Hinduism Beneath the Surface: A family’s attempt to understand Sanatana Dharma

by Kannan K N

316 pages, Paperback

Published January 15, 2025

Reviews

[Mugdha Mahajan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hinduism Beneath the Surface offers a refreshing take on understanding Hinduism—not through sermons or scriptures, but through a relatable family’s open and thoughtful conversations. The questions raised by the younger generation mirror what many of us wonder silently, and the responses from the parents are rooted in both tradition and reason.

Kannan K N does a great job of simplifying complex ideas without dumbing them down. It’s insightful, warm, and makes you reflect on your own relationship with faith and culture. A recommended read for anyone looking to reconnect with or better understand the philosophy behind Sanatana Dharma.

[Trinanjana · Rating 5 out of 5]

In today’s fast-paced world, where religion often becomes either a rigid practice or a dismissed ideology, Hinduism – Beneath the Surface presents a refreshing exploration of Sanatan Dharma through the lens of a modern family. The book moves beyond conventional religious discourse, delving into the essence of Hinduism—its philosophy, iconography, and relevance in daily life.

At the heart of the narrative is Virat, a young data scientist who struggles with his Hindu identity. His skepticism is rooted in genuine concerns—why so many gods? What is the logic behind mythological stories? Does Hinduism promote caste discrimination? His sister, Varsha, while not completely detached, also fails to see how Hinduism fits into her life. Their parents, Rajan and Priya, noticing this disconnect, embark on a journey with their children to rediscover Hinduism in its true form.

Through engaging and relatable family conversations, the book tackles deep philosophical questions with simplicity. It does not seek to convert readers into staunch devotees but instead encourages reflection on concepts such as Dharma, Karma, Ananda (true happiness), and the purpose of life. The father, though often the one answering questions, is himself on a path of learning, making the discussions more authentic and thought-provoking.

What makes this book stand out is its ability to bridge generational gaps. The skepticism of the youth, the robotic nature of ritualistic worship, and the struggle to connect spirituality with modern-day challenges are all portrayed with great nuance. Instead of offering rigid answers, the book presents Sanatan Dharma as a flexible, evolving wisdom that can help one navigate life.

[Sameeksha · Rating 5 out of 5]

In today’s fast-paced world, with the rise of Westernization and modernization, many young individuals are gradually disconnecting from their cultural roots. The trend is particularly noticeable among the younger generation, who are often confused or overwhelmed by the complexity of traditional beliefs and practices. This growing detachment has led some to adopt agnosticism, leaving many wondering how they can reconnect with the essence of their cultural and spiritual heritage.

One book that seeks to bridge this gap is Hinduism Beneath the Surface by Kannan KN. This book is an excellent resource for young readers who want to understand the core concepts of Hinduism in a simple, relatable, and engaging manner. Whether you're a beginner exploring Hindu philosophy or someone looking to revisit the ancient wisdom, this book offers a fresh perspective on the teachings of Sanatan Dharma.

What Makes Hinduism Beneath the Surface Stand Out?

The primary appeal of this book lies in its clear and straightforward narrative style. Kannan KN uses a conversational tone to explain complex spiritual concepts, making them more digestible for the modern reader. The use of dialogues between family members helps readers connect with the material on a personal level. The inclusion of original texts from the Bhagavad Gita, along with their translations, makes it easier for readers to relate ancient scriptures to modern-day issues.

In addition to textual references, the book includes helpful illustrations, charts, and diagrams that visually break down complicated concepts. This visual aid complements the explanations, making it easier for readers to grasp deep spiritual teachings. What I particularly love about this book is how it uses modern language and terminology, allowing younger readers to relate to these ancient philosophies more easily.

Core Concepts of Hinduism Simplified

One of the standout features of Hinduism Beneath the Surface is its detailed yet simple explanation of the fundamental principles of Hinduism. The author elaborates on the concept of Sanatan Dharma—the eternal truth that guides human life—and its purpose. The book also explores the deeper meanings of Anand (true happiness) and Moksha (liberation), explaining how these concepts connect with our emotional and spiritual well-being.

The book also introduces the concept of Maya (illusion) and its role in shaping human emotions. Understanding Maya is essential to realizing how the external world influences our inner peace and happiness. In addition, Kannan explains the five sheaths (Pancha Koshas) that cover our three bodies, offering insights into the physical, emotional, and spiritual layers of human existence.

