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The Ayodhya Alliance
An ancient secret.
A forgotten science.
A battle for the future of humanity.
Seven thousand years ago, as he lay dying on the battlefield of Lanka, Ravana whispered a secret to Lakshmana about a mysterious technology that held the key to Ayodhya's prosperity and the world's destiny.
For centuries, desperately sought by explorers, marauders and emperors alike, it has been kept hidden, safeguarded by warriors bound by an ancient oath.
Now, as tensions escalate along India's volatile borders and a crucial defence project teeters on the brink of failure, Indian industrialist Aditya Pillai and South Korean technocrat Somi Kim are thrust into a mission that will upend everything they know.
The two realize they must act fast, but never once do they anticipate that they will stumble upon startling revelations about a miraculous force that once connected Ayodhya to Kailasa, the Pandyan Empire, Rome, Damascus, Thailand and Korea. As the forces of past and present collide, a question looms who will harness the power of the ultimate enigma, and at what cost?
The Ayodhya Alliance spans continents and centuries, seamlessly weaving together science, legend and history in a breathless race against time. In this sweeping, unputdownable story of intrigue, betrayal, survival and love, master storyteller Ashwin Sanghi casts his web wider than ever before, spinning once again a riveting, edge-of-the-seat thriller.
A forgotten science.
A battle for the future of humanity.
Seven thousand years ago, as he lay dying on the battlefield of Lanka, Ravana whispered a secret to Lakshmana about a mysterious technology that held the key to Ayodhya's prosperity and the world's destiny.
For centuries, desperately sought by explorers, marauders and emperors alike, it has been kept hidden, safeguarded by warriors bound by an ancient oath.
Now, as tensions escalate along India's volatile borders and a crucial defence project teeters on the brink of failure, Indian industrialist Aditya Pillai and South Korean technocrat Somi Kim are thrust into a mission that will upend everything they know.
The two realize they must act fast, but never once do they anticipate that they will stumble upon startling revelations about a miraculous force that once connected Ayodhya to Kailasa, the Pandyan Empire, Rome, Damascus, Thailand and Korea. As the forces of past and present collide, a question looms who will harness the power of the ultimate enigma, and at what cost?
The Ayodhya Alliance spans continents and centuries, seamlessly weaving together science, legend and history in a breathless race against time. In this sweeping, unputdownable story of intrigue, betrayal, survival and love, master storyteller Ashwin Sanghi casts his web wider than ever before, spinning once again a riveting, edge-of-the-seat thriller.
561 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 24, 2025
130 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Ashwin Sanghi
28 books2,746 followersAshwin Sanghi—entrepreneur by day, novelist by night—has all the usual qualifications of an Indian businessman. Schooling at the Cathedral & John Connon School, a B.A. (Economics) from St. Xavier’s College, and an M.B.A. (Finance) from the Yale School of Management. Besides being a businessman, Ashwin manages a parallel career as writer of fiction. Ashwin’s first novel, ‘The Rozabal Line’ was originally self-published in 2007 under his anagram-pseudonym—Shawn Haigins. The book was subsequently published by Westland in 2008 and 2010 in India under his own name and went on to become a national bestseller. ‘Chanakya’s Chant’ is his second novel in the historical-fiction genre. The book has remained on AC Nielsen’s India Bookscan Top-10 for all of 2011. It won the ‘2010 Crossword-Vodafone Popular Choice Award’ in September 2011. UTV has purchased the movie rights to the book and a film based upon the story is expected soon. Dr. Shashi Tharoor released the novel in Mumbai calling it an “enthralling, delightfully-interesting and gripping read with historical research that is impressive.” The Hindustan Times has called it “a cracker of a page-turner.” Ashwin is currently working on his third novel, as yet untitled, that explores business strategies in ancient India. Ashwin is also working towards a Ph.D. in Creative Writing from Bangor University in Wales. Ashwin lives in Mumbai with his wife, Anushika, and his eight-year old son, Raghuvir.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 27, 2025
As a long-time, devoted fan of Ashwin Sanghi's work, this review comes with a heavy heart. I've devoured every single one of his books, from the Rozabal Line to the Sialkot Saga, always captivated by his unique blend of history, mythology and thrilling contemporary narratives. His signature style of weaving multiple parallel storylines, often across different timelines, into a grand, satisfying crescendo is something I've always admired and looked forward to. Which is why The Ayodhya Alliance, by far his longest and most ambitious undertaking to date, left me feeling profoundly disappointed.
Sanghi's previous works masterfully juggled two or three distinct narratives, expertly bringing them together in a coherent and impactful climax. In The Ayodhya Alliance, he attempts to elevate this complexity but unfortunately, it becomes its undoing. The sheer number of threads he tries to manage is staggering – we're talking about 6-7 distinct storylines unfolding across a dizzying array of locations: ancient Saketa (Ayodhya), the historical port of Korkai, war-torn Syria, enigmatic North Korea, the treacherous lands of Afghanistan/Pakistan, bustling South Korea, with even more fleeting glimpses into places like Thailand.
This expansive canvas, while initially intriguing, quickly devolves into an overwhelming experience. The cast of characters balloons to an unmanageable size, making it incredibly difficult to keep track of who's who, their motivations and their connections to the broader plot. What was once a thrilling unraveling of interconnected mysteries now feels like a tangled mess.
The biggest letdown, however, is the culmination. Sanghi, usually a maestro at binding his disparate narratives into a cohesive and mind-blowing finale, struggles immensely here. The threads, instead of merging seamlessly, feel forced and haphazardly tied together. The grand reveal, which should be the payoff for hundreds of pages of intricate storytelling, falls flat, leaving too many loose ends and a sense of dissatisfaction rather than awe.
While I appreciate Sanghi's ambition to push the boundaries of his narrative style, The Ayodhya Alliance is, in my honest opinion, the weakest book he has written. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, less is indeed more. For a loyal fan like myself, who has celebrated his every literary triumph, this was a difficult read and a significant departure from the brilliance I've come to expect. I sincerely hope his next venture returns to the focused, gripping storytelling that made me a fan in the first place.
Sanghi's previous works masterfully juggled two or three distinct narratives, expertly bringing them together in a coherent and impactful climax. In The Ayodhya Alliance, he attempts to elevate this complexity but unfortunately, it becomes its undoing. The sheer number of threads he tries to manage is staggering – we're talking about 6-7 distinct storylines unfolding across a dizzying array of locations: ancient Saketa (Ayodhya), the historical port of Korkai, war-torn Syria, enigmatic North Korea, the treacherous lands of Afghanistan/Pakistan, bustling South Korea, with even more fleeting glimpses into places like Thailand.
This expansive canvas, while initially intriguing, quickly devolves into an overwhelming experience. The cast of characters balloons to an unmanageable size, making it incredibly difficult to keep track of who's who, their motivations and their connections to the broader plot. What was once a thrilling unraveling of interconnected mysteries now feels like a tangled mess.
The biggest letdown, however, is the culmination. Sanghi, usually a maestro at binding his disparate narratives into a cohesive and mind-blowing finale, struggles immensely here. The threads, instead of merging seamlessly, feel forced and haphazardly tied together. The grand reveal, which should be the payoff for hundreds of pages of intricate storytelling, falls flat, leaving too many loose ends and a sense of dissatisfaction rather than awe.
While I appreciate Sanghi's ambition to push the boundaries of his narrative style, The Ayodhya Alliance is, in my honest opinion, the weakest book he has written. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, less is indeed more. For a loyal fan like myself, who has celebrated his every literary triumph, this was a difficult read and a significant departure from the brilliance I've come to expect. I sincerely hope his next venture returns to the focused, gripping storytelling that made me a fan in the first place.
July 8, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi returns with The Ayodhya Alliance, the ninth installment in his acclaimed Bharat Collection, weaving together an ambitious tapestry that spans seven millennia and multiple continents. This latest offering demonstrates why Sanghi has established himself as India's premier historical thriller writer, though it also reveals some of the challenges inherent in such an expansive narrative scope.
The novel opens with a tantalizing premise rooted in the Ramayana: as Ravana lay dying on the battlefield of Lanka, he whispered a secret to Lakshmana about a mysterious technology called the Dvaitalingam—an ancient catalyst capable of creating steel with extraordinary properties. Fast-forward to contemporary India, where industrialist Aditya Pillai and South Korean technocrat Somi Kim find themselves racing against time to develop advanced armor for India's defense projects, only to stumble upon this very same ancient secret.
A Tale of Two Timelines
The Contemporary Thriller
The modern storyline follows Aditya Pillai, CEO of the Pillai Group, as he partners with Somi Kim of GISCO to develop revolutionary steel for India's Battle Platform Battle Tank (BPBT) project. When conventional methods fail against Chinese anti-tank missiles, their quest leads them to Dr. Bala Ramaswamy from CERN, whose research into ancient Indian metallurgy opens doors to possibilities that blur the line between science and mysticism.
Sanghi excels in creating believable corporate dynamics and geopolitical tensions. The partnership between the Indian and Korean companies feels authentic, grounded in real economic and strategic considerations. Somi Kim emerges as one of Sanghi's most compelling protagonists—a complex character whose Korean heritage connects to ancient Indian legends through the story of Queen Heo Hwang-ok, the Ayodhya princess who married Korean prince Kim Suro in 48 CE.
The Historical Tapestry
The historical segments transport readers across time and geography, from ancient Ayodhya to the Pandyan kingdom, from Damascus steel forges to Korean royal courts. Sanghi's meticulous research shines through in his depiction of ancient metallurgical processes and trade routes. The connection between Indian wootz steel and Damascus blades is particularly well-executed, demonstrating how ancient technologies traveled along trade routes.
The character of Ravana is portrayed with surprising depth—not merely as a villain, but as a scholar-king whose final wisdom becomes crucial to the narrative. Sanghi's interpretation of the Ramayana characters shows maturity, presenting them as complex individuals rather than mythological archetypes.
