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Mahabharat 2025: The Secrets of Shunya
Modern men called it a myth.
Now, the great war is coming again.
It is 2025. A doomsday prophecy halts time as an ancient bloodline blessed by Krishna stands on the brink of extinction. When social media influencer Divyansh Ananthar is embroiled in a controversy that puts him on a dangerous path, he finds an unlikely saviour who opens his eyes to everything he believes to be a myth. As it turns out, the war in Kurukshetra was not the end but just the beginning. The Mahabharat is set to happen again, and a non-believer is the key to the war of the gods.
Thrust into a world where demigods walk among us and ancient warriors silently await the return of the Mahabharat, Divyansh must uncover the secrets of his ancestors that have made him the ultimate target. Joined by a powerful celestial being, an old friend and her brave dog, he embarks on a race against time to prevent the return of a war prophesied to mark the end of everything. Unknown to him and his companions, Ashwatthama has risen. And this time, he is determined to win at any cost.
In an age where even the gods have abandoned humankind, can Divyansh and his friends defy the limits of destiny and time to stop the greatest war from unfolding?
You are about to find out.
Now, the great war is coming again.
It is 2025. A doomsday prophecy halts time as an ancient bloodline blessed by Krishna stands on the brink of extinction. When social media influencer Divyansh Ananthar is embroiled in a controversy that puts him on a dangerous path, he finds an unlikely saviour who opens his eyes to everything he believes to be a myth. As it turns out, the war in Kurukshetra was not the end but just the beginning. The Mahabharat is set to happen again, and a non-believer is the key to the war of the gods.
Thrust into a world where demigods walk among us and ancient warriors silently await the return of the Mahabharat, Divyansh must uncover the secrets of his ancestors that have made him the ultimate target. Joined by a powerful celestial being, an old friend and her brave dog, he embarks on a race against time to prevent the return of a war prophesied to mark the end of everything. Unknown to him and his companions, Ashwatthama has risen. And this time, he is determined to win at any cost.
In an age where even the gods have abandoned humankind, can Divyansh and his friends defy the limits of destiny and time to stop the greatest war from unfolding?
You are about to find out.
264 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2025
10 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
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May 18, 2025I have not read this book fully but my brother wrote this book his name is Divyansh Mundra and his my brother so I am giving this 5 star brother duh 🙄
July 24, 2025
A fresh modern take on Mahabharata lore and inter-mixed worlds. The author has set the premise for a lot more on this context. Like the mother epic itself.
But the plot could have been deeper, there are too many adjectives for my liking, and a tad superfluousness in language.
Recommend to those with interest in the Indian mythology.
But the plot could have been deeper, there are too many adjectives for my liking, and a tad superfluousness in language.
Recommend to those with interest in the Indian mythology.
June 15, 2025
If you have a knack for mythology, this new age mythology would definitely be of your interest. Once you pick up the book you would be able to keep it down .
A bonus is that every chapter has a QR which would take through the AI visuals of the story .
It was like reading a book with digital pictures.
5 ⭐ for this super innovative idea !
A bonus is that every chapter has a QR which would take through the AI visuals of the story .
It was like reading a book with digital pictures.
5 ⭐ for this super innovative idea !
June 11, 2025
I’ve been following the author on Instagram for a while and have always loved the way he retells Mahabaratham. So when I saw he had a book out, I didn’t even think twice before ordering it.
The author’s note at the beginning really pulled me in. It felt deep and personal, and I was excited to see where the story would go. The concept of bringing Mahabaratham into a modern setting with new-age characters is really intriguing. But once I started reading, I found myself struggling. The first half felt slow and hard to stay connected to. I put the book down several times because the pacing just didn’t hold me.
The second half was better and moved faster, which helped. But I was left unsure whether this is a standalone book or part of a series. The ending felt open, like there’s more to come, but there’s no clear mention of a sequel. That left me feeling a bit disappointed. I’m not sure I’ll remember all the details by the time the next book comes out, if it ever does.
