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In the Rotten Pits of Hunger

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"What happens when God does not save you but haunts you instead?"


From the bestselling author of 3 horror novels comes this massively scary 4th one which promises to scare you beyond wits in the comfort of your own belief system. A supernatural horror book that explores the darkness of extreme hunger and starvation and a social commentary on unequal distribution of food. It follows the story of a rich family forced into fatal starvation and haunted by an ancient Goddess of food- Annamati. It sheds light on the psychological desperation that is a result of the darkest crevices of an empty stomach.

Blurb (The core of the story):
When the Shukla family wakes up to the suicide of their youngest son on the same day that their
eternally yielding farms all get plagued by rot, they become desperate to try out anything that would
reel them out of the situation. In an attempt to conjure an ancient entity of food, who could
potentially bring the son back and bless the land with eternal fertility, the grandchildren of the
Shuklas invoke a much malevolent spirit that possesses their house. As they begin battling with the
ancient entity as well as the malevolent spirit together, they uncover much darker secrets buried
within the walls of the house.
The entities deprive the family of food and water for days and soon the effects of starvation kick in.
As the mental peace of the family begins to crumble, it is up to the oldest grandson, Bhuva, to save
everyone and get rid of the hauntings.
Will Bhuva succeed in saving the family and bringing his dead uncle back, or will he suffer from the
darker manifestations of hunger?
Every Indian household considers food as God; what would happen if this food itself became solely
responsible for the most malevolent horror anyone could ever experience?

“A raw morsel of Godly terror that kept me hungry for more…” - Sidharth Jain, Producer of Trial by Fire

“Nightmarishly scary yet philosophically thought provoking…” - Vishal Furia, Director of Chhorii, Criminal Justice

223 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 25, 2023

1 person is currently reading
6 people want to read

About the author

Ajinkya Bhasme

4 books36 followers
Amazon India bestselling author in the horror genre, Bhasme carefully crafts his works based on severe mental illness. He uses his engineering research background from IIT Bombay and his education in psychotherapy to dissect the most complicated stories human minds have to offer. His work is known to be unique and on topics that have never been touched before.

Bhasme's words have garnered him many national and international literary accolades from some of the most reputed media houses in the world. His books are known to be scary but have many trails of unsaid wisdom between the empty spaces.

"Reality is often scarier than nightmares, consider it like slowly being boiled in a pot and not even knowing it", says Bhasme describing his choice of writing horror and connecting it greatly with human psychology.

This 29 year old author prides in spending 2-4 years researching every book. His first novel, When the Devil Whispers, took him 4 years to compile. He calls his work 'partial fiction' because of the truth behind his stories. His objective is to spread awareness about mental health in an impartial way where readers get both entertained and educated through stories of real people.

He did his chemical engineering from IIT Bombay, then worked as a scientist for a drug manufacturing company for 5 years, then he did his diploma in psychotheray and certification in behavioral genetics to complement his work and writing. Some of his books are soon expected on screen.

He is quite active on instagram and spreads awareness through, stories, quotes and comics.

Connect with him on instagram @bhasmewords

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Bibliophillic1997.
400 reviews16 followers
August 26, 2023
"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" by Ajinkya Bhasme is a gripping tale that masterfully weaves together elements of supernatural horror and family drama. The Shukla family's plight, brought about by a series of tragic events, forms the heart of the narrative. Bhasme skillfully crafts an atmosphere of suspense and dread, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the family battles not only with malevolent spirits but also their own internal struggles.

The exploration of the Indian cultural belief that food is akin to God adds a layer of depth to the story. The very sustenance that nourishes the body becomes a source of terror, blurring the lines between the physical and metaphysical realms. The characters are well-drawn, each wrestling with their fears and hopes in the face of the sinister forces that have taken hold of their lives.

The pacing of the plot is well-executed, gradually building tension and revealing the dark secrets of the house. Bhuva's role as the oldest grandson and his determination to save his family make him a compelling protagonist. The juxtaposition of the ancient benevolent entity and the malevolent spirit adds complexity to the story, raising thought-provoking questions about the nature of good and evil.