The Karma Theory and Pathways to Enlightenment

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the theory of Karma, its types, and how it governs our actions and their consequences. The book delves into some of the fundamental philosophical questions, such as “Who am I?” and “How can I achieve my life’s purpose?” Kannan explores the different paths of Yoga and their philosophies, giving readers practical tools to manage their minds and actions.

For those looking to understand their role in the world, the book offers a clear explanation of one’s duties or Dharma, encouraging readers to fulfill their responsibilities in a mindful way. The philosophical approach to Karma and Yoga helps readers navigate the complexities of modern life with a deeper sense of purpose.

Varna, Detachment, and the Four Goals of Life

Another fascinating section of the book addresses the meaning and essence of Varna (the caste system), Detachment, and the four goals of human life (Purusharthas). The author explains how these principles shape the social and spiritual fabric of Hinduism and their relevance in today’s world. He also explores the relationship between Sanatana Dharma and liberalism, shedding light on the duality of divine and demonic attributes in Hindu philosophy.

This section provides a well-rounded perspective on how ancient principles can still guide modern life. It invites readers to reflect on their personal growth, spiritual development, and contribution to society.

Takeaways: A Comprehensive Guide to Sanatan Dharma

The final section of the book serves as a valuable recap, summarizing the key teachings of Sanatan Dharma and providing readers with practical takeaways to apply in their daily lives. By weaving together scripture, charts, illustrations, and modern references, Kannan has crafted a resource that is not only educational but also aesthetically appealing.

The book’s authentic approach, combined with its engaging visuals and practical examples, makes it an excellent resource for young minds eager to explore the roots of Hinduism. The engaging writing style and visual aids make it both accessible and enjoyable, encouraging readers to dive deeper into the spiritual teachings of Hinduism.

Conclusion: Reconnect with Your Roots

In conclusion, Hinduism Beneath the Surface is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the core philosophies of Hinduism in a modern context. With its simplified explanations, relatable language, and helpful illustrations, this book provides young readers with the tools to rediscover their spiritual heritage. In a time when many young people are searching for meaning and purpose, this book offers a valuable guide to navigating life’s questions through the lens of Sanatan Dharma.

For those looking to reconnect with their cultural and spiritual roots, Hinduism Beneath the Surface is an essential read. It provides a comprehensive and engaging look at Hindu philosophy that is both authentic and relevant to today's youth.

[♡ Diyasha ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖: 𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐔𝐈𝐒𝐌 𝐁𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐄
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: 𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀𝐍 𝐊𝐍
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ☆☆☆☆☆/5

🖇️ 𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐔𝐈𝐒𝐌 𝐁𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐔𝐑𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐄: 𝐀 𝐅𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐘'𝐒 𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐀 𝐃𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐀 by 𝐊𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚𝐧 𝐊𝐧 is a thoughtful exploration of 𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐮 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡, 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐩𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 through the eyes of a 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭. Set in the context of modern day India, this book actually weaves fiction and philosophy together, as Virat embarks on a journey to understand his religion and cultural identity. 

🖇️ I could relate this book with various Bollywood movies that are targeting the religious aspects and shedding light on the deeper aspects of Hinduism which often gets obscured by superficial rituals and outdated interpretations. Throughout this journey, Virat grapples with questions that many of us face in this modern world: 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐮 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲'𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲? 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐨 𝐰𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐬𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐆𝐨𝐝𝐬? 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞?

🖇️ This book is built around a narrative of 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲, where the protagonist, Virat, a data science professional, begins to question the fundamental aspects of his Hindu identity. The dialogues are exchanged among Virat and his family members, friends and even with internal thoughts.

“𝘏𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘪𝘴𝘮 𝘪𝘴𝘯'𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘴; 𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦, 𝘢 𝘱𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘰𝘱𝘩𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘪𝘵.”

🖇️ The author uses simple language to introduce 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐱 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐬, such as the meaning behind 𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐮 𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐬, the importance of 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐬, and the 𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 of 𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚, 𝐝𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚, 𝐦𝐨𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐚. This book is relatable to modern life. How? This book doesn't present itself as an academic or dogmatic way of learning, but it shows how a young professional like Virat deals with practical concerns like career, family, relationships, and societal pressure while trying to understand his spiritual path. But Virat's doubts undoubtedly question the core of Hinduism.

“𝘐 𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘰𝘥𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨.”