Scientific Speculation and Ancient Wisdom
Perhaps the novel's most ambitious aspect is Sanghi's attempt to bridge quantum physics with ancient Indian philosophy. Dr. Ramaswamy's research at CERN into the quantum properties of materials found at sacred sites like Kailasa and Konark represents the author's boldest conceptual leap. While some readers might find the scientific explanations challenging, Sanghi deserves credit for attempting to ground fantastical elements in plausible scientific theory.
The concept of the Dvaitalingam as a quantum catalyst that can both bond and repel at the molecular level is ingenious, even if it requires significant suspension of disbelief. Sanghi's explanation of how ancient metallurgists might have stumbled upon quantum mechanical principles millennia before modern science is both audacious and thought-provoking.
Character Development and Pacing
Strengths in Characterization
Somi Kim stands out as Sanghi's most nuanced female protagonist to date. Her journey from a successful CEO dealing with corporate pressures to someone uncovering her ancestral connections to India feels organic and compelling. The author successfully avoids making her merely a plot device, instead crafting a character with genuine agency and emotional depth.
Aditya Pillai, while somewhat archetypal as the driven industrialist, gains complexity through hints of personal loss and his growing understanding of his role in a larger cosmic design. Dr. Ramaswamy serves effectively as the intellectual anchor, bridging ancient texts with modern scientific inquiry.
Pacing Challenges
However, the novel's ambitious scope sometimes works against it. With 100 chapters spanning multiple time periods and locations, the pacing occasionally feels uneven. Some historical segments, while beautifully written, can feel tangential to the main narrative thrust. The frequent timeline shifts, though clearly labeled, sometimes disrupt the building tension.
The antagonists, including terrorist leader Khalil Ghaznawar and North Korean operative Choe Tok Hun, feel somewhat one-dimensional compared to the protagonists. Their motivations, while clear, lack the philosophical depth that Sanghi brings to his heroes.
Technical Craft and Research
Meticulous Historical Research
Sanghi's trademark exhaustive research is evident throughout. His exploration of ancient trade routes, metallurgical processes, and cultural exchanges between India and Korea demonstrates scholarly rigor. The integration of real historical figures and events with fictional narratives feels seamless.
The author's treatment of various religious and philosophical traditions is respectful and insightful. His exploration of the symbolic significance of the twin fish motif across cultures—from the Pandyan empire to Korean royal crests to the Chinese yin-yang symbol—reveals genuine understanding of comparative mythology.
Writing Style and Language
Sanghi's prose has matured considerably since his earlier works. The descriptive passages, particularly those set in ancient times, display a lyrical quality that enhances the mythic atmosphere. However, the technical exposition required for the scientific elements sometimes results in dialogue that feels overly explanatory.
The author successfully maintains distinct voices for characters from different time periods and cultures, though occasionally the contemporary characters slip into slightly formal speech patterns that don't quite ring true for modern professionals.
Thematic Depth
The novel explores several profound themes beyond its thriller surface. The idea of ancient wisdom being rediscovered through modern science resonates with contemporary discussions about traditional knowledge systems. The concept of the "Ayodhya Alliance"—a network of ancient kingdoms sharing advanced technology—offers an alternative view of ancient history that celebrates pre-modern achievements.
The philosophical underpinning of duality and balance, represented by the Harihara concept (the union of Vishnu and Shiva), provides thematic coherence to what could otherwise be a scattered narrative. Sanghi uses this concept effectively to explore how opposing forces can create harmony and strength.
Critical Assessment
What Works
Innovative concept: The blend of quantum physics with ancient metallurgy is genuinely original
Strong female protagonist: Somi Kim is well-developed and compelling
Cultural bridge-building: The India-Korea connections are fascinating and well-researched
Philosophical depth: The exploration of duality and balance adds intellectual weight
Areas for Improvement
Pacing inconsistencies: The narrative sometimes loses momentum during historical segments
Villain characterization: Antagonists lack the depth of the protagonists
Technical exposition: Some scientific explanations feel forced into dialogue
Scope management: The vast canvas sometimes overwhelms the central story
Final Verdict
The Ayodhya Alliance is an ambitious and largely successful entry in Sanghi's Bharat Collection. While it doesn't quite reach the heights of his best work, it offers enough innovation, excitement, and intellectual stimulation to satisfy longtime fans and potentially attract new readers. The novel succeeds in its primary goal of entertaining while educating, though readers should be prepared for a complex narrative that demands attention and patience.
Sanghi continues to prove that Indian historical fiction can be both commercially successful and intellectually engaging. Despite its flaws, The Ayodhya Alliance confirms his position as a master storyteller capable of making ancient wisdom relevant to contemporary readers.
For readers who enjoy Dan Brown's symbology thrillers or James Rollins' Sigma Force series, Sanghi offers a uniquely Indian perspective on similar themes. The novel works best when approached as a thinking person's thriller rather than a straightforward action-adventure.
The novel opens with a tantalizing premise rooted in the Ramayana: as Ravana lay dying on the battlefield of Lanka, he whispered a secret to Lakshmana about a mysterious technology called the Dvaitalingam—an ancient catalyst capable of creating steel with extraordinary properties. Fast-forward to contemporary India, where industrialist Aditya Pillai and South Korean technocrat Somi Kim find themselves racing against time to develop advanced armor for India's defense projects, only to stumble upon this very same ancient secret.
A Tale of Two Timelines
The Contemporary Thriller
The modern storyline follows Aditya Pillai, CEO of the Pillai Group, as he partners with Somi Kim of GISCO to develop revolutionary steel for India's Battle Platform Battle Tank (BPBT) project. When conventional methods fail against Chinese anti-tank missiles, their quest leads them to Dr. Bala Ramaswamy from CERN, whose research into ancient Indian metallurgy opens doors to possibilities that blur the line between science and mysticism.
Sanghi excels in creating believable corporate dynamics and geopolitical tensions. The partnership between the Indian and Korean companies feels authentic, grounded in real economic and strategic considerations. Somi Kim emerges as one of Sanghi's most compelling protagonists—a complex character whose Korean heritage connects to ancient Indian legends through the story of Queen Heo Hwang-ok, the Ayodhya princess who married Korean prince Kim Suro in 48 CE.
The Historical Tapestry
The historical segments transport readers across time and geography, from ancient Ayodhya to the Pandyan kingdom, from Damascus steel forges to Korean royal courts. Sanghi's meticulous research shines through in his depiction of ancient metallurgical processes and trade routes. The connection between Indian wootz steel and Damascus blades is particularly well-executed, demonstrating how ancient technologies traveled along trade routes.
The character of Ravana is portrayed with surprising depth—not merely as a villain, but as a scholar-king whose final wisdom becomes crucial to the narrative. Sanghi's interpretation of the Ramayana characters shows maturity, presenting them as complex individuals rather than mythological archetypes.
Scientific Speculation and Ancient Wisdom
Perhaps the novel's most ambitious aspect is Sanghi's attempt to bridge quantum physics with ancient Indian philosophy. Dr. Ramaswamy's research at CERN into the quantum properties of materials found at sacred sites like Kailasa and Konark represents the author's boldest conceptual leap. While some readers might find the scientific explanations challenging, Sanghi deserves credit for attempting to ground fantastical elements in plausible scientific theory.
The concept of the Dvaitalingam as a quantum catalyst that can both bond and repel at the molecular level is ingenious, even if it requires significant suspension of disbelief. Sanghi's explanation of how ancient metallurgists might have stumbled upon quantum mechanical principles millennia before modern science is both audacious and thought-provoking.
Character Development and Pacing
Strengths in Characterization
Somi Kim stands out as Sanghi's most nuanced female protagonist to date. Her journey from a successful CEO dealing with corporate pressures to someone uncovering her ancestral connections to India feels organic and compelling. The author successfully avoids making her merely a plot device, instead crafting a character with genuine agency and emotional depth.
Aditya Pillai, while somewhat archetypal as the driven industrialist, gains complexity through hints of personal loss and his growing understanding of his role in a larger cosmic design. Dr. Ramaswamy serves effectively as the intellectual anchor, bridging ancient texts with modern scientific inquiry.
Pacing Challenges
However, the novel's ambitious scope sometimes works against it. With 100 chapters spanning multiple time periods and locations, the pacing occasionally feels uneven. Some historical segments, while beautifully written, can feel tangential to the main narrative thrust. The frequent timeline shifts, though clearly labeled, sometimes disrupt the building tension.
The antagonists, including terrorist leader Khalil Ghaznawar and North Korean operative Choe Tok Hun, feel somewhat one-dimensional compared to the protagonists. Their motivations, while clear, lack the philosophical depth that Sanghi brings to his heroes.
Technical Craft and Research
Meticulous Historical Research
Sanghi's trademark exhaustive research is evident throughout. His exploration of ancient trade routes, metallurgical processes, and cultural exchanges between India and Korea demonstrates scholarly rigor. The integration of real historical figures and events with fictional narratives feels seamless.
The author's treatment of various religious and philosophical traditions is respectful and insightful. His exploration of the symbolic significance of the twin fish motif across cultures—from the Pandyan empire to Korean royal crests to the Chinese yin-yang symbol—reveals genuine understanding of comparative mythology.
Writing Style and Language
Sanghi's prose has matured considerably since his earlier works. The descriptive passages, particularly those set in ancient times, display a lyrical quality that enhances the mythic atmosphere. However, the technical exposition required for the scientific elements sometimes results in dialogue that feels overly explanatory.
The author successfully maintains distinct voices for characters from different time periods and cultures, though occasionally the contemporary characters slip into slightly formal speech patterns that don't quite ring true for modern professionals.
Thematic Depth
The novel explores several profound themes beyond its thriller surface. The idea of ancient wisdom being rediscovered through modern science resonates with contemporary discussions about traditional knowledge systems. The concept of the "Ayodhya Alliance"—a network of ancient kingdoms sharing advanced technology—offers an alternative view of ancient history that celebrates pre-modern achievements.
