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Khandav: A Horror Sci-Fi Journey into the depths of Myth and Madness
Deep within an ancient, uncharted jungle, something stirs―something that should have remained buried. When a daring botanist disappears while uncovering its secrets, Maya, a journalist, sets out to investigate. But what begins as a search soon descends into a waking nightmare.
The deeper she ventures, the more reality fractures. The jungle breathes, shifting, whispering―its shadows alive with something nameless, watching. At its heart stands a forgotten goddess, her presence woven into the roots of the land, her will seeping into the minds of those who dare trespass. Hallucinations turn to horrors, memories twist, and flesh bends to an unseen force.
Khandav is more than a place―it is a hunger, an intelligence, an ancient divinity waiting to reclaim what was once hers. To escape, one must surrender to the unknown. But can Maya resist the goddess’s call?
The deeper she ventures, the more reality fractures. The jungle breathes, shifting, whispering―its shadows alive with something nameless, watching. At its heart stands a forgotten goddess, her presence woven into the roots of the land, her will seeping into the minds of those who dare trespass. Hallucinations turn to horrors, memories twist, and flesh bends to an unseen force.
Khandav is more than a place―it is a hunger, an intelligence, an ancient divinity waiting to reclaim what was once hers. To escape, one must surrender to the unknown. But can Maya resist the goddess’s call?
224 pages, Paperback
Published March 7, 2025
2 people want to read
About the author
Mahesh Rajmane
4 books1 followerMahesh Rajmane is a writer, filmmaker, and storyteller with a deep passion for horror and science fiction. His works blend mythology, psychology, and cosmic horror, exploring the fragile boundary between reality and the unknown.
Beyond writing, he has directed two Marathi horror films and is currently developing a horror web series. With a background in software development and a career in programming and product design, he infuses his narratives with analytical depth, crafting intricate, immersive worlds that linger long after the final page.
His latest novel, Khandav, is a chilling descent into an ancient jungle where science and myth collide, unraveling a terrifying revelation.
When not writing or directing, Mahesh explores philosophy, the mysteries of the universe, and the evolving landscape of horror storytelling across different mediums.
Follow his journey and explore exclusive horror content on his YouTube channel, @horroflux666.
Beyond writing, he has directed two Marathi horror films and is currently developing a horror web series. With a background in software development and a career in programming and product design, he infuses his narratives with analytical depth, crafting intricate, immersive worlds that linger long after the final page.
His latest novel, Khandav, is a chilling descent into an ancient jungle where science and myth collide, unraveling a terrifying revelation.
When not writing or directing, Mahesh explores philosophy, the mysteries of the universe, and the evolving landscape of horror storytelling across different mediums.
Follow his journey and explore exclusive horror content on his YouTube channel, @horroflux666.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 22, 2025
Originally reviewed for www.missbootkhief.com
Deep within an ancient, uncharted jungle, something stirs―something that should have remained buried. When a daring botanist disappears while uncovering its secrets, Maya, a journalist, sets out to investigate Khandav’s mysteries. But what begins as a search soon becomes a waking nightmare. ‘Khandav’ is one of those rare horror novels that instantly pulls you in and doesn’t let go. From the very first page, it builds an eerie, slow-burn suspense that wraps around your mind like jungle vines—tightening, creeping, whispering. If you’re a fan of psychological horror books, sci-fi thrillers, or mythological suspense novels, this can’t go missed.
The plot follows Maya, a sharp and determined journalist investigating the mysterious disappearance of Vikram, a renowned botanist in an ancient, uncharted forest in the heart of Dongarwadi. But as she steps into the jungle, reality starts to unravel. What begins as an investigation slowly becomes a surreal, nerve-wracking descent into a world where the forest is not just alive, conscious, and watching, but also sinisterly savage. The forest isn’t just the setting but also the heart and soul of the story. Then there’s Chendkai, the forgotten goddess, whose presence lingers in every shadow, every movement in Khandav. Like every good horror story, the book starts with a prelude to the historical significance of the word Khandav with relevance dating back to Mahabharata. Khandavprastha was a forest bestowed upon Pandavas eventually burnt down to build Indraprastha. For those who know this story – the plot of Khandav holds so much more intrigue and thrill.