🖇️ The question of why there are so many different gods in Hinduism is explored with the idea that each deity represents a different aspect of the divine, and collectively they point towards the unified nature of existence. This seems like a confusing mess but actually it's a holistic system to acknowledge multiple facets of life. The deeper spiritual meaning behind Virat's questions has been obscured over time. This book forces the readers to look beyond the surface.

🖇️ How the author uses the character's personal development as his story is so influential. Concepts such as Vedanta, Yoga, Moksha are explored in a way that invites the readers to understand how these ancient teachings can be applied in this modern generation. Virat’s family discussions touch on how certain practices perpetuate social inequality, contrasting them with Hinduism’s original philosophy of equality and spiritual awakening. 

🖇️ How this book helps to gain access to the education and job opportunity through 𝐒𝐰𝐚𝐩𝐧𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 is applauding. This adds an additional layer to social responsibility. This book is a live question to the outdated tradition. 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐚 10 𝐨𝐧 10 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞. ✨

[Srishti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hinduism Beneath the Surface is an intellectually stimulating and deeply introspective novel that delves into the complexities of Hindu identity in contemporary society. Through its protagonist, Virat, a rational-minded data science professional struggling with his inherited faith, the novel initiates a Socratic dialogue that is both accessible and profound. Virat’s skepticism—rooted in legitimate yet unresolved questions—becomes the central force driving the narrative, offering readers a lens through which to engage with the tensions between faith and reason.

The novel’s strength lies in its dialectical structure, where each character embodies a different facet of modern engagement with Hinduism. Virat’s disillusionment is counterbalanced by his sister Varsha’s passive indifference, while their parents, Rajan and Priya, attempt to reconcile generational and ideological differences. These richly developed characters transform the novel into more than just a philosophical inquiry—it becomes a deeply personal exploration of identity, tradition, and belief. The thematic depth is striking, as the book navigates fundamental concerns surrounding Hinduism: the multiplicity of deities, the mythological narratives that defy logic, the mechanical recitation of shlokas, and the social implications of caste. Rather than imposing definitive answers, the novel fosters introspection, urging readers to engage in their own process of cognitive re-evaluation.

Stylistically, the book masterfully blends expository narration with engaging conversational prose. The dialogues are didactic without being preachy, ensuring that even intricate theological and philosophical concepts remain accessible. The author employs anecdotal storytelling, skillfully weaving mythology, personal experience, and intellectual discourse into a seamless narrative. This approach makes the novel compelling not just for those seeking validation of their beliefs but also for skeptics searching for a nuanced understanding of Hinduism.

At its core, Hinduism Beneath the Surface is a powerful meditation on the interplay between faith and modernity. It does not demand blind adherence to tradition, nor does it dismiss religion as archaic; rather, it presents Hinduism as a living, evolving philosophy that can be questioned, understood, and even redefined. By fostering a non-polarized, thought-provoking discussion, the novel brings to forefront the relevance of spirituality in today’s world.

[_booksagsm · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The purpose of life according to Sanatan Dharma is to figure out the formula for happiness and always be happy!” As a Hindu myself, I have always wanted to explore my culture and religion beyond rituals and traditions. Hinduism Beneath the Surface: A Family’s Attempt to Understand Sanatana Dharma by Kannan K N offers a refreshing perspective on Hinduism through the lens of a modern family. Divided into seven sections, the book delves into profound concepts such as Karma, self-inquiry, life’s purpose, and Raja Yoga. Chapters like The Karma Theory, Who am I?, Life’s Purpose, and Inaction is Not an Option resonated deeply with me, providing clarity on the philosophical core of Sanatan Dharma.

What sets this book apart is its engaging narrative style, using family discussions to explore Hinduism’s essence in a relatable way. Rather than promoting blind faith, it encourages introspection and presents Hinduism as a dynamic and evolving philosophy. Complex ideas such as Dharma, Ananda (true happiness), and Karma are explained through practical, real-world applications, making them accessible to readers from different backgrounds. The dialogues feel organic and thought-provoking, allowing for a deeper understanding of Hindu principles without overwhelming the reader with rigid doctrines.

In summary, Hinduism Beneath the Surface is a valuable read for those seeking to understand Hindu philosophy beyond conventional religious discourse. The book successfully bridges generational gaps, acknowledging the skepticism of modern youth while emphasizing Hinduism’s adaptability. By using family conversations as a narrative tool, Kannan K N makes complex ideas more accessible, encouraging readers to reflect on their spiritual journey in a practical and meaningful way.

[Pavireads · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Thought-Provoking Journey into Faith and Identity

Reading this book felt like stepping into a deeply personal yet universally relevant conversation. Virat’s skepticism, his barrage of difficult yet valid questions, and his struggle with his Hindu identity resonated with me on multiple levels. At some point in our lives, haven’t we all grappled with similar doubts? The contrast between his logical, analytical approach and his sister Varsha’s neutral stance made the discussions even more engaging.

Rajan and Priya’s concerns as parents hit close to home—how do we pass down cultural values to a generation that views them with skepticism or indifference? The book doesn’t just present arguments; it takes us through an evolving dialogue where faith, logic, and tradition collide. What I loved most is that it never forces a single perspective. Instead, it allows us to reflect, question, and maybe even redefine our own beliefs.

This is a must-read for anyone who has ever questioned their cultural heritage or struggled to reconcile faith with modernity. Whether you’re a skeptic like Virat, a neutral observer like Varsha, or someone simply curious about the relevance of Hinduism today, this book offers a compelling and heartfelt discussion that lingers long after you turn the last page.

[bookswithkinkita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hinduism Beneath The Surface by Kannan K N offers a profound exploration of Sanatan Dharma, illuminating its rich traditions and enduring significance in contemporary society. The book intricately navigates key aspects of Hinduism, including the nature of the Gods, the principles of Karma, the concept of Prakriti, various Yogas, the structure of Caste, sacred Rituals, and the nuances of Liberalism.
Structured in a dynamic question and explanation format, the narrative features characters Virat, Rajan and Varsha, who engage in reflective dialogues that probe the depths of Hindu beliefs and practices. Their inquisitive nature allows the author to provide clear and succinct explanations, gradually peeling back the layers of complex concepts and presenting them in an accessible manner.
He skillfully articulates Hindu philosophy, fostering an environment for readers to reflect on their values and beliefs. The insights offered empower individuals to confront and embrace the outcomes of their choices with resilience and fortitude.
Moreover, the book serves as a bridge across generational divides, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of spiritual understanding. This engaging read not only informs but also inspires, making it an essential text for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Hinduism and its relevance today.

[Atul Sharma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love a nonfiction book which start with questions that have not been answered since a ling time or answered so many times in different ways !? Today I have something like this only.

🪷 “𝙃𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙞𝙨𝙢 𝘽𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙪𝙧𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚" 𝙗𝙮 𝙆𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙣 𝙆𝙉 appears to be a unique exploration of Hinduism, driven by thought-provoking questions like "Why so many Gods?" and "Does Hinduism promote caste discrimination?"

🪷 The book uses these inquiries to delve beyond superficial understanding, aiming for a critical examination of beliefs and practices. The inclusion of Virat's and Varsha's story suggests a focus on the contemporary relevance of Hinduism and the challenges of navigating faith in modern life.

🪷The book aims to spark "honest and passionate discussions" across generations, encouraging deeper engagement with spirituality and religion. It’s on of those books which presents the significance towards the given concept through the series of question and answers.


📌”𝙃𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙞𝙨𝙢 𝘽𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙪𝙧𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚" promises a fresh, question-driven, and practically oriented exploration of Hinduism, encouraging critical thinking and meaningful dialogue for a diverse audience.

[Mahi Aggarwal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hinduism Beneath the Surface: A family’s attempt to understand Sanatana Dharma by Kannan K N is an enlightening text that upholds an enormous extent of the Hindu Philosophy and entity in between its covers.

The Hindu philosophy is a significant source of wisdom that originated in the ancient India and spread all over the world. The most precious ideas of life, the meaning and purpose of it can be accumulated from its depth. In this book, the author has explored and inscribed the complex sense of Hindu Philosophy through an impactful interaction that will leave an everlasting impression on the readers.

The author has done an extraordinary work by compacting a vast concept. His depth in the subject and massive research can be witnessed at every single passage.
Besides ,the idea of framing the concept through the mode of family discussion is exceptionally excellent. The narrative is lucid, the language is easy and the writing style is extraordinary.

Ultimately I'm enlightened and encouraged by the book; it's indeed a must read.

[Sach K · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a true eye-opener. It beautifully captures the essence of sanatana dharma and presents it in a way that is both clear and insightful. Reading it has given me a much deeper understanding of what sanatana dharma truly represents.