Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar

by Kevin Missal

What happened after the great war? After the bloody war in which many heroes won and lost, Krishna, the avatar of Vishnu and the king of Dwarka, stood tall as a divine figure of justice and Dharma. But forty years have passed since that day, and now little is known of the elusive god. Pradhyuman, his firstborn son, now rules with an iron fist but his personal ambition seems to come in between. Will it redeem him or corrupt him further? Balaram, the brother of Krishna, and the Prime Minister of Dwarka, must find a way to form an alliance between warring clans. But delusions of a giant snake haunt him at night. Will he learn more about himself or lose a part of his consciousness in the process? Samva, Lord Krishna's secondborn son, has absconded from the pitiful duties of the empire to plan vengeance against someone he personally hates. But, to achieve his goal, he has to first find his father and learn the truth about his heritage. Will he forgive or pursue further? And in the thick of it, stands as a majestic beacon, none other than Krishna--haunted by his past, weary of his future. Can he break the curse and free himself from the shackles of time? From the chapters of the Mausala Parva, bestselling author Kevin Missal reimagines the life and times of Lord Krishna in a brand new avatar.

Genres: Mythology, Fiction, Fantasy

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 22, 2023

About the author

Kevin Missal wrote his first book at the age of 14, and at 22, the St Stephens graduate was a bestselling author with the first two books in his Kalki series which were runaway successes. Kevin loves fantasy fiction and has always been a fan of mythology. His books have been featured in publications like the Sunday Guardian, The New Indian Express and Millennium Post. He lives in Gurugram and he can be contacted at Kevin.s.missal@gmail.com.

Reviews

[Aakanksha Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Krishna by Kevin Missal is a captivating initiation into the Maha Vishnu Avatar series, crafting a compelling narrative around the enigmatic figure of Lord Krishna. Drawing from Hindu mythology, Missal offers a refreshing perspective on the aftermath of the Kurukshetra war, exploring the complexities of divine existence and mortal ambition.

The story revolves around Krishna, now secluded from the world he once shaped. His sons, Pradhyuman and Samva, navigate their own paths, driven by ambition and vengeance respectively. Noteworthy characters like Balaram and Durgajyoti add depth to the narrative, each grappling with personal demons.

Kevin Missal seamlessly blends human ambition with divine elements, weaving a tale that keeps readers enthralled. I eagerly anticipate the next installment and recommend this book to enthusiasts of Indian folklore seeking a fresh take on familiar characters.

Read the detailed review here - Books Chharming

[Savita Ramsumair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

A beautiful twist to the story of Shri Krishna after the great Mahabharata war. I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the continuation.

[Vipasha Aiyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I expected more.

[Anurag Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Has it ever occurred to you in your wildest thoughts what would happen if Lord Krishna were to abandon his whole creation, all his family, and give up all his powers and live like a normal human? It only produces one obvious answer- devastation. And that is correct, for us and the people of Dvarka.

Dvarka, where the peak of peace, contentment, and beauty existed, was now being ruled by Pradhyumana- the selfish, ill-visioned, and irrational son of Krishna, whose rule indeed resulted in grandeur but only through destructive and oppressive means. He wishes to take control of the entire landmass by force. Several forces are working against his demeaning rule and intentions, each standing on a very valuable reason. Here Balram, his wife, and Akoorji try and ally with the two nations that broke off from Dvarka- Andhaka and Vrishni to help find Mayavati and stop Pradhyumna from continuing his reign of terror; and there Samva, Krishna's younger and 'often neglected and thought less of' son has found Krishna and is trying to convince him to make things right. With Krishna regretting his past decision and actions, unwilling to face the situation, will Samva be able to bring the right order? Will Krishna overcome his guilt and kill all the Yayatis? Is that the only way out? Death of all his people? Don't brainstorm, what happens next in the story can't be expected by anyone!

In the shade of this twisted storyline are hidden some treasurable lessons of life, love, friendship, truth, deeds, regrets, judgments, and betrayal, to state a few. With sentences like-
"Be careful of what you wish for or you stand to lose everything."
"Hoping is an act of ignorance."
Faith is there when not even rationality can be felt. But you just believe it."
"Or he could be worst of all men- he could be an honest man.";
and more, this book enriches the reader's perspective of life and people.

The author has thoughtfully produced the ideas of devotion, lust, and blind faith in the story highlighting how humans misconceieve the real meaning and application of these phenomena. The characters are resourceful, each providing a major impact on the story. I would like to mention Durgajyoti, who is a brave, willing, and courageous woman with her share of past lagging on her shoulders. Despite the improbability of her desire for Pradhyumana's love to be fulfilled, she is ready to give everything for her love for Pradhyumana. This sacrificial nature of a woman is truly beautiful and empowering. This depiction of love has held me captive to this date.

A grown-up approach taken by the author is apparent to readers in the first ten pages. It can be read by anyone but to get the true essence of this story, one needs to keep an open mind and let it emotionally touch you. Withstanding what's been mentioned above, I am sure to make this statement- "Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" by Kevin Missal is one of a kind and fulfills the reader's need for entertainment and knowledge.

[Sanchari Das · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Indefinite power doesn't come without loopholes."

Everyone wants to be powerful. But absolute power is always dangerous. Even in the hands of the most righteous of beings, be it a human or a God. But power has its own limitations, loopholes and pitfalls... one that even Lord Krishna cannot elude.

Welcome to Kelvin Missal's ground breaking work, "Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" which reimagines the time and life of Lord Krishna in a brand new avatar where the great king of Dwarka abandons his divinity to live as a mortal, haunted by his past and weary of his future.

"But perhaps, things happen for a reason and everything was predestined."

Oscillating between the tales of different characters, the novel brings to light unique perspectives to look at life and introduces a new way to look at the most familiar characters from the famous mythological tale.

Every character is depicted in a new light that shows how even the worst of evil has a story and even the best of man can turn out to be a betrayer. Each character is given a voice, depth of thoughts and an opinion of their own, even though they never speak for themselves, the story being narrated in third person and yet feeling deeply personal.

"Not all demons are evil. Some might just be misunderstood."

Mystery, suspense, thrill and adventure colours the fantasy tale where mythology mingles with magic and mysticism and where massive twists stand to surprise the readers at every turn. A shroud of mystery cloaks the entire narrative while the thrill and suspense provokes the readers to read on and never stop unless they reach the last page.

The tale exuding the most powerful language with an engaging narrative ends with a subtle cliffhanger that arouses a tiny hope in the heart of the readers about an upcoming sequel that will hold the power to bring a conclusive ending to the reimagined chapters of the Mausala Parva.

"When you live like a God for so long, you end up realizing that being human has its pitfalls."

Author Kevin Missal strikes gold yet again with his mythological thriller "Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" where Lord Krishna is projected in an entirely different light than what we usually imagine him to be... It's a story where the tables turn, where the greatest Lord is questioned about his deeds, where Lord Krishna is forced to go through a dangerous trial which can either break him completely or grant him the absolute freedom from the shackles of time.

"It’s not where you are, it's where you are going that matters."

[Fictionandme · Rating 3 out of 5]

ɴᴀᴍᴇ : ᴋʀɪꜱʜɴᴀ : ᴍᴀʜᴀ ᴠɪꜱʜɴᴜ ᴀᴠᴀᴛᴀʀ
ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ : ᴋᴇᴠɪɴ ᴍɪꜱꜱᴀʟ
ɢᴇɴʀᴇ : ᴍʏᴛʜᴏʟᴏɢɪᴄᴀʟ ꜰᴀɴᴛᴀꜱʏ

[30/01/24 5.14PM ]

Krishna fans, where you at? Hurry up and read this book! 🤓

But mind you, in this book Krishna is not really the God that we all know. He is not the all powerful and omniscient avatar of Vishnu in this book. Rather, the author has portrayed him brilliantly as a flawed character who has done wrong and has been done wrong - like a human.

When I started reading this book, I had no idea about all these. Since this story is set after Mahabharata, I was assuming that again Krishna will be portrayed like a hero, as always. But nope. He is one of the many characters in this book. In fact, other characters like Balaram, Pradhyuman, Samva and Durgajyoti, played much vital roles. All of the characters themselves had a sub plots themselves that contributed to the overall main plot.

Among the characters, I like Durgajyoti's journey the most. Her character development from being a powerhungry right hand of a king to a woman in dire need of a true friend, intrigued me the most. In fact, the last scene, where her self realisation happens, while trying to steal certain something to impress a certain someone, I almost felt like I'm hearing Jin's voice singing "I'm the one I should love, in this world..." (I really did, not exaggerating at all 🙈)

The story did its genre good justice. But it had a bit too much politics than my preference. Also, it has lots and lots of action, which again I prefer watching than reading. And people forgave each other quite fast after torturing them for a bit, I was expecting more angst I guess 👀. Reminder, these are only MY preferences.

This book took a lot of time for me to finish as my life started throwing curveballs one after another during these 3 days I have been reading it. I guess I am not quite feeling like myself. Realising that life isn't always happy, but mostly mediocre, didn't go easy. But if this book taught me anything, it's this : whatever happens, happens for good. Mistakes and hard days make us who we are after all. Because in the words of Krishna, "Perhaps mediocrity is something that we should cherish too."

And yes, given the awesome unexpected revelations at the end, if this book ever got made into a movie, I will definitely watch it. But it was an okay okay read for me.

[Shweta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Krishna, written by Kevin Missal, is a gripping story that begins after the Great War of Kurukshetra and delves into the life of God Krishna and the individuals around him. According to prevalent interpretations, Mahabharat ends with Gandhari, the mother of the fallen Kauravas, cursing Krishna for causing the complete annihilation of her clan. Many decades later, the curse materializes when the Yadava clan, at the height of corruption and power is destroyed in fratricide.

As a reader of the epic and an enthusiast, I have always found it intriguing thar Krishna, a divine being himself, would allow such civil war to occur among his own brethren? Kevin Missal reimagines Krishna, the bestower of the Bhagwad Geeta, and attempts to thoughtfully address one of the profound questions that has been the subject of much speculation and theorizing: "What happened to Krishna after the Mahabharat war"?

Based forty years after the battle, and drawing inspiration from Mausala Parva (The Book of Clubs), the sixteenth book of the epic Mahabharat, this book explores and reimagines the mysteries of the post-Mahabharata civilization.

While attempting to uphold their father's ideals, Krishna's sons Pradhyuman—the erring King of Dwarka—and Samva—the rebel—both ended up deviating from his philosophy. However, his brother Balaram tries to bring together rival Yadava clans in order to forge alliances. Krishna, who abandoned his divinity and became a recluse, stands in the middle of all of this strife, eventually plagued by his past choices.

Reading the depiction of Krishna's life's journey was a really engrossing experience, as he talked about the difficult decisions that shaped him into a famous figure while also acknowledging that those choices came with both significant gains and losses.

For me, the most moving parts of this story, which show Krishna in his most vulnerable circumstances, were his conversations with his long-lost son Samva and with his former enemy Kaliya.

In this book, Kevin Missal in his engaging style weaves a tale that reimagines Lord Krishna in a fresh and enthralling avatar which I thoroughly enjoyed reading.