Khandav blends supernatural horror , environmental horror, and science fiction with a mythological twist providing a scrumptious platter to lovers of horror. Each chapter starts with a quote from popular authors such as Lewis Carroll, Eliot, Tolkien, and Lovecraft, and sets the mood for the following story impeccably. The writing is captivating, settings enchanting, the details dense and layered to let your imagination run wild, and lead you astray at the slightest hint of creepiness. Readers will find themselves hooked by the slow build-up of dread with every chapter, every character. The motley crew of characters such as Maruti, Vikram, Baburao, Bhairav, Maya, Swati, Siddharth, add the necessary flavors of intrigue and fascination that this sci-fi platter demands. The characters are all well-written, and the parts they play are authentic and grounded, adding a sense of raw realism to the story.
The pacing is controlled with occasional bursts of amplified drama and tension, that spikes the adrenaline rush making such moments thoroughly enjoyable. Nuances like inclusion of old Bollywood classics such as “Zindagi khwab hai” or “Jaadu teri nazar”, capture the surreal and nostalgic horror beautifully. Even though horror, the book never relies on gore or cheap scare tactics to captivate its audience. Instead, the fear is built through ideas, dialogues, and character temperaments. What stands out however, is how natural the narration feels – one feels like watching a movie unfold on the big screen than just reading off a page.
And then there’s the jungle itself. Khandav isn’t just a forest, but the most prominent character of the story. It waits like a predator. It’s the watcher, the doer, the omnipotent survivor. Atmospheric tension of Khandav resembles that of the Area X trilogy but with Indian cultural undertones and themes. The jungle becomes a living entity—mysterious, sacred, terrifying. The forest is symbolic of the book as a whole: familiar, yet deeply unsettling. What makes Khandav even more intriguing is the way it fuses hard science elements—like mycelium networks that connect consciousness—with themes of ancient divinity and forgotten powers. It’s a chilling reminder that sometimes the most terrifying forces in nature exist in the soil beneath our feet. It’s the kind of horror that lingers but with good intention at the end of it all. The cliffhanger end however, remains obscure until it is cast on the face like a cold splash and that finally, is the cherry on the cake!
Deep within an ancient, uncharted jungle, something stirs―something that should have remained buried. When a daring botanist disappears while uncovering its secrets, Maya, a journalist, sets out to investigate Khandav’s mysteries. But what begins as a search soon becomes a waking nightmare. ‘Khandav’ is one of those rare horror novels that instantly pulls you in and doesn’t let go. From the very first page, it builds an eerie, slow-burn suspense that wraps around your mind like jungle vines—tightening, creeping, whispering. If you’re a fan of psychological horror books, sci-fi thrillers, or mythological suspense novels, this can’t go missed.
The plot follows Maya, a sharp and determined journalist investigating the mysterious disappearance of Vikram, a renowned botanist in an ancient, uncharted forest in the heart of Dongarwadi. But as she steps into the jungle, reality starts to unravel. What begins as an investigation slowly becomes a surreal, nerve-wracking descent into a world where the forest is not just alive, conscious, and watching, but also sinisterly savage. The forest isn’t just the setting but also the heart and soul of the story. Then there’s Chendkai, the forgotten goddess, whose presence lingers in every shadow, every movement in Khandav. Like every good horror story, the book starts with a prelude to the historical significance of the word Khandav with relevance dating back to Mahabharata. Khandavprastha was a forest bestowed upon Pandavas eventually burnt down to build Indraprastha. For those who know this story – the plot of Khandav holds so much more intrigue and thrill.
Khandav blends supernatural horror , environmental horror, and science fiction with a mythological twist providing a scrumptious platter to lovers of horror. Each chapter starts with a quote from popular authors such as Lewis Carroll, Eliot, Tolkien, and Lovecraft, and sets the mood for the following story impeccably. The writing is captivating, settings enchanting, the details dense and layered to let your imagination run wild, and lead you astray at the slightest hint of creepiness. Readers will find themselves hooked by the slow build-up of dread with every chapter, every character. The motley crew of characters such as Maruti, Vikram, Baburao, Bhairav, Maya, Swati, Siddharth, add the necessary flavors of intrigue and fascination that this sci-fi platter demands. The characters are all well-written, and the parts they play are authentic and grounded, adding a sense of raw realism to the story.
The pacing is controlled with occasional bursts of amplified drama and tension, that spikes the adrenaline rush making such moments thoroughly enjoyable. Nuances like inclusion of old Bollywood classics such as “Zindagi khwab hai” or “Jaadu teri nazar”, capture the surreal and nostalgic horror beautifully. Even though horror, the book never relies on gore or cheap scare tactics to captivate its audience. Instead, the fear is built through ideas, dialogues, and character temperaments. What stands out however, is how natural the narration feels – one feels like watching a movie unfold on the big screen than just reading off a page.