The philosophical underpinning of duality and balance, represented by the Harihara concept (the union of Vishnu and Shiva), provides thematic coherence to what could otherwise be a scattered narrative. Sanghi uses this concept effectively to explore how opposing forces can create harmony and strength.
Critical Assessment
What Works
Innovative concept: The blend of quantum physics with ancient metallurgy is genuinely original
Strong female protagonist: Somi Kim is well-developed and compelling
Cultural bridge-building: The India-Korea connections are fascinating and well-researched
Philosophical depth: The exploration of duality and balance adds intellectual weight
Areas for Improvement
Pacing inconsistencies: The narrative sometimes loses momentum during historical segments
Villain characterization: Antagonists lack the depth of the protagonists
Technical exposition: Some scientific explanations feel forced into dialogue
Scope management: The vast canvas sometimes overwhelms the central story
Final Verdict
The Ayodhya Alliance is an ambitious and largely successful entry in Sanghi's Bharat Collection. While it doesn't quite reach the heights of his best work, it offers enough innovation, excitement, and intellectual stimulation to satisfy longtime fans and potentially attract new readers. The novel succeeds in its primary goal of entertaining while educating, though readers should be prepared for a complex narrative that demands attention and patience.
Sanghi continues to prove that Indian historical fiction can be both commercially successful and intellectually engaging. Despite its flaws, The Ayodhya Alliance confirms his position as a master storyteller capable of making ancient wisdom relevant to contemporary readers.
For readers who enjoy Dan Brown's symbology thrillers or James Rollins' Sigma Force series, Sanghi offers a uniquely Indian perspective on similar themes. The novel works best when approached as a thinking person's thriller rather than a straightforward action-adventure.
August 22, 2025
When I first picked up " The Ayodhya Alliance" by Ashwin Sanghi, I thought I was stepping into a book about politics and history. But very soon, I realized it was so much more—it’s about people, faith, and the emotions that tie us to the stories we’ve grown up hearing. The book doesn’t just narrate an issue, it invites you into the layered world of Ayodhya—where belief meets ambition, where history meets memory, and where silence often speaks louder than words.
What struck me most while reading was how effortlessly Sanghi balances depth with readability. You don’t feel like you’re reading something distant or purely academic; instead, it feels intimate, like listening to a story told by someone who has lived it. The characters and voices carry both strength and vulnerability, reminding us that behind every alliance, every decision, every movement—there are real people and real emotions.
There were moments in the book that made me pause and reflect—on how our past continues to shape our present, on how alliances of power can change the direction of entire generations, and on how faith, no matter how personal, becomes a collective force in society. The warmth of the narrative lies in this balance—it’s thought-provoking, but never detached; powerful, but still deeply human.
For me, " The Ayodhya Alliance" wasn’t just a book I read, it was a journey I experienced. It reminded me that history isn’t something locked away in textbooks; it lives in us, in our choices, in the way we see each other. And the questions it raises aren’t just political—they’re personal, emotional, and spiritual too.
If you’re someone who enjoys books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page, books that make you feel as much as they make you think, then this is one you must pick up. " The Ayodhya Alliance" is not just a story—it’s a mirror, a reminder, and an experience that lingers.
What struck me most while reading was how effortlessly Sanghi balances depth with readability. You don’t feel like you’re reading something distant or purely academic; instead, it feels intimate, like listening to a story told by someone who has lived it. The characters and voices carry both strength and vulnerability, reminding us that behind every alliance, every decision, every movement—there are real people and real emotions.
There were moments in the book that made me pause and reflect—on how our past continues to shape our present, on how alliances of power can change the direction of entire generations, and on how faith, no matter how personal, becomes a collective force in society. The warmth of the narrative lies in this balance—it’s thought-provoking, but never detached; powerful, but still deeply human.
For me, " The Ayodhya Alliance" wasn’t just a book I read, it was a journey I experienced. It reminded me that history isn’t something locked away in textbooks; it lives in us, in our choices, in the way we see each other. And the questions it raises aren’t just political—they’re personal, emotional, and spiritual too.
If you’re someone who enjoys books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page, books that make you feel as much as they make you think, then this is one you must pick up. " The Ayodhya Alliance" is not just a story—it’s a mirror, a reminder, and an experience that lingers.
July 31, 2025
It's no wonder that Indian mythology and history are rich in its culture and heritage. I really hope these books reach the world and to the right crowd who have questions on the Bharatiya Parampara.
This is my first book by the author Ashwin Sanghi, and it didn't bore me for sure. I did take some time to understand the author's narration style and his explanation to the grandeur of mythology. It took me back to my school days when I read about our history.
The only con was that it was a fat book and took me a lot of complete it, and the beginning took its own pace. I am eager to explore his other famous novels because I am sure they would be more enthusiastic.
This is my first book by the author Ashwin Sanghi, and it didn't bore me for sure. I did take some time to understand the author's narration style and his explanation to the grandeur of mythology. It took me back to my school days when I read about our history.
The only con was that it was a fat book and took me a lot of complete it, and the beginning took its own pace. I am eager to explore his other famous novels because I am sure they would be more enthusiastic.
January 10, 2026
I went in expecting a standard thriller but came out questioning every history lesson I ever had. The story kicks off with a dying Ravana whispering a metallurgical secret to Lakshmana and suddenly we are in a high-stakes race for the Dvaitalingam. Seeing modern defense tech collide with ancient science was pure genius.
The pacing is absolutely relentless as the plot jumps from the battlefields of Lanka to modern industrial espionage. One minute you are decoding the mysterious "two fish" symbol and the next you are uncovering how an Indian princess ended up in Korea. It is the ultimate "just one more chapter" read that kept me up until 3 AM.
August 9, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi has done it again! As someone who never misses a Sanghi release, The Ayodhya Alliance was an instant pick for me — and it absolutely delivered. Blending mythology, science, and geo-political drama, the book takes readers on an edge-of-the-seat journey across Ayodhya, the Pandyan Empire, Rome, Korea, and beyond.
The plot unravels a secret passed from Ravan to Lakshman, said to hold the key to Ayodhya's future and the fate of humanity. Fast forward to the present, where industrialist Aditya Pillai and South Korean technocrat Somi Kim are caught in a deadly mission that ties past legends with present-day global tensions.
As always, Sanghi’s mastery lies in connecting ancient history with modern science, and turning it into a gripping political thriller. The scattered references to Kailasa, Pandya rule, and even South Korean myth made the story incredibly rich and layered.
The short chapters keep the momentum high, but what stood out to me most was how the ancient world felt alive — especially the idea that science once existed in forms we can’t even comprehend today. The thrill of discovery, the weight of secrets, and the looming danger kept me flipping pages late into the night.
If you love stories where myth meets mystery, where timelines overlap and secrets explode into relevance, this one’s for you.
Ashwin Sanghi never misses — and with The Ayodhya Alliance, he may have just given us his most ambitious novel yet.
📖🔱🌍
The plot unravels a secret passed from Ravan to Lakshman, said to hold the key to Ayodhya's future and the fate of humanity. Fast forward to the present, where industrialist Aditya Pillai and South Korean technocrat Somi Kim are caught in a deadly mission that ties past legends with present-day global tensions.
As always, Sanghi’s mastery lies in connecting ancient history with modern science, and turning it into a gripping political thriller. The scattered references to Kailasa, Pandya rule, and even South Korean myth made the story incredibly rich and layered.
The short chapters keep the momentum high, but what stood out to me most was how the ancient world felt alive — especially the idea that science once existed in forms we can’t even comprehend today. The thrill of discovery, the weight of secrets, and the looming danger kept me flipping pages late into the night.
If you love stories where myth meets mystery, where timelines overlap and secrets explode into relevance, this one’s for you.
Ashwin Sanghi never misses — and with The Ayodhya Alliance, he may have just given us his most ambitious novel yet.
📖🔱🌍
July 4, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi returns with The Ayodhya Alliance, a bold, globe-trotting thriller that fuses mythology, science, and geopolitics into an electrifying narrative. With his signature blend of fact and fiction, Sanghi delves deep into the rich tapestry of Indian epics, ancient civilisations, and contemporary power struggles, delivering a novel that is as intellectually engaging as it is relentlessly suspenseful.
At the heart of the story lies a long-buried enigma — a mysterious scientific force once whispered by Ravana to Lakshman on the blood-soaked battlefield of Lanka. This isn’t just any ancient secret, but a revelation with the potential to alter the trajectory of human history. For thousands of years, this secret remained hidden, protected by guardians bound by a sacred oath. Now, in the 21st century, as India’s borders simmer with tension and a crucial defence technology begins to falter, the past resurfaces with explosive urgency.
Enter Aditya Pillai, a high-stakes industrialist with a deep investment in India’s defence projects, and Somi Kim, a brilliant South Korean technocrat. The pairing is unusual but compelling. Their mission begins as a modern technological crisis but soon morphs into an Indiana Jones-esque quest that spans continents and millennia. Together, they uncover a trail that stretches from Ayodhya to Kailasa, from the Pandyan Empire to Rome, Damascus, Thailand, and Korea. The sheer breadth of the historical canvas is staggering.
Sanghi’s greatest strength lies in his ability to craft plausible connections between mythology and science, between the spiritual and the strategic. In The Ayodhya Alliance, he masterfully blurs the lines between historical fact and speculative fiction. As the protagonists follow cryptic clues and decode ancient texts, readers are treated to a whirlwind tour of lost knowledge, suppressed technologies, and forgotten alliances. But it’s not just the treasure hunt that keeps the pages turning. The novel also probes deeper questions: What happens when science is indistinguishable from magic? Who controls the narrative of history? And what is the cost of ultimate power?