One thing I really appreciated was the QR code at the end of each chapter. It links to a PDF with AI-generated images related to that part of the story. That added a unique layer to the reading experience and helped with visualizing the scenes. It’s a fresh and creative idea, and I genuinely appreciate the author for thinking of it.
The characters had potential and made some impact, but they felt a little too predictable at times. Something about them didn’t fully click with me.
Overall, I’d give it 2.5 stars. It’s a concept that might work better as a movie or web series than a novel. Still, I’d love to listen to this story as an audiobook, especially if it’s narrated by the author himself—his storytelling style really shines in his voice.
The author’s note at the beginning really pulled me in. It felt deep and personal, and I was excited to see where the story would go. The concept of bringing Mahabaratham into a modern setting with new-age characters is really intriguing. But once I started reading, I found myself struggling. The first half felt slow and hard to stay connected to. I put the book down several times because the pacing just didn’t hold me.
The second half was better and moved faster, which helped. But I was left unsure whether this is a standalone book or part of a series. The ending felt open, like there’s more to come, but there’s no clear mention of a sequel. That left me feeling a bit disappointed. I’m not sure I’ll remember all the details by the time the next book comes out, if it ever does.
One thing I really appreciated was the QR code at the end of each chapter. It links to a PDF with AI-generated images related to that part of the story. That added a unique layer to the reading experience and helped with visualizing the scenes. It’s a fresh and creative idea, and I genuinely appreciate the author for thinking of it.
The characters had potential and made some impact, but they felt a little too predictable at times. Something about them didn’t fully click with me.
Overall, I’d give it 2.5 stars. It’s a concept that might work better as a movie or web series than a novel. Still, I’d love to listen to this story as an audiobook, especially if it’s narrated by the author himself—his storytelling style really shines in his voice.
May 6, 2025
The book starts with Divyansh (the author, not the character 🙃) giving a really detailed and apt description of the Kurukshetra War. He does not hold back show the dark, gruesome side of the war and it continues in the fights taking place in the present as well. Which personally I like in the books where the stakes are real and collateral damage does takes place. That takes me to my next point story writing, it is very tight.
All the things in the plot makes sense, at least I could not find any loose ends where I can question that this is not realistic. Can’t go in the details, that would contain spoilers.
I loved the way all the characters are setup in just once scene. That one scene/narration is so powerful and impactful that you instantly understand the character, its backstory and its behaviour.
One of my favourite things is the meta references about the plot.
The thing that I enjoyed the most were the gen-z slangs and a desi touch that was screaming that yes this our very own Indian Novel and we are not trying to copy the western style of storytelling.
Also the depiction of harsh and toxic reality of Influencers, Content Creators and Social Media in general was very apt.
One thing which stood out was that the timing of world building was very good, at the right place and right time. Many times in the books the world building is done at wrong times, just before a big fight or in the middle of a fight which is not a right time for yapping.
In general I would like to say that the story is very tightly written. Right jokes and serious discussions at the right time. Also the book is very fast paced, a quick read and easy to process and enjoy.
The only complain that I have is that the book is too small, I felt that there are lots and lots of things in this world to explore and to set them up. Which I’m sure will be done in the upcoming parts. Eagerly waiting for them.
All the things in the plot makes sense, at least I could not find any loose ends where I can question that this is not realistic. Can’t go in the details, that would contain spoilers.
I loved the way all the characters are setup in just once scene. That one scene/narration is so powerful and impactful that you instantly understand the character, its backstory and its behaviour.
One of my favourite things is the meta references about the plot.
The thing that I enjoyed the most were the gen-z slangs and a desi touch that was screaming that yes this our very own Indian Novel and we are not trying to copy the western style of storytelling.
Also the depiction of harsh and toxic reality of Influencers, Content Creators and Social Media in general was very apt.
One thing which stood out was that the timing of world building was very good, at the right place and right time. Many times in the books the world building is done at wrong times, just before a big fight or in the middle of a fight which is not a right time for yapping.
In general I would like to say that the story is very tightly written. Right jokes and serious discussions at the right time. Also the book is very fast paced, a quick read and easy to process and enjoy.
The only complain that I have is that the book is too small, I felt that there are lots and lots of things in this world to explore and to set them up. Which I’m sure will be done in the upcoming parts. Eagerly waiting for them.
December 24, 2025
This book is an ambitious and creative reimagining that blends mythology, history, and futuristic elements. While the concept is intriguing, the execution felt a bit rushed.
The story moves quickly, and although many of the references are rooted in history and mythology, I found myself wishing there was more context and clearer introductions as new characters entered the narrative. A little more explanation would have helped ground the reader, especially given the complexity of the Mahabharata and the modern spin being attempted here.
The ending was another mixed point for me. It felt open-ended, almost as if it’s setting up a sequel, but there’s no clear indication of whether or when the story will continue. That left me slightly disappointed — if a follow-up does come out much later, I’m not sure I’ll remember all the finer details to fully enjoy it.
One thing I genuinely appreciated was the QR code at the end of each chapter. Scanning it takes you to a PDF with AI-generated images tied to that part of the story, which added a unique and immersive visual layer to the reading experience. It’s a fresh, thoughtful idea, and credit to the author for experimenting with something new.
Stylistically, the book leaned a bit too “Bollywood” for my personal taste, though the light humor sprinkled throughout was a cute and welcome touch.
A creative concept with some innovative ideas, but the pacing, character introductions, and open-ended conclusion held it back for me. An interesting read, just not as impactful as it could have been.
The story moves quickly, and although many of the references are rooted in history and mythology, I found myself wishing there was more context and clearer introductions as new characters entered the narrative. A little more explanation would have helped ground the reader, especially given the complexity of the Mahabharata and the modern spin being attempted here.
The ending was another mixed point for me. It felt open-ended, almost as if it’s setting up a sequel, but there’s no clear indication of whether or when the story will continue. That left me slightly disappointed — if a follow-up does come out much later, I’m not sure I’ll remember all the finer details to fully enjoy it.
One thing I genuinely appreciated was the QR code at the end of each chapter. Scanning it takes you to a PDF with AI-generated images tied to that part of the story, which added a unique and immersive visual layer to the reading experience. It’s a fresh, thoughtful idea, and credit to the author for experimenting with something new.
Stylistically, the book leaned a bit too “Bollywood” for my personal taste, though the light humor sprinkled throughout was a cute and welcome touch.
A creative concept with some innovative ideas, but the pacing, character introductions, and open-ended conclusion held it back for me. An interesting read, just not as impactful as it could have been.
May 8, 2025
“There is no peace in death, only misery and pain.”
The way the story pulled me in and kept me in its world is something I crave for in a good book. The best part about this one is that it isn’t a retelling of the Mahabharat. Instead, it is what only someone with an amazing imagination could bring into existence. And becoming the greatest storyteller?! You’re most definitely on the right path, if not already there!
Honestly, I would be shouting about this book from rooftops if it didn’t paint me as more insane than I already am. There’s equal amounts of the modern world here in addition to a few well-known names of the Mahabharat and some new characters as well. The fast pace of the story makes the pressure of the end of the world seem very real and if you’re anything like me, you won’t be able to breathe until you get to the end.
What I also want to appreciate here is the inclusion of technology to elevate the reading experience. While few of us are blessed with a vivid imagination, everyone else won’t feel left behind in this story because there’s a QR code at the end of each chapter which you can follow and witness the story as it unfolds. I truly loved seeing the pictorial representation of the story as it certainly makes things even more interesting.
If there’s one book you’ll read this year or this month, let it be this one! I promise that you won’t regret it.
The way the story pulled me in and kept me in its world is something I crave for in a good book. The best part about this one is that it isn’t a retelling of the Mahabharat. Instead, it is what only someone with an amazing imagination could bring into existence. And becoming the greatest storyteller?! You’re most definitely on the right path, if not already there!
Honestly, I would be shouting about this book from rooftops if it didn’t paint me as more insane than I already am. There’s equal amounts of the modern world here in addition to a few well-known names of the Mahabharat and some new characters as well. The fast pace of the story makes the pressure of the end of the world seem very real and if you’re anything like me, you won’t be able to breathe until you get to the end.