And then there’s the jungle itself. Khandav isn’t just a forest, but the most prominent character of the story. It waits like a predator. It’s the watcher, the doer, the omnipotent survivor. Atmospheric tension of Khandav resembles that of the Area X trilogy but with Indian cultural undertones and themes. The jungle becomes a living entity—mysterious, sacred, terrifying. The forest is symbolic of the book as a whole: familiar, yet deeply unsettling. What makes Khandav even more intriguing is the way it fuses hard science elements—like mycelium networks that connect consciousness—with themes of ancient divinity and forgotten powers. It’s a chilling reminder that sometimes the most terrifying forces in nature exist in the soil beneath our feet. It’s the kind of horror that lingers but with good intention at the end of it all. The cliffhanger end however, remains obscure until it is cast on the face like a cold splash and that finally, is the cherry on the cake!
January 16, 2026
Book: Khandav — A Horror Sci-Fi Journey Into The Depths Of Myth And Madness
Author: Mahesh Rajmane
Publisher: Notion Press (2025)
Total Pages: 224
Reviewed By: Neel Preet
Author Mahesh Rajmane’s latest title, “Khandav” is a masterful fusion of cosmic horror, eldritch dread, and mythological terror. Undoubtedly, the book is a genre-bending triumph that immerses the readers in a sentient jungle pulsing with ancient malice. This is not mere survival horror; it is a profound descent into the unknown, where science collides with myth, reality fractures under unseen forces, and human arrogance confronts the primal wrath of nature. Along with that author Rajmane crafts a narrative so viscerally atmospheric that the jungle itself becomes a character — alive, watchful, and inexorably hungry — leaving the readers breathless with a creeping sense of unease that lingers far beyond the final page. Besides, the manner in which the author had carried out the task of storytelling in his book is captivating enough to make the readers quench for more with every turn of the page, and this is something that actually makes this title reading worthy!
Author Mahesh Rajmane is a writer, filmmaker, and storyteller with a deep passion for horror and science fiction. His works blend mythology, psychology, and cosmic horror, exploring the fragile boundary between reality and the unknown. Beyond writing, he has directed two Marathi horror films and is currently developing a horror web series. With a background in software development and a career in programming and product design, he infuses his narratives with analytical depth, crafting intricate, immersive worlds that linger long after the final page. His latest novel, “Khandav” is a chilling descent into an ancient jungle where science and myth collide, unraveling a terrifying revelation. When not writing or directing, Mahesh explores philosophy, the mysteries of the universe, and the evolving landscape of horror storytelling across different mediums. Whereas, this particular title, “Khandav — A Horror Sci-Fi Journey Into The Depths Of Myth And Madness” is published by Notion Press and is released during the period of March 2025. Also, the book is available in both paperback as well as in e-book format and the readers can find this title on all the top online marketplaces.
The narrative in this novel, “Khandav” begins with the unsettling disappearance of Vikram, a renowned botanist whose fascination with the ancient Khandav jungle leads him somewhere from which he does not return. This mystery acts as the ignition point for the story, pulling journalist Maya into a search that is equal parts investigation and descent. As Maya enters the jungle, the novel’s true nature reveals itself: Khandav is not a backdrop but a sentient, watchful entity. What begins as a rational pursuit of facts unravels into a waking nightmare as the jungle reveals its true nature: a living entity steeped in forgotten lore, where roots whisper secrets, shadows shift with intent, and the air thickens with malevolent intelligence. The jungle breathes, listens, remembers where the time slips and memories warp. Author Rajmane’s prose traps the readers alongside Maya — the humid air clings oppressively, unseen eyes bore from the canopy, and every rustle hints at encroaching doom. The deeper she ventures, the more perception warps: hallucinations bleed into reality, memories twist into falsehoods, and the boundary between mind and wilderness dissolves!
On top of that the author’s prose is immersive and oppressive in the best possible way. The air feels thick, the silence feels crowded, and every rustle of leaves carries the threat of something ancient and observant. The horror is psychological and cosmic rather than overtly grotesque, building tension through atmosphere and suggestion. The jungle’s hostility is not loud or immediate; it is patient, ancient, and terrifyingly intimate. You do not only fear what might happen but also, you fear what is already happening to Maya’s mind, body, and sense of self. And, as Maya’s journey spirals deeper into madness, the line between hallucination and reality dissolves completely. The reader is left questioning not just what is real, but whether reality itself matters inside Khandav. The pacing tightens toward the latter half, pushing the narrative into a claustrophobic, sanity-fraying experience that culminates in an ending both haunting and inevitable.
One of the Notable Strengths of this title, “Khandav — A Horror Sci-Fi Journey Into The Depths Of Myth And Madness” lies in its masterful fusion of science and mythology. Khandav constantly teases the readers with questions that have no comfortable answers. Is the jungle a biological anomaly, a parasitic organism evolving beyond human comprehension? Or is it the physical manifestation of a forgotten goddess, awakened by human arrogance and intrusion? The presence at the jungle’s heart of an ancient, buried divinity adds a mythic gravity to the horror, transforming ecological disturbance into sacrilege. Author Rajmane never fully resolves this ambiguity, and that restraint is precisely what makes the terror so effective!
Beyond its genre brilliance, Khandav carries a sharp ecological and philosophical undercurrent. The novel reflects on humanity’s obsession with control, classification, and exploitation of nature, and the catastrophic consequences of treating ancient ecosystems as resources rather than living entities. The horror here feels earned, almost moral in nature like a reckoning rather than an attack. The jungle does not merely defend itself; it reclaims, reshapes, and remembers. The fear comes from realising that humanity may not be the apex intelligence it believes itself to be.
Now, upon reaching the final part of the review, i.e. the Book Verdict, we can conclude that a title like “Khandav — A Horror Sci-Fi Journey Into The Depths Of Myth And Madness” is for sure a reading worthy title. The book deserves a chance by the readers as it stands as a powerful entry in cosmic and eldritch horror, blending eco-thriller intensity with mythological dread and science-fiction speculation. Moreover, it is smart, unsettling, and unapologetically ambitious in all true sense. Well, for those readers who crave horror that creeps rather than screams, that challenges intellect as much as nerves, this novel delivers with chilling precision. Author Mahesh Rajmane has crafted a dark, intelligent nightmare — one that warns us, quite clearly that some places are not meant to be understood, and some forces are not meant to be disturbed.
Ultimately, in this novel, the author conjures a jungle that devours not just bodies but certainties — a masterful writing that lingers like jungle mist. It grips with unrelenting tension, provokes with philosophical depth, and terrifies with primal authenticity, which makes this title a MUST READ one. Not to mention, that this is horror that awakens the ancient fears while warning of tomorrow’s reckonings as a journey into myth and madness that demands to be experienced by the readers!
Book’s Link: https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0DZNW51WG
Author: Mahesh Rajmane
Publisher: Notion Press (2025)
Total Pages: 224
Reviewed By: Neel Preet
Author Mahesh Rajmane’s latest title, “Khandav” is a masterful fusion of cosmic horror, eldritch dread, and mythological terror. Undoubtedly, the book is a genre-bending triumph that immerses the readers in a sentient jungle pulsing with ancient malice. This is not mere survival horror; it is a profound descent into the unknown, where science collides with myth, reality fractures under unseen forces, and human arrogance confronts the primal wrath of nature. Along with that author Rajmane crafts a narrative so viscerally atmospheric that the jungle itself becomes a character — alive, watchful, and inexorably hungry — leaving the readers breathless with a creeping sense of unease that lingers far beyond the final page. Besides, the manner in which the author had carried out the task of storytelling in his book is captivating enough to make the readers quench for more with every turn of the page, and this is something that actually makes this title reading worthy!
Author Mahesh Rajmane is a writer, filmmaker, and storyteller with a deep passion for horror and science fiction. His works blend mythology, psychology, and cosmic horror, exploring the fragile boundary between reality and the unknown. Beyond writing, he has directed two Marathi horror films and is currently developing a horror web series. With a background in software development and a career in programming and product design, he infuses his narratives with analytical depth, crafting intricate, immersive worlds that linger long after the final page. His latest novel, “Khandav” is a chilling descent into an ancient jungle where science and myth collide, unraveling a terrifying revelation. When not writing or directing, Mahesh explores philosophy, the mysteries of the universe, and the evolving landscape of horror storytelling across different mediums. Whereas, this particular title, “Khandav — A Horror Sci-Fi Journey Into The Depths Of Myth And Madness” is published by Notion Press and is released during the period of March 2025. Also, the book is available in both paperback as well as in e-book format and the readers can find this title on all the top online marketplaces.
The narrative in this novel, “Khandav” begins with the unsettling disappearance of Vikram, a renowned botanist whose fascination with the ancient Khandav jungle leads him somewhere from which he does not return. This mystery acts as the ignition point for the story, pulling journalist Maya into a search that is equal parts investigation and descent. As Maya enters the jungle, the novel’s true nature reveals itself: Khandav is not a backdrop but a sentient, watchful entity. What begins as a rational pursuit of facts unravels into a waking nightmare as the jungle reveals its true nature: a living entity steeped in forgotten lore, where roots whisper secrets, shadows shift with intent, and the air thickens with malevolent intelligence. The jungle breathes, listens, remembers where the time slips and memories warp. Author Rajmane’s prose traps the readers alongside Maya — the humid air clings oppressively, unseen eyes bore from the canopy, and every rustle hints at encroaching doom. The deeper she ventures, the more perception warps: hallucinations bleed into reality, memories twist into falsehoods, and the boundary between mind and wilderness dissolves!
On top of that the author’s prose is immersive and oppressive in the best possible way. The air feels thick, the silence feels crowded, and every rustle of leaves carries the threat of something ancient and observant. The horror is psychological and cosmic rather than overtly grotesque, building tension through atmosphere and suggestion. The jungle’s hostility is not loud or immediate; it is patient, ancient, and terrifyingly intimate. You do not only fear what might happen but also, you fear what is already happening to Maya’s mind, body, and sense of self. And, as Maya’s journey spirals deeper into madness, the line between hallucination and reality dissolves completely. The reader is left questioning not just what is real, but whether reality itself matters inside Khandav. The pacing tightens toward the latter half, pushing the narrative into a claustrophobic, sanity-fraying experience that culminates in an ending both haunting and inevitable.
One of the Notable Strengths of this title, “Khandav — A Horror Sci-Fi Journey Into The Depths Of Myth And Madness” lies in its masterful fusion of science and mythology. Khandav constantly teases the readers with questions that have no comfortable answers. Is the jungle a biological anomaly, a parasitic organism evolving beyond human comprehension? Or is it the physical manifestation of a forgotten goddess, awakened by human arrogance and intrusion? The presence at the jungle’s heart of an ancient, buried divinity adds a mythic gravity to the horror, transforming ecological disturbance into sacrilege. Author Rajmane never fully resolves this ambiguity, and that restraint is precisely what makes the terror so effective!
Beyond its genre brilliance, Khandav carries a sharp ecological and philosophical undercurrent. The novel reflects on humanity’s obsession with control, classification, and exploitation of nature, and the catastrophic consequences of treating ancient ecosystems as resources rather than living entities. The horror here feels earned, almost moral in nature like a reckoning rather than an attack. The jungle does not merely defend itself; it reclaims, reshapes, and remembers. The fear comes from realising that humanity may not be the apex intelligence it believes itself to be.
Now, upon reaching the final part of the review, i.e. the Book Verdict, we can conclude that a title like “Khandav — A Horror Sci-Fi Journey Into The Depths Of Myth And Madness” is for sure a reading worthy title. The book deserves a chance by the readers as it stands as a powerful entry in cosmic and eldritch horror, blending eco-thriller intensity with mythological dread and science-fiction speculation. Moreover, it is smart, unsettling, and unapologetically ambitious in all true sense. Well, for those readers who crave horror that creeps rather than screams, that challenges intellect as much as nerves, this novel delivers with chilling precision. Author Mahesh Rajmane has crafted a dark, intelligent nightmare — one that warns us, quite clearly that some places are not meant to be understood, and some forces are not meant to be disturbed.
Ultimately, in this novel, the author conjures a jungle that devours not just bodies but certainties — a masterful writing that lingers like jungle mist. It grips with unrelenting tension, provokes with philosophical depth, and terrifies with primal authenticity, which makes this title a MUST READ one. Not to mention, that this is horror that awakens the ancient fears while warning of tomorrow’s reckonings as a journey into myth and madness that demands to be experienced by the readers!
Book’s Link: https://www.amazon.in/dp/B0DZNW51WG
September 11, 2025
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⭐️ Book Review: Khandav by Rajmane
Khandav is a thrilling masterpiece that fuses sci-fi horror, ecological mystery, and mythology into one unforgettable experience. It’s a rare gem for readers who love genre-bending stories that push the imagination to its edge.
The novel begins with the mysterious disappearance of renowned botanist Vikram inside the ancient, uncharted Khandav jungle. Determined to uncover the truth, journalist Maya ventures into its depths, only to discover that the jungle is no ordinary wilderness. With every step, reality fractures, memories distort, and the very air seems alive with an ancient malevolence.
The jungle itself is a living, breathing entity—sentient, hostile, and steeped in forgotten myth. At its heart lies a chilling presence, a goddess long buried in time, whose influence twists both perception and flesh. Rajmane’s prose makes the reader feel trapped alongside Maya: the sticky air clings, whispers echo in the leaves, and unseen eyes are always watching.
What makes Khandav so compelling is how seamlessly it blends science and myth, horror and wonder. Is the jungle a parasitic organism, a biological anomaly, or a wrathful divine force? The ambiguity fuels the story’s creeping dread. As Maya descends deeper, the line between modern science and ancient legend blurs until they are indistinguishable—and terrifying.
Beyond its spine-chilling thrills, the novel also serves as a reflection on human hubris and ecological retribution. It warns of the dangers of exploitation and the consequences of disturbing forces we neither understand nor respect.
This is not horror built on cheap jump scares—it’s the kind that slowly gnaws at your sanity, leaving you questioning what is real long after you close the book.
If you’re drawn to cosmic horror, mythological mysteries, and eco-thrillers, Khandav will grip you from the first page to the last. Rajmane has crafted a darkly imaginative tale that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.
✨ Highly recommended for fans of sci-fi horror and mythology who crave a story that truly gets under their skin.
---
⭐️ Book Review: Khandav by Rajmane
Khandav is a thrilling masterpiece that fuses sci-fi horror, ecological mystery, and mythology into one unforgettable experience. It’s a rare gem for readers who love genre-bending stories that push the imagination to its edge.
The novel begins with the mysterious disappearance of renowned botanist Vikram inside the ancient, uncharted Khandav jungle. Determined to uncover the truth, journalist Maya ventures into its depths, only to discover that the jungle is no ordinary wilderness. With every step, reality fractures, memories distort, and the very air seems alive with an ancient malevolence.
The jungle itself is a living, breathing entity—sentient, hostile, and steeped in forgotten myth. At its heart lies a chilling presence, a goddess long buried in time, whose influence twists both perception and flesh. Rajmane’s prose makes the reader feel trapped alongside Maya: the sticky air clings, whispers echo in the leaves, and unseen eyes are always watching.
What makes Khandav so compelling is how seamlessly it blends science and myth, horror and wonder. Is the jungle a parasitic organism, a biological anomaly, or a wrathful divine force? The ambiguity fuels the story’s creeping dread. As Maya descends deeper, the line between modern science and ancient legend blurs until they are indistinguishable—and terrifying.
Beyond its spine-chilling thrills, the novel also serves as a reflection on human hubris and ecological retribution. It warns of the dangers of exploitation and the consequences of disturbing forces we neither understand nor respect.
This is not horror built on cheap jump scares—it’s the kind that slowly gnaws at your sanity, leaving you questioning what is real long after you close the book.
If you’re drawn to cosmic horror, mythological mysteries, and eco-thrillers, Khandav will grip you from the first page to the last. Rajmane has crafted a darkly imaginative tale that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.
✨ Highly recommended for fans of sci-fi horror and mythology who crave a story that truly gets under their skin.
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September 18, 2025
This book pulled me in from the very first page and didn’t let go. What begins as a straightforward investigation into a missing botanist quickly unravels into something much darker, blending horror, sci-fi, and myth in a way that feels both fresh and terrifying. The atmosphere is incredible—the jungle itself almost becomes a living, breathing character, filled with whispers, shifting shadows, and an unsettling presence that you can almost feel pressing in as you read.
Maya’s journey is equal parts gripping and unsettling. Her descent into the heart of the jungle mirrors a descent into madness, where hallucinations blur into reality and every step feels like a test of survival. The way the narrative plays with perception kept me hooked, making me question what was real and what was part of the goddess’s influence.
What I especially loved was how the author wove myth into the fabric of the story. The forgotten goddess at the center of it all is haunting—an ancient force that is neither entirely villainous nor benevolent, but something beyond human comprehension. It gives the book a sense of timelessness and inevitability that lingers long after the final chapter.
The pacing is sharp, with just the right balance of slow-burn dread and bursts of visceral horror. There were moments that made me pause, not just because of the fear, but because of how beautifully the writing captured Maya’s internal struggle between resistance and surrender.
Overall, this is more than just a horror-sci-fi novel—it’s an exploration of myth, madness, and the fragile line between humanity and the unknown. If you enjoy stories that are atmospheric, chilling, and thought-provoking, this one is a must-read.
Maya’s journey is equal parts gripping and unsettling. Her descent into the heart of the jungle mirrors a descent into madness, where hallucinations blur into reality and every step feels like a test of survival. The way the narrative plays with perception kept me hooked, making me question what was real and what was part of the goddess’s influence.
What I especially loved was how the author wove myth into the fabric of the story. The forgotten goddess at the center of it all is haunting—an ancient force that is neither entirely villainous nor benevolent, but something beyond human comprehension. It gives the book a sense of timelessness and inevitability that lingers long after the final chapter.
The pacing is sharp, with just the right balance of slow-burn dread and bursts of visceral horror. There were moments that made me pause, not just because of the fear, but because of how beautifully the writing captured Maya’s internal struggle between resistance and surrender.
Overall, this is more than just a horror-sci-fi novel—it’s an exploration of myth, madness, and the fragile line between humanity and the unknown. If you enjoy stories that are atmospheric, chilling, and thought-provoking, this one is a must-read.
January 11, 2026
Khandav is a slow and gripping horror novel that grows darker with every chapter. The story begins with the disappearance of Vikram, a well-known botanist, inside the Khandav jungle. Maya, a journalist, goes there to find the truth. What seems like a normal investigation soon turns frightening. The jungle feels alive, and nothing inside it behaves in a normal way. From the start, the book creates a strong sense of fear and mystery.
The jungle is the strongest part of the story. It is not just a background but feels like a living character. The forest watches, listens, and reacts. As Maya goes deeper, reality starts to break. Memories change, people behave strangely, and fear slowly takes over. The presence of an ancient goddess adds a strong mythological layer to the story. The connection to Indian legends makes the horror feel real and rooted.
The book mixes science, horror, and mythology in a clear and simple way. Ideas like nature fighting back and humans crossing limits are shown through the story, not forced on the reader. The fear is mental, not violent. There are no cheap scares. Instead, the tension builds slowly and stays till the end. The characters feel real, and their fear feels honest.
I recommend Khandav to readers who enjoy slow-burn horror, myth-based stories, and sci-fi with meaning. If you like books that create fear through atmosphere and ideas, and leave you thinking even after finishing, Khandav is a strong and memorable read.
The jungle is the strongest part of the story. It is not just a background but feels like a living character. The forest watches, listens, and reacts. As Maya goes deeper, reality starts to break. Memories change, people behave strangely, and fear slowly takes over. The presence of an ancient goddess adds a strong mythological layer to the story. The connection to Indian legends makes the horror feel real and rooted.
The book mixes science, horror, and mythology in a clear and simple way. Ideas like nature fighting back and humans crossing limits are shown through the story, not forced on the reader. The fear is mental, not violent. There are no cheap scares. Instead, the tension builds slowly and stays till the end. The characters feel real, and their fear feels honest.
I recommend Khandav to readers who enjoy slow-burn horror, myth-based stories, and sci-fi with meaning. If you like books that create fear through atmosphere and ideas, and leave you thinking even after finishing, Khandav is a strong and memorable read.
August 25, 2025
Khandav by Mahesh Rajmane is a haunting blend of horror, science fiction, and mythology that plunges readers into an uncharted jungle where reality itself unravels. When a journalist sets out to uncover the mystery of a missing botanist, her journey spirals into a nightmare of shifting shadows, hallucinations, and an ancient goddess whose presence seeps into the roots of the land. The jungle is not just a setting but a living, breathing entity—whispering, watching, and consuming all who dare trespass. With its chilling atmosphere, psychological depth, body horror, and mythological richness, Khandav offers a unique reading experience that blends Lovecraftian dread with Indian folklore. Dark, immersive, and unforgettable, this book is a must-read for fans of horror, mythology, and sci-fi who are ready to descend into madness and myth.
July 11, 2025
Khandav - Mahesh Rajmane
3.75/5 ⭐
Reading a sci-fi horror novel was a great experience. The plots sets at the place called khandav a mysterious forest which has its own folklore and mysteries.
The scientist Vikram got missed in the mysterious forest (khandav). The journalists Maya goes to Khandav to get answers for the disappearance of Vikram.
The folklore of goddess Chendikai is spooky and bone chilling experience.
This book make me recollect the memories I had with the book Ruins by Scott Smith.
The reference of Indian mythology and folklore into a sci-fi is a great idea and it worked.
Recommended to the readers who wants to try a different kind of Indian fictional book
3.75/5 ⭐
Reading a sci-fi horror novel was a great experience. The plots sets at the place called khandav a mysterious forest which has its own folklore and mysteries.
The scientist Vikram got missed in the mysterious forest (khandav). The journalists Maya goes to Khandav to get answers for the disappearance of Vikram.
The folklore of goddess Chendikai is spooky and bone chilling experience.
This book make me recollect the memories I had with the book Ruins by Scott Smith.
The reference of Indian mythology and folklore into a sci-fi is a great idea and it worked.
Recommended to the readers who wants to try a different kind of Indian fictional book
July 1, 2025
"Khandav: A Horror Sci-Fi Journey into the Depths of Myth and Madness"
Author: Mahesh Rajmane
"What happens when ancient malevolence meets modern science in the heart of a forgotten jungle?
'Khandav' provides a chilling, unforgettable answer.
The story unfolds in a remote, ancient jungle where a clandestine scientific expedition has gone terribly wrong.
A journalist named Maya goes into the mysterious Khandav jungle because a famous plant scientist, Vikram, disappeared there.
What first seems like a simple search for a missing person quickly turns into something much darker and scarier.
The jungle isn't just a place; it's a living, evil thing that controls what happens. As Maya goes deeper, reality breaks down. She can't tell what's real, memories twist, and bodies seem to change because of an invisible, ancient power.
The jungle itself becomes a living, breathing, terrifying entity.
The narrative delves into themes of environmental degradation, forgotten legends, human hubris, and the terrifying consequences of disturbing forces beyond our comprehension.
What is Khandav: a biological threat, a parasite, or an angered divine entity?
This book highlights the conflict between old beliefs and new science, hinting that some things might be best left alone or respected for their intrinsic power.
Characters face severe psychological distress, descending into paranoia and madness as reality crumbles.
The novel warns of nature's harsh retribution for human exploitation.
Rajmane builds a world where the scientific and the supernatural are terrifyingly indistinguishable.
The words are so detailed that your imagination just takes off.
The author’s writing makes you feel like you're really there in the jungle – you can almost feel the sticky air, hear the leaves whisper, and sense something ancient watching you.
For a unique fusion of cosmic horror, ecological thrills, and mythologically-infused science fiction, "Khandav" is an essential read.
This book doesn't jump scare you; it relentlessly gnaws at your sanity. If you crave a story that truly gets under your skin this is the one for you.
If you are a fan of horror that lingers in your mind, enjoys narratives that blend genres, appreciate complex characters and ambiguous storytelling, and are intrigued by the fusion of science, myth, and the unknown, then "Khandav" is an absolute must-read.
Author: Mahesh Rajmane
"What happens when ancient malevolence meets modern science in the heart of a forgotten jungle?
'Khandav' provides a chilling, unforgettable answer.
The story unfolds in a remote, ancient jungle where a clandestine scientific expedition has gone terribly wrong.
A journalist named Maya goes into the mysterious Khandav jungle because a famous plant scientist, Vikram, disappeared there.
What first seems like a simple search for a missing person quickly turns into something much darker and scarier.
The jungle isn't just a place; it's a living, evil thing that controls what happens. As Maya goes deeper, reality breaks down. She can't tell what's real, memories twist, and bodies seem to change because of an invisible, ancient power.
The jungle itself becomes a living, breathing, terrifying entity.
The narrative delves into themes of environmental degradation, forgotten legends, human hubris, and the terrifying consequences of disturbing forces beyond our comprehension.
What is Khandav: a biological threat, a parasite, or an angered divine entity?
This book highlights the conflict between old beliefs and new science, hinting that some things might be best left alone or respected for their intrinsic power.
Characters face severe psychological distress, descending into paranoia and madness as reality crumbles.
The novel warns of nature's harsh retribution for human exploitation.
Rajmane builds a world where the scientific and the supernatural are terrifyingly indistinguishable.
The words are so detailed that your imagination just takes off.
The author’s writing makes you feel like you're really there in the jungle – you can almost feel the sticky air, hear the leaves whisper, and sense something ancient watching you.
For a unique fusion of cosmic horror, ecological thrills, and mythologically-infused science fiction, "Khandav" is an essential read.
This book doesn't jump scare you; it relentlessly gnaws at your sanity. If you crave a story that truly gets under your skin this is the one for you.
If you are a fan of horror that lingers in your mind, enjoys narratives that blend genres, appreciate complex characters and ambiguous storytelling, and are intrigued by the fusion of science, myth, and the unknown, then "Khandav" is an absolute must-read.
April 18, 2025
Honestly, no one in India is writing sci-fi like this. Khandav isn’t just about horror or some jungle mystery—it taps into deep, mind-bending stuff like consciousness, ancient biology, and the illusion of control. It feels global in scope but rooted in something very Indian. You won’t find another book here that blends myth, madness, and science this seamlessly. It’s disturbing, smart, and completely original.
April 18, 2025
"Absolutely gripping. Khandav pulls you into a strange, eerie jungle where nothing is what it seems. It mixes horror with sci-fi in such a unique way—creepy, thought-provoking, and totally unpredictable. Some scenes gave me chills, others made me stop and think. If you're into dark, twisted stories that go beyond just jump scares, this one's worth a read."
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