The pacing is brisk, with Sanghi deftly alternating between historical flashbacks and high-octane contemporary scenes. The transitions are smooth, ensuring that the reader is never disoriented despite the temporal leaps. He builds suspense incrementally, never overwhelming the reader with exposition, yet feeding just enough information to keep the mystery alive.
haracters are well-drawn and multidimensional. Aditya Pillai is more than a corporate magnate; he is a man caught between his duty to his nation and his moral compass. Somi Kim brings an international flavour to the narrative and functions as both a cultural counterbalance and an intellectual equal. Their dynamic evolves gradually, underscoring themes of trust, collaboration, and shared heritage. Supporting characters — some descendants of ancient orders, others shadowy figures from intelligence agencies — add texture and complexity to the story.
Thematically, The Ayodhya Alliance operates on multiple levels. It is, on the surface, an action-packed thriller. But at its core, it is a meditation on civilisational continuity, the erosion of knowledge, and the consequences of playing god with lost technologies. The myth of Ravana’s whispered secret is not just a plot device; it is a symbol of how power, once divorced from ethics, can become a global threat.
Sanghi’s prose is crisp and cinematic, well-suited for the screen adaptation this book practically demands. There are moments where the exposition — especially the historical segments — verges on dense, but for readers familiar with Sanghi’s work, this is part of the intellectual pleasure. His research is meticulous, and he continues his tradition of endnotes and references for the curious reader who wants to dive deeper into the history beneath the fiction.
Where The Krishna Key and Chanakya’s Chant explored theology and political philosophy, The Ayodhya Alliance ventures further into the speculative realm, almost bordering on science fiction. Yet, it remains grounded in the Indian ethos, reminding readers that ancient India was not only spiritual but scientific in its orientation — a land where technology and mysticism coexisted.
In an era where India’s role in the global order is rapidly evolving, The Ayodhya Alliance resonates as more than just a thriller. It is a story about civilisational agency, about reclaiming lost narratives, and about rising powers reasserting their intellectual and spiritual legacy on the world stage. At a time when popular fiction is saturated with Western myths and tropes, Sanghi’s effort to root an international thriller in Indic history is both refreshing and politically significant.
The Ayodhya Alliance is vintage Ashwin Sanghi — fast-paced, richly layered, and thought-provoking. It invites readers to rethink the boundaries between myth and reality, and between past and future. This novel offers a thrilling, immersive ride with a distinctly Indian heartbeat.
At the heart of the story lies a long-buried enigma — a mysterious scientific force once whispered by Ravana to Lakshman on the blood-soaked battlefield of Lanka. This isn’t just any ancient secret, but a revelation with the potential to alter the trajectory of human history. For thousands of years, this secret remained hidden, protected by guardians bound by a sacred oath. Now, in the 21st century, as India’s borders simmer with tension and a crucial defence technology begins to falter, the past resurfaces with explosive urgency.
Enter Aditya Pillai, a high-stakes industrialist with a deep investment in India’s defence projects, and Somi Kim, a brilliant South Korean technocrat. The pairing is unusual but compelling. Their mission begins as a modern technological crisis but soon morphs into an Indiana Jones-esque quest that spans continents and millennia. Together, they uncover a trail that stretches from Ayodhya to Kailasa, from the Pandyan Empire to Rome, Damascus, Thailand, and Korea. The sheer breadth of the historical canvas is staggering.
Sanghi’s greatest strength lies in his ability to craft plausible connections between mythology and science, between the spiritual and the strategic. In The Ayodhya Alliance, he masterfully blurs the lines between historical fact and speculative fiction. As the protagonists follow cryptic clues and decode ancient texts, readers are treated to a whirlwind tour of lost knowledge, suppressed technologies, and forgotten alliances. But it’s not just the treasure hunt that keeps the pages turning. The novel also probes deeper questions: What happens when science is indistinguishable from magic? Who controls the narrative of history? And what is the cost of ultimate power?
The pacing is brisk, with Sanghi deftly alternating between historical flashbacks and high-octane contemporary scenes. The transitions are smooth, ensuring that the reader is never disoriented despite the temporal leaps. He builds suspense incrementally, never overwhelming the reader with exposition, yet feeding just enough information to keep the mystery alive.
haracters are well-drawn and multidimensional. Aditya Pillai is more than a corporate magnate; he is a man caught between his duty to his nation and his moral compass. Somi Kim brings an international flavour to the narrative and functions as both a cultural counterbalance and an intellectual equal. Their dynamic evolves gradually, underscoring themes of trust, collaboration, and shared heritage. Supporting characters — some descendants of ancient orders, others shadowy figures from intelligence agencies — add texture and complexity to the story.
Thematically, The Ayodhya Alliance operates on multiple levels. It is, on the surface, an action-packed thriller. But at its core, it is a meditation on civilisational continuity, the erosion of knowledge, and the consequences of playing god with lost technologies. The myth of Ravana’s whispered secret is not just a plot device; it is a symbol of how power, once divorced from ethics, can become a global threat.
Sanghi’s prose is crisp and cinematic, well-suited for the screen adaptation this book practically demands. There are moments where the exposition — especially the historical segments — verges on dense, but for readers familiar with Sanghi’s work, this is part of the intellectual pleasure. His research is meticulous, and he continues his tradition of endnotes and references for the curious reader who wants to dive deeper into the history beneath the fiction.
Where The Krishna Key and Chanakya’s Chant explored theology and political philosophy, The Ayodhya Alliance ventures further into the speculative realm, almost bordering on science fiction. Yet, it remains grounded in the Indian ethos, reminding readers that ancient India was not only spiritual but scientific in its orientation — a land where technology and mysticism coexisted.
In an era where India’s role in the global order is rapidly evolving, The Ayodhya Alliance resonates as more than just a thriller. It is a story about civilisational agency, about reclaiming lost narratives, and about rising powers reasserting their intellectual and spiritual legacy on the world stage. At a time when popular fiction is saturated with Western myths and tropes, Sanghi’s effort to root an international thriller in Indic history is both refreshing and politically significant.
The Ayodhya Alliance is vintage Ashwin Sanghi — fast-paced, richly layered, and thought-provoking. It invites readers to rethink the boundaries between myth and reality, and between past and future. This novel offers a thrilling, immersive ride with a distinctly Indian heartbeat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
3rd Book of 2025!
There are few authors whose announcement of a new book brings you the same excitement as Tom Cruise’s fans who wait for his Mission Impossible series. Ashwin Sanghi, one of India’s top authors, have created the same fanbase and cult following where every new book seems like an opportunity to read the same conceptual novel but with a completely different storyline using the elements of ancient knowledge and strong Indian culture. I just completed reading one of the thickest books of my life named “The Ayodhya Alliance” which is Sanghi’s 8th book in his Bharat Collection. This book has the same flavour as his previous books and right from the word- GO- you can start feeling nostalgic of all his previous works read by you.
The Ayodhya Alliance mixes fact with fiction seamlessly which makes us question what is real and what has been written using creative liberty. The story navigates from 7000 years ago till the present time. It also makes you travel to different continents and countries such as India, Korea, Syria, Europe, Damascus, Switzerland etc. Even within India, it travels to different states and historical monuments. The way it ties all these places with the concept of Dvaitalingam which has the power to create harmony as well as massive destruction with its unique feature of managing the duality of everything under the umbrella is interesting. Every time the reference of two-fish design enters the story, the reader in you gets glued to the book.
The blend of history, mythology and religion is common in such books but the way Ashwin further marinates it with science, geopolitics, spirituality, anthropology, philosophy, archaeology and many other such concepts is unbelievable. His hard and smart work behind researching for this book is evident in every chapter. I was astonished at times that how could he even think of a concept and then find about it in subjects which are enough critical for us to understand it properly to blend it in our fiction story. This is what makes Sanghi a unique author and the reason why he is compared with popular foreign authors as well.
The book could become heavy and boring if it would consist all the above concepts that has been covered by Ashwin in his novel but he knows that he has to keep the readers hooked for more than 500 pages which makes him narrate his story bringing in the human emotions at play. The story revolves around friendship, betrayal, love, romance, childhood issues, jealousy, relationships etc. This makes him create few important characters who form the crux of this book such as Soju, Mithra, Suriratna, Bhadraketu, Padmasen, Indumati, Kulasekara etc.
The characterizations are wonderfully handled considering different personas belong to different region and language spread over different continents and timeline. I was completely engrossed in how the characters in different timelines are fighting for themselves and bigger purpose at the same time. The character of Aditya and Somi are equally important in the modern context. I just wished if the modern antagonists were also narrated as dangerous and powerful as Talhae who is based 2000 years ago.
Ashwin Sanghi’s respect for Indian culture and religion is evident from the way he narrates the characters and stories whenever it involves references from Ramayan/Mahabharat or mentions the names of Gods and Goddesses. Even the book starts with the plot where Ravan is on his deathbed and Ram sends his younger brother, Lakshman to learn whatever he can from a knowledgeable being like Ravan.
Talking about the drawbacks, I must say that the regular shift of story’s timeline with short chapters makes it difficult for readers to read it in fast pace. It takes an extra effort to regularly remember the storyline in each timeline and region. There are few chapters wherein I had created notes to refer later on in the story but I identified that there wasn’t much fallback to those subplots at all or didn’t have that impact. Sanghi could have easily shorten the book by 80-100 pages to make it more fast-paced. I was expecting a surprising revelation in the climax but it isn’t as thrilling as few books of Sanghi such as The Krishna Key.
Overall, reading this book has definitely given an unforgettable experience with its vast research and beautiful characterization based around the story distributed in several timelines. The mixture of multiple concepts blend into a single book keeps you in awe of both- the creator and the creation. The title of the book- The Ayodhya Alliance is very strategically handled in the story on how several countries are involved in safeguarding a concept that keeps them and the world harmonious. I give this book 4.5* out of 5. Recommended for the readers who have read similar books before. Beginners might find the story tough to read due to complex timeline shifts.
Thanks!
WRITING BUDDHA
There are few authors whose announcement of a new book brings you the same excitement as Tom Cruise’s fans who wait for his Mission Impossible series. Ashwin Sanghi, one of India’s top authors, have created the same fanbase and cult following where every new book seems like an opportunity to read the same conceptual novel but with a completely different storyline using the elements of ancient knowledge and strong Indian culture. I just completed reading one of the thickest books of my life named “The Ayodhya Alliance” which is Sanghi’s 8th book in his Bharat Collection. This book has the same flavour as his previous books and right from the word- GO- you can start feeling nostalgic of all his previous works read by you.