What I also want to appreciate here is the inclusion of technology to elevate the reading experience. While few of us are blessed with a vivid imagination, everyone else won’t feel left behind in this story because there’s a QR code at the end of each chapter which you can follow and witness the story as it unfolds. I truly loved seeing the pictorial representation of the story as it certainly makes things even more interesting.
If there’s one book you’ll read this year or this month, let it be this one! I promise that you won’t regret it.
September 7, 2025
Completed this book in a day, cause I could not help but not put it down!
What a book!
Characters - super cool!
Storyline - great!
pace - fast, but perfect!
perfect balance between seriousness with some comic moments and genZ lingo - amazing!
QR that lead to AI generated pictures - awesome!
All in all, it was a nice book! Mind scorching ending!
If you've had fun reading Palace of Illusions or have known about Mahabharat in depth, you'd love this modern version with a hint(honestly, not just hint) of OG characters.
What a book!
Characters - super cool!
Storyline - great!
pace - fast, but perfect!
perfect balance between seriousness with some comic moments and genZ lingo - amazing!
QR that lead to AI generated pictures - awesome!
All in all, it was a nice book! Mind scorching ending!
If you've had fun reading Palace of Illusions or have known about Mahabharat in depth, you'd love this modern version with a hint(honestly, not just hint) of OG characters.
November 13, 2025
Mahabharat 2025 dares to reimagine the epic through AI-powered visuals and cinematic ambition — but forgets the human heart that made the story timeless. The scale is massive, the promise bold, yet emotion is lost in translation.
Characters feel lifeless, dialogues robotic, and the “AI realism” often drifts into uncanny awkwardness. The battles impress, but the soul of dharma and inner conflict — the essence of Mahabharat — is missing.
Verdict: A spectacular experiment that dazzles the eyes but fails the spirit.
Characters feel lifeless, dialogues robotic, and the “AI realism” often drifts into uncanny awkwardness. The battles impress, but the soul of dharma and inner conflict — the essence of Mahabharat — is missing.
Verdict: A spectacular experiment that dazzles the eyes but fails the spirit.
July 12, 2025
"fuvk fuvk fuvk" my exact reaction when i was at the last part of the book. Thiis book gets bonus points for adding a QR code linking to a PDF of AI interpretation of the scenes. It made imagining everything so much easier (a smart idea indeed). But it would've been if the book used something to show scene change.
May 30, 2025
over all good. too descriptive and lengthy at times but story is build up good till the end. good for new writer. enjoyed it
July 19, 2025
full marks for the creative plot. there is such a wonderful element to fantasy to this fiction. some loose ends, some mismatches of the chararcters buy overall a good read
October 13, 2025
I am shocked. Did not think this would go the way it did!
The humor was fun and twists kept me hooked.
This has to be a series or I'm gonna crash out.
The humor was fun and twists kept me hooked.
This has to be a series or I'm gonna crash out.
October 27, 2025
Loved the twists in the books.
May 22, 2025
I have been following this author for the longest time and all I can say is, I JUST KNEW IT WOULD BE THIS GREAT!!!!!!
September 19, 2025
Mahabharat 2025 was such a refreshing read! I went in expecting another mythological retelling, but this one really surprised me. The way the story brings the epic into a futuristic, almost sci-fi setting kept me hooked from start to finish. It is not just about gods and wars, it is about questioning what we believe in, and I loved how the story blurs the line between myth and reality.
The absolute highlight for me? The illustrations. They are stunning, 10/10, easily some of the best I have seen in a book like this. They make the whole reading experience so much more immersive.
I am genuinely excited to see where this series goes next. The ending set up things perfectly, and I will be waiting (impatiently) for the sequel. If you enjoy mythology with a modern twist, this one is worth picking up.
The absolute highlight for me? The illustrations. They are stunning, 10/10, easily some of the best I have seen in a book like this. They make the whole reading experience so much more immersive.
I am genuinely excited to see where this series goes next. The ending set up things perfectly, and I will be waiting (impatiently) for the sequel. If you enjoy mythology with a modern twist, this one is worth picking up.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews