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The Oath: Kalki’s Sivagamiyin Sabatham Retold
A tale of forbidden love, fierce battles, and hidden treachery in ancient India.
Set in the early seventh century, The Oath blends history and fiction into a gripping story of love and war. The powerful Chalukya king, Pulikesi, invades South India, laying siege to the city of Kanchi. In response, King Narasimhavarman Pallava launches a fierce attack on Vatapi, the Chalukya capital.
Amidst burning cities, savage battles and deceitful plots, the passionate love story of Emperor Mamallan and the beautiful dancer, Sivagami, unfolds. Their love faces many dangers as dark schemes are hatched in hidden monasteries, disguised kings walk into enemy camps and assassins lurk with poisoned daggers.
From royal courts to secret hideouts, kings and monks, clever spies and skilled sculptors, saints and brave warriors fill the pages with action and excitement. As the tension builds to a nail-biting climax, one question Will Mamallan and Sivagami’s love survive against all odds, or will they be torn apart by war and betrayal?
Set in the early seventh century, The Oath blends history and fiction into a gripping story of love and war. The powerful Chalukya king, Pulikesi, invades South India, laying siege to the city of Kanchi. In response, King Narasimhavarman Pallava launches a fierce attack on Vatapi, the Chalukya capital.
Amidst burning cities, savage battles and deceitful plots, the passionate love story of Emperor Mamallan and the beautiful dancer, Sivagami, unfolds. Their love faces many dangers as dark schemes are hatched in hidden monasteries, disguised kings walk into enemy camps and assassins lurk with poisoned daggers.
From royal courts to secret hideouts, kings and monks, clever spies and skilled sculptors, saints and brave warriors fill the pages with action and excitement. As the tension builds to a nail-biting climax, one question Will Mamallan and Sivagami’s love survive against all odds, or will they be torn apart by war and betrayal?
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2024
About the author
Preetha Rajah Kannan
10 books14 followersMy earliest recollection of Ponniyin Selvan is of five hardbound volumes standing tall in Amma’s book collection. To my eternal regret, the convent-educated-English-speaking me had my nose too deeply in English novels to explore one of the greatest Tamil novels ever written.
The years passed and I stepped into the courtyard of Thanjavur’s ‘Big Temple’ for the first time. I froze: the towering gopuram drew my eyes like a magnet and automatically lifted my head towards the evening-sun-splashed sky. The immense lingam in the sanctum thrilled my soul with its stark, truly ‘God-sized’ grandeur. And so, I came to Raja Raja Chola, the emperor who had the audacity to think big and build on this vast scale.
The brilliant Ramasamy Aiyar Krishnamurthi, or Kalki, immortalized Raja Raja Chola as Ponniyin Selvan, packing his masterpiece with dashing warriors and beautiful princesses, secret passages and dark dungeons, sorcerers and spies, vengeance and romance, shipwrecks and quicksand, leopards and assassins … in 2000 odd pages of roller-coaster excitement.
Dear readers, I give you Ponniyin Selvan as an 800-page, one-volume treat: The Tiger Throne. I have tried to give you a compact version, suited to todays’ ‘fast’ world, while retaining the body and soul of Kalki’s work and remaining true to the original in every way.
As always, I hope you will pass on the story to your children and grandchildren: for this is not just a book. It is a record of our glorious history and culture … it parts the veil of centuries to give us a glimpse of our roots and the rich lives of our ancestors.
Happy reading to you all!
The years passed and I stepped into the courtyard of Thanjavur’s ‘Big Temple’ for the first time. I froze: the towering gopuram drew my eyes like a magnet and automatically lifted my head towards the evening-sun-splashed sky. The immense lingam in the sanctum thrilled my soul with its stark, truly ‘God-sized’ grandeur. And so, I came to Raja Raja Chola, the emperor who had the audacity to think big and build on this vast scale.
The brilliant Ramasamy Aiyar Krishnamurthi, or Kalki, immortalized Raja Raja Chola as Ponniyin Selvan, packing his masterpiece with dashing warriors and beautiful princesses, secret passages and dark dungeons, sorcerers and spies, vengeance and romance, shipwrecks and quicksand, leopards and assassins … in 2000 odd pages of roller-coaster excitement.
Dear readers, I give you Ponniyin Selvan as an 800-page, one-volume treat: The Tiger Throne. I have tried to give you a compact version, suited to todays’ ‘fast’ world, while retaining the body and soul of Kalki’s work and remaining true to the original in every way.
As always, I hope you will pass on the story to your children and grandchildren: for this is not just a book. It is a record of our glorious history and culture … it parts the veil of centuries to give us a glimpse of our roots and the rich lives of our ancestors.
Happy reading to you all!
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 5, 2024
3.5
Amidst the backdrop of ancient India, during a time of intense rivalry between two powerful kingdoms, an untold love story begins to blossom. 'The Oath' is set in the early seventh century, follows politics, power dynamics, deceit and suspicion but above all love amidst the turmoil of war-torn South India. As the mighty Chalukya king, Pulikesi, lays siege to Kanchi, King Narasimhavarman Pallava retaliates with a bold assault on Vatapi, the Chalukya capital. From royal courts to secret hideouts, kings and monks, prince and royal dancer, clever spies and skilled sculptors, this book explores the delicate balance between love and war in an era defined by conquest and conflict.
'The Oath' is a historical fiction set in the period of kings and monarchy in mediaeval India. The book encompasses various aspects of monarchy and everything that comes with it, war and tumult. When I started reading this book, I knew the story would be an interesting one. It starts very slowly at first, depicting different plots running parallel, making no sense at all. Then slowly it takes pace and clears the fog away. This book narrates a unique story of love and war. I love the historic setting of it and the dynamic character sketches. We get to see various character arcs albeit they were very woody in nature.
Coming to the writing, the book promised a lot but failed to deliver on the writing aspect. The entire book is divided into parts and each part consists of continuous chapters or you can call it passages. This continuous chapters without any break kinda made me zone out from time to time. The narration could have been better. Writting quality is good but writing style paired with the narration did not create lasting impression on me. Overall it was an okay read.
Amidst the backdrop of ancient India, during a time of intense rivalry between two powerful kingdoms, an untold love story begins to blossom. 'The Oath' is set in the early seventh century, follows politics, power dynamics, deceit and suspicion but above all love amidst the turmoil of war-torn South India. As the mighty Chalukya king, Pulikesi, lays siege to Kanchi, King Narasimhavarman Pallava retaliates with a bold assault on Vatapi, the Chalukya capital. From royal courts to secret hideouts, kings and monks, prince and royal dancer, clever spies and skilled sculptors, this book explores the delicate balance between love and war in an era defined by conquest and conflict.
'The Oath' is a historical fiction set in the period of kings and monarchy in mediaeval India. The book encompasses various aspects of monarchy and everything that comes with it, war and tumult. When I started reading this book, I knew the story would be an interesting one. It starts very slowly at first, depicting different plots running parallel, making no sense at all. Then slowly it takes pace and clears the fog away. This book narrates a unique story of love and war. I love the historic setting of it and the dynamic character sketches. We get to see various character arcs albeit they were very woody in nature.
Coming to the writing, the book promised a lot but failed to deliver on the writing aspect. The entire book is divided into parts and each part consists of continuous chapters or you can call it passages. This continuous chapters without any break kinda made me zone out from time to time. The narration could have been better. Writting quality is good but writing style paired with the narration did not create lasting impression on me. Overall it was an okay read.
September 25, 2024
The Oath, set in the seventh century is a captivating blend of History, Mythology, and love. This book beautifully describes the south-Indian history with its sculptures and art.
It starts with the blooming love of Pallavan Prince Mamalan and Dancer Sivagami’s love but as time goes their relationship is tested by numerous dangers. The book plunges readers into a world of fierce battles, burning cities, and complex political intrigue when the Chalukyan Emperor Pulikesi wages a war for the siege of Kanchi.
The love story is the heart of the novel which is both touching, dramatic, and forbidden with Mamallan and Sivagami facing constant challenges amidst war, betrayal, and conspiracies. The action is gripping, with intense battle scenes and a suspenseful plot that keeps readers hooked until the end. I loved the book for its rich historical setting and well-researched portrayal of the Chalukya and Pallava dynasties. The author beautifully described the grandeur of royal courts and the beauty of the characters. I felt that part 2 of the book was a bit slow compared to the others. The ending has my heart in shambles.
Overall The Oath is a beautiful book for readers who love historical fiction with romance. This book is a must-read.
It starts with the blooming love of Pallavan Prince Mamalan and Dancer Sivagami’s love but as time goes their relationship is tested by numerous dangers. The book plunges readers into a world of fierce battles, burning cities, and complex political intrigue when the Chalukyan Emperor Pulikesi wages a war for the siege of Kanchi.
The love story is the heart of the novel which is both touching, dramatic, and forbidden with Mamallan and Sivagami facing constant challenges amidst war, betrayal, and conspiracies. The action is gripping, with intense battle scenes and a suspenseful plot that keeps readers hooked until the end. I loved the book for its rich historical setting and well-researched portrayal of the Chalukya and Pallava dynasties. The author beautifully described the grandeur of royal courts and the beauty of the characters. I felt that part 2 of the book was a bit slow compared to the others. The ending has my heart in shambles.
Overall The Oath is a beautiful book for readers who love historical fiction with romance. This book is a must-read.
September 20, 2024
The Oath (Kalki's Sivagamiyin Sabatham Retold)
"Dance is a divine art and the foundation of all other arts."
The Oath by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a retelling of Sivagamiyin Sabatham which is a classic Tamil historical novel originally written by Kalki Krishnamurthy.
Set during the seventh century, The Oath is a perfect amalgamation of fiction and history expressing the treacherous tale of love and war. The story narrates the history of Pallava and the Chalukya dynasty from the South of India and focuses on the life of Sivagami, a mesmerizing dancer, a powerful figure known for her grace and strength. The story is a mixture of history, romance, war, and intrigue, revolving around the conflicts between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas.
Emperor Mahendran of Kanchi, the proud sovereign of a vibrant and magnificent city renowned for its art and sculptures, dreams of a Bharat united in peace and free from the ravages of war. A patron of the arts and a lover of beauty, he envisions a harmonious realm. However, his aspirations are cruelly shattered when Pulikesi, the formidable Chalukya king, fueled by his desire to conquer the city of art, wages war against Kanchi. With vengeance in his heart, Pulikesi leads an invasion into South India, laying siege to the cherished city of Kanchi, threatening to engulf its splendor in the flames of battle.
Amidst the chaos of war, the love story of Prince Narasimhavarman Pallava, known as Mamallan, and the captivating dancer Sivagami blossoms, weaving a tale of passion and peril.
Sivagami, the daughter of the humble sculptor Aayanar, dares to love a prince, a forbidden bond fraught with challenges. Her extraordinary beauty and artistic talent have earned her great fame, but they also attract the sinister attention of a corrupt monk who desires to possess her for himself. Their love unfolds against a backdrop of danger, as the couple faces not only the trials of war but also the lurking menace of those who would do them harm.
Will the love between Mamallan and Sivagami withstand this battle of thrones and clashing egos, or will it be consumed in the flames of unyielding oaths and promises?
The Oath is an engrossing book that vividly portrays the grandeur of royal courts, hidden sanctuaries, monks, kings, commanders, artists, sculptors, warriors, and ancient India. Every page brims with intrigue and excitement, leaving the reader eager to discover what the next chapter will unveil. I thoroughly enjoyed the seamless narration and the fluidity with which the story unfolds. The author’s thoughtful titling of each anecdote enhances clarity and understanding. It’s an absolute must-read!
"Dance is a divine art and the foundation of all other arts."
The Oath by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a retelling of Sivagamiyin Sabatham which is a classic Tamil historical novel originally written by Kalki Krishnamurthy.
Set during the seventh century, The Oath is a perfect amalgamation of fiction and history expressing the treacherous tale of love and war. The story narrates the history of Pallava and the Chalukya dynasty from the South of India and focuses on the life of Sivagami, a mesmerizing dancer, a powerful figure known for her grace and strength. The story is a mixture of history, romance, war, and intrigue, revolving around the conflicts between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas.
Emperor Mahendran of Kanchi, the proud sovereign of a vibrant and magnificent city renowned for its art and sculptures, dreams of a Bharat united in peace and free from the ravages of war. A patron of the arts and a lover of beauty, he envisions a harmonious realm. However, his aspirations are cruelly shattered when Pulikesi, the formidable Chalukya king, fueled by his desire to conquer the city of art, wages war against Kanchi. With vengeance in his heart, Pulikesi leads an invasion into South India, laying siege to the cherished city of Kanchi, threatening to engulf its splendor in the flames of battle.
Amidst the chaos of war, the love story of Prince Narasimhavarman Pallava, known as Mamallan, and the captivating dancer Sivagami blossoms, weaving a tale of passion and peril.
Sivagami, the daughter of the humble sculptor Aayanar, dares to love a prince, a forbidden bond fraught with challenges. Her extraordinary beauty and artistic talent have earned her great fame, but they also attract the sinister attention of a corrupt monk who desires to possess her for himself. Their love unfolds against a backdrop of danger, as the couple faces not only the trials of war but also the lurking menace of those who would do them harm.
Will the love between Mamallan and Sivagami withstand this battle of thrones and clashing egos, or will it be consumed in the flames of unyielding oaths and promises?
The Oath is an engrossing book that vividly portrays the grandeur of royal courts, hidden sanctuaries, monks, kings, commanders, artists, sculptors, warriors, and ancient India. Every page brims with intrigue and excitement, leaving the reader eager to discover what the next chapter will unveil. I thoroughly enjoyed the seamless narration and the fluidity with which the story unfolds. The author’s thoughtful titling of each anecdote enhances clarity and understanding. It’s an absolute must-read!
September 29, 2024
Preetha Rajah Kannan's "The Oath" delivers an enthralling retelling of the Tamil historical novel "Sivagamiyin Sabatham" by Kalki. This literary piece is surely an emphasise of her talent in a reconstruct of storytelling that is historically accurate while being emotionally engaging. By mapping the complexities of ancient Indian society, politics, and culture she creates a narrative that is intellectually inviting as well as aesthetically engaging.
The protagonist, Sivagami, is a nuanced and multi-dimensional woman, who exemplifies the spirit of her time. Her development from a sheltered princess to a dominant queen is a captivating display of her strength, intellect, and determination. The other characters that surround her, such as Madurantakan, Rajendra Chola, and Sundara Chola, are equally developed, adding to the narrative.
The book is deceptively simple, painting a picture in the reader's mind of a time long gone. She easily immerses her reader revealing the Chola empire, its temples, and activities in careful detail. There are also a variety, and masterful uses of art in her writing; symbolism, metaphor and foreboding are devices she revels in, that gives life to the narrative. Aside from elements of the story that are entirely fictitious, the author sticks as closely as possible to following a believable historical account, and this level of detail is respectable.
However, the book is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times, particularly in the early chapters. Additionally, the plot can be complex and difficult to follow, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the history of the Chola empire. Nevertheless, these shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the novel.
In conclusion, it is an outstanding example of historical fiction. She has created a captivating and thoughtful story that vividly depicts the beauty and complexity of ancient India. The colorful characters, lyrical writing, and historical accuracy of the book's narrative make it a must-read for those interested in either Indian history or historical fiction.
The protagonist, Sivagami, is a nuanced and multi-dimensional woman, who exemplifies the spirit of her time. Her development from a sheltered princess to a dominant queen is a captivating display of her strength, intellect, and determination. The other characters that surround her, such as Madurantakan, Rajendra Chola, and Sundara Chola, are equally developed, adding to the narrative.
The book is deceptively simple, painting a picture in the reader's mind of a time long gone. She easily immerses her reader revealing the Chola empire, its temples, and activities in careful detail. There are also a variety, and masterful uses of art in her writing; symbolism, metaphor and foreboding are devices she revels in, that gives life to the narrative. Aside from elements of the story that are entirely fictitious, the author sticks as closely as possible to following a believable historical account, and this level of detail is respectable.
However, the book is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the pacing to be slow at times, particularly in the early chapters. Additionally, the plot can be complex and difficult to follow, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the history of the Chola empire. Nevertheless, these shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the novel.
In conclusion, it is an outstanding example of historical fiction. She has created a captivating and thoughtful story that vividly depicts the beauty and complexity of ancient India. The colorful characters, lyrical writing, and historical accuracy of the book's narrative make it a must-read for those interested in either Indian history or historical fiction.
October 10, 2024
The Oath by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a symphony of history, love, and ambition set against the backdrop of ancient India, where the rhythms of art and war dance to the same heartbeat. It transports the reader to a time when empires were not only built on the strength of swords but also on the beauty of sculptures, the elegance of dance, and the allure of love. This retelling of Kalki Krishnamurthy’s Sivagamiyin Sabatham is a tapestry woven with the silken threads of passion, loyalty, and the tumultuous tides of destiny.
At the center of this world is Sivagami, the embodiment of grace, whose every step seems to echo the divine. As a dancer, she is more than an artist—she is a muse to an empire, a symbol of beauty that captivates hearts yet stirs envy in darker souls. Her love for Prince Narasimhavarman Pallava, a union as tender as it is forbidden, unfurls like a delicate lotus amidst the storm of political intrigue and war. Their love, though radiant, stands on the precipice of destruction, vulnerable to the whims of fate and the shadows cast by ambition.
The narrative skillfully portrays the conflict between creation and destruction. Emperor Mahendran of Kanchi, a visionary who dreams of a world united in peace and adorned with beauty, represents the creative force of the story. His kingdom, Kanchi, shines like a jewel, an oasis of art and culture, yet is constantly threatened by Pulikesi, the Chalukya king who storms in like a hurricane, driven by conquest and greed. Kannan captures the tension between these two forces—the serene artist’s brush versus the harsh clatter of the warrior’s sword—as they clash in a battle that could shatter the delicate balance of life in the kingdom.
The love between Mamallan and Sivagami is a melody that sings softly against the louder, harsher notes of war and treachery. Their bond, though forged in the fires of affection, faces insurmountable obstacles. Like a flower growing between cracks in a stone wall, their love is resilient yet fragile, threatened by forces beyond their control.
At the center of this world is Sivagami, the embodiment of grace, whose every step seems to echo the divine. As a dancer, she is more than an artist—she is a muse to an empire, a symbol of beauty that captivates hearts yet stirs envy in darker souls. Her love for Prince Narasimhavarman Pallava, a union as tender as it is forbidden, unfurls like a delicate lotus amidst the storm of political intrigue and war. Their love, though radiant, stands on the precipice of destruction, vulnerable to the whims of fate and the shadows cast by ambition.
The narrative skillfully portrays the conflict between creation and destruction. Emperor Mahendran of Kanchi, a visionary who dreams of a world united in peace and adorned with beauty, represents the creative force of the story. His kingdom, Kanchi, shines like a jewel, an oasis of art and culture, yet is constantly threatened by Pulikesi, the Chalukya king who storms in like a hurricane, driven by conquest and greed. Kannan captures the tension between these two forces—the serene artist’s brush versus the harsh clatter of the warrior’s sword—as they clash in a battle that could shatter the delicate balance of life in the kingdom.
The love between Mamallan and Sivagami is a melody that sings softly against the louder, harsher notes of war and treachery. Their bond, though forged in the fires of affection, faces insurmountable obstacles. Like a flower growing between cracks in a stone wall, their love is resilient yet fragile, threatened by forces beyond their control.
October 2, 2024
“The Oath” by Preetha Rajah Kannan is an excellent conversion of the renowned Tamil novelist Kalki’s “Sivagamiyin Sabatham”. The novel is a historical event revolving around the rivalry between the Chalukyas and the Pallavas, and a love story of an emperor and a beautiful dancer which comes with its share of twists and turns.
Set against the backdrop of South India’s Kanchipuram the capital city of Pallavas, also the cultural and education city where people come to learn various art, architecture and religion, The book speaks about the war and love waged during the period of King Mahendran and succeeded by his offspring King Narasimhan. The Chalukya emperor Pulikesi lays his eyes on Kanchi, thus invading and laying a siege on Kanchi. In retaliation, the Pallava emperor Narasimhan attacks Vatapi the capital of Chalukyas. What follows next and who is set to win in this journey of honour, love and friendship is to read for.
One of the best character in the novel is Paranjothi, whose transformation is to lookout for, from being a humble normal human being to becoming the war commander and finally converting to saint. The love story between Narasimhan and Sivagami is also to watch out for which involves love, ego, respect and how gracefully they carry out their relationship.
The book is divided into four parts:
1. The Earthquake
2. Kanchi Under Siege
3. The Monks Love
4. Shattered Dreams
The narration of the storyline is simple and easily understood. The story is a bit long but every chapter is very interesting and have their share of emotions involved. If you are a lover of historical events and wanna learn about the culture, tradition, art and the love and respect for these practices, the war and the consequences involving them, then this book is definitely your go to read. Do lay your hands on them and get a spice about our rich and traditional history.
Set against the backdrop of South India’s Kanchipuram the capital city of Pallavas, also the cultural and education city where people come to learn various art, architecture and religion, The book speaks about the war and love waged during the period of King Mahendran and succeeded by his offspring King Narasimhan. The Chalukya emperor Pulikesi lays his eyes on Kanchi, thus invading and laying a siege on Kanchi. In retaliation, the Pallava emperor Narasimhan attacks Vatapi the capital of Chalukyas. What follows next and who is set to win in this journey of honour, love and friendship is to read for.
One of the best character in the novel is Paranjothi, whose transformation is to lookout for, from being a humble normal human being to becoming the war commander and finally converting to saint. The love story between Narasimhan and Sivagami is also to watch out for which involves love, ego, respect and how gracefully they carry out their relationship.
The book is divided into four parts:
1. The Earthquake
2. Kanchi Under Siege
3. The Monks Love
4. Shattered Dreams
The narration of the storyline is simple and easily understood. The story is a bit long but every chapter is very interesting and have their share of emotions involved. If you are a lover of historical events and wanna learn about the culture, tradition, art and the love and respect for these practices, the war and the consequences involving them, then this book is definitely your go to read. Do lay your hands on them and get a spice about our rich and traditional history.
September 24, 2024
I have been thinking of picking up Kalki's books for a while, cue Ponnyin Selvan, so when I came across this book, I had to pick it up. I love exploring mythology/historical based books focused on complete ensemble rather than one character driven where I can really dive into the world, and well, this book didn't disappoint me there.
This book is based in Kanchi, where King Mahendran Pallava is facing a siege from King Pulikesi. This book covers Kanchi's war journey in an interloping narrative of love, dance, art and strategies between primary characters, Prince Mamallan, Sivagami, a beautiful Bharatnatyam dancer, Naganandhi, an evil Monk, and Paranjothi, Commander of Pallavas but a devout Shivaite.
The writing was really immersive that I fell for the writing right away. It felt like home away from home, with the way Kanchi and the whole character narrative was written, kudos to the author/translator for bringing the world alive in her own concise way.
I have lots of thoughts about Sivagami, such a complicated character stuck in a box, that she feels everything deeply. Her whiplashes were crazy, but when looked at the big picture you could see how lonely she was, especially when her father was focused on her art rather than nurturing her for her growth. I would rather blame Kalki here, that he brought her to life with all her nuanced layers that it was an interesting journey to read.
Four parts split in the book, added different layers to the narrative, that it was such a pleasure to read this, rather than the usual soap drama. Paranjothi stole the show in the end, though, such a mysterious character, forged as a tool for his courage and devoutness, but still stayed true to his nature.
Book Recommendation - Hell Yeah.
This book is based in Kanchi, where King Mahendran Pallava is facing a siege from King Pulikesi. This book covers Kanchi's war journey in an interloping narrative of love, dance, art and strategies between primary characters, Prince Mamallan, Sivagami, a beautiful Bharatnatyam dancer, Naganandhi, an evil Monk, and Paranjothi, Commander of Pallavas but a devout Shivaite.
The writing was really immersive that I fell for the writing right away. It felt like home away from home, with the way Kanchi and the whole character narrative was written, kudos to the author/translator for bringing the world alive in her own concise way.
I have lots of thoughts about Sivagami, such a complicated character stuck in a box, that she feels everything deeply. Her whiplashes were crazy, but when looked at the big picture you could see how lonely she was, especially when her father was focused on her art rather than nurturing her for her growth. I would rather blame Kalki here, that he brought her to life with all her nuanced layers that it was an interesting journey to read.
Four parts split in the book, added different layers to the narrative, that it was such a pleasure to read this, rather than the usual soap drama. Paranjothi stole the show in the end, though, such a mysterious character, forged as a tool for his courage and devoutness, but still stayed true to his nature.
Book Recommendation - Hell Yeah.
September 28, 2024
In the fictional work "The Oath: Kalki’s Sivagamiyin Sabatham Retold," The Oath, which takes place in the early seventh century, is a compelling tale of love and conflict that combines fact and fiction. The plot revolves around the historical events of the Chalukya king, Pulakeshin II, laying a siege of Kanchi, and Narasimhavarman avenging this by attacking Vatapi, the capital of the Chalukyas. During these battles and sound of swords a love story blooms. Emperor Mamallan falls in the love of beautiful dancer, Sivagami. the retreading army creates a huge ruckus and captures several women as prisoners including Sivagami, who is the muse of the crown prince Narasimhavarman aka Mamllan. In the story, Sivagami who is an accomplished dancer feels insulted by the way the Chalukya King and his subjects treat her. She takes a vow that she will not leave Vatapi until Narasimhavarman comes and destroys the city, then a bloody battle was fought to destroy the city. Through detailed accounts of temples, royal intrigue, and battle, the book masterfully captures the grandeur of ancient South India. The writing of Kannan is readable and interesting.
The plot is very well constructed, given the fact that this 400+ pager is actually being tightened from the original which has four volumes. However, never at a given point you feel that you have missed something which in itself is commendable. Overall, I would say that this book is a very well crafted retelling of an epic novel. Language is simple and will keep you connected with the narration and plot.
I would definitely recommend this book to all historical fiction lovers who do not know Tamil and also to those who do not have time to read the entire translation.
The plot is very well constructed, given the fact that this 400+ pager is actually being tightened from the original which has four volumes. However, never at a given point you feel that you have missed something which in itself is commendable. Overall, I would say that this book is a very well crafted retelling of an epic novel. Language is simple and will keep you connected with the narration and plot.
I would definitely recommend this book to all historical fiction lovers who do not know Tamil and also to those who do not have time to read the entire translation.
October 2, 2024
Book Review Ahead
Book - The Oath
Author - Preetha Rajah Kannan
Pages - 376
Published - August 20 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Sivagamiyin Sabatham is a magnanimous tale by the legendary Kalki. Making a retelling of it in itself is a magnificent task but upon such a challenge, Preetha Rajah Kannan rises as a great victor. I genuinely believe his experience in the literature world and his close ties with Tamil definitely helps him keep the translation and retelling job a lot more efficient and true to the source material. Set in seventh-century India, the narrative intricately weaves together historical events and fictional elements, highlighting themes of love and conflict during the Pallava-Chalukya wars.
The character development is particularly strong, especially for Sivagami, a nuanced and emotionally complex Bharatnatyam dancer. Her struggles with internal conflict and feelings of isolation enrich the story. What distinguishes The Oath is Kannan's skillful integration of love, art, and warfare into the plot, which keeps readers engaged throughout.
However, there are moments when the pacing seems hurried, particularly during intense action scenes. I also felt that a deeper exploration of certain characters' motivations could have enhanced the narrative.
In summary, The Oath is an intriguing work of historical fiction that is likely to appeal to enthusiasts of Indian history and mythology. It is highly recommended for those who appreciate epic tales and historical fiction.
Book - The Oath
Author - Preetha Rajah Kannan
Pages - 376
Published - August 20 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Sivagamiyin Sabatham is a magnanimous tale by the legendary Kalki. Making a retelling of it in itself is a magnificent task but upon such a challenge, Preetha Rajah Kannan rises as a great victor. I genuinely believe his experience in the literature world and his close ties with Tamil definitely helps him keep the translation and retelling job a lot more efficient and true to the source material. Set in seventh-century India, the narrative intricately weaves together historical events and fictional elements, highlighting themes of love and conflict during the Pallava-Chalukya wars.
The character development is particularly strong, especially for Sivagami, a nuanced and emotionally complex Bharatnatyam dancer. Her struggles with internal conflict and feelings of isolation enrich the story. What distinguishes The Oath is Kannan's skillful integration of love, art, and warfare into the plot, which keeps readers engaged throughout.
However, there are moments when the pacing seems hurried, particularly during intense action scenes. I also felt that a deeper exploration of certain characters' motivations could have enhanced the narrative.
In summary, The Oath is an intriguing work of historical fiction that is likely to appeal to enthusiasts of Indian history and mythology. It is highly recommended for those who appreciate epic tales and historical fiction.
September 19, 2024
Preetha Rajah Kannan’s “The Oath” is a fiction based on a tale of forbidden love, fierce battles and hidden treachery in ancient India.
Set in the Pallava Dynasty, This is a story of love and war which revolves around a powerful king named ‘Pulikesi’ and the beautiful dancer ‘Sivagami’, whose life life is entangled with the kingdom’s political struggles. Sivagami is portrayed as a symbol of strength and resilience, standing out in a male-dominated world.
The book beautifully brings the grandeur of ancient South India to life, with vivid descriptions of temples, royal intrigue, and warfare. Kannan’s writing is accessible and engaging, making the historical tale appealing even to new readers. Themes of love, loyalty, sacrifice, and duty are woven throughout the narrative, keeping the reader emotionally invested.
This literature includes historical fiction, strong female characters, and stories of power and perseverance.
The pages can fill the readers with intense action and great excitement while reading it. Anyone who is interested to watch South Indian action movies related to mythology can give this book a try.
The readers would get stunned by the amazing climax.
I really loved the paperback of this book.
The queen’s picture highlighting the power in her hands is more than enough to convince me to read this book.
Set in the Pallava Dynasty, This is a story of love and war which revolves around a powerful king named ‘Pulikesi’ and the beautiful dancer ‘Sivagami’, whose life life is entangled with the kingdom’s political struggles. Sivagami is portrayed as a symbol of strength and resilience, standing out in a male-dominated world.
The book beautifully brings the grandeur of ancient South India to life, with vivid descriptions of temples, royal intrigue, and warfare. Kannan’s writing is accessible and engaging, making the historical tale appealing even to new readers. Themes of love, loyalty, sacrifice, and duty are woven throughout the narrative, keeping the reader emotionally invested.
This literature includes historical fiction, strong female characters, and stories of power and perseverance.
The pages can fill the readers with intense action and great excitement while reading it. Anyone who is interested to watch South Indian action movies related to mythology can give this book a try.
The readers would get stunned by the amazing climax.
I really loved the paperback of this book.
The queen’s picture highlighting the power in her hands is more than enough to convince me to read this book.
October 3, 2024
A fast paced historical fiction , this tale will take you on a ride through a battle between two most powerful dynasties of South India.
Diving deep into the rich cultural history of medieval South India , the story is of Sivagami. A dancer in the court of Pallavas and the lover of Pallavan Price Mamallan. When Pulakesin , the Chalukyan king, invades the Pallava kingdom , the world of Sivagami is thrown into turmoil.
She and her sculptor father along with the Pallavas face numerous challenges.
The story is full of political intrigue , invasive battles , conspiracies and deceit. The range of characters in the story is highly versatile and portray the highly diverse society of medieval India. The story also mentions the religious diversity prevalent during the times. The world building is beautiful and highly researched. The nuances of those times have been captured nicely.
The pace of the narration keeps the reader engaged.Sometimes though overwhelming the story never deteriorates in quality and maintains its course throughout. The character development of Sivagami throughout the story is impressive and commendable. The Characters of a Buddhist monk and the royalty have been created equally richly.
The blending of fiction with the historical elements has resulted in an exhilarating tale with remarkable characters
Diving deep into the rich cultural history of medieval South India , the story is of Sivagami. A dancer in the court of Pallavas and the lover of Pallavan Price Mamallan. When Pulakesin , the Chalukyan king, invades the Pallava kingdom , the world of Sivagami is thrown into turmoil.
She and her sculptor father along with the Pallavas face numerous challenges.
The story is full of political intrigue , invasive battles , conspiracies and deceit. The range of characters in the story is highly versatile and portray the highly diverse society of medieval India. The story also mentions the religious diversity prevalent during the times. The world building is beautiful and highly researched. The nuances of those times have been captured nicely.
The pace of the narration keeps the reader engaged.Sometimes though overwhelming the story never deteriorates in quality and maintains its course throughout. The character development of Sivagami throughout the story is impressive and commendable. The Characters of a Buddhist monk and the royalty have been created equally richly.
The blending of fiction with the historical elements has resulted in an exhilarating tale with remarkable characters
September 26, 2024
I love historical fiction. If it is Indian historical fiction, then I will surely read it.
This book tells the story of South India's powerful dynasty, the Pallavas. King Narasimhavarman ruled during that time, dedicating his life to promoting the arts and music. However, the Chalukya King Pulikesi attacked his city, prompting him to prepare for war.
King Narasimhavarman is strategic, and his powerful spies make Pulikesi reconsider the war. In Kanchi, the most talented sculptor, Aayanar, lives with his beautiful daughter, Sivagami, who is also a great Bharatanatyam dancer. Sivagami loves Pallava Emperor Mamallan, but Pulikesi's attack changes the situation, and Sivagami and Mamallan's love faces difficulties.
This book is gripping. I enjoyed reading it. The ending makes me feel both sad and happy. After I finished, I got the feeling that nothing was left in life. I have always loved Indian history, and this is the first time I have read a story based on South India, apart from my school books. The Pallava dynasty is the strongest dynasty in South India. This book shows the ups and downs of the king and his kingdom's workings. All the characters are amazing, but Nagananadhi and King Narasimhavarman's strategies change many things.
This book tells the story of South India's powerful dynasty, the Pallavas. King Narasimhavarman ruled during that time, dedicating his life to promoting the arts and music. However, the Chalukya King Pulikesi attacked his city, prompting him to prepare for war.
King Narasimhavarman is strategic, and his powerful spies make Pulikesi reconsider the war. In Kanchi, the most talented sculptor, Aayanar, lives with his beautiful daughter, Sivagami, who is also a great Bharatanatyam dancer. Sivagami loves Pallava Emperor Mamallan, but Pulikesi's attack changes the situation, and Sivagami and Mamallan's love faces difficulties.
This book is gripping. I enjoyed reading it. The ending makes me feel both sad and happy. After I finished, I got the feeling that nothing was left in life. I have always loved Indian history, and this is the first time I have read a story based on South India, apart from my school books. The Pallava dynasty is the strongest dynasty in South India. This book shows the ups and downs of the king and his kingdom's workings. All the characters are amazing, but Nagananadhi and King Narasimhavarman's strategies change many things.
September 24, 2024
The Oath, authored by Preetha Rajah Kannan, is a retelling of Kalki Krishnamurthy's classic Tamil historical novel Sivagamiyin Sabatham.
The story in the book, which takes place in the seventh century, is a masterful fusion of history and fiction that tells the perilous story of love and battle. In addition to telling the history of the Chalukya empire and Pallava in southern India, the drama centres on the life of Sivagami, a captivating dancer and strong woman renowned for her elegance and strength. The plot revolves around the battles between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas and combines history, romance, combat, and intrigue.
The grandeur of royal courts, secret sanctuaries, monks, kings, commanders, artists, sculptors, soldiers, and ancient India are all brilliantly portrayed in the captivating novel, The Oath.
The reader is left wanting to see what will be revealed in the next chapter since each page is packed with mystery and excitement. The plot unfolds with such ease and the narration is flawless, which I really loved. Every story has been thoughtfully titled by the author to improve comprehension and clarity.
The Language of the Book Is Lucid. the Writing Style of the Book Is Fast - Paced. The Cover of the Book Is an Absolutely Appropriate. The Title of the Book Is Well - Chosen.
The story in the book, which takes place in the seventh century, is a masterful fusion of history and fiction that tells the perilous story of love and battle. In addition to telling the history of the Chalukya empire and Pallava in southern India, the drama centres on the life of Sivagami, a captivating dancer and strong woman renowned for her elegance and strength. The plot revolves around the battles between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas and combines history, romance, combat, and intrigue.
The grandeur of royal courts, secret sanctuaries, monks, kings, commanders, artists, sculptors, soldiers, and ancient India are all brilliantly portrayed in the captivating novel, The Oath.
The reader is left wanting to see what will be revealed in the next chapter since each page is packed with mystery and excitement. The plot unfolds with such ease and the narration is flawless, which I really loved. Every story has been thoughtfully titled by the author to improve comprehension and clarity.
The Language of the Book Is Lucid. the Writing Style of the Book Is Fast - Paced. The Cover of the Book Is an Absolutely Appropriate. The Title of the Book Is Well - Chosen.
September 29, 2024
The Oath by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a retelling of Kalki's Sivagamiyin Sabatham. This book was based on fierce battles, forbidden love and hidden treachery in ancient India.
I adored the passionate love story of Emperor Mamallan and the beautiful dancer, Sivagami. The Oath blends history and fiction. The story is set in the early seventh century, when a powerful chalukya king, Pulikesi, invades the southern part of India.
The story is intriguing with a fast-paced plot. The author's flawless narration makes everything vivid. The language used is lucid and easy to understand. I adored how the plot revolves around the battles between Pallavas and Chalukyas, and also centers on the life of Sivagami, a dancer, and how her life is entangled with political struggles.
Secret hideouts, kings and monks, clever spies and skilled sculptors, saints and brave warriors, everything and everybody is portrayed perfectly. Readers will get emotionally attached to the characters while reading. The story keeps us hooked till the end with various twists and turns.
Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
I adored the passionate love story of Emperor Mamallan and the beautiful dancer, Sivagami. The Oath blends history and fiction. The story is set in the early seventh century, when a powerful chalukya king, Pulikesi, invades the southern part of India.
The story is intriguing with a fast-paced plot. The author's flawless narration makes everything vivid. The language used is lucid and easy to understand. I adored how the plot revolves around the battles between Pallavas and Chalukyas, and also centers on the life of Sivagami, a dancer, and how her life is entangled with political struggles.
Secret hideouts, kings and monks, clever spies and skilled sculptors, saints and brave warriors, everything and everybody is portrayed perfectly. Readers will get emotionally attached to the characters while reading. The story keeps us hooked till the end with various twists and turns.
Overall, I loved this book and would strongly recommend it to all.
September 28, 2024
The Oath by Preetha Rajah Kannan is an engaging retelling of Kalki Krishnamurthy's Sivagamiyin Sabatham, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Set in seventh-century India, the story beautifully blends history and fiction, focusing on the love and struggles amidst the Pallava-Chalukya conflict.
The characters were well-developed, especially Sivagami, the complex and emotionally-driven Bharatnatyam dancer. Her internal conflict and loneliness added depth to the story. What sets The Oath apart is the way Kannan masterfully wrote of love, art, and war into the narrative, keeping us as readers invested.
However, at times, the pacing felt rushed, especially in moments of high action. I also wished for more detailed exploration of certain characters’ motives that would have help the story have a better spin.
Overall, The Oath is a fascinating historical fiction that will captivate fans of Indian history and mythology. A must-read if you enjoy Indian epic tales with intricately carved character dynamics!
The characters were well-developed, especially Sivagami, the complex and emotionally-driven Bharatnatyam dancer. Her internal conflict and loneliness added depth to the story. What sets The Oath apart is the way Kannan masterfully wrote of love, art, and war into the narrative, keeping us as readers invested.
However, at times, the pacing felt rushed, especially in moments of high action. I also wished for more detailed exploration of certain characters’ motives that would have help the story have a better spin.
Overall, The Oath is a fascinating historical fiction that will captivate fans of Indian history and mythology. A must-read if you enjoy Indian epic tales with intricately carved character dynamics!
September 24, 2024
The Oath by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a riveting tale of love and war set in ancient India, blending history with fiction. The story captures the fierce battle between King Narasimhavarman Pallava and King Pulikesi, while also portraying the passionate yet dangerous love affair between Emperor Mamallan and the dancer Sivagami.
Plot:
Against the backdrop of savage battles, burning cities, and political treachery, Mamallan and Sivagami’s love is tested. With dark conspiracies unraveling, hidden assassins, and kings in disguise, the tension builds as they fight for their love amidst war and betrayal. Will their love survive?
Overall Feedback:
The author’s brilliant depiction of royal courts, war strategies, and romance makes The Oath an enthralling read for historical fiction lovers. With a nail-biting plot and well-developed characters, this book offers a captivating journey through ancient India’s political intrigue and love stories
Plot:
Against the backdrop of savage battles, burning cities, and political treachery, Mamallan and Sivagami’s love is tested. With dark conspiracies unraveling, hidden assassins, and kings in disguise, the tension builds as they fight for their love amidst war and betrayal. Will their love survive?
Overall Feedback:
The author’s brilliant depiction of royal courts, war strategies, and romance makes The Oath an enthralling read for historical fiction lovers. With a nail-biting plot and well-developed characters, this book offers a captivating journey through ancient India’s political intrigue and love stories
September 30, 2024
The Oath by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a captivating retelling of the Tamil historical novel Sivagamiyin Sabatham. Set against the backdrop of the conflict between the two royal dynasties of south India, the Chalukya and Pallava, the story unfolds amidst chaos and war, weaving a beautiful love story between Prince Mamallan and the beautiful dancer Sivagami. The book skillfully delves into the essence of war, politics, enmity, destruction, and danger, while also showcasing the powerful themes of love and passion. With its gripping action, compelling drama, intense war sequences, and suspenseful narrative, this book keeps readers engrossed until the very end. The rich historical setting, well-developed characters, and masterful storytelling make it a must-read for aficionados of historical fiction.
October 6, 2024
The grandeur of royal courts and the attractiveness of the personalities were exquisitely rendered by the author. In comparison to the other parts of the book, I thought part 2 moved a little slowly. My heart is in pieces because of the ending.
Preetha Rajah Kannan's work The Oath is a reinterpretation of the beloved Tamil historical novel Sivagamiyin Sabatham by Kalki Krishnamurthy.
The book's story, which is set in the seventh century, is a brilliant blend of fiction and history that depicts the dangerous tale of love and conflict. A seductive dancer and strong woman known for her grace and might, Sivagami is the focus of the drama, which also tells the story of the Chalukya dynasty and Pallava in southern India. The story involves history, romance, warfare, and intrigue and centers on the battles fought between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas.
Preetha Rajah Kannan's work The Oath is a reinterpretation of the beloved Tamil historical novel Sivagamiyin Sabatham by Kalki Krishnamurthy.
The book's story, which is set in the seventh century, is a brilliant blend of fiction and history that depicts the dangerous tale of love and conflict. A seductive dancer and strong woman known for her grace and might, Sivagami is the focus of the drama, which also tells the story of the Chalukya dynasty and Pallava in southern India. The story involves history, romance, warfare, and intrigue and centers on the battles fought between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas.
October 2, 2024
"The Oath: Kalki’s Sivagamiyin Sabatham Retold" by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a wonderful historical fiction I read recently. It basically delves into the themes of love and war. It's the story of Pulikesi, a king and his beautiful dancer Sivagami. It's not just a love story, the story portrays strength and bravery.
I appreciate the author's storytelling capability, as she brought the scenes to life. The story is set in South India, and I particularly enjoyed the places described throughout the book.
It's a must read historical fiction recommendation from me, which includes strong female characters, Pallava-Chalukya conflict, and love amidst all. The story is the retelling of Kalki's Sivagamiyin. So if you are a fan of mythology and history, pick this book.
I appreciate the author's storytelling capability, as she brought the scenes to life. The story is set in South India, and I particularly enjoyed the places described throughout the book.
It's a must read historical fiction recommendation from me, which includes strong female characters, Pallava-Chalukya conflict, and love amidst all. The story is the retelling of Kalki's Sivagamiyin. So if you are a fan of mythology and history, pick this book.
September 29, 2024
"The Oath: Kalki’s Sivagamiyin Sabatham Retold" by Preetha Rajah Kannan is a historical fiction novel that retells the story of Kalki's Sivagamiyin. The book shows the intense love story of Emperor Mamallan and the beautiful dancer, Sivagami, along with the backdrop of betrayal, war, and love. The plot is beautifully blended with historic events and fiction. The story has some beautiful insights that will grab the attention of the readers.
The language used is simple yet engaging. The way story proceeds is captivating and brings the history of Chalukya kingdom and its conflict to life.
The main themes of "The Oath" are forbidden love, war, and betrayal.
The language used is simple yet engaging. The way story proceeds is captivating and brings the history of Chalukya kingdom and its conflict to life.
The main themes of "The Oath" are forbidden love, war, and betrayal.
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