The Ayodhya Alliance mixes fact with fiction seamlessly which makes us question what is real and what has been written using creative liberty. The story navigates from 7000 years ago till the present time. It also makes you travel to different continents and countries such as India, Korea, Syria, Europe, Damascus, Switzerland etc. Even within India, it travels to different states and historical monuments. The way it ties all these places with the concept of Dvaitalingam which has the power to create harmony as well as massive destruction with its unique feature of managing the duality of everything under the umbrella is interesting. Every time the reference of two-fish design enters the story, the reader in you gets glued to the book.
The blend of history, mythology and religion is common in such books but the way Ashwin further marinates it with science, geopolitics, spirituality, anthropology, philosophy, archaeology and many other such concepts is unbelievable. His hard and smart work behind researching for this book is evident in every chapter. I was astonished at times that how could he even think of a concept and then find about it in subjects which are enough critical for us to understand it properly to blend it in our fiction story. This is what makes Sanghi a unique author and the reason why he is compared with popular foreign authors as well.
The book could become heavy and boring if it would consist all the above concepts that has been covered by Ashwin in his novel but he knows that he has to keep the readers hooked for more than 500 pages which makes him narrate his story bringing in the human emotions at play. The story revolves around friendship, betrayal, love, romance, childhood issues, jealousy, relationships etc. This makes him create few important characters who form the crux of this book such as Soju, Mithra, Suriratna, Bhadraketu, Padmasen, Indumati, Kulasekara etc.
The characterizations are wonderfully handled considering different personas belong to different region and language spread over different continents and timeline. I was completely engrossed in how the characters in different timelines are fighting for themselves and bigger purpose at the same time. The character of Aditya and Somi are equally important in the modern context. I just wished if the modern antagonists were also narrated as dangerous and powerful as Talhae who is based 2000 years ago.
Ashwin Sanghi’s respect for Indian culture and religion is evident from the way he narrates the characters and stories whenever it involves references from Ramayan/Mahabharat or mentions the names of Gods and Goddesses. Even the book starts with the plot where Ravan is on his deathbed and Ram sends his younger brother, Lakshman to learn whatever he can from a knowledgeable being like Ravan.
Talking about the drawbacks, I must say that the regular shift of story’s timeline with short chapters makes it difficult for readers to read it in fast pace. It takes an extra effort to regularly remember the storyline in each timeline and region. There are few chapters wherein I had created notes to refer later on in the story but I identified that there wasn’t much fallback to those subplots at all or didn’t have that impact. Sanghi could have easily shorten the book by 80-100 pages to make it more fast-paced. I was expecting a surprising revelation in the climax but it isn’t as thrilling as few books of Sanghi such as The Krishna Key.
Overall, reading this book has definitely given an unforgettable experience with its vast research and beautiful characterization based around the story distributed in several timelines. The mixture of multiple concepts blend into a single book keeps you in awe of both- the creator and the creation. The title of the book- The Ayodhya Alliance is very strategically handled in the story on how several countries are involved in safeguarding a concept that keeps them and the world harmonious. I give this book 4.5* out of 5. Recommended for the readers who have read similar books before. Beginners might find the story tough to read due to complex timeline shifts.
Thanks!
WRITING BUDDHA
July 12, 2025
Do you remember that childhood evenings spent listening to tales from the Ramayana or Mahabharata? Stories of epic wars, hidden weapons, whispered secrets. Now imagine someone picking up one of those stories, brushing the dust off, adding a layer of science and sprinkling in some international espionage. That, in a nutshell, is The Ayodhya Alliance — Ashwin Sanghi’s latest and perhaps most ambitious thriller yet.
If you’ve read Chanakya’s Chant or The Krishna Key, you already know Sanghi’s signature style — where ancient Indian wisdom meets modern-day mystery. He's often called India's Dan Brown, but I think that undersells what he truly does. While Brown sticks mostly to Western symbols and churches, Sanghi boldly mines Indian mythology, history, and philosophy — bringing a whole new cultural texture to the thriller genre.
The plot begins with a gripping legend — Ravana, moments before his death, reveals a secret to Lakshman. Fast forward thousands of years, and India stands on the edge of a defence crisis. Aditya Pillai, a powerful industrialist with deep ties to the country's defence sector, joins forces with Somi Kim, a brilliant South Korean technocrat. Together, they unravel a trail that connects Ayodhya to Kailasa, Damascus to Korea — chasing the ancient and elusive Dvaitalingam, an artifact of metallurgical power that could shift the global balance.
It’s a heady mix of fact, fiction, and the fantastic — but what truly makes this stand out is how seamlessly Sanghi blends all three.
Sanghi’s chapters are quick — almost like scenes in a high-stakes series. Just when you settle into one timeline, bam! You’re taken centuries back or thousands of miles away. This might sound disorienting, but he makes it work beautifully. His language is accessible but not simplistic. He respects the reader’s intelligence, offering up verses, scientific theories, and philosophical musings, without making you feel lost.
Aditya isn’t your typical action hero. He’s cerebral, broken in places, yet deeply committed. Somi is a standout — no-nonsense, fiercely intelligent, and not relegated to a love interest. Their relationship is rooted in mutual respect, and that’s refreshing.
What fascinated me more, though, were the ideas. The Dvaitalingam isn’t just a mystical object — it symbolizes balance, unity, and power. Sanghi cleverly uses it as a metaphor for our times — where dualities clash constantly: tradition vs. technology, nationalism vs. globalization, myth vs. science.
There’s a LOT going on. We jump between the past — with ancient Indian empires, metallurgical marvels, and intercontinental trade — and the present-day race against time. But the structure is clean, and each timeline enhances the other. The pace rarely lags, and the stakes keep escalating till the very end.
Beyond the thrills, this is a book about knowledge — how we preserve it, forget it, rediscover it. It questions who controls history, and what gets erased when civilizations fall. It also celebrates cultural cooperation — especially the India-Korea connection, which was a pleasant surprise.
There’s a scene where Aditya reflects on his personal loss, tying it to his professional duty — and it hit me unexpectedly hard. For a thriller, The Ayodhya Alliance has its emotional highs. It made me proud, intrigued, and — honestly — a bit nostalgic for the history lessons we never had in school.
The world-building in The Ayodhya Alliance is rich, layered, and entirely believable, pulling readers into a narrative that feels both ancient and urgent. Sanghi’s impeccable research shines through on every page, whether he’s decoding Sanskrit verses or detailing the science of ancient metallurgy. What truly sets the book apart is its conceptual depth — the way it gracefully balances mythology, geopolitics, and cutting-edge science without ever feeling overwhelmed. The pacing is brisk but never rushed, maintaining tension while allowing room for reflection and discovery.
Sometimes, the technical exposition (especially on metallurgy) slows down the tempo. And if you’ve read Sanghi before, you might predict the clue-hunt format. But the freshness of the content makes up for it.
As someone who genuinely enjoys exploring the intersection of science and culture, this book felt like it was written with readers like me in mind — the endlessly curious, deeply rooted in heritage, and always asking what if?
The Ayodhya Alliance is a powerful addition to the Bharat Series. It’s not just a thriller — it’s a tribute to a civilisation’s forgotten glory. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who loves fast-paced fiction but craves something deeper beneath the surface.
Now excuse me while I go brush up on ancient metallurgy — Sanghi's made it weirdly fascinating.
June 30, 2025
The Bharat Collection by Ashwin has always blended mythology, history and fiction admirably for the past 7 books and he does the same in this book as well. The Ayodhya Alliance manages to take discrete events from history and mythology and tell us the tale of this secret that spans millennia and crosses borders as we know them. Ashwin’s writing is visual and powerful. As you read through the story, you can visualize the scenes, be it in 2025, or almost 5000 years ago, and that helps you become a part of the narrative. While the story is fictional, the facts that forms a part of the narrative are very well researched. As a reader, you are compelled to look up a few facts and that strengthens your connection to the story. Another aspect of the book I really loved was the way in which the author takes you back in time, one step at a time, easing you into the narrative. The decision to include a timescale that moves with the story was a great visual tool that helps you stay in touch with the primary plot. The writing is brilliant as usual and you are hooked right from the first page till the last.
The book not just focuses on the mythological stories, but also on the power of love, relationships and friendship which form an integral part of the storytelling. Through the story, Ashwin shows that while we might be separated by borders and languages, our cultures are more similar than dissimilar, and it would be a good experience to keep an eye out while exploring historical locations. The idea that history repeats itself is presented so subtly and beautifully that you almost smile at the realization in the end.
Coming to the characters, I liked how the author has created these characters based on real-life historical figures that form a critical part of the book. Starting from Aditya Pillai, I liked how he creates this resilient industrialist who loves to take up impossible challenge, and when he given one, how he decides to take that up. Somi Kim was another character I really admired for her presence of mind, and her hold on history of not just her country, but the interlinkages with the world history and mythology. While we have these characters in the present time, the characters 2000 years ago are equally resilient and wonderful. Padmasen’s character is wonderfully penned, and I liked how he shows resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Equally important were the characters of Mithra and Soju, specially how they adjusted to their situations and took up the mantle when it was asked of them. But apart from all, there is one character that stood out for me was that of Suriratna through her courage, willpower and the ability to think on her feet. Her character was someone I would really take inspiration from.
Overall, this is a book that is highly recommended for anyone looking to read a wonderfully written mythological-thriller that will help you look at geopolitics today in a completely different light.
The book not just focuses on the mythological stories, but also on the power of love, relationships and friendship which form an integral part of the storytelling. Through the story, Ashwin shows that while we might be separated by borders and languages, our cultures are more similar than dissimilar, and it would be a good experience to keep an eye out while exploring historical locations. The idea that history repeats itself is presented so subtly and beautifully that you almost smile at the realization in the end.
Coming to the characters, I liked how the author has created these characters based on real-life historical figures that form a critical part of the book. Starting from Aditya Pillai, I liked how he creates this resilient industrialist who loves to take up impossible challenge, and when he given one, how he decides to take that up. Somi Kim was another character I really admired for her presence of mind, and her hold on history of not just her country, but the interlinkages with the world history and mythology. While we have these characters in the present time, the characters 2000 years ago are equally resilient and wonderful. Padmasen’s character is wonderfully penned, and I liked how he shows resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Equally important were the characters of Mithra and Soju, specially how they adjusted to their situations and took up the mantle when it was asked of them. But apart from all, there is one character that stood out for me was that of Suriratna through her courage, willpower and the ability to think on her feet. Her character was someone I would really take inspiration from.
Overall, this is a book that is highly recommended for anyone looking to read a wonderfully written mythological-thriller that will help you look at geopolitics today in a completely different light.
September 4, 2025
As mentioned in the blurb, The Ayodhya Alliance spans across centuries and countries, conveying the story of an ancient alliance formed between them. What the alliance is, is revealed later in the novel. The book begins with information revealed by different personalities in different time periods, which may seem confusing at first. But if you read ahead, you’ll find that all of it seamlessly fits together to form the ultimate, grand plot.
The book was slow-paced in the beginning, but not boring. The Ayodhya Alliance has tonnes of information for us to absorb. From the Iron pillar in Delhi to the Wootz steel of Damascus, to the Indian princess in South Korea, to the complex trading network in Korkai, the book is a treat for Indian history lovers. It showcases India as the heart of economic, cultural, and scientific knowledge in ancient times.
I myself learned a lot about our indian history. For eg, although I have never visited Ayodhya, I wasn’t aware of the Heo Hwang-ok memorial there. I never knew that the Damascus Wootz steel was borrowed from southern India. The author, as usual, features a bibliography at the end of the book, and I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to him because I’m going to be spending some time doing my own research.
If you’re wondering why I haven’t given a better rating for the book, then here’s why. This isn’t a typical Ashwin Sanghi book that you’d expect from the author. All his previous books were high tension, hence exciting. The Ayodhya Alliance is a treasure trove of information and has a good storyline, but the tension is missing. In fact, this is the slowest I have ever read a book by Ashwin, not because it wasn’t interesting, but because it lacked pace, and it failed to grasp my attention as a regular thriller by the author would.
Nevertheless, we learn a lot about Indian history and its impact on the world, and the pride that comes with it is unmatched. Overall, The Ayodhya Alliance is a satisfying historical fiction rather than an edge-of-the-seat thriller. I would highly recommend it to readers interested in Indian history.
The book was slow-paced in the beginning, but not boring. The Ayodhya Alliance has tonnes of information for us to absorb. From the Iron pillar in Delhi to the Wootz steel of Damascus, to the Indian princess in South Korea, to the complex trading network in Korkai, the book is a treat for Indian history lovers. It showcases India as the heart of economic, cultural, and scientific knowledge in ancient times.
I myself learned a lot about our indian history. For eg, although I have never visited Ayodhya, I wasn’t aware of the Heo Hwang-ok memorial there. I never knew that the Damascus Wootz steel was borrowed from southern India. The author, as usual, features a bibliography at the end of the book, and I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to him because I’m going to be spending some time doing my own research.
If you’re wondering why I haven’t given a better rating for the book, then here’s why. This isn’t a typical Ashwin Sanghi book that you’d expect from the author. All his previous books were high tension, hence exciting. The Ayodhya Alliance is a treasure trove of information and has a good storyline, but the tension is missing. In fact, this is the slowest I have ever read a book by Ashwin, not because it wasn’t interesting, but because it lacked pace, and it failed to grasp my attention as a regular thriller by the author would.
Nevertheless, we learn a lot about Indian history and its impact on the world, and the pride that comes with it is unmatched. Overall, The Ayodhya Alliance is a satisfying historical fiction rather than an edge-of-the-seat thriller. I would highly recommend it to readers interested in Indian history.
November 25, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi’s "The Ayodhya Alliance" is the kind of book that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. It’s a story that mixes history, science, and adventure in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The book starts with a dying Ravana sharing a secret that could change the world, and from there, it only gets bigger.
The plot moves fast, jumping between ancient secrets and modern-day missions. Aditya Pillai, an Indian industrialist, and Somi Kim, a South Korean technocrat, find themselves in the middle of a race to uncover a hidden technology. What makes the story interesting is how Sanghi connects different parts of history—Ayodhya, Rome, Thailand, Korea—into one big mystery. It’s not just a thriller; it’s a puzzle that keeps you guessing.
The author’s writing is sharp and straightforward. He doesn’t waste time with unnecessary descriptions, which makes the book easy to read. The characters are smart and driven, but they also feel real. Aditya and Somi aren’t superheroes—they make mistakes, they doubt themselves, and that makes their journey more engaging.
What stands out is how the book blends mythology with science. It’s not just about ancient legends; it’s about how those legends might hold truths that still matter today. The idea of a lost technology that could change the world is fascinating, and the author makes it believable.
The book also has a good balance of action and intrigue. There are betrayals, hidden agendas, and enough twists to keep things unpredictable. The ending leaves you thinking, not just about the story, but about the bigger questions it raises—about power, history, and what we might still not know about our past.
If you like fast-paced stories with a mix of history and mystery, "The Ayodhya Alliance" is worth reading. It’s smart, exciting, and hard to put down. Sanghi has written a thriller that’s not just entertaining but also makes you wonder—what if the old stories are more than just stories?
The plot moves fast, jumping between ancient secrets and modern-day missions. Aditya Pillai, an Indian industrialist, and Somi Kim, a South Korean technocrat, find themselves in the middle of a race to uncover a hidden technology. What makes the story interesting is how Sanghi connects different parts of history—Ayodhya, Rome, Thailand, Korea—into one big mystery. It’s not just a thriller; it’s a puzzle that keeps you guessing.
The author’s writing is sharp and straightforward. He doesn’t waste time with unnecessary descriptions, which makes the book easy to read. The characters are smart and driven, but they also feel real. Aditya and Somi aren’t superheroes—they make mistakes, they doubt themselves, and that makes their journey more engaging.
What stands out is how the book blends mythology with science. It’s not just about ancient legends; it’s about how those legends might hold truths that still matter today. The idea of a lost technology that could change the world is fascinating, and the author makes it believable.
The book also has a good balance of action and intrigue. There are betrayals, hidden agendas, and enough twists to keep things unpredictable. The ending leaves you thinking, not just about the story, but about the bigger questions it raises—about power, history, and what we might still not know about our past.
If you like fast-paced stories with a mix of history and mystery, "The Ayodhya Alliance" is worth reading. It’s smart, exciting, and hard to put down. Sanghi has written a thriller that’s not just entertaining but also makes you wonder—what if the old stories are more than just stories?
July 13, 2025
The Ayodhya Alliance by Ashwin Sanghi
When Ravana spills tech secrets on his deathbed... you know things are about to get crazy.
Myth-thriller enthusiasts, get ready—Ashwin Sanghi is back, and he’s blending the Ramayana with rogue AI, Korean dynasties, ancient metallurgy (shoutout to wootz steel!), and a global tech conspiracy that dates back 7,000 years. Seriously. No joke.
The adventure kicks off with a dying Ravana sharing a game-changing secret with Lakshmana—a forgotten technology that could reshape humanity’s future. Fast forward to today: Aditya Pillai (think rich, reluctant hero) and Somi Kim (a total badass South Korean tech whiz) find themselves on a globe-trotting quest filled with temples, hidden symbols, sword-wielding guardians, and—plot twist—an ancient alliance that once connected Ayodhya, Kailasa, Rome, and Korea. One line really hits home: “History is not written by victors. It’s rewritten by survivors.” Wow.
Is it a bit over the top? For sure. But that’s part of the charm.
As always, his writing feels like Dan Brown teamed up with Devdutt Pattanaik and took a trip to Kanchipuram. It’s nerdy and dense at times (hello infodump!), but always packed with drama. You’ll encounter ancient oaths, lost science, divine tech, and characters dropping lines like:
“This isn’t mythology. It’s memory, coded and buried.”
Do you need to know your Vishnu from your Varuna? Not really. The book gives you just enough to vibe with, decode, and dive into a Wikipedia rabbit hole at 3AM.
So if you’re into tales where myths double as tech manuals and border politics intersect with Vedic wisdom, The Ayodhya Alliance is a wild, pulpy, myth-geek adventure you won’t want to miss.
When Ravana spills tech secrets on his deathbed... you know things are about to get crazy.
Myth-thriller enthusiasts, get ready—Ashwin Sanghi is back, and he’s blending the Ramayana with rogue AI, Korean dynasties, ancient metallurgy (shoutout to wootz steel!), and a global tech conspiracy that dates back 7,000 years. Seriously. No joke.
The adventure kicks off with a dying Ravana sharing a game-changing secret with Lakshmana—a forgotten technology that could reshape humanity’s future. Fast forward to today: Aditya Pillai (think rich, reluctant hero) and Somi Kim (a total badass South Korean tech whiz) find themselves on a globe-trotting quest filled with temples, hidden symbols, sword-wielding guardians, and—plot twist—an ancient alliance that once connected Ayodhya, Kailasa, Rome, and Korea. One line really hits home: “History is not written by victors. It’s rewritten by survivors.” Wow.
Is it a bit over the top? For sure. But that’s part of the charm.
As always, his writing feels like Dan Brown teamed up with Devdutt Pattanaik and took a trip to Kanchipuram. It’s nerdy and dense at times (hello infodump!), but always packed with drama. You’ll encounter ancient oaths, lost science, divine tech, and characters dropping lines like:
“This isn’t mythology. It’s memory, coded and buried.”
Do you need to know your Vishnu from your Varuna? Not really. The book gives you just enough to vibe with, decode, and dive into a Wikipedia rabbit hole at 3AM.
