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EPIC KATHA: Stories from the Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads, Ramayana, Mahabharata and Folklore
The Myths You Thought You Knew-And Those You Never Heard
In the Hindu tradition, storytelling is seen as a sacred act. It is not merely the telling of events or the recounting of history but a way of transmitting knowledge, values, and spiritual insight. The stories are crafted to engage the listener on multiple levels-intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. On the surface, they may appear to be simple tales of gods, kings, and sages. But as one delves deeper, the layers of meaning begin to unfold, revealing profound philosophical truths and pathways to self-realisation.
Some stories echo through the ages, shaping civilizations. Others lie hidden, waiting to be rediscovered. Both come together in Epic Katha, a thoughtfully curated collection bridging the familiar and the forgotten. Here, you'll find cherished tales such as Krishna Lifts Govardhan Hill and Yama Enlightens Nachiketa , alongside lesser-known gems like The Princess Who Travelled Across Time, The Many Within the One and Rama Meets Shiva.
A story is only as powerful as the way it's told-and Deepam Chatterjee, with his deep knowledge and contagious passion for Indian Mythology, shares narratives that are both engaging and thought provoking.
These stories aren't just echoes of the past, they offer timeless insights into the world we live in. Whether you are revisiting legends or discovering lost tales for the first time, Epic Katha will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
About The
Deepam Chatterjee is a Happiness Coach and Corporate Speaker on 'Healthy Mind-Body-Spirit'. A former Army Captain and NDA alumnus, he writes on Hindu thought, spirituality, mysticism, and wellness, with regular columns in The Telegraph and The Daily Guardian. A keen chronicler of lost myths and oral traditions, he blends ancient Indian wisdom with modern living. After retiring from the Army, he explored filmmaking and trained under spiritual masters like Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Dalai Lama, shaping his journey of inner growth.
In the Hindu tradition, storytelling is seen as a sacred act. It is not merely the telling of events or the recounting of history but a way of transmitting knowledge, values, and spiritual insight. The stories are crafted to engage the listener on multiple levels-intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. On the surface, they may appear to be simple tales of gods, kings, and sages. But as one delves deeper, the layers of meaning begin to unfold, revealing profound philosophical truths and pathways to self-realisation.
Some stories echo through the ages, shaping civilizations. Others lie hidden, waiting to be rediscovered. Both come together in Epic Katha, a thoughtfully curated collection bridging the familiar and the forgotten. Here, you'll find cherished tales such as Krishna Lifts Govardhan Hill and Yama Enlightens Nachiketa , alongside lesser-known gems like The Princess Who Travelled Across Time, The Many Within the One and Rama Meets Shiva.
A story is only as powerful as the way it's told-and Deepam Chatterjee, with his deep knowledge and contagious passion for Indian Mythology, shares narratives that are both engaging and thought provoking.
These stories aren't just echoes of the past, they offer timeless insights into the world we live in. Whether you are revisiting legends or discovering lost tales for the first time, Epic Katha will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
About The
Deepam Chatterjee is a Happiness Coach and Corporate Speaker on 'Healthy Mind-Body-Spirit'. A former Army Captain and NDA alumnus, he writes on Hindu thought, spirituality, mysticism, and wellness, with regular columns in The Telegraph and The Daily Guardian. A keen chronicler of lost myths and oral traditions, he blends ancient Indian wisdom with modern living. After retiring from the Army, he explored filmmaking and trained under spiritual masters like Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and the Dalai Lama, shaping his journey of inner growth.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
August 21, 2025
*Not just a book,but an experience and teachings that will stay with you forever*
I've just finished reading Epic Katha by Deepam Chatterjee, and I have to say, it's not just a book—it's an incredible journey. I've always been fascinated by Indian myths, but this book really opened my eyes. Instead of just giving us one big story, the author has gathered tales from all over, like from the very old Upanishads and the huge epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It's like having a wise old storyteller take you by the hand and show you how all these different legends are connected.
What really got me was how Deepam Chatterjee doesn't just tell the stories; he makes you feel the wisdom inside them. I was especially moved by the chapter "Yama Enlightens Nachiketa." The story of a young boy who bravely faces the Lord of Death to find the truth about life and beyond... it's a powerful reminder to seek knowledge fearlessly. Reading that chapter, I felt a knot in my throat, thinking about how much courage and determination this young boy had. It’s a story that makes you pause and think about your own life and what really matters.
