over to us by folklore. Only thing which rankles a bit is the violence which is too pervasive, with very little succour. Even Vasudeva has been rendered incapable of acting on his own against injustice. Surely some incidents could have been cited to show him as more of a flesh and blood character. Similarly, the compulsions behind Kamsa’s birth and the injustice meted out to the victims of Kamsa as a child- does not portray King Ugrasena to be just towards his people. It was as if evil was there even before and Kamsa merely carried it to the next level. But the story telling is vivid and the language simple yet evocative.
July 13, 2013
I was disappointed, highly disappointed after reading this book. Don’t get me wrong as my misery was caused by the unexpected and abrupt ending of this wonderful masterpiece.
Since childhood I had been fascinated by Lord Krishna. I had enjoyed watching the Mahabharata solely due to His presence. So when I came across this first instalment I did not delay to own a copy. And I have been rewarded generously.
Slayer of Kamsa, as the name suggests, is the story of Lord Krishna with his parents Vasudeva and Devaki as the crucial characters. For the main character and antagonist we have the notoriously infamous uncle Kamsa and the story mostly revolves around his life, struggles, growth to power and the resulting misuse of that power. This first instalment ends after the birth of our beloved Lord Krishna leaving you yearning for more.
Beautifully described scenes, rich vocabulary, fluid storyline and strong characters are the core strengths of this book. My all-time favourite book has been Mrityunjay by Shivaji Sawant which is a true classic. However, Slayer of Kamsa has many qualities which bring it to almost at par with Mrityunjay.
I would definitely recommend this book, in fact the complete series, to one and all. It doesn’t matter which religion you follow, which deity you believe in or which country you reside in. this story is universal and a must read for all.
Since childhood I had been fascinated by Lord Krishna. I had enjoyed watching the Mahabharata solely due to His presence. So when I came across this first instalment I did not delay to own a copy. And I have been rewarded generously.
Slayer of Kamsa, as the name suggests, is the story of Lord Krishna with his parents Vasudeva and Devaki as the crucial characters. For the main character and antagonist we have the notoriously infamous uncle Kamsa and the story mostly revolves around his life, struggles, growth to power and the resulting misuse of that power. This first instalment ends after the birth of our beloved Lord Krishna leaving you yearning for more.
Beautifully described scenes, rich vocabulary, fluid storyline and strong characters are the core strengths of this book. My all-time favourite book has been Mrityunjay by Shivaji Sawant which is a true classic. However, Slayer of Kamsa has many qualities which bring it to almost at par with Mrityunjay.
I would definitely recommend this book, in fact the complete series, to one and all. It doesn’t matter which religion you follow, which deity you believe in or which country you reside in. this story is universal and a must read for all.
September 16, 2015
Read Banker’s Ramayana Series almost a decade back and had loved it, being a fan of historical/mythology fiction I always knew I will be picking up his other series.
The first book of Krishna Coriolis is a disappointment, gone is the storytelling of Banker I appreciated. His continues use of the many authentic ancient words makes for a difficult read, I am pretty sure this technique while adding color to the ancient times will discourage many from picking the book.
Banker introduces all the characters from an event just because they happen to be there not because they play a part in it; he actually names around 100 guests who attended a weeding!!
The change in characteristics of Kama from a crazy young bully in Mathura to a guy feeling empathy for others in Magadha to a crazy young bully in Mathura again, the whole arc of his apprenticeship under Jarasandha make no difference whatsoever.
What I did like about the book is I got to know about the background story of Krishna parents, but looking at it from a story point of view and not mythology, the plot is full of holes.
Will recommend it only for people who want to know more about the Indian Mythology, as a book it's a failure.
The first book of Krishna Coriolis is a disappointment, gone is the storytelling of Banker I appreciated. His continues use of the many authentic ancient words makes for a difficult read, I am pretty sure this technique while adding color to the ancient times will discourage many from picking the book.
Banker introduces all the characters from an event just because they happen to be there not because they play a part in it; he actually names around 100 guests who attended a weeding!!
The change in characteristics of Kama from a crazy young bully in Mathura to a guy feeling empathy for others in Magadha to a crazy young bully in Mathura again, the whole arc of his apprenticeship under Jarasandha make no difference whatsoever.
What I did like about the book is I got to know about the background story of Krishna parents, but looking at it from a story point of view and not mythology, the plot is full of holes.
Will recommend it only for people who want to know more about the Indian Mythology, as a book it's a failure.
June 28, 2013
What's with Indian authors and the Good and Evil theme?
I had great expectations from the writing on this book, but it leaves a lot to be desired. The language is too simple to evoke strong feelings about Kamsa. Reading the book took me back to the days of Sree Krishna and Mahabharata on TV with the sad graphics.
Started reading this thinking that I'll try to read the whole series. Maybe when I run out of enough things to read.
I had great expectations from the writing on this book, but it leaves a lot to be desired. The language is too simple to evoke strong feelings about Kamsa. Reading the book took me back to the days of Sree Krishna and Mahabharata on TV with the sad graphics.
Started reading this thinking that I'll try to read the whole series. Maybe when I run out of enough things to read.
February 15, 2015
I have been a fan of Ashok Banker since reading the Ramayana series. This, the first in a series based on the story of Lord Krishna's life didn't hold my interest much as I hoped and was a little disappointing. Still, this is one of those great Indian classics which I think is worth reading and I expect the telling of the tale will improve with the subsequent books in the series.
May 28, 2012
a beautiful tale on why kamsa is kamsa and krisha is krishna - Banker blends the mythology and the social ethos and psychology into a moving symphony - adding a sublime personal touch to the interactions and events leading to the birth of krishna..
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