So if you’re into tales where myths double as tech manuals and border politics intersect with Vedic wisdom, The Ayodhya Alliance is a wild, pulpy, myth-geek adventure you won’t want to miss.
September 14, 2025
What if the greatest secret of the Ramayana, whispered between gods and kings, still had the power to change our world today?
The Ayodhya Alliance reveals about a long-hidden secret originating from the epic Ramayana. It centers on the powerful Dvaitalingam, a mysterious artifact capable of influencing the course of humanity’s future. This secret, veiled in myth and guarded by time, resurfaces in the present day. This book is a blend of mythology, science, geo-politics and thrilling elements. Ashwin Sanghi takes readers on a globe-spanning quest involving myth, science, archaeology, and political intrigue, with a focus on the power of legacy, faith, and the convergence of mysticism and technology.
The book is quite thick, but I took my time reading it. Though the starting few chapters overwhelmed me, but it is absolutely worth the effort. His writing style is crisp with short, engaging chapters but not missing out on any detail. The book demands patience as it’s covering multiple continents, timelines, and complicated concepts, but it rewards you with with rich world-building and cultural connections. I am completely hooked in the story as it cleverly ties together ancient legends with modern science.
Tropes:
• Mythic quest for a powerful artifact
• Ancient secret with modern implications
• Clash of civilizations and cultures
• Fusion of mythology and science
• Political and geopolitical intrigue
• Dual timelines/time travel narrative
• Hidden knowledge guarded by secret societies
• Suspenseful thriller with twists and revelations
The Ayodhya Alliance reveals about a long-hidden secret originating from the epic Ramayana. It centers on the powerful Dvaitalingam, a mysterious artifact capable of influencing the course of humanity’s future. This secret, veiled in myth and guarded by time, resurfaces in the present day. This book is a blend of mythology, science, geo-politics and thrilling elements. Ashwin Sanghi takes readers on a globe-spanning quest involving myth, science, archaeology, and political intrigue, with a focus on the power of legacy, faith, and the convergence of mysticism and technology.
The book is quite thick, but I took my time reading it. Though the starting few chapters overwhelmed me, but it is absolutely worth the effort. His writing style is crisp with short, engaging chapters but not missing out on any detail. The book demands patience as it’s covering multiple continents, timelines, and complicated concepts, but it rewards you with with rich world-building and cultural connections. I am completely hooked in the story as it cleverly ties together ancient legends with modern science.
Tropes:
• Mythic quest for a powerful artifact
• Ancient secret with modern implications
• Clash of civilizations and cultures
• Fusion of mythology and science
• Political and geopolitical intrigue
• Dual timelines/time travel narrative
• Hidden knowledge guarded by secret societies
• Suspenseful thriller with twists and revelations
August 17, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi’s The Ayodhya Alliance is the ninth addition to his Bharat Series, and it shows why he’s often compared to Dan Brown while still carving out his own unique space. True to his style, he blends mythology, history, and science into a sweeping narrative that moves across millennia and continents. The premise, starting with Ravana’s whispered secret about the Dvaitalingam and connecting it to present-day defence projects, is both ambitious and imaginative.
What stood out for me was the depth of research and the way Sanghi draws links between different cultures—Ayodhya to Korea, Damascus to Rome. The exploration of wootz steel, the trade routes, and the story of Queen Heo Hwang-ok add richness to the narrative. Characters like Somi Kim bring in fresh perspectives, and even Ravana is portrayed with a surprising complexity that goes beyond the usual black-and-white lens. It’s a story that encourages readers to see mythology and history in new ways.
The story itself moves like a puzzle, with Aditya Pillai and Somi Kim uncovering layers of the ancient secret as they chase connections between kingdoms and technologies. From the battlefield of Lanka to the mysteries of trade routes and temples, each thread reveals how deeply intertwined India’s past is with the world’s history. At times complex, the plot still manages to hold your curiosity with its mix of adventure, discovery, and the larger question of how much forgotten knowledge might still shape our present.
What stood out for me was the depth of research and the way Sanghi draws links between different cultures—Ayodhya to Korea, Damascus to Rome. The exploration of wootz steel, the trade routes, and the story of Queen Heo Hwang-ok add richness to the narrative. Characters like Somi Kim bring in fresh perspectives, and even Ravana is portrayed with a surprising complexity that goes beyond the usual black-and-white lens. It’s a story that encourages readers to see mythology and history in new ways.
The story itself moves like a puzzle, with Aditya Pillai and Somi Kim uncovering layers of the ancient secret as they chase connections between kingdoms and technologies. From the battlefield of Lanka to the mysteries of trade routes and temples, each thread reveals how deeply intertwined India’s past is with the world’s history. At times complex, the plot still manages to hold your curiosity with its mix of adventure, discovery, and the larger question of how much forgotten knowledge might still shape our present.
September 10, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi has been my go-to author every time I've craved a mystery-thriller and I've never found the accurate words to detail how brilliantly encyclopediac they are. The Ayodhya Alliance is the latest addition to The Bharat Series. A marvellous plot encapsulating fact, fiction, science, politics, history across geographical expanse- multilayered in mystery.
This story traverses timeliness and places to come together in a steady turn of crazy events. The short chapters and crisp writing are a blessing.
The plot begins with an intriguing episode from The Ramayan — Ravana, moments before his death, reveals a secret to Lakshman. Moving on to the present where India faces a serious defence crisis. Aditya Pillai, a successful industrialist with deep ties to the country's defence sector, joins forces with Somi Kim, a brilliant South Korean technocrat. Together, they unravel a trail that connects Ayodhya to Kailasa, Damascus to Korea (absolutely unexpected but seamlessly weaved together) chasing the ancient Dvaitalingam that could shift the global balance. Be it Aditya Pillai, Somi Kim or the characters that play their crucial parts over the pages of the book, all add to the magnanimous plot, nothing feels like a drag even though we read through a verbose story.
If you've read any books by Sanghi before you are definitely going to enjoy it. If you haven't as yet, you must give it a go- it is a stellar mystery which holds the Indian essence with grace and maturity.
This story traverses timeliness and places to come together in a steady turn of crazy events. The short chapters and crisp writing are a blessing.
The plot begins with an intriguing episode from The Ramayan — Ravana, moments before his death, reveals a secret to Lakshman. Moving on to the present where India faces a serious defence crisis. Aditya Pillai, a successful industrialist with deep ties to the country's defence sector, joins forces with Somi Kim, a brilliant South Korean technocrat. Together, they unravel a trail that connects Ayodhya to Kailasa, Damascus to Korea (absolutely unexpected but seamlessly weaved together) chasing the ancient Dvaitalingam that could shift the global balance. Be it Aditya Pillai, Somi Kim or the characters that play their crucial parts over the pages of the book, all add to the magnanimous plot, nothing feels like a drag even though we read through a verbose story.
If you've read any books by Sanghi before you are definitely going to enjoy it. If you haven't as yet, you must give it a go- it is a stellar mystery which holds the Indian essence with grace and maturity.
October 1, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi's The Ayodhya Alliance is a mytho-thriller that weaves together history, mythology, and modern geopolitics, centered around the mysterious Dvaitalingam, a relic believed to hold immense power.
In contemporary times, Indian entrepreneur Aditya Pillai and Korean technocrat Somi Kim join forces to unravel the mystery surrounding the Dvaitalingam, embarking on a perilous journey that spans India, Korea, and beyond, navigating ancient texts, forgotten lore, and treacherous adversaries seeking to exploit the secret for their own gain, with a blend of historical accuracy and modern-day suspense that captivates the reader.
One of the book's greatest strengths is Sanghi's seamless integration of mythology and science, which sheds light on Indo-Korean connections, forgotten heritage, and the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in modern times, all presented in an engaging narrative with short chapters and a fast-paced momentum, despite occasional slowdowns due to an overload of details.
The story reaches its climax with the discovery of the Dvaitalingam, raising a moral dilemma about whether to reveal or protect this knowledge. Although the resolution may be more symbolic than surprising, the narrative is richly layered and satisfying.
The Ayodhya Alliance is a gripping read, perfect for fans of thrillers and Indian mythology, with a rich and complex narrative.
In contemporary times, Indian entrepreneur Aditya Pillai and Korean technocrat Somi Kim join forces to unravel the mystery surrounding the Dvaitalingam, embarking on a perilous journey that spans India, Korea, and beyond, navigating ancient texts, forgotten lore, and treacherous adversaries seeking to exploit the secret for their own gain, with a blend of historical accuracy and modern-day suspense that captivates the reader.
One of the book's greatest strengths is Sanghi's seamless integration of mythology and science, which sheds light on Indo-Korean connections, forgotten heritage, and the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in modern times, all presented in an engaging narrative with short chapters and a fast-paced momentum, despite occasional slowdowns due to an overload of details.
The story reaches its climax with the discovery of the Dvaitalingam, raising a moral dilemma about whether to reveal or protect this knowledge. Although the resolution may be more symbolic than surprising, the narrative is richly layered and satisfying.
The Ayodhya Alliance is a gripping read, perfect for fans of thrillers and Indian mythology, with a rich and complex narrative.
July 31, 2025
Book Review: The Ayodhya Alliance by Ashwin Sanghi.
I closed the book… and just sat there. Heart racing. Mind full.Not just because of the chase, the secrets, or the clever twists—though "The Ayodhya Alliance" is packed with all of that.But because somewhere between ancient Lanka and modern-day diplomacy, author made me feel like time was folding in on itself, and I was standing right in the middle.
This book is massive in scope—spanning centuries, cultures, and continents—but never once does it lose its grip on emotion. Ravana’s dying whisper sets off a chain that links myth and modern science, Ayodhya and Korea, memory and machine. And somehow, it all feels believable. Urgent. Frighteningly real.
What I loved most? The feeling that this wasn’t just fiction—it was possibility. The kind that makes you look at a temple differently, or pause longer on an old map. Author weaves history and science so skillfully that it doesn’t feel like a story—it feels like something hidden in plain sight.