Whether you are a fan of Indian mythology or simply enjoy immersive narratives, this book is bound to leave you impressed.

[Samata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review of Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avataar – An Unusual Take On The Life Of Krishna After The War of Mahabharata Penned By Kevin Missal

Krishna is one of the most inspiring characters in Indian mythology. Countless writers have written numerous texts exploring his various qualities and actions. However, rarely, if ever, has a writer written about the life of Krishna after the great war of Mahabharata. Kevin Missal is perhaps the only contemporary writer to do so. His book, Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avtar, chronicles the life of the Yadav Prince in a completely new avatar in the post-Mahabharta world.

Premise – Forty years after the battle of Mahabharata, Krishna has disappeared from Dwarka and nobody knows his whereabouts. His elder son Pradhyumna, rules the land with an iron fist. He is extremely ambitious and power-hungry, which often causes him to make mistakes. Krishna's other son, Samva, leaves the kingdom to pursue a path of personal vengeance. However, he needs to find his father and learn the truth about his heritage to achieve his objective. Krishna's brother Balram is the prime minister of Dwarka and has to find a way to restore peace between the warring clans of Yayatis. In the aftermath of the great battle, Krishna transfers his powers to the Yayatis to make them invincible. The mayhem caused by his actions results in Krishna facing the biggest challenge in his life. As his past haunts him and his future looks bleak, Krishna now faces the painful prospect of killing the very people he loves and cherishes.

Character Development – Kevin Missal has done a wonderful job of presenting each character in the book realist ically. He has managed to highlight the internal struggles Krishna goes through in his human form, despite being an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He has also presented the vulnerabilities and turbulent family dynamics of Krishna's clan without overdramatizing things. Be it the selfish nature of Pradhyumna or the hatred that Samva feels towards a personal enemy, the depiction of each character makes the story more interesting.

For full Review visit: https://www.indiacafe24.com/book-revi...

[Falguni · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not a book, it's a new dimension.

I entered a world where I found myself experiencing the switch from Dvapara Yuga to Kali Yuga, but as the saying goes, "evil may have its moments but good always has the final say" prevails in the end. When good prevails, the bad takes a seat in the dungeons. "Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" by Kevin Missal is the word that I am talking about. Written graphically with a narrative of an adult, this book had me awake for three nights straight. Each page turned is a new mystery and feels like a provocative turn.

In the Mausala Parva, Kevin Missal reimagines the life and times of Lord Krishna, exploring the challenges faced by his family and the fate of the empire. Once Krishna stood as a divine figure of justice and dharma. Forty years later, his first-born son rules with an iron fist, his brother tries to ally with warring clans, and his second-born son plans vengeance. Meanwhile, Krishna is haunted by his past and weary of his future.

You can choose to read this book but why would you? Let me tell you.
In this world where everything has become a task, from just getting out of bed to commuting and making a living with a herd mentality, we need to keep in touch with our history and our roots. This book will make you aware of the actual dilemmas of life, 'moh-maya se le kar moksha tak', it will walk you through several such emotions and situations that we all face in one way or the other with varying intensities.

The reader will read about love, lust, power, fear, failure, defeat, trust, ambition, courage, regret, grief, rebirth, correction, and whatnot. You name it. The author has done an amazing job with the characters and keeps a close eye on the reader's approach to the book. In that respect, he has kept the book both interactive and full of insight at the same time. Clash and relief work hand in hand and this is thee proof of the beauty of his words.
If you want to take life seriously and avoid the common man's mistakes, then this story is for you. After reading it you'll not just be liberated but you'll know what matters in life. These events are situated in Mausala Parva, making this book a heroic attempt at changing your life.

[Gaurika Gandhi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Someone asked me, "Gaurika, how would you describe the book "Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" by Kevin Missal?" I answered, "With each page, a new mystery unfolds, and with each mystery, a new lesson comes forth."

To describe the plot of the book in brief, "Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" by Kevin Missal is a book that explores the life and times of Lord Krishna after the Great War. The story revolves around the lives of Krishna's sons and brother, and their struggles with personal ambitions, delusions, and vengeance. The book is a reimagination of the Mausala Parva and is filled with mysteries and lessons.

As a history graduate, I know when a book is informative, or just factual. This book will teach you as well as narrate a life story that will keep you engaged.
What makes this book different from any other historical fiction read is its very unexpected beginning. The fact that Krishna has given up his powers and has left Dvarka in the hands of destruction and is unwilling to come back. With the hero of the book in dust, the gloomy beginning had me hooked to it. Not just this, the book is full of twists and turns and unimaginable events. As soon as I read "Will Krishna kill all the Yayatis?", I wanted to know how the book would end. I lost patience for the rest of the story to unfold. Consequently, I read it in one day. The end of the book is still flashing in front of my eyes.
Each trap, approach, betrayal, etc. is mindbogglingly graphical. What struck me most about this book was the author's ability to bring the period to life in such vivid detail. The descriptions of the characters and settings were so rich that I felt as though I was right there alongside them. In addition, the author's use of real historical events as a backdrop for the story was masterful, adding an extra layer of depth and complexity.

Undeniably, "Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" is a combination of modern and ancient ideas, reflected in the times of Kaliyuga. This book is going to stay with me for a long time. It''s impact is precious and I will come back to it over the years with changed ideas and perspectives.
This is the type of book from which you learn something every time you read it. I enjoyed my heart out while reading it!

[Debabrata Mishra · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Krishna," Kevin Missal takes readers on a profound journey through the aftermath of The Great War, unraveling the complexities of divine figures and mortal rulers. The narrative unfolds 40 years post-war, where Krishna, once the epitome of justice, remains elusive.

Pradhyuman, Krishna's heir, grapples with the balance between his personal ambitions and the responsibilities of ruling Dwarka. As his story unfolds, readers are compelled to contemplate whether redemption or corruption awaits him. Balaram, Krishna's brother and Dwarka's Prime Minister, faces internal struggles, haunted by delusions of a giant snake. His quest for self-discovery adds a layer of depth to the narrative.

Samva, Krishna's second-born, abandons imperial duties to seek vengeance. His personal vendetta intertwines with a quest to uncover the truth about his heritage, leaving readers questioning whether forgiveness or further pursuit will define his path. Meanwhile, Krishna himself, burdened by his past and weary of the future, stands as a majestic beacon in the midst of the tumult.

It weaves a tale of intrigue, familial dynamics, and divine complexities. Missal's reimagining of the Mausala Parva chapters brings Lord Krishna to life in a new avatar, challenging readers to reflect on the timeless themes of duty, justice, and the struggle against the shackles of time.

The author skillfully navigates the intricate relationships and internal conflicts of the characters, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The use of symbolism, particularly the haunting imagery of a giant snake, adds a layer of mystique to Balaram's character arc.

Missal's prose is both evocative and immersive, capturing the essence of the epic tale while infusing it with a fresh perspective. The thematic exploration of redemption, vengeance, and self-discovery resonates with readers, inviting them to contemplate the complexities of morality and destiny.

In conclusion, it stands as a masterful reinterpretation of a timeless narrative. The intricate plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes make it a compelling read that transcends traditional boundaries.

🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Ekta M · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you have read Mahabharata then you must remember that after the war where Pandavas won, there was a meeting between Lord Krishna and Gandhari. She had cursed Lord Krishna that his Yadava kinsmen would die the same way her sons were butchered.

Book - Krishna:Maha Vishnu Avatar
Author- Kevin Missal
Genre - Mythological fantasy


#plot
Krishna, fearing the Gandhari's curse, had transferred his powers to the Yayatis so they remain invincible. But this power was now being misused and Yayatis went out of control. So he left and had given up his throne. His stead was now being ruled by his son, Pradhyumna who was power hungry. He did things that went against his father's wishes. Its been five years since Krishna has disappeared. His other son Samva is searching him. Balaram, Krishnas brother, wanted to do right for the soil he had made his own. And he was trying to form an alliance between warring clans. Krishna's action had caused a lot of damage and now he is haunted by his past and a greatest challenge stands in front of him- he has to kill his own people.

#bookreview
This book is a fantasy retelling of the Mausala Parva from the Mahabharat. It has elements like teleporting, magic, big creatures, illusions, multiple worlds. In this book Lord Krishna is shown as vulnerable and regretting his actions. What i loved the most was conversation between Lord Krishan and Samva and his meeting with Kaaliya and Arjun. Although the author has created a good fantastical world i felt the book got monotonous with characters travelling across portals and getting caught everywhere and fighting old foes and escaping. Just a bunch of relatives back stabbing each other. It was the same pattern in every other chapater and i felt boring. Due to this the pace got a little sluggish sometimes. The ending was a good one though and the book ended on a cliffhanger. Can't wait to read the next part where Lord Krishna is headed towards Dvarka.
If you love reading Mythological retellings with added fantasy then you can go for this.

[Saanvi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Krishna: The Maha Vishnu Avatar is Kevin Missal's modern spin on the classic Mausala Parva myth, adding a dash of cosmic flair to the divine narrative. It joins the ranks of his retellings, turning gods into characters straight out of a celestial sitcom.
What makes this book noteworthy? Missal takes us on a cosmic rollercoaster, exploring the viewpoints of nearly every character and keeping the storyline fresh. Personally, I found the more morally grey characters like Durgajyoti and Pradhymun to be the real heroes – just two individuals trying to navigate adulthood amid all the celestial chaos. Bonus points for their involvement in the magical side of Missal's universe – the fantasy enthusiast in me couldn't get enough.
One intriguing aspect is Missal's assumption that readers might not know the gods' backstories. He puts his own spin on familiar tales, adding a new flavor to the age-old recipe.
Now, onto the not-so-divine aspects of Krishna: The Maha Vishnu Avatar. Missal's writing style is laid-back and infromal, almost like a lazy Sunday afternoon – even when the stakes are as high as Mount Kailash. The once-mysterious gods now resemble next-door neighbors dealing with cosmic drama. The excessive humanization might be an acquired taste; it depends on whether you prefer your gods divine or dabbling in earthly affairs. After all, what's the difference between this story and the everyday lives of common folks in India?
Let's check out some memorable quotes: 'Faith is there when not even rationality could be felt. But you just believe it.' It's like a cosmic WhatsApp status – profound even for the gods.
In conclusion, if you're a mythology newbie, this book is your golden ticket to the divine circus. But if you prefer your gods to keep a bit of mystique, guarding their celestial secrets like ancient scrolls, maybe ponder swiping left on this one. Krishna: The Maha Vishnu Avatar – where mythology meets modern drama, and the gods are just a cosmic latte away from enlightenment!

[Kshitij Bajpai · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forty years have passed after the great war of Kurukshetra, and no one knows about the whereabouts of slayer of Kans. His firstborn son, Pradhyuman, now rules Dwarka and there are whispers of a rebellion. Balaram tries to find a way to get an alliance and on a different scene, Samva runs from the empire to save himself. What happened to Dwarka? What happened to Krishna?
I had great expectations from this book and Kevin really delivered. Krishna might be the most mature book on his bibliography, and for all the right reasons. The story is graphic, with treasons, betrayals and scandalous tea parties as common as kangaroos in Australia.
First of all, the plot is something that isn't very Missal-like. He does not tread upon the things we know, but builds a world almost four decades after the greatest war we have read about. That already hightens expectations and responsibilities for the author but Missal did that fabulously.
The characters have a story weaved around themselves and they carry within themselves secrets, aches, and scars the author would surely be revealing with time. Krishna still is the same man who weilded the Sudarshan against Shishupala, but now, he questions so much about his past, he can't help but live in it. Samva's life is toppled and even though he chases a 'greater good', he still demands answers from his father. Durgajyoti offers a lot to the plot other than mayhem: a sense of loss and affinity to cling to people who give the bare minimum.
The one thing which I felt was off was the editing. Sadly, there were few incidents where names of the characters were also switched which made me hover around for a few minutes to figure out what the text actually meant, and there was some punctuation mishaps. But you can honestly choose to ignore this (as I did), as the book is promising, perhaps the best Kevin Missal book I've read by now.
An absolute roller coaster of a book, Krishna by Kevin Missal starts in a search of answers and ends with one, the prospect of future installments solidified.

[Rimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 🌟

Review -
The book is a new mythological fiction on the very famous character of our Epic Mahabharata and our God, Krishna, the eight incarnations of Vishnu.

The story is set on Mausala Parva, forty years after the epic battle of Dharma, Kurukshetra. But the work turns into something as Satyaki says - "Look at us. Fighting our cousins, our fathers and our nephews. We have become monsters. Violent inbreds."

Cause in this time Krishna left Dwarka after taking some drastic decisions and for which now he's regretting. His son , Pradhyuman is the new king of Dwarka, but he's also blinded by their power and being greedy. Durgajyoti, his prime minister and friend, also has her own agenda. Balaram, Krishna's brother who wants to save his kingdom goes on a journey against Pradhyuman. While Samva, another but disgraced son of Krishna is also trying to save the world with the help of his father. And the story is told from these characters perspectives.

So the whole world is in chaos and all the characters we are worshipping as moral, always right, godlike are all now being human, making mistakes and facing consequences of their past and current decisions and trying to atone, make wrong, right. But facing more and more hurdles.

I am hooked to the story from the very beginning, the mystery where Krishna has gone and how this whole world turned into, then seeing the characters all being morally grey and try to find who is in the right path and then get excited for each one of them is just a great reading journey. But if I still have to pick my favourite, then Samva is someone I'm looking for most.

So I highly recommend the book if you like to read mythological fiction with fantasy elements, heist, adventures and don't mind seeing their favourite epic , godlike characters being morally grey. Cause in the book one time Krishna confesses -"I'm a man of honour but I have done dishonorable things. I am a horrible person. I am a wickedly dark individual. I am not a god. I am the man of illusions."

[Mahi Aggarwal · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Krishna Maha Vishnu Avatar" by Kevin Missal is a fictional literature that immerses you in the world of Krishna. I particularly love how the story begins with the stranger and Vaisampiya. The stranger narrates the story related to the Mahabharata, focusing on Gandhari's curses to Krishna, who she believed would prevent the war but couldn't. She cursed that their men would die similarly to her sons. Driven by fear, the king gave all his power to the Yayatis, making them undefeatable. From there, the real story unfolds, exploring who ruled Dwarka, the impact of divine powers, and Krishna's whereabouts after leaving Dwarka.

The book raises numerous questions, making you desperately want to know more. Just as I am now, like want to write whole story here only 😅

Initially, the stranger seemed like just a stranger, but he turns out to be more. Each chapter introduces new characters and their unique journeys. If someone starts reading, they are likely to finish in just 2-3 days, as I did in a normal reading session.

I appreciate the author's writing style, with suspense, tragedies, and a captivating narrative. The ending of the book left me in awe, especially with the act of Samva. It's a heartbreaking part, but it sets the stage for the new journey, and I am eagerly waiting for the next episode.

The characterization deserves full marks, portraying each character with distinct personalities whether it's pradhyuman , balram etc etc.... The narratives, coupled with the impact of the story, are beautifully penned. However, I did notice several typos in the book, affecting sentences. Despite that, the book is brilliantly written.

I highly recommend this book. The reason I love Kevin Missal's writing is that his fictional world takes me on a ride through the era of Krishna.


Rating:- 4.5/5

[Rahul Vishnoi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Events of Mahabharata are not a secret, not even to the millennials or Gen Z, at least those who read or keep interest in Hindu mythology. But what happened after the Great War? What happened to Krishna after the terrible, bloody war got over. Could he ever attain peace, the essence of the sermon he gave to Arjuna by stopping time? This is the essence of Krishna- Maha Vishnu Avatar, a mythofiction by Missal.

Krishna, now forty years old, has been missing from Dwarka. His son Pradhumyna rules the island city now in the same vein as one Lannister boy did in the capital city of King’s Landing. He makes warriors fights the sand worms that will remind you of Dune and is cruel in the most unimaginable ways possible. His brother Samva, who was cursed by his father for the cruelty he meted out to his own wife, is on a secret mission. About him it is written - ‘Some would even say the handsome face of Krishna was hidden somewhere in Samva, and some would say he wasn’t even the son.

Balaram has his own struggles, some outside in the royal court and some inside his own self. He’s been having visions of a giant snake.
Kevin is impressive with the dialogues. Sample this one- ‘But every man who comes with a story, is a man who is selfish. He wants to he heard. But most of all, he wants something in return.’
And this one gave me chills- ‘The Pandavas and the Kauravas fought a war where they both lost, even though one got victory,’
Derived from Mausala Parva, sixteenth book in Mahabharata, shortest and perhaps most gruesome and hopeless, Missal borrows from the major events and puts a spin of fantasy on mythology. His ability to set a scene is impressive and yet he misses sometimes in execution.

[Smily · Rating 4 out of 5]

KRISHNA: Maha Vishnu Avatar begins with a rousing prologue, introducing Vaisampiya, the storyteller, and a mysterious stranger in Dwarka. The conversation between the two sets an upbeat tone, immediately grabbing the reader’s attention. Mythological elements, especially stories of Lord Krishna and the mysterious nature of Dwarka form an immersive backdrop. Vaisampiya’s role as storyteller adds depth to the story, combining the theme of the strange story with the stranger’s revelation of Lord Krishna’s disappearance

It takes a big turn, exploring the intimacy and motivations of the characters, mostly Samva and Pradhyuma. The camp and Samva’s description of physical destruction in particular add layers to the story, evoking a tense atmosphere. The battle between the brothers, the loyalty of the infantry, and the revelation of Samva’s plea for death elevate the plot. The story seamlessly combines backstory, family conflict and moral dilemmas, creating a compelling story that leaves the reader eager for further understanding.

Similarly, the story adds depth to the story, taking readers on a journey with Krishna Samvayo to Durvasa. The personal introspection of Samva's early life, his changing character, and his philosophical exchange with Krishna provide a deeper insight Durjaya's striking face adds detail to the adventure, and the revelation is frequent brings vitihotra magical measurements. The story ends expectantly, showing the challenges Durvasa sees for the characters.

Throughout the book,the style remains exceptionally well. The author deftly balances descriptive paragraphs with engaging dialogue, developing a seamless flow through a narrative that keeps the reader engaged.

[Sejuti Majumdar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Krishna Maha Vishnu Avatar is the latest mythological fiction book by Kevin Missal that tells the story of Krishna and the Yadava clan after the great Mahabharat war. After receiving the curse from Gandhari regarding the destruction of his clan, Krishna gives up his power to the entire Yadava clan to make them immortal, and he becomes a normal human being. The unchallenged power makes the clan corrupted. Shocked and hurt he disappears from Dwarka, and his corrupted son Pradhyuman now rules the kingdom.
I had always wondered whether Krishna ever felt or thought about things that we normally do because in the epics all his actions are merely explained as beyond decipherable. This book was therefore one of my main reasons for picking up, as it showed him as someone who has fears, bound by guilt and insecurities, and most importantly as someone who is not sure whether what he did was right. The author also did a good job of portraying the different characters like Pradhyuman, the favorite son turned evil, the neglected son Samva with the right purpose, and Balaram the brother who is the protector without expectations. Krishna is my favorite character and I always viewed him as the ever perfect enigma and from this book it helped me to realize that things cannot be disintegrated that easily in black and white, there are always grayer shades.
The book does not end but will continue further as a series and I am looking forward to reading the book and understanding how it all turns out. One thing I would like to mention here was the faulty editing when characters were misnamed multiple times throughout the book. Normally I ignore this but it hampers the flow of reading and for beginners in this genre, it will become very confusing.

[Avidd_Readerr · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kevin Missal is one of my favorite mythological fiction writers. I have read all his previous works except Durga and Yama. The concept by which Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar is established is very intriguing because we only know about the Mahabharata now. In this, Kevin tries to create a storyline surrounding the very idea.
The story starts with the fact that the dwarka is now ruled by Pradyuman, and Krishna has gone into exile after giving his divine powers to his people, but the power he gave has now become a curse for his people, and they are doing non-stop evil. Samba is trying to make changes in the scenario while also seeking some personal advantages in doing so. Balaram is the voyage to make peace with two enemy territories, and the most adventurous part is where the reader finds the characters trying to cheat on one another, but Balaram is the most affected by this thing. The other main characters were also good, but I found the story a bit complicated, or, to be honest, a bit confusing. Balaram is doing something else; Samba is doing something else; and Krishna is doing something else. The author tries to add Arjun to the scene, but I found it totally unsuccessful because it just doesn't make any sense. The storyline progresses in parallel in 3–4 places, which is too confusing because the reader is not able to connect one storyline to another. Initially, the book and story were too good, and in the end, it was my most disappointing book by Kevin. The writing style and language were the same as usual, as used in previous works. hoping for an amazing book by Kevin next time.

[Soumya · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Krishna, Maha Vishnu Avatar" takes readers on a captivating journey through the unexplored facets of Lord Krishna's life post-Mahabharata. Kevin Missal skillfully crafts a narrative that delves into the aftermath of the Kurukshetra war, exploring Krishna's sacrifice and the consequences for his family and clan. The story revolves around the curse of Gandhari, the destruction of Dwarka, and the ensuing struggles faced by Krishna's descendants, particularly Pradhyumna and Balram.

What I Liked:

Rich Character Development: One of the book's highlights is the meticulous character development, especially of Pradhyumna, Balram, and other key figures. Missal's vivid portrayal establishes emotional connections, making the characters' experiences feel authentic and relatable.

Fresh Perspective: The author successfully provides a fresh perspective on the revered deity, Krishna, portraying him as a complex figure with fears, guilt, and insecurities. This portrayal adds depth to the character, breaking away from the traditional image of Krishna as an enigmatic, flawless being.

Thought-Provoking Elements: The seamless integration of Krishna's teachings into the narrative elevates the story beyond mere mythical fiction. The exploration of philosophical and ethical themes adds a profound and thought-provoking dimension to the tale.

Engaging Reimagination: Missal's reimagination of Krishna's post-war life, incorporating well-loved characters like Arjuna, Samva, and Pradhyumna, is gripping and brilliantly interwoven into the fabric of the story. It prompts readers to ponder on the possibilities of what could have transpired after the Mahabharata.

[Dr.Naveen Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bhagwan Krishna is for millions of Hindus a divine figure , an avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu and an epitome of Dharma..As is commonly known , he was a charioteer of Arjun in Mahabharat war.The war ended with a pyrrhic victory for Pandavas.
However a curiosity remains what happened to Bhagwan after that.That story is given in Mausala parva , the sixteenth and the last book,which depicts the destruction of his clan and his death.
However , this book of Kevin Missal is a reimagination of that episode in his own language , incidents and dialogue.So both have same characters but are given totally different roles in this book.
Krishna has disappeared from Dvarka after giving his divinity which makes his clan invincible and Pradhyuman the iron fisted but indulging in vices his first born rules in his place.Samva the second born too has absconded and is looking for Krishna to plan vengeance .
Balaram who is now the prime minister wants to bring the warring clans together but is haunted by both inner and outer demons.
In this chaos ,Krishna stands as a beacon of hope.
The cover of the book is superb and the story grips you from the first page itself with a quest to find Krishna by Samva.In it , one finds old characters again like Kaaliya and Narkasur which were earlier decimated by the Lord.This is not a story with philosophical sermons but more of mythofantasy genre with Mausala parva as a background only.
If one wants to enjoy it , enjoy the story as of the author's reimagination which will take you to era long bygone with many problems which we face even today.

[Rajendra Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Krishna: Maha Vishnu Avatar" written by the author Kevin Missal is a riveting and thought-provoking exploration of the life and times of Lord Krishna, the divine avatar of Vishnu and the King of Dwarka. The reader is introduced to the aftermath of the great war⚔️ at Kurukshetra, that took place years ago.

Pradhyuman, the first-born son of Krishna and current ruler of Dwarka, struggles with the balance between personal ambition and duty. Samva, Lord Krishna's second-born son, is another pivotal character in the narrative. He abandons his imperial duties to plot vengeance against someone he deeply despises. Meanwhile, Lord Krishna himself is haunted by his past and uncertain about his future.

The story takes us through the personal struggles of the key characters- Pradhyuman, Balaram and Samva, who are grappling with their own demons as they try to bring peace and stability to Dwarka. The book seamlessly combines mythology and fantasy, captivating readers with its intricate plot and well-developed characters. Missal's writing style is engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the world of Dwarka and its inhabitants.

Author Kevin Missal's portrayal of Krishna is nuanced and multifaceted. Through the vivid storytelling and rich characterizations, Kevin Missal offers readers a fresh perspective on the iconic figure of Lord Krishna. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of mythology and those who are interested in exploring the deeper aspects of Lord Krishna's character😍🌞

[Siddu · Rating 2 out of 5]

Firstly, the rating of 2 stars is for the out of the box thought on the plot around Lord Krishna. However, the book is not so catchy as most of the Kevin’s other books I read, a bit disappointing.
This is the story after the great war of Mahabharat. Lord Krishna has been cursed, that his entire family members would die the way the Kauravas and other warriors died in the epic war. To save his people Krishna shares his divinity to all his people, which makes him an ordinary human, a mortal, a person with no powers or grace. One day Kirshna disappears, no one knows where he left, so his son Pradyumna takes over the throne.
Under the rule of Pradyumna, the entire kingdom goes corrupt and being immortal makes them conquer and wage wars on smaller kingdoms, be cruel and pride rakes over humanity in them.
So, to end this viscous ear, Krishna has to come back and only he can revert the boon he has given to his men and make them mortal. The story has quite a few characters and many twists which was nice.
On the other note, while I appreciate a different prospect of the historical fiction, I really am not very comfortable the way Krishna and Balaram are portraited in the book. With our younger generation not having any sense of the history, they could easily presume these books are reality and never understand the true aspects instead start questioning the history and epics themselves.
If only you can read it as a story and not the part of the epic, please do. If you tend to take this as reality then it is disturbing and concerning.

[Sid Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Krishna, one of the most revered and beloved gods in Hinduism, is known for his enthralling life stories and divine teachings, especially in the Bhagavad Gita. Worshipped as the eighth avatar of Vishnu, Krishna Bhagawan is celebrated for his multifaceted persona.

Krishna by Kevin Missal takes us to the world of the beloved god and his life after the Great War of Kurukshetra. What happened in the life of the Lord after the war? Did he have a great life like a god should have, or did life have its struggles and problems for him too?

To learn more, pick up the book!

I’m always fascinated to read about Lord Krishna, and I must say that I have enjoyed reading the book a lot. Without revealing much, I would say that one must read the book to experience the vulnerable side of God.

Lord Krishna and his sons, Pradhyuman and Samva, are not on the same page. His brother, Balarama, has his share of problems too.

The author has tried to show the humanised version of Lord Krishna, which is incredibly shown through various incidents. Also, the book is not dark at all.

Kevil Missal has created a fictional world that is for almost every reader, even if one is not much aware of Indian gods or Indian history.

Lord Krishna’s conversations are icing on the cake!

Overall, Krishna by Kevin Missal is a must-read for readers of all ages, as it presents our Lord like a God but with a vulnerable side.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Krishna, the once-mighty avatar of Vishnu and the sovereign of Dwarka, now stands as an elusive enigma, his divine presence fading with time. His first-born son, Pradhyuman, rules with an iron fist, torn between personal ambition and the pursuit of justice. Yet, his reign raises questions: will it redeem him or plunge him further into corruption?

Balaram, Krishna's brother and the Prime Minister of Dwarka, grapples with haunting visions of a giant snake. The struggle to form alliances among warring clans takes a toll on him, forcing him to confront deeper truths about himself. Meanwhile, Samva, Krishna's second-born, forsakes his imperial responsibilities to embark on a quest for vengeance against a personal adversary. But in his pursuit, he must first uncover the secrets of his heritage and find his elusive father.

At the heart of this intricate narrative stands Krishna himself, a majestic figure haunted by his past and wearied by the uncertainty of his future. Can he break the curse that binds him, liberating himself from the relentless shackles of time?

From the evocative chapters of the Mausala Parva, bestselling author Kevin Missal weaves a tapestry of divine struggles, familial complexities, and the ceaseless quest for redemption in "Krishna Maha Vishnu Avatar." In this reimagining, the post-war era unfolds as a spellbinding exploration of power, legacy, and the indomitable spirit that drives both gods and mortals alike.

[Unboxing Perspectives · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Do you want to listen to a tragedy?" - What an amazing line to start a book with. It can truely attract the readers even if it will wrench their hearts out.

We are well aware of the events of Mahabharta but do we know what happened after that ? It's said that Krishna received a curse from Gandhari - Mother of Kurus that his clan will be destroyed in the same way as was hers. This is the story after that curse. The author builds a story around a belief that Krishna used his powers and provided a protection to his entire clan. A protection after which they can't be killed or hurt. As they say - with great power comes great responsibility. So were they able to handle this power.

Here the story starts with a clan of Yayatis who are fighting among themselves, abusing their power, with unhappy people and Krishna abandoning them to contemplate his own thoughts and repent. The story picks up the characters from the epic, but they are changed to a great extent. So, I will start with my disclaimer again that this is a fiction story and this does not have any relation with the original characters or story. Talking about this one the story is engaging. This depicts it's characters as flawed. They have anger issues, family issues, trust issues, immense politics, good and bad, plots and twist.

Talking about the language, the language is good to go. Its easy to understand and binding. The format is conversational so it keeps the readers engaged. It's good to see the characters less talked about from the successors of Lord Krishna explored in the book. There were instances when I felt that the context was repeated and could have been removed in editing or some mistakes where we need to read again when the names are mixed up, but talking of character arcs, they were completed or left with an interesting turn.

If you are a personal interested in fantasy fiction or are looking forward to read something full of political turmoil and action, this is a book you can pick up and start with.

[Vasanthi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Krishna, crafted as a mystery laden with dramatic elements, primarily seeks to ground the mythical characters we know by painting their flaws red in broad strokes. Every narrative, page shows us horrible human actions in a world where Gods walk among the masses.

In this world where the characters themselves cannot explain the magic, sense is a rare commodity and that can be frustrating. I liked that the writing was fast-paced, with rare moments of clarity and profundity. However, the description of inner thoughts/turmoil of some characters was unironically funny. Pradhyuman is the primary victim of Missal's blunt words. Character motivations are simplistic enough, sometimes bordering on amateur or childish.

The diverging/parallel storylines of Krishna, which is part I of the series to come, will presumably meet in the subsequent books. Krishna is at the centre of the web, understandably having influenced our central characters and literally shaping their nature and perspective of life. While the direct and indirect effects of Krishna's actions are felt throughout giving him a larger presence and effect in the novel, I felt like the characters had no identity de hors Krishna. Samva has a great arc, but he is failed by the self-imposed limitations of the writing style.

Mythological fiction has vast potential and I have seen better works in this genre. Perhaps, that is my biggest criticism.

[Cayley Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the aftermath of The Great War, where heroes rose and fell, Krishna, the divine avatar of Vishnu and once the mighty king of Dwarka, now stands as an elusive figure of justice and dharma. Forty years have passed, and his first-born son, Pradhyuman, rules Dwarka with an iron fist, but personal ambitions threaten to corrupt him. Meanwhile, Balaram, Krishna's brother and the Prime Minister, struggles to form alliances among warring clans while haunted by delusions of a giant snake.

In the shadows, Samva, Krishna's second-born son, has abandoned his imperial duties to seek vengeance against a personal foe. To achieve his goal, he must find his estranged father and uncover the truth about his heritage. As these intricate threads of ambition, revenge, and duty entwine, Krishna himself remains a majestic beacon, haunted by his past and wary of his future. Can he break the shackles of time and free himself from the curse that binds him?

From the pages of the Mausala Parva, bestselling author Kevin Missal skillfully reimagines the life and times of Lord Krishna in a brand new avatar. "Krishna Maha Vishnu Avatar" promises an epic journey through divine struggles, familial complexities, and the eternal pursuit of redemption, painting a vivid tapestry of a world shaped by the enduring legacy of the Great War.

[Prashant Jaiswal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fantastical adaptation weaves a vibrant world teeming with teleportation, magic, colossal creatures, and parallel realms, reimaging the essence of the Mausala Parva from the Mahabharat. The author crafts a realm where Lord Krishna, typically omnipotent, is depicted as vulnerable and burdened by remorse, adding a compelling layer to the narrative.

The allure of multiple worlds and the infusion of mystical elements create an enchanting backdrop. However, despite the rich potential, the story fell victim to a repetitive pattern that hindered its momentum, occasionally slowing the pace and causing moments of sluggishness. This monotony detracted from what could have been a more immersive experience.

Nevertheless, the climax offered a satisfying conclusion, leaving readers on an enticing cliffhanger. The promise of Lord Krishna's journey towards Dvarka in the next installment holds a magnetic appeal, sparking anticipation for the continuation of this intriguing narrative.

Overall, while the book showcases a captivating fantastical world and a unique portrayal of Lord Krishna, the repetitive nature of the plot affects the pacing. Yet, the promising ending sets the stage for a potentially enthralling sequel, enticing readers to embark on the next chapter of Lord Krishna's saga.