While the novel delves into the realms of horror and the supernatural, it also delves into the emotional dynamics of the family, adding a layer of realism to the tale. Bhasme's evocative prose captures the desperation and fear that permeate the Shuklas' lives.

"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" is a captivating read that combines chilling horror with familial bonds and cultural beliefs. Bhasme's narrative prowess shines through in this tale of darkness, uncovering the terrors that can emerge from the most unexpected sources.
Profile Image for Rohit Rawat.
84 reviews5 followers
July 31, 2023
"In The Rotten Pits Of Hunger" is a horror thriller that delves into the dark depths of the human psyche and family dynamics. Ajinkya Bhasme crafts a uniquely ingenious plot that sets the stage for a gripping and tension-filled narrative.

The story revolves around the Shukla family, whose lives take a tragic turn when their youngest son commits suicide, and their once-thriving farms suddenly become afflicted by a mysterious and devastating rot. Struggling to cope with their misfortune, the desperate family mistakenly invokes an evil spirit, inadvertently locking themselves within their own home in a twisted pact for sustenance.

The novel's strength lies in its ability to evoke a constant feeling of dread and tension. The dark setting, coupled with grey characters, creates an eerie atmosphere. The author's skillful use of detailed rituals and vivid descriptions immerses readers in the haunting world of the Shukla family, taking the experience to a new level of realism and intensity.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its portrayal of the typical Indian joint family, hiding dark and horrific secrets. The narrative masterfully explores the boundaries of family bonds and tests the characters' limits as they struggle to survive the sinister hunger spirit's malevolence.

The author seamlessly weaves a philosophical approach into the story, questioning the human propensity for greed and their relentless pursuit of more.

"In The Rotten Pits Of Hunger" is not for the faint of heart, as it delves into dark and violent themes. The book is recommended for adult readers who can handle the psychological and philosophical depth of the horror thriller genre.
Profile Image for Sumit RK.
1,220 reviews547 followers
July 4, 2024
As a long term fan of the horror genre, very rarely in your reading journey, you come across stories that absolutely shock and terrify you. 'In the rotten pits of hunger' is one such story that grabs you right from the start taking you on a horrifying journey.

The story revolves around the wealthy Shukla family which is leading a content life. Things begin to go wrong when a mysterious plague starts destroying their farm and their youngest son is found hanging from a farm tree, presumed as suicide. Convinced that they are cursed, they invoke a forgotten family deity to save them. But the ritual goes horribly wrong as it invokes a malevolent spirit that possesses their house. As they begin to battle the spirit, darker secrets start getting revealed. Will the family be able to fight this evil?

Right from the start, the story grips you with the tense gloomy atmosphere full of dread and some skillful narrative. The story introduces several scary twists from time to time, keeping you hooked. The story incorporates spirits and supernatural elements but what keeps you on the edge is the fear of the unknown, the explained and the anticipation of trouble waiting for you at the next turn

The story explores the theme of greed and blends family drama into horror. The writing is excellent and the author's ability to invoke fear is unparalleled. What sets the story apart is the grey characters and the unique setting with multiple twists that just keep coming.

Overall, 'In the rotten pits of hunger' is a well crafted horror story that you will remember long after you have finished reading. A Great read for horror fans.


Profile Image for Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ).
2,082 reviews77 followers
October 17, 2024
Ajinkya Bhasme's In the Rotten Pits of Hunger is a chilling feast of supernatural horror with a dash of societal satire that will make you uneasy and provoke thought. The Shukla family, whose lives drastically decline following a farm accident and the untimely death of their youngest son, is at the heart of the story. In a desperate attempt to salvage their farm and satisfy their stomachs, they call upon the ancient food deity Annamati. But they inadvertently let a dark ghost into their home instead of a benevolent food god. The battle for survival that ensues is incredibly eerie and will have you turning pages more quickly than you can say "haunted house."

This is an eerie tale with brains, not your usual ghost story. Bhasme blends spooky paranormal themes with a critical examination of contemporary problems like poverty and hunger. The Shukla family's struggle to endure both supernatural fear and their crippling desperation highlights how unequal resource distribution may push individuals to the verge of disaster in this novel. The story has more depth than your typical horror movie because, while the horrors are strong, so does the societal message.

Characters created by Ajinkya Bhasme have a knack for feeling authentic—like, "you'll want to grab them a cup of tea and tell them it's going to be okay" authentic. The secrets and tensions within the Shukla family are abundant, adding to the personal nature of the horrors. Additionally, Bhasme's ability to paint creepy, immersive images will make you feel as though you're in the middle of everything. In the Rotten Pits of Hunger is a book that should be devoured if you enjoy horror with a heart (and a few ghosts for good measure). Be advised that you may wish to leave the lights on.
Profile Image for Booklover_rimi.
333 reviews9 followers
July 3, 2025
Review :
When I read the synopsis of the book, it hooked me right at the moment. An ancient goddess who can fulfill any of your wishes but she has a demand. A demand where she asks for a dish for a wish and if you fail the demand she not only revoke your wish but also going to punish you. Isn't it interesting?

In the story we follow the Sukla family who in their desperation and their want to get their eldest son back from the dead, they ask for help from the goddess. But everything goes downhill from there and they get stuck with the goddess's wrath. And we see how they get out of this situation or they succumb to this.

The story is amazing. The author did an exceptional job to set the vibe and atmosphere of the story. You can feel the eerie, bone chilling feeling all through the story. And the perfect, mysterious thrilling plot added the extra ingredients to it. You'll be hooked to the story from the beginning.

The characters are also very well relatable and portrayed here intricately. Among all these the topics of Indian myths, traditions and beliefs are also well blended with the story.

Overall the book is such an amazing read that I would happily like to recommend it to anyone who loves, horror, thriller story.
791 reviews17 followers
October 21, 2024
"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" by Ajinkya Bhasme is a gripping tale that explores the dark intersection of desperation and the supernatural. When the Shukla family, grieving the loss of their youngest member, attempts to invoke the food deity Annamati, they find themselves trapped with an ancient, unpredictable power. The author skillfully transforms the act of feeding a deity into a suspense-filled struggle, with each demanded dish carrying life-or-death stakes.

The author’s portrayal of Annamati is both eerie and captivating, turning a cultural symbol of nourishment into a harbinger of doom. The dynamic between Bhuva and the entity keeps readers on edge, as preparing food becomes a race against time. The story captures the tension between tradition and survival, questioning the true cost of tampering with ancient rituals.

This novel’s strength lies in its ability to balance atmospheric horror with a deeper reflection on hunger and sacrifice. It’s a haunting journey, where each page draws you deeper into a world where every bite could be your last.
Profile Image for Prachi.
376 reviews9 followers
October 30, 2024
"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" is an incredible book! It's a thrilling and scary story that grabs you from the very first page.

"Shukla family faces double tragedy: youngest son's suicide and farm destruction. Desperate, they summon an ancient entity but accidentally awaken a malevolent spirit. Oldest grandson Bhuva must fight to save his family from starvation, mental turmoil, and supernatural terror."

What I Liked:

- The author creates a spooky atmosphere that'll give you chills.
- The plot is full of unexpected twists that'll keep you guessing.
- The book tackles important themes like poverty and hunger.

Review:

This book is perfect for anyone who loves scary stories with depth. The author weaves together horror and social commentary seamlessly. You'll be hooked from start to finish.

Recommendation:

Don't miss this gripping tale! If you enjoy authors like Stephen King or Joe Hill, you'll love "In the Rotten Pits of Hunger."

Details:

- Genre: Horror, Supernatural Thriller
- Suitable for: Fans of scary stories, mystery, and suspense
2 reviews
July 9, 2023
The book is very scary and intimidating!!! I love how the author incorporates the family dynamics, hidden emotions, and how a human behaves when demoted to the extreme depths of hunger, starvation, and desperation. Especially love how the writer incorporates human emotions and gives a philosophical rationale that make us question our reality and sanity. Never would I ever have imagined the ending, the conclusion, and the reasoning. It was a thrill slowly introducing you to the darkness, that you would not expect.
The characters are very complex, very unassumable, and reflect the reality of us. The book makes us realise, that all monsters are human in the end. Human make humans monsters. And God remains helpless.
I applaud the author's writing skills, and his vivid imagination.
The book is beautifully crafted, easy to read, and with a good font size. Certainly would recommend keeping this beside your bed
Would recommend this 11/10!! 😍😍😍
Profile Image for Dr. Monidipa Dutta.
1,066 reviews15 followers
July 28, 2024
In the Rotten Pits of Hunger is a chilling descent into a realm of terror. From its opening moments, the narrative casts a sinister spell, its oppressive atmosphere and masterful storytelling immediately gripping the reader. The plot is a labyrinth of fear, punctuated by shocking twists that maintain a relentless pace.

While the story incorporates supernatural elements, it's the palpable dread of the unknown that truly paralyzes. The author’s skill in blending family drama with horror is masterful, creating complex, morally ambiguous characters against a backdrop of unsettling events.

The story is a testament to the power of suggestion, where the unexplainable is far more terrifying than the revealed. A unique setting and a series of unexpected plot turns elevate this horror tale to a truly unforgettable experience. For those who dare to venture into the darkest corners of their imagination, this is a must-read
405 reviews5 followers
October 21, 2024
"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" by Ajinkya Bhasme is a gripping exploration of desperation and dark folklore. The Shukla family's decision to summon the ancient deity Annamati, hoping to bring back their lost son, plunges them into a nightmarish ordeal. Ajinkya Bhasme expertly captures the eerie tension as their home transforms into a battleground between tradition, survival, and the supernatural.

The challenge Bhuva faces—cooking five impossible dishes for Annamati—adds a nerve-wracking twist to the plot. Each dish becomes a symbol of their struggle against the entity's insatiable hunger, with every failed attempt bringing them closer to peril. The author’s storytelling makes the tension palpable, with scenes that linger in the mind long after they are read.

Beyond its horror elements, the novel delves into themes of sacrifice, the burden of family, and the thin line between faith and fear. It’s a haunting and thought-provoking read, blending myth and terror in unexpected ways.
372 reviews8 followers
October 21, 2024
"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" by Ajinkya Bhasme offers a chilling journey into the darkness where folklore and fear intersect. The Shukla family’s desperate attempt to revive their lost son brings the enigmatic deity Annamati into their home, turning their hope into a sinister struggle for survival. The author crafts a tense atmosphere, where every meal and ritual carries a sense of foreboding.

Annamati's arrival unravels layers of tension, as Bhuva faces the impossible task of creating five dishes to secure the family’s freedom. The narrative skillfully blends supernatural elements with cultural nuances, making the horrors of hunger and scarcity feel all too real. The stakes grow with each dish, keeping readers on edge.

The author’s exploration of the fear tied to food and scarcity adds depth to the story, making it more than just a horror tale. It’s a compelling read that leaves you contemplating the consequences of desire and desperation.
230 reviews3 followers
October 21, 2024
A desperate family's attempt to reverse a tragedy quickly descends into terror when they summon a mysterious entity linked to an ancient food ritual. What was meant to be a way to bring back a loved one turns into a terrifying struggle for survival, as the entity demands dishes that seem impossible to create. With every failed attempt, the stakes grow deadlier, and the family is trapped in a nightmare they can’t escape.

Bhuva, the family's last hope, must find a way to satisfy the entity's hunger, but the challenge goes far beyond just cooking. Each request reveals a deeper, more sinister game, where failure could mean unimaginable consequences. The sense of urgency and the ever-present danger create a tense and eerie atmosphere.

Beyond its supernatural elements, the story delves into themes of desperation and the power of traditions. It’s a haunting tale that keeps you on edge, blending suspense with unsettling twists.
230 reviews7 followers
October 21, 2024
An ancient ritual meant to bring back a lost family member takes a horrifying turn when an entity far more dangerous than anticipated is summoned. The story unfolds within the walls of a home trapped by a supernatural force, where a desperate family finds themselves at the mercy of a goddess who demands not one, but five impossible dishes to satisfy her hunger. With every failed attempt, the tension escalates, and survival seems more unlikely.

The central figure, Bhuva, bears the burden of saving his family, yet his challenges are unlike anything he could have imagined. Each meal becomes a battle not just for freedom, but for their lives, as the stakes rise with every dish. The fear of the unknown and the twisted nature of the demands create a gripping atmosphere.

At its core, the story examines the lengths to which people will go when driven by loss and fear. The balance of horror and emotional depth makes this a captivating and chilling tale that lingers in the mind.
524 reviews12 followers
October 18, 2024
This story paints a vivid picture of pride and its consequences, using the metaphor of a balloon filled with hydrogen. The comparison is simple yet powerful, showing how pride can inflate a person’s sense of self until it bursts, causing harm not only to the individual but to those around them. The writing captures the tension and urgency in the protagonist’s situation, especially as they struggle with making decisions that affect others, particularly the younger members of their group. The mention of family dynamics and the different emotions involved adds depth to the story.

Overall, the story reflects on pride, responsibility, and the weight of making tough choices, especially when others' safety is at risk. It keeps you engaged with its relatable emotions and thoughtful narrative.
13 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2024
Title: A Harsh Look at Poverty

"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" by Ajinkya Bhasme is a powerful book that takes readers into the harsh realities of poverty. Bhasme uses vivid descriptions to paint a picture of the struggles faced by people living in extreme poverty.

The book is not easy to read, as it deals with difficult topics such as hunger, homelessness, and child labor. However, it is an important book that can help readers to understand the challenges faced by people living in poverty. Bhasme's writing is compassionate and moving, and he does a great job of humanizing the people he writes about.

If you are interested in learning more about poverty and social justice, "In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" is a book that you should read
Profile Image for Himanshu Joshi.
10 reviews
October 30, 2024
The Shukla family faces a devastating tragedy when their youngest son dies by suicide, and their thriving farms are mysteriously plagued by rot. Desperate for solutions, they attempt to conjure an ancient entity of abundance but inadvertently invoke a malevolent spirit possessing their home.

In this captivating book, darker secrets within the Shukla household are explored through a superb blending of mysterious horror and family drama. The oldest grandson, Bhuva, must battle the devil's to save his family as mental tranquility and hunger erode.

Strengths: A spooky, eerie atmosphere; a skillfully constructed supernatural mystery The emotional dynamics of a family

Fans of supernatural thrillers and horror will be on edge from this terrifying story.
Profile Image for Dr. Devanshi Joshi.
334 reviews12 followers
November 9, 2024

Format- Kindle
Pages- 222

This one by Ajinkya Bhasma is an amazing blend of supernatural horror & Indian culture curated within 222 pages & a total of 31 chapters.

The centre of story Bhuva, the eldest grandson, who bears the
burden of saving his family. His character is amazing. He in the way of saving his family have faced much more challenges than his imagination. The portrayal & idea of Goddess Annamati, who either bless or destroy, adds an unique twist to the story.

Author have done a great job blending Indian traditions with psychological horror. The plot is well-developed with great characterization with themes of horror, survival, fear, faith & much more.

Overall, an interesting read!!!

Happy Reading!!!
34 reviews1 follower
October 23, 2024
"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" is like many haunted tales and ghost stories, a sad horror in which grief is more brutally harsh as it carries supernatural elements within. The motivation of the Shukla family to bring back their son goes too far and this makes them face evil forces to save their farmland. The story is interesting, with scenes where hunger and excessive madness is the scope of everything as it progresses. Bhuva's passion for saving his family is deep and heartfelt. This work is quite impressive and devastating due to the combination of horror with symbols of Indian culture and its traditions.
173 reviews5 followers
November 3, 2024
The simple concept of hunger is transformed into something terrifying in the intense blend of mythology and horror that is "In the Rotten Pits of Hunger." The Shukla family is the focus of the story, and they try a risky ritual to call back their dead son by summoning Annamati, an ancient food goddess. The way this book uses Indian mythology, particularly the idea that food is a divine force that can either bless or curse, is what sets it apart. You'll be hooked from beginning to end by Annamati's unpredictable nature and presence.

"In the Rotten Pits of Hunger" is a book you should read if you're interested in learning more about poverty and social justice.
1 review
July 22, 2023
How many of us really aware of goodness of rituals we follow ?!

We all follow the rituals our ancestors bestowed us, especially Indians. But, how many of us really understand them or how many of us are truly aware of the reasons behind?... The book "In the rotten pits of hunger" speaks how humans can go greedy beyond their requirements and how such excess achievements can curse them back as a gift for their deeds. It talks about a story where a joint family gets stuck in such curse. Are they going to survive and get back to life? Findout from the story. But it now!!!
43 reviews1 follower
July 27, 2024
A chilling exploration of greed and desperation, **In the Rotten Pits of Hunger** is a horror novel that lingers in the mind long after the final page. The author's prose is both poetic and precise, crafting a world that is as suffocating as it is terrifying. The story is a masterful blend of suspense and terror, with a pacing that builds to a crescendo of fear. The characters are flawed and relatable, making their descent into madness all the more chilling. This is a book that will stay with you, a haunting reminder of the darkness that lurks within us all.
29 reviews
July 27, 2024
In the Rotten Pits of Hunger** is a harrowing masterpiece that grips you from the outset and doesn’t let go. The author masterfully constructs a world of dread and uncertainty, where the ordinary is twisted into something sinister. The characters are complex and morally ambiguous, adding depth to the terrifying narrative. A relentless pace, punctuated by shocking twists, keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. This is not just a horror story; it's a psychological descent into the darkest corners of the human mind.

Profile Image for Priya Saladi.
482 reviews4 followers
July 27, 2024


**In the Rotten Pits of Hunger** is a relentless, bone-chilling descent into a world of darkness and despair. The author's masterful storytelling pulls readers into a claustrophobic atmosphere of dread, where shadows conceal terrifying truths. This is not just a horror novel; it's a psychological torture chamber that explores the depths of human fear and desperation. With its haunting characters and unpredictable plot twists, this book is a must-read for anyone who dares to be truly terrified.
Profile Image for REHANA.
462 reviews13 followers
July 28, 2024
📚 BOOK REVIEW
In the Rotten Pits of Hunger
by Ajinkya Bhasme

In the Rotten Pits of Hunger* is a gut-wrenching descent into a world of pure terror. The author masterfully weaves a tapestry of dread, where every shadow holds a sinister promise. The plot is a relentless roller coaster, filled with heart-stopping twists that will leave you gasping for breath. This isn't just a horror story; it's a psychological assault that lingers long after the final page.
55 reviews
July 27, 2024
**In the Rotten Pits of Hunger** is a relentless assault on the senses. The author’s masterful command of atmosphere and pacing creates a suffocating tension that grips the reader from the first page. This is a horror novel that dares to be different, exploring themes of family, greed, and the supernatural with chilling effect. It’s a haunting, disturbing, and unforgettable read.
Profile Image for Rubin Arif.
180 reviews2 followers
July 28, 2024
This book is a nightmare waiting to happen. *In the Rotten Pits of Hunger* is a claustrophobic exploration of fear, where the ordinary becomes a twisted reflection of horror. The author's ability to create atmosphere is unparalleled, and the characters are complex and disturbing. This is not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to confront their deepest fears, this book is a must- read
Profile Image for Charmi Mishra.
3 reviews
July 27, 2023
Started reading on 23rd july finished reading by 25th july night😍 , One can guess the excited storyline, which make sure to takes the readers through all kind of emotions.
The book has Message, and The Reality mixed with All Emotions.
Must Read 📖
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