Characters in the book aren’t just characters in a thriller. They’re flawed, determined, vulnerable. This is more than a page-turner. It’s a mirror held up to our past and a question mark held over our future. And by the end of it, I wasn’t just breathless. I was wide awake. Strongly recommending this one.
I closed the book… and just sat there. Heart racing. Mind full.Not just because of the chase, the secrets, or the clever twists—though "The Ayodhya Alliance" is packed with all of that.But because somewhere between ancient Lanka and modern-day diplomacy, author made me feel like time was folding in on itself, and I was standing right in the middle.
This book is massive in scope—spanning centuries, cultures, and continents—but never once does it lose its grip on emotion. Ravana’s dying whisper sets off a chain that links myth and modern science, Ayodhya and Korea, memory and machine. And somehow, it all feels believable. Urgent. Frighteningly real.
What I loved most? The feeling that this wasn’t just fiction—it was possibility. The kind that makes you look at a temple differently, or pause longer on an old map. Author weaves history and science so skillfully that it doesn’t feel like a story—it feels like something hidden in plain sight.
Characters in the book aren’t just characters in a thriller. They’re flawed, determined, vulnerable. This is more than a page-turner. It’s a mirror held up to our past and a question mark held over our future. And by the end of it, I wasn’t just breathless. I was wide awake. Strongly recommending this one.
October 14, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi seems to have forgotten the art of writing perfect historical thrillers includes not overburdening his readers with information. He has so many different POVs that a reader will surely lose himself in the info.
And when minds get overburdened the story becomes a lecture. The chapters where they started by showing the timeline those could have easily been skipped without hurting the story much.
The focus here was more on the ancient day story than on the modern times!! Only towards the end did we get to see a little action.
This was really disappointing!
Other than that it's decent, just an average thriller. The research done is excellent but he tries to show off his research through some dialogue- It was about wootz steel and the professor Jung started talking about the tamil and Sanskrit names for it when they weren't relevant only the explanation of what wootz steel is was required.
And when minds get overburdened the story becomes a lecture. The chapters where they started by showing the timeline those could have easily been skipped without hurting the story much.
The focus here was more on the ancient day story than on the modern times!! Only towards the end did we get to see a little action.
This was really disappointing!
Other than that it's decent, just an average thriller. The research done is excellent but he tries to show off his research through some dialogue- It was about wootz steel and the professor Jung started talking about the tamil and Sanskrit names for it when they weren't relevant only the explanation of what wootz steel is was required.
June 29, 2025
I've always been a fan of Ashwin Sanghi's Bharat series- starting from the Krishna Key, which was my first encounter.
And when I found out that he released this book, I ordered it immediately and began my read of the 500+ pages of the book.
To put it this way, the book is thought provoking - I never saw the similarities between some of the symbols the book mentioned till date, gained a bit of trivia on ancient indian iron making , connects between the civilizations.
The flow, while jumping back and forth between eras, doesn't feel abrupt because of this timeline structure that he has brought on every chapter heading, making it easy to place.
This might be Ashwin Sanghi's best ever work - I used to think of him as India's Dan Brown, but this work may just have outclassed Dan Brown and converted him to USA's Ashwin Sanghi.
And when I found out that he released this book, I ordered it immediately and began my read of the 500+ pages of the book.
To put it this way, the book is thought provoking - I never saw the similarities between some of the symbols the book mentioned till date, gained a bit of trivia on ancient indian iron making , connects between the civilizations.
The flow, while jumping back and forth between eras, doesn't feel abrupt because of this timeline structure that he has brought on every chapter heading, making it easy to place.
This might be Ashwin Sanghi's best ever work - I used to think of him as India's Dan Brown, but this work may just have outclassed Dan Brown and converted him to USA's Ashwin Sanghi.
September 13, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi has, over the past decade, carved a very specific space for himself in Indian popular fiction: the master of mytho-thrillers. His books have always promised a heady mix of mythology, history, geopolitics, and science, wrapped inside a narrative that feels part Dan Brown, part Devdutt Pattanaik, and unmistakably Sanghi. With "The Ayodhya Alliance", the latest addition to his Bharat series, he attempts perhaps his most ambitious project yet, a story that spans seven millennia, "traverses from the battlefields of Lanka to the steel forges of Korkai, from Ayodhya’s temples to Korean palaces, from Damascus to Thailand", and still tries to remain anchored in the anxieties of the modern Indian nation-state.
July 6, 2025
The geopolitics is on point at the very beginning of the book, the storyline is so gripping, and the history, for someone like me, is the best part is the best part of the narrative- it is so well researched, spirituality is embedded into the narrative and is like a balm to the reader’s soul. Little nuggets of history (and very accurate if compared to primary sources) buried here and there for the reader to find. The overall narrative is spread throughout a vast timeline but it isn’t difficult to follow; rather it makes for a more interesting read. It is definitely one of the best books this year so far and one of the best historical fiction-thrillers in general.
November 30, 2025
The Ayodhya Alliance by Ashwin Sanghi is a thrilling blend of mythology, science, and geopolitics. The story revolves around a long-buried secret from ancient times that could reshape world's destiny. Industrialist Aditya Pillai and South Korean technocrat Somi Kim embark on a globe-trotting quest from Ayodhya to global historical sites, uncovering lost knowledge and suppressed technologies. The narrative explores the intersection of ethics, power, and civilizational continuity. With crisp prose and strong character dynamics, Sanghi's work challenges readers to rethink myth and reality. The novel stands as a significant contribution to popular fiction rooted in Indic history.
August 7, 2025
Ashwin Sanghi is one of India's top selling authors. When I picked up his book, I expected it to reflect his formidable reputation but was sorely disappointed. Juggling multiple timelines to tell a story that literally spans centuries with a multi-cultural cast is an ambitious undertaking and the author falls short of turning it into a cohesive, compelling story. By mid point I was struggling with the immense cast of characters and trying to make sense of it and lost interest. Plot heavy and badly written. So much for Ashwin Sanghi's reputation of being the Dan Brown of India!
August 11, 2025
There was a need for at least one more chapter, a chapter to tie all the stories together in the end, like Ashwin Sanghi usually does. The book is lengthy, spanning 561 pages, and I finished it within the weekend, as putting it away would have made me forget the earlier plot. Many stories were running in parallel, and it really needed a stronger, more connected ending. I even went back to check whether I had missed a chapter before the epilogue, but there wasn’t any,so the ending felt incomplete.
October 17, 2025
The book moves in too many directions at the same time and it’s hard to keep a track of what’s happening in which time period.
I powered through hoping for an ending that would connect everything together eventually. While everything did get connected, it felt less than satisfying. Some of the characters that seem to be important earlier in the book seemed to reach an abrupt ending without really impacting the outcome a great deal.
What I learnt about some of the historical facts was intriguing enough earning the book a three star review.
I powered through hoping for an ending that would connect everything together eventually. While everything did get connected, it felt less than satisfying. Some of the characters that seem to be important earlier in the book seemed to reach an abrupt ending without really impacting the outcome a great deal.
What I learnt about some of the historical facts was intriguing enough earning the book a three star review.
October 24, 2025
Journey is more beautiful than destination!!!
It's the perfect title for this book. This book requires much attention while reading as there are many characters and also the names of these characters are of ancient times which are quite difficult to recall. Ashwin described the journey of each character very well as always but this time he couldn't end up the story as it was like how can such a adventurous journey from Ramayana to Cholas to Romans etc can end in a simplest way. If you're a Ashwin Sanghi fan than this book is quite disappointing.
It's the perfect title for this book. This book requires much attention while reading as there are many characters and also the names of these characters are of ancient times which are quite difficult to recall. Ashwin described the journey of each character very well as always but this time he couldn't end up the story as it was like how can such a adventurous journey from Ramayana to Cholas to Romans etc can end in a simplest way. If you're a Ashwin Sanghi fan than this book is quite disappointing.
November 4, 2025
Good but not great
I was introduced to Ashwin Sanghi via Chanakya’s chant and it kept me awake the entire night, it was that gripping and interesting, having the same expectations from this book, i was bit disappointed by the same that it was not the case, i was eagerly awaiting for this book but did not enjoy it that much, there are too many parallel timelines to keep track of (i understand that it might be necessary) and too much material science for me, Moreover, the ending felt abrupt and some timelines felt unnecessary, would “not highly recommend” this book.
I was introduced to Ashwin Sanghi via Chanakya’s chant and it kept me awake the entire night, it was that gripping and interesting, having the same expectations from this book, i was bit disappointed by the same that it was not the case, i was eagerly awaiting for this book but did not enjoy it that much, there are too many parallel timelines to keep track of (i understand that it might be necessary) and too much material science for me, Moreover, the ending felt abrupt and some timelines felt unnecessary, would “not highly recommend” this book.
December 18, 2025
Soooo Islamophobic. As a Hindu Indian, I would’ve enjoyed a story about the past achievements of Indians but this only venerates Hindus and Indians by denigrating others and taking credit for marvels around the world.
Incredibly boring and disappointing. The writing does a lot of telling and not showing, not even worth reading for that. Barely any female characters. 3 I think at most.
Could have been incredibly interesting but I’m steering clear of anything by this author now. It’s 2025, it’s time to look past your prejudices and grow up.
Incredibly boring and disappointing. The writing does a lot of telling and not showing, not even worth reading for that. Barely any female characters. 3 I think at most.
Could have been incredibly interesting but I’m steering clear of anything by this author now. It’s 2025, it’s time to look past your prejudices and grow up.
July 29, 2025
Though i started to enjoy the beginning, i got overwhelmed with too many characters spanning across continents and different timelines. Halfway through, i just felt like the story has been dragged too much and towards the end, i found it extremely difficult to read and it sort of became boring! 🥱 In all, a master storyteller is yet to unleash his magic! Expecting something better from Ashwin Sanghi.. more like another Chanakya’s Chant or Rozabel Lane!
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