But the part that truly made me read and re-read this book was the Mahabharata segment. The stories of "The Daughter of Fire," "The Demon Eater," and "The Lake-Dwelling Yaksha" were just so compelling. They're not just about gods and heroes; they're about very real human emotions—betrayal, loyalty, and the complex choices people have to make. The way these ancient tales are told felt so fresh and relevant, and they’re what kept me coming back to the book. This book is a true treasure, and I'm so glad I got to experience it. It's a reminder that these ancient stories are more than just myths; they are lessons for us all.
I've just finished reading Epic Katha by Deepam Chatterjee, and I have to say, it's not just a book—it's an incredible journey. I've always been fascinated by Indian myths, but this book really opened my eyes. Instead of just giving us one big story, the author has gathered tales from all over, like from the very old Upanishads and the huge epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. It's like having a wise old storyteller take you by the hand and show you how all these different legends are connected.
What really got me was how Deepam Chatterjee doesn't just tell the stories; he makes you feel the wisdom inside them. I was especially moved by the chapter "Yama Enlightens Nachiketa." The story of a young boy who bravely faces the Lord of Death to find the truth about life and beyond... it's a powerful reminder to seek knowledge fearlessly. Reading that chapter, I felt a knot in my throat, thinking about how much courage and determination this young boy had. It’s a story that makes you pause and think about your own life and what really matters.
But the part that truly made me read and re-read this book was the Mahabharata segment. The stories of "The Daughter of Fire," "The Demon Eater," and "The Lake-Dwelling Yaksha" were just so compelling. They're not just about gods and heroes; they're about very real human emotions—betrayal, loyalty, and the complex choices people have to make. The way these ancient tales are told felt so fresh and relevant, and they’re what kept me coming back to the book. This book is a true treasure, and I'm so glad I got to experience it. It's a reminder that these ancient stories are more than just myths; they are lessons for us all.
September 14, 2025
Epic Katha by Deepam Chatterjee is a mythological fiction that is collection of stories from Indian mythology. Some of these tales are the ones we've grown up listening to, while many others are relatively lesser known yet equally captivating.
The book is around 300 pages and is nicely divided into eight parts:
Part 1: The Vedas
Part 2: The Upanishads
Part 3: The Bhagavata Purana
Part 4: The Devi Bhagavatam
Part 5: The Shiva Purana
Part 6: Other Puranas
Part 7: The Ramayan
Part 8: The Mahabharata
Since I had very little prior knowledge of Indian mythology, I was initially a bit hesitant to pick it up. But to my surprise, the narrative is so engaging that even a beginner like me was completely absorbed in the stories. By the end, I not only enjoyed reading them but also developed curiosity to explore these texts further. Personally, Parts 3, 5, and 6 became my absolute favorites.
What I loved most is how simply these stories are told. Each part offers crisp, easy to understand narratives that give a clear glimpse into important mythological events. I even found myself sharing many of these stories with my family, which made reading the book even more special.
This book has truly sparked my interest in Indian mythology, and I believe it has the power to do the same for many others.
Whether you are completely new to mythology or already well-versed in it, this book is worth reading. Beginners will find it approachable, and even seasoned readers will appreciate how it brings together so many essential stories in one place.
I sincerely hope a Hindi version of this book comes out soon, l would love to gift it to my family and friends.
Kudos to the author for curating such a meaningful collection of mythological tales in such an accessible and enjoyable manner.
The book is around 300 pages and is nicely divided into eight parts:
Part 1: The Vedas
Part 2: The Upanishads
Part 3: The Bhagavata Purana
Part 4: The Devi Bhagavatam
Part 5: The Shiva Purana
Part 6: Other Puranas
Part 7: The Ramayan
Part 8: The Mahabharata
Since I had very little prior knowledge of Indian mythology, I was initially a bit hesitant to pick it up. But to my surprise, the narrative is so engaging that even a beginner like me was completely absorbed in the stories. By the end, I not only enjoyed reading them but also developed curiosity to explore these texts further. Personally, Parts 3, 5, and 6 became my absolute favorites.
What I loved most is how simply these stories are told. Each part offers crisp, easy to understand narratives that give a clear glimpse into important mythological events. I even found myself sharing many of these stories with my family, which made reading the book even more special.
This book has truly sparked my interest in Indian mythology, and I believe it has the power to do the same for many others.
Whether you are completely new to mythology or already well-versed in it, this book is worth reading. Beginners will find it approachable, and even seasoned readers will appreciate how it brings together so many essential stories in one place.
I sincerely hope a Hindi version of this book comes out soon, l would love to gift it to my family and friends.
Kudos to the author for curating such a meaningful collection of mythological tales in such an accessible and enjoyable manner.
August 21, 2025
Epic Katha, as the title suggests, is a remarkable collection of stories drawn from the Hindu Vedas, Upanishads, epics, and other sacred texts. Author Deepam Chatterjee has done a wonderful job of curating tales that everyone should know, bringing alive the essence of Hinduism an ancient tradition rich in wisdom, values, and culture.
In earlier times, these stories were the medium through which knowledge and morals were passed down from one generation to the next. Over time, much of this heritage faded amidst modern living, and this book stands as a testament to reviving that treasure trove. Narrated in simple, accessible language, the stories may be short but are layered with meaning and depth.
What impressed me most is the way the book is organized into eight sections, each holding a mix of familiar stories and new discoveries. The author also references the scripture each tale is drawn from, encouraging readers to explore further. The illustrations add vibrancy, making the stories even more engaging, while the striking cover depicting Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in one form deserves special mention.
Every story in Epic Katha feels enriching and thought-provoking, imparting timeless lessons. Among them, the Nasadiya Sukta, the hymn of creation, stood out as my personal favorite one I would revisit often. Overall, this book is a true gem, one to be cherished, preserved, and passed on to generations to come.
In earlier times, these stories were the medium through which knowledge and morals were passed down from one generation to the next. Over time, much of this heritage faded amidst modern living, and this book stands as a testament to reviving that treasure trove. Narrated in simple, accessible language, the stories may be short but are layered with meaning and depth.
What impressed me most is the way the book is organized into eight sections, each holding a mix of familiar stories and new discoveries. The author also references the scripture each tale is drawn from, encouraging readers to explore further. The illustrations add vibrancy, making the stories even more engaging, while the striking cover depicting Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in one form deserves special mention.
Every story in Epic Katha feels enriching and thought-provoking, imparting timeless lessons. Among them, the Nasadiya Sukta, the hymn of creation, stood out as my personal favorite one I would revisit often. Overall, this book is a true gem, one to be cherished, preserved, and passed on to generations to come.
September 5, 2025
This book is knowledgeable account of religion through Vedas, Upanishads, puranas, Various Ramayana and Mahabharata. Author with detail knowledge and research on the topic and lesser known character and stories from these religious texts.
Author told us stories of how Goddess incarnation came into being and what purpose they have , Fight between gods and demons, ego clashes between gods, stories of Sages , there sacrifices for Dharma , Kama sacrifice for saving the world. Sage Dadichi sacrifice his backbone for killing demon. Sage Agastya stories of killing Vatapi and drinking oceans to help god kill demon that are hidden under the surface of ocean.
Family tree of Sun god is discussed, Sita avatar of Mahakali , Yudhishthir test of dharma by his father. Draupadi born for the vengeance of her father. Urvashi and Pururavas love story , stories of Arjun exile even for the broken rule to save Dharma.
The vast topic and lesser known characters stories are told and that makes this book an amazing read.
December 9, 2025
Deepam Chatterjee’s Epic Katha is a beautifully crafted collection of stories drawn from India’s vast spiritual and mythological heritage.
Every story is derived from the Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and folklore.
Each story carries a subtle lesson—sometimes about dharma, sometimes about resilience, and often about the eternal search for meaning in life.
The book doesn’t try to be an academic treatise or a theological commentary—it’s more of a spiritual companion, something you can pick up when you need inspiration or clarity.
"Epic Katha" is a heartfelt retelling that bridges ancient wisdom with modern sensibilities. It works best for readers who want to reconnect with India’s epic traditions in a gentle, inspiring way.
Every story is derived from the Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and folklore.
Each story carries a subtle lesson—sometimes about dharma, sometimes about resilience, and often about the eternal search for meaning in life.
The book doesn’t try to be an academic treatise or a theological commentary—it’s more of a spiritual companion, something you can pick up when you need inspiration or clarity.
"Epic Katha" is a heartfelt retelling that bridges ancient wisdom with modern sensibilities. It works best for readers who want to reconnect with India’s epic traditions in a gentle, inspiring way.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews