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The Blue Mountain

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Arjun, an extreme adventure lover and funambulist. Heights and mountains excite him. He loves sky diving, bungee, jumping, paraliding and base jumping. As a child, he found his inspiration in the great epic, Mahabharata. He was especially fascinated by the shloka Krishna Arjuna - "Karmaniwadika raste maaha faleshu kdachama" Aayushi, who is cautious and sensitive by nature, is from the same college as Arjun. Her father wants her to do CA but she wants to become a writer. After college ends, will she able to confess to her father.

354 pages, Paperback

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Agastya Shankla

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for Lonaaa.
44 reviews2 followers
December 28, 2025
The Blue Mountains by Agastya Shankhla is a quiet, reflective journey that unfolds the life of Arjun. The writing is simple yet in evocative prose, the book gently draws the reader into themes of longing, self-discovery, and the connection between two people and places. There is a soothing narration throughout the story, with a subtle suspense that lingers, and emotions that wait to be named, and reveal their deeper meaning. The mountain setting was scenic as well as the touch of Mahabharata mythology added to its charms. It stood as silent witness to the budding connection, understanding and bittersweet journey of our protagonists, Arjun and Aayushi as they met on an impromptu trip to the mountains, navigating through life's trials and hidden truths. It was a soothing yet thought-provoking read.


if you wish to escape to those mountains and experience it's peace mystery and melancholic solitude, it's perfect for you!! 💓
Profile Image for a_geminireader.
279 reviews15 followers
December 10, 2025
" The Blue Mountain " took me by surprise in the best possible way. What I assumed would be a simple story about friendship slowly unfolded into something richer, deeper, and far more meaningful. Ayushi, Arjun, Monty, Vicky, and Disha don’t just feel like characters on a page , they start to feel like people you’ve known for years, people whose choices and emotions you genuinely care about.

What stands out most is how effortlessly the book layers themes of love, loyalty, fear, purpose, and the quiet battles we all fight inside ourselves. The moments between Arjun and Monty, especially the subtle choices that say more than words ever could, are drawn with such clarity that I could visualize every scene as if I were there.

Some chapters made me laugh, others made my heart sink a little, and a few made me close the book just to breathe especially as the story approached its ending.

There’s a raw honesty in the way the characters stumble, learn, and choose their paths, and that honesty lingers long after you’re done reading.

What I admired most was how real everything felt. The book gently nudges you toward choosing what feels true to you, even when it’s terrifying, and reminds you that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is take that one step forward. It’s the kind of message that stays with you.
Profile Image for Souvik Paul.
229 reviews4 followers
December 27, 2025
When I started The Blue Mountain, I honestly expected a light, simple story, but the book surprised me with how quietly emotional it turned out to be. It has a calming vibe, the kind that makes you settle into the pages slowly. Nothing is rushed, nothing is exaggerated — it feels like the kind of story that grows on you gently. For me, this softness became one of the best parts of the book.

Arjun and Aayushi: The Heart of the Story
Aayushi’s character is the first thing that pulled me in. Her confusion about life, her moments of self-doubt, that feeling of not being fully in control — all of that felt extremely real and relatable. She isn’t written as someone dramatic; she’s written as someone many of us could easily be at some point in our lives. Then there is Arjun, and he instantly stands out. He is brave in a calm way, reflective, thoughtful, and he has this natural sense of purpose. He doesn’t try to impress; he simply is who he is. I loved how his presence influences Aayushi without forcing anything. Their bond grows slowly, almost naturally, from small conversations and shared moments. Watching Aayushi change because of Arjun — finding her creativity, her confidence, and her spark again — was the sweetest part of the book for me.

Philosophy in a Very Soft Way
One thing I genuinely appreciated is how Arjun’s philosophical side is handled. His connection with the teachings of the Gītā, especially the idea of focusing on your actions rather than the results, adds meaning to the story. But the best part is that it never feels heavy or bookish. The philosophy is carried through Arjun’s personality — in how he thinks, how he speaks, and how he approaches life. It feels like real wisdom coming from a real person, not like a lecture. This balance made the book feel both emotional and thoughtful at the same time.

The Writing Style and Flow
The writing is simple, clean, and easy to read. It’s one of those books where the simplicity actually strengthens the message. The author doesn’t use big words or complicated lines; everything is straight from the heart. The flow is smooth, and the mix of romance, self-growth, small adventures, and emotional moments feels very natural. There are several lines that stay with you even after you finish reading — not because they are dramatic, but because they are honest.

Why the Story Felt Personal to Me
For me, the most beautiful part of this book is how gradual Aayushi’s change is. She doesn’t suddenly transform into a confident person; she grows softly, step by step, simply because Arjun makes her see something new within herself. Sometimes in life, we meet someone who becomes a mirror for us — someone who shows us who we can become. That is exactly what Arjun is for Aayushi.
By the time I finished the book, I felt lighter. It reminded me that even small shifts in our mindset can lead to big changes in our life.

A Very Tiny, Gentle Critique
It would be that I wished a few scenes had been a bit longer. Some moments between Arjun and Aayushi ended quickly, and I personally wanted more detail.
But honestly, it is a very small point. The simple and short style is also what gives the book its charm, so it didn’t bother me much.

Why I Would Recommend It
I would gladly recommend The Blue Mountain to anyone who loves character-driven, warm stories with emotional depth. If you enjoy books that quietly inspire you, that show the soft side of love and friendship, and that make you think about your own life choices, then this book is definitely worth reading. It’s perfect for both young readers who are dealing with self-doubt and adults who enjoy meaningful, comforting stories. The gentle message of the book stays with you even after you close it.
267 reviews2 followers
December 23, 2025
Book Name: The Blue Mountain
Part 1: Details and Plot
* Title: The Blue Mountain
* Author: Agastya Shankhla
* Genre: Adventure / Contemporary Fiction / Philosophical Drama
* Atmosphere: A "Bollywood-style" cinematic experience set against the lush backdrops of Manali and the mysterious Blue Mountains.
* The Premise: What starts as a breezy travel adventure among five friends—Arjun, Aayushi, Monty, Vicky, and Disha—slowly evolves into a high-stakes journey of self-discovery. Arjun, an adrenaline junkie obsessed with heights, leads the group into a narrative that blends modern thrills (skydiving, tightrope walking) with ancient spiritual wisdom.
Part 2: What I liked the most
The Characters & Connections The book’s greatest strength is its relatability. The cast doesn't feel like a list of names on a page; they feel like a group of friends you’ve known for years.
* Arjun: The "Arjuna" of the modern world—bold, thrill-seeking, but searching for deeper meaning.
* Aayushi: The relatable soul of the book, torn between her father’s expectations (pursuing CA) and her true passion for writing.
* The Bond: The bromance between Arjun and Monty provides the emotional anchor, showing a level of loyalty and "standing up for each other" that feels incredibly authentic.
The "Filmi" Pace & Style The prose is accessible and visual, reading almost like a high-budget web series. It moves quickly, dodging the usual "campus romance" clichés to instead explore adventure and philosophy. The author skillfully weaves in the essence of "Karmanye vadhikaraste" (the path of selfless action) without ever feeling preachy. It’s a gentle nudge to the reader to stop making excuses and start taking chances.
Part 3: The Highs & Lows
What Soars:
* Cinematic Vibe: The descriptions of Manali and the mountain treks are so vivid they might make you want to book a trip immediately.
* Emotional Weight: Despite its "fast and fun" start, the book isn't afraid to get heavy. Scenes like Arjun stepping back from a steel rope or the group's internal conflicts hit home.
* The "Double" Cover: The clever contrast between modern skydiving and ancient imagery perfectly mirrors the book's soul.
What to Keep in Mind:
* Simplicity: The motivational tone is very clear. If you prefer "morally grey" or extremely complex characters, the "never give up" messaging might feel a bit too direct for you.
* Predictability vs. Execution: While some readers might guess the ending early on, the way the story reaches that conclusion is still a gripping, emotional rollercoaster.
Part 4: The Final Verdict
Personal Takeaway: The Blue Mountain is more than a story about trekking; it’s a reflection on the "mountains" we all face internally—fear, societal pressure, and the quest for purpose. It’s a refreshing debut that bridges the gap between digital-age chaos and timeless wisdom.
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
* Plot: 4/5 (Fast-paced with a killer cliffhanger)
* Characters: 5/5 (You will genuinely miss them when it’s over)
* Writing Style: 4/5 (Simple, cinematic, and evocative)
Who should read this? Anyone looking for a "one-sitting" read that offers both an adrenaline rush and a reason to pause and reflect. It’s perfect for Gen Z and Millennials navigating life’s uncertainties.
29 reviews
January 6, 2026
My first read of 2026, which is The Blue Mountain written by Agastya Sankhla and I liked it. It is a 350 page long book.

And the reason, the first point which made me very intrigued to read this book was it's cover, to be specific - Shri Krishna on the cover. I found it very interesting. I thought it would revolve around the Gita or the references from Gita, stories from Gita and so on. Though it wasn't.

It wasn't revolving around Gita.
Yeah, there was one part of it. But that's it.

The story revolved around Arjun, one character, and Ayushi, another character.
Arjun was a passionate.He was an adventure sports lover. He used to do all kind of sports, but hid them from the world. Only his true best friends knew that he does something like that. And on what extent he does that, only his best friends knew.

Ayushi was the character who was a bright mind. But with bright mind, you know, comes expectations. And she wanted to do something different. Her father wanted her to be a professional CA, whereas she wanted to be a writer. And you might know how it goes.

So, characters are basically these. The story revolves around these characters. And there are few more, like Vicky, who wants to be a cricketer. Monty, who is the best friend of Arjun.
There are five characters around which the story revolves. There is Raman. There is Alisha.

And for like 90% of the book, I thought it is only around college life, around students and their interpersonal relationships. But the last is not what I expected. Apart from that, coming to the writing, it is super.

A person like me who is not reading much nowadays, I finished this book in three days. It's 350 pages long. And it took me three days, working three days to finish this book. So, it's engaging, it's captivating, it's fresh. The writing is very fresh. The dialogues, the conversations between the friends is very clear, who is telling what to whom.

The best part I felt of this book was the friendship. The friendship between Vicky, Arjun and Monty was very nicely written. If you have friends like that, you know, you wouldn't need anything else in your life.
So, the friendship of these three guys was very amazing. The sisterhood of two sisters, another best part. The relationships were very clear, you know, the depth of them were written very nicely which made it very easy to resonate with the characters, to their feelings, to their emotions. So, on that level, this book was very engaging. The end is something which is gonna surprise you in many ways.
Profile Image for Thasni Rahim.
63 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2025
“The Blue Mountain” by Agastya Shankhla feels like watching a Bollywood-style adventure movie.... fast, dramatic, a little over the top in a fun way, and super visual. It’s not trying to be deep or literary, but if you’re in the mood for an energetic, filmi page-turner with an Indian vibe, it gets the job done.

The story follows Arjun, an adrenaline junkie who basically lives for heights tightrope walking, skydiving, base jumping, all of it. His love for danger pulls him into a bigger mystery tied to the “Blue Mountain,” mixing adventure with a touch of myth and spiritual flavour. At its core, the book is about facing fears, chasing what you love, and how one crazy journey can completely change your life.

The writing is simple and super accessible, definitely aimed at people who enjoy quick reads. There’s a clear motivational tone throughout, almost like the book keeps nudging you to stay positive and hopeful. It has that familiar commercial Indian fiction vibe dramatic story meets inspirational messaging.

What works really well is Arjun himself. His thrill-seeking personality and the mountain backdrop make everything feel naturally cinematic. The book keeps things upbeat, focusing on courage and optimism, which is nice if you want a feel-good takeaway. And for a debut, it’s pretty ambitious it tries to mix adventure, emotion, and philosophy instead of sticking to the usual romance or campus drama template.

Where it falls short is the simplicity. If you enjoy layered characters or morally grey narratives, this might feel a little too on-the-nose. The motivational parts sometimes overshadow deeper character development, so Arjun can come across more like a symbol of “never give up” than a complex, flawed person. And if you like darker or twistier stories, the plot might feel predictable.

Overall, pick this up when you’re in the mood for a light, quick, mountain-set adventure with a positive vibe and a daredevil protagonist. If you want heavy prose or deep psychological layers, it won’t hit that spot but as a breezy, optimistic debut, it’s a pretty solid one-sitting read.
Profile Image for Bookoholic 282.
264 reviews5 followers
December 15, 2025
The Blue Mountain by Agastya Shankhala turned out to be so much more than what I expected.
The story revolves around Ayushi, Arjun, Monty, Vicky, and Disha — and honestly, by the time I finished the book, they felt like my own group.
At first, I thought it would be a simple story about friendship or love from the starting pages , but the more I read, the more layers I discovered.

Love, friendships, heartbreaks, mistakes, choices, regrets — the book touches everything so naturally that it felt like I was living among the characters. The moments like when Arjun chose Monty over his partner or the moment when he backed up from that steel rope, it was everything and felt like I'm viewing it infront of myself.

The author has written them with so much warmth and detail that every emotion hits perfectly.
Some scenes made me smile, some made me stop and think, and a few even left a little heaviness in my chest like the last page of the book, I was confused, hurt and then excited to read the other part and to know what exactly has happened to get this ending.

What I personally loved is how real the book feels.
It talks about taking chances in life, choosing what feels right for you, and not letting fear or excuses pull you back — and that message stayed with me long after I closed the book.
It’s the kind of story that nudges you gently but strongly to do something for yourself.

And about the ending…
In the beginning, I had a prediction about how the story might end.
But the way the author kept twisting the plot, I genuinely thought I was wrong.
Turns out — I wasn’t. The ending was exactly what I had imagined, but the cliffhanger left me staring at the last page wanting more.
A book that leaves you hanging in the best possible way!

Overall, The Blue Mountain is a heartfelt, honest and beautiful read, and I’m really glad I picked it up. If you love stories that make you feel connected, make you think, and make you miss the characters once you’re done — this book is absolutely worth it. I’m already waiting for the next part!
Profile Image for Vyomika Pandey.
23 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2025
More Than a Story, An Experience of Courage, Choices, and Self-Discovery

From the very first pages, The Blue Mountain pulled me into a world I didn’t expect. Judging by the cover, I assumed it would be about mountaineering or adventure alone, but what lay inside was far richer and more meaningful.

The contrast on the cover itself, skydiving on one side and Lord Krishna guiding Arjuna on the other, perfectly mirrors the soul of the book. Modern passion meets ancient wisdom, and that connection unfolds beautifully through Arjun, the adrenaline junkie protagonist inspired by the Mahabharata’s teachings.

Arjun lives for heights and danger, while Aayushi, the female protagonist, lives with quiet dreams. She wants to be a writer but is pushed toward CA by her father, a struggle that feels painfully real. Following one’s passion in a middle-class household is never easy, and the book portrays this conflict with honesty and warmth. Arjun becomes the nudge Aayushi needs, but interestingly, this is not a typical love story.

What I loved most is how real everything feels. The friendships, the mistakes, the hesitation, the courage, it all mirrors real life. Characters like Monty, Vicky, and Disha add depth and make the group feel like people you’ve actually known. Some scenes made me laugh, some made me pause, and some left a heaviness in my chest, especially the ending.

The story gently pushes you to reflect on your own fears and dreams. It reminds you that sometimes the bravest thing isn’t taking a leap from a mountain, but standing up for what you truly want.

The ending was exactly what I had predicted, yet the way the author twists the journey made it feel earned. The cliffhanger left me staring at the last page, wanting more.

The Blue Mountain is not just about adventure or motivation. It’s about passion, friendship, and the courage to choose yourself. If you enjoy stories that stay with you and make you miss the characters once you’re done, this book is absolutely worth picking up.
Profile Image for Pori Goswami.
188 reviews3 followers
January 2, 2026
The Blue Mountain is one of those rare books that quietly pulls you in and then slowly unfolds into something much deeper and more meaningful. What begins as a simple story of friendship soon transforms into an emotional, philosophical, and adventurous journey that stays with you long after the last page.

At its core, the book explores friendship, love, fear, spirituality, and the search for purpose. Agastya Sankhla beautifully blends the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita into a very modern setting filled with smartphones, social media, and real-life confusion. The spiritual elements never feel heavy or preachy; instead, they flow naturally with the story, making age-old teachings feel relevant to modern problems.

The characters are the true strength of the book. Arjun, the central character, is a thrill-seeker who loves adventure and the mountains, yet struggles when it comes to facing his inner fears. His journey feels raw and relatable. Monty adds emotional depth with his loyalty and quiet strength, while Ayushi stands out as a character who chooses herself, reminding readers of the importance of self-respect and emotional clarity. The rest of the friend group adds warmth and realism, making the relationships feel genuine and lived-in.

The writing style is smooth, simple, and cinematic. Each chapter encourages the reader to pause and reflect on the characters’ choices and emotions. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of suspense, adventure, tenderness, and introspection woven together seamlessly. The symbolism of the Blue Mountain itself adds another layer of meaning, representing fear, growth, and spiritual awakening.

As a debut novel, The Blue Mountain is impressive in both ambition and execution. The ending is thought-provoking and slightly mysterious, leaving you curious and wanting more. Overall, it is an emotional, adventurous, and reflective read that appeals to lovers of philosophy, friendship-driven stories, and meaningful fiction.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy stories that combine modern life with timeless wisdom.
Profile Image for Anwesha Chattoraj.
131 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2025
" If one Day the speed kills me, don't cry. Because I was smiling"
- Paul Walker

I have read the quote in
" Blue Mountain" by Agastya Shankhla . Just like the quote, this book gave me new perspective one passion, dream and friendship.

As a reader I always try to connect with the book –each line, each character and author's vison.

While reading "The Blue Mountain" I have experienced a whole new level of self-discovery. From the title you can't guess what lies inside.

I thought it would be about a mountaineer's journey ,but after reading it,I can say it's totally different from what I expected. Let me share my experience with this book –

I Always observe book cover before reading . When I saw the book cover I felt confused seeing front cover related to sky diving and the back cover with the picture of lord Krishna and Arjuna from a scene of famous Kurukshetra war. I was thinking what would be the connection? The more I unfolded pages, I realised the meaning, connection behind it.

Arjun,the male protagonist of this book was an truly adventurous person about sky diving, bunjee jumping and paragliding. His source of inspiration was from the Mahabharata specially inspired by Sholakas of lord Krishna to Arjuna . Can you understand the connection? Modern passion with mythological inspiration! What a combination !.

On the other side there's female protagonist, Aayushi. She is passionate about writing but due to her father's pressure she had to pursue CA. Following own passion in middle class house hold is never easy. But true passion can't be suppressed. You just need the nudge,the right push to achieve it. Arjun was the push for Aayushi.

You may think this is going to be a love story, right? But let me tell you it's not.

The book doesn't tell a particular story about passion or friendship, it's combination of both of these along with mythological essence.
245 reviews10 followers
December 15, 2025
What happens when a noisy, notification-filled modern life quietly collides with ancient wisdom? This book answers this question in a way that feels gentle, thoughtful, and surprisingly engaging. What begins as a casual story of friendship slowly opens into a layered journey about meaning, love, choices, and the search for direction in an ever-moving world.

The author skillfully blends the chaos of the digital age with the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, especially the idea of “Karmanye vadhikaraste.” What stood out to me was how effortlessly this philosophy flows through the narrative. It never feels like a lesson being taught; instead, it settles naturally into conversations, moments, and decisions, making you pause and reflect without realizing when it happened.

The characters feel strikingly real - flawed, curious, uncertain, and deeply human. Arjun and Monty’s bond forms the emotional core of the story, evolving with warmth and quiet intensity. Their dialogues are unforced and honest, and the emotions simmer beneath the surface rather than being loudly declared. The balance between friendship, romance, self-doubt, and ambition is beautifully maintained.

The writing itself is smooth and vivid, almost cinematic. Scenes unfold like frames from a web series, making it easy to visualize the world, the tension, and the softer moments of connection. The story carries suspense, humor, tenderness, and thoughtful twists that keep you invested till the very end.

This book feels both old and new at once, reflective yet contemporary, simple yet profound. It’s a refreshing debut that speaks to anyone navigating life’s uncertainties while quietly searching for purpose.
Profile Image for SID VERMA.
136 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2025
​A tightrope walk between duty and dreams. ⚖️

​📖 BOOK REVIEW: The Blue Mountain by Agastya Shankla
​Some stories don't shout; they whisper until they are the only thing you can hear. 🌬️

​THE VIBE:
Imagine standing on a cliff edge—the adrenaline of the jump mixed with the quiet fog of early morning. That is exactly what reading The Blue Mountain feels like. It’s a slow-burn meditation that lifts like mist off a peak. 🌫️✨

THE CHARACTERS:
We meet Arjun, a funambulist who lives for the extreme—skydiving, bungee jumping, and the philosophy of Karma Yoga. He is the storm. 🌪️
Then there is Aayushi, carrying a writer’s soul in a world demanding she be a CA. She is the silence. 🤫
​Together, along with the chaotic warmth of friends like Monty, Vicky, and Disha, they don’t feel like characters in a PDF. They feel like us. They make messy mistakes, they hesitate, and they grow at a pace that feels achingly real.

MY THOUGHTS:
What hit me hardest was the contrast. Agastya Shankla balances the high-octane thrill of Arjun’s stunts with the crushing weight of Aayushi’s unsaid words to her father. It’s a reminder that sometimes, confessing your truth is scarier than jumping off a mountain. 🏔️💭
​The narrative is atmospheric and honest. It doesn't rush to explain itself. And that ending? The Cliffhanger. 🤯 I had my theories (and I was right!), but the final page left me staring at the wall, needing the sequel immediately.

✨ READ THIS IF YOU LIKE:
​Stories that feel like a warm hug from an old friend. 🫂
​Coming-of-age tales rooted in Indian realism. 🇮🇳
​Philosophy mixed with adventure (Mahabharata references ftw).
​Characters that stay with you long after the book is closed.

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5

MOOD: Reflective, Adrenaline-fueled, Nostalgic. 🍂
Profile Image for Ink.and.Opinions.
53 reviews1 follower
December 28, 2025
The Blue Mountain
Written by agastya shankhla
Debut novel
350 pages long
Fast paced with a great plot..
Kinda a contemporary fiction
Ngl, i didn't expect this level of writing
The writing is really good, the flow didn't break at any point.. Multiple povs.. Which includes arjun, ayushi, alisha and abhimanyu
The story start withs a prologue that include mischievous abhimanyu (who is a child), his character dynamics and finding the book that written by her mother ayeesha (which is the blue mountain)... He is curious to find who arjun is, why all are shutting about arjun when he is around, the curiosity makes him read his mother's book
Then coming to the characters...
Arjun, driven by the bhagavadgeeta sloka "Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana", finding the meaning of this sloka in his own way as he can't listen to it when the serial is spun.. Energetic, adrenaline junkie and a wonderful character
Ayushi, soft and topper, who has dreams for being a writer but pushed towards ca track by her father (who is an absolute asshole, nvm)...
Arjun and ayushi meet in their bbm course, along with disha, monty, vikram and raman
Alisha, living distant from family, along with ayushi, taking care of her.. There is much depth...

Read n find out how there lives went from college, what the twists in their life got them, does ayushi pursue her writing course despite her father pushing her towards ca?? How alisha get on life, what happened to her?? How their friendship dwells, what changes?? Why everyone stops saying Arjun name around Abhimanyu..

The book has cliffhanger and ending is kinda heavy and shocking..i was just stunned and reread the ending..so.. Brace yourself
My rating: 5/5
Eagerly, Waiting for book 2 to arrive 😭😭
Profile Image for Tanya.reads.
17 reviews
December 9, 2025
4-star read.
Agastya Shankhla's The Blue Mountain is a captivating blend of mythology, modern life, and pure imagination that feels both intimate and epic in scope. What begins as a simple friendship between two young men slowly unfolds into a profound exploration of purpose, love, destiny, and self-discovery. Shankhla masterfully weaves the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita into a very 21st-century world of smartphones and social media without ever feeling forced, the ancient and the digital coexist beautifully.
The characters are a highlight: flawed, curious, restless, and wonderfully human. Arjun and Monty, in particular, leap off the page; their deep bond and slow-burn romance give the book its emotional heartbeat.
Dialogues feel natural and unhurried, emotions simmer beneath the surface, and philosophical ideas are slipped in so skillfully that they spark reflection rather than preach.
The pacing is spot-on, every twist and revelation lands at just the right moment. Shankhla's prose is clean, vivid, and cinematic; reading it genuinely feels like watching a movie unfold in your head. It's one of those rare books that's almost impossible to put down, packed with suspense, humor, tender romance, and high-stakes drama.
This is a story with broad appeal: thriller fans will love the edge-of-your-seat tension, romance readers will swoon over Arjun and Monty, philosophy lovers will find plenty to chew on, and anyone who enjoys adventure with heart will be hooked. Millennials will catch nostalgic vibes of early internet-era friendship, while Gen Z will see themselves in the characters' doubts and dreams.
Profile Image for FATHIMA SHAZNA.
133 reviews4 followers
December 14, 2025
This book took me deep into the emotional bonds we carry with the people closest to us.

The story begins with a tale written by Aayushi, which was later read by her son Abhimanyu. The name “Arjun” is constantly mentioned in comparison to him, and the narrative concludes with a shocking twist.

Arjun is portrayed as an adventurous and cool character who takes on daring challenges like skydiving and rope-walking. Determined to pursue his passion, his journey inspires and motivates the reader. His friendship with Monty and Vicky, along with their playful banter, beautifully captures the depth of true companionship.

Aayushi, whose ambition was to become a writer, faced opposition from her father who wanted her to become a chartered accountant. Over time, Arjun encouraged her to follow her passion, motivating her to embrace what she truly loved.

The book is filled with diverse experiences shared by the five friends during their travel adventures across the Blue Mountains and Manali. The author vividly describes every detail of their journey, making it feel like a life worth living. As someone who loves traveling, I found it refreshing to read each part—it felt as though I was experiencing it myself. Although I have never been to Manali, the descriptions made me want to plan a trip there.

The characters are well-developed, each leaving a lasting impression. The ending delivers a cliffhanger with a shocking twist that overwhelmed me with emotions, and I am eager to read the next part. The friendship and banter among the characters are not just memories—they represent a life truly lived.
Profile Image for Read With Her.
115 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2025
The Blue Mountain by Agastya Shankhla is an intriguing mix of mythology, modern-day living and sheer imagination that seems to be intimate yet at the same time vast in size. What would have been a mere friendship between two young men gradually turns out to a deep analysis of purpose, love, fate, and self-realization. Shankhla skilfully incorporates the eternal wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita into a very 21 st -century of smartphones and social media without ever feeling forced; the old and the new urbanize together really well.
The characters are an asset: imperfect, inquisitive, agitating, and colorfully human. Arjun and Monty, and especially these two, jump off the pages; their emotional attachment and slow-fade romance provide the book with its emotional pulse. Dialogues are believable and not pressurized, feelings boil under the skin, and philosophical thoughts are introduced so artfully that they make a person think and not lecture.
The rhythm is perfect; each turn and surprise is timed perfectly. The prose of Shankhla is clean and vivid as well as cinematic and it actually feels you are watching a movie being enacted in your head. It is a book hard to put away, very suspense filled, humorous, romantic and dramatic.
It is a widely appealing story: the edge-of-your-seat thrillers will be delighted by the suspense, romantics will swoon over Arjun and Monty, philosophical will find much to chew on, and adventure lovers will be hooked. The millennials are going to experience a nostalgic feeling of pre-internet friendship, and Gen Z will relate to the confusion and ambitions of the characters.
Profile Image for Shubhra Gupta.
142 reviews2 followers
December 9, 2025
The Blue Mountain felt like one of those reads where you go in thinking it’s a simple friendship story and then suddenly you find yourself dragged into emotions, choices, regrets and that strange heaviness you can’t explain.

The story or reality has Arjun, Aayushi, Monty, Vicky and Disha. Its Reality for me because somewhere along the time they stop feeling like characters and start feeling like my own people. Their bond, jokes, fights, the way they stand up for each other it all felt familiar to me. Some scenes like Arjun stepping back from the steel rope or choosing Monty over his girlfriend were written so aptly that it felt like watching it unfold in real time.

What I genuinely loved is how the author blends those quiet philosophical undertones especially the Karmanye vadhikaraste essence without making it heavy. It’s just felt herein like woven in their choices and fears. I felt like I was taken through friendship, adventure, heartbreak and a bit of romance while reading but still the writing manages to stay grounded and relatable.

And then comes the end
Aree Ruko
That final hit of the story got me harder than I expected. A simple trip among friends, full of laughter and memories, turns into something that changes everything. One moment of carelessness one friend driving other enjoying and suddenly ..........Go & grab it .

Even now, that question hasn’t left my mind:
Kaun tha woh?
Kaun hai ab?

That lingering doubt, that ache, is exactly why this book stays with you.
Profile Image for Booklover_rimi.
356 reviews10 followers
December 19, 2025
The Blue Mountain by Agastya Shankhla is a surprising read for me. The book starts with a little mystery and later turns into something more heavy and intense, and I am absolutely ready for the next book to read.

The book starts with Abhi finding the book The Blue Mountain, the debut book of his mother, which he is not allowed to read. So, to unearth the reason, he starts reading the book and discovers more than he dreams of.

The book follows the story of a close-knit group of friends—Arjun, Ayushi, Monty, Vicky, and Disha. The book is about their friendships but also about love, loyalty, facing fear, and finding the purpose of life. Arjun is the main character of the book, who is a thrill-seeker and loves adventure in life. This nature of his, finding adventure, takes him on the journey of discovering the mysterious “Blue Mountain.” The author uses the Blue Mountain as a metaphor here, and with Arjun, we are also abroad on a journey of facing fear and seeking spiritual guidance.

I love the book, but I mostly like Arjun’s character. His adventurous self has an attractive nature; he will immediately pull you in. Apart from him, the author’s use of motivational elements and optimism, without making the story a rigid one, makes the reading interesting and elevating.

Overall, the book is an emotional, feel-good book, because you are going to smile, sympathize, and be sad with the characters. And lastly, with the little mystery that is yet to be revealed, it will make you crave for more, so it is definitely a good one. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Sona.
66 reviews
December 30, 2025
The Blue Mountain by Agastya Shankhla is one of those books that quietly grows on you starting as a simple story of friendship and adventure, and slowly unfolding into something far more meaningful.
The novel follows Arjun, an extreme adventure enthusiast whose life revolves around heights and risks, and Aayushi, a sensitive, thoughtful young woman struggling between societal expectations and her dream of becoming a writer. Their contrasting personalities form the emotional backbone of the story. Arjun’s fearless pursuit of passion stands in beautiful contrast to Aayushi’s quiet, internal battles, making their journeys deeply relatable.
What sets this book apart is how effortlessly it blends modern life with timeless philosophy. The influence of the Mahabharata, especially the essence of “Karmanye vadhikaraste”, adds depth to Arjun’s character and gives the story a reflective undertone without ever feeling heavy or forced.
The supporting characters Monty, Vicky, and Disha are equally well-written. Their friendships feel authentic, full of unspoken emotions, loyalty, and sacrifice. Certain scenes are especially powerful and vivid, making you feel as though you’re watching them unfold on screen.
The writing style is simple and accessible, which makes the book easy to read, yet emotionally impactful. The author does a wonderful job of capturing moments of fear, doubt, and courage, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a personal level.
The ending is perhaps the most striking part emotional, confusing, and open-ended in a way that leaves you wanting more. It’s the kind of ending that stays with you and keeps the characters alive in your mind even after the last page.
Overall, The Blue Mountain is a heartfelt and thoughtful debut. It’s a story about courage, choices, friendship, and listening to your inner calling. A highly recommended read for anyone who enjoys emotionally driven stories with depth and relatibility.
Profile Image for Sia.
28 reviews
January 10, 2026
| The Blue Mountain – Agastya Shankhla
The Blue Mountain is a gentle, introspective story that blends adventure, philosophy, and the quiet struggles of choosing one’s own path.
Arjun is not your typical protagonist. A thrill-seeker and funambulist, he finds life in heights and risks — skydiving, paragliding, base jumping — anything that brings him closer to the mountains he loves. His mindset is deeply shaped by the Mahabharata, especially the shloka “Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana”, which beautifully mirrors his belief in living fully without obsessing over outcomes.
In contrast, Aayushi is sensitive, cautious, and thoughtful. While she walks a safer path on the outside, her inner world is full of conflict. Torn between her father’s dream of seeing her become a CA and her own desire to be a writer, she represents countless young adults struggling between duty and passion.
What stood out to me was how subtly the book explores fear vs freedom, expectations vs dreams, and how inspiration can come from both ancient epics and modern experiences. The writing is calm and reflective, allowing the characters’ journeys to unfold naturally rather than dramatically.
If you enjoy stories that combine adventure, philosophy, self-discovery, and emotional depth, this book is worth picking up. It leaves you thinking — not just about the characters, but about your own choices too.
Would recommend it to readers who enjoy slow, meaningful narratives with a touch of adventure and Indian philosophical influence
Profile Image for Pallavi Shukla.
206 reviews4 followers
December 9, 2025
‘The Blue Mountain’ by Agastya Shankhla is a mixture of the mythological and imaginary realm that can be both personal and grand. What starts as a mere friendship turns out to be an investigation of purpose, love and destiny. The author is able to combine the realities of the digital world and old age teachings of the Bhagavad Gita with great skill!

The characters are very relatable, they are not perfect, curious and constantly active. The conversation is not rushed and the emotional undertones are subtle and dramatic. The narrative has philosophy woven in it to the point that it does not lecture but makes the viewer think. The timing is flawless and the prose is well endowed to give the feeling of watching a movie!

The prose of Shankhla is astonishingly easy to read, and this makes the story immensely invigorating. The story is full of twists that keep the reader glued to it, as it represents thrilling suspense, romance, drama and comedy. The love story of Arjun and Monty is alluring and their friendship gives the narrative an emotional touch!

The book is likeable to a wide audience, such as non-fiction, fiction, lovers of thrillers and lovers of adventure. It is a very intriguing story that leaves the reader at the edge of his or her seat. Millennials can feel a nostalgic appeal and the relatable figures can be relatable to Gen Z readers. It is a refreshing and exciting experience and a must read to those who want to have a good story!🌻
Profile Image for Varma Shagun.
838 reviews8 followers
December 10, 2025

𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞:
"Karmaniwadika raste maaha faleshu kdachana"

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐈 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬?
I enjoy reading books that derive their essence from the Indian epics, so I was instantly intrigued when I came across this one.

𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
I absolutely love the book cover. It is aesthetic, thoughtfully designed and the subtle colour palette immediately draws attention. The illustration is relevant and the title is meaningful.

𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧:
✓ The story primarily follows Arjun and Ayushi. Arjun is an adventure lover who draws inspiration from the Mahabharata, while Ayushi is figuring out how to tell her father that she wants to be a writer instead of pursuing CA. What unfolds is a story of friendship, self discovery and identity.
✓ The characters are very relatable and the story feels realistic, making it easy to connect with both the plot and the emotional journey.
✓ The book encourages you to pause and reflect. It highlights the importance of understanding what truly matters in life and reminds us to focus on our goals with sincerity instead of constantly worrying about the end result.
✓ The narration is fast paced, streamlined and organised, with lucid language that makes the book easily accessible.
✓ I will definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys this genre and appreciates stories inspired by Indian epics.
Profile Image for Saranya Raghavan.
191 reviews16 followers
December 11, 2025
The Crux: 💫

The Blue Mountain by Agastya Shankhla is a captivating read which is a blend of mytho-fiction with adventure thrill. The story revolves around a group of friends Arjun, Aayushi, Monty, Vicky and Disha and it starts from their college life and their friendship. But as the story unfolds it dives deeper into destiny and much more to the readers surprise. The friendship between Arjun and Monty and Arjun choosing monty over his partner is something that stole my heart. A very satisfactory read which made me smile, think, confused at times and give heaviness at last. I wanted to know what exactly made the author create that ending. Overall, The blue mountain is a unique, honest and heart-rending read. Expecting the next part soon.

💫

My Two Cents:- 💫

At first I thought that I was just reading about a simple friendship or love story but to my surprise this read takes me to the next level with a blend of mythology in it that is related to my favourite Mahabharata and Arjuna. So this read will take you on a rollercoaster ride. If you read it as contemporary fiction with mythic echoes, you will get reflections on destiny and identity. It's a book for readers who like both action and inward focus. All the characters feel real. Couldn't believe this is author's debut novel. Great work done by him. I highly recommend this read. Go grab your copy soon.
Profile Image for Isshika Saha.
61 reviews3 followers
December 14, 2025
“Everyone has to fight a different battle in the same way, or the same battle in a different way.”

Agastya Shankala beautifully captures a truth, weaving life, nature, and philosophy into a powerful and thoughtful reflection on the shared essence of human struggle.

The story begins with a quiet yet powerful introduction to a protagonist trapped in the dissatisfaction of an ordinary life. From the very start, a sense of restlessness drives the narrative forward, embodied in the haunting image of the Blue Mountain—a distant but compelling symbol of unrealized purpose and longing. As the journey unfolds, the mountain comes to represent courage, ambition, and the hope of something greater, standing in sharp contrast to the pull of family, society, and routine that urges the hero to remain within familiar boundaries.


The arrival of companions like Vicky and Monty adds emotional depth and warmth to the narrative. Through encounters with fellow travelers, the protagonist gradually understands that suffering is a shared human experience, not a solitary one. These moments of connection transform the journey into a reflective exploration of life itself.


Thoughtful and introspective, the book ultimately offers a gentle yet profound meditation on purpose, resilience, and the philosophy that binds human lives together.
250 reviews3 followers
December 15, 2025
In the beginning, The Blue Mountain bears all the marks of a conventional narrative concerning college buddies. But then, it gradually starts to envelop you. The end result is a story that is very much human through and through with its themes of choices, valour, love and self-discovery intertwined. The mixing of both modern day problems such as adventure, ambition and digital chaos and the serene wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita offers Agastya's message that philosophy can be part of our daily lives during the most critical times when we need it most, and not just as moralizing messages on a podium.

The characters of Arjun, Aayushi, Monty and their other college friends are very much alive with their imperfections, confusions, loyalty and courage in different ways. Their friendships are to become more and more intertwined as their love will create complications in their friendships when they enter their destinies. The writing comes across as a mixture of minimalist yet very powerful in terms of cinematic style, and at the same time you feel like you are really in the story. It has enough depth and complexity to give you the opportunity to think about it but not so thick that it feels like a college degree is required to get through it. The Blue Mountain is like a memory you could never think would be recalled.
Profile Image for Deepthi.
646 reviews47 followers
December 15, 2025
What if your fave friend group story collided with ancient myths and real-life feels? That’s The Blue Mountain in a nutshell. It follows a close-knit group of friends Arjun, Aayushi, Monty, Vicky and Disha starting from their carefree college days and slowly pulling them into something much deeper, darker and more meaningful than just a typical campus story.

What I liked the most is how the book perfectly balances fun, relatable friend-circle vibe with intense, emotional moments. The characters are the heart of story mainly Arjun whose dedication, the value he gives for his friends(bros) and courage stand out strongly. But My personal favourite would be Monty and Aayushi they just felt more relatable Monty with easy going nature and Aayushi with her sensible personality.

The writing style is easy going with conversational prose flows like a late-night chat - simple, punchy, and packed with feels that hit without trying too hard. However some parts felt dragging with unnecessary drama and repetition. Also, a couple of character arcs and emotional conflicts could have been explored with more subtlety instead of being repeated or over-explained in parts.

If you enjoy books that mix friendship, adventure, mythology and emotion, you’ll still find this a very satisfying and memorable read overall.
Profile Image for Shipra Arora.
211 reviews9 followers
December 17, 2025
.Some stories don’t shout… they touch
This one did.
.
.
The Blue Mountain is a quiet, emotional story that stays with you long after you close the book. It follows Arjun, a bold adventure lover who thinks climbing dangerous mountains will help him escape the emptiness he feels inside. But the real journey begins when he meets Aayushi, a soft-spoken aspiring writer who sees the world very differently. Their personalities clash at first, but slowly they form a connection that feels honest and pure.

The book’s biggest strength is how gently it explores themes like self-discovery, emotional growth, nature’s wisdom, and the difference between bravery and peace. The mountain is not just a setting in reality it becomes a mirror that forces Arjun to face himself. The moment that changed everything for me was Arjun’s near-death slip on the climb, which breaks his ego and makes him understand why he keeps chasing danger. Aayushi becomes the emotional anchor who helps him see life with softness instead of pressure.

By the end, Arjun returns home calmer and wiser. His bond with Aayushi stays open and delicate, which made this story feel even more real to me. This book is not loud or dramatic infact it is soothing, thoughtful, and full of small moments that heal quietly.
It was a PEACEFUL MEANINGFUL HEARTFELT book.
.
41 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2025
We have all seen those on Bollywood flicks where the hero is a very handsome boy with a passion for adventure and hope in his heart that he will do something big in life


This book is one such Bollywood click on the pages with a lot of drama and adventure and the hero that lives for adventure sports. With a dash of myth and a spice of romance this book had the most beautiful story to tell.

Arjun reminded me of bunny from yeh Jawaani Hai deewani we all have watched that movie at this point and we all know how Bunny loved to travel but now imagine this, he reached somewhere and found traces of history and mythology but it's not a myth after all the reality sucks him in and shows him a side of our history that he never imagined.

When I held the book in my hand I could not stop myself from admiring the beauty of it, it has a beautiful picture of Krishna on the back cover and a person doing a skydive on the front cover and it's the most beautiful paper back I have in my possession right now.

The writing is simple and very dramatic at the same time I really loved the way of story telling it's the kind of story that makes you nostalgic and fall in love at the same time. This book is for every person who is looking out to watch or read something write out of a Bollywood movie but can never find the right thing so this is the right thing.
Profile Image for Shruti Just  Reads .
3 reviews
December 10, 2025
The Blue Mountain by Agastya Shankhla feels less like reading a book and more like living with people you slowly grow attached to. What starts as a simple friendship between Arjun, Monty, Aayushi, Vicky, and Disha turns into a journey filled with emotions, confusion, laughter, and situations that feel unbelievably real.
The best part of the book is how relatable the characters are. They’re not perfect or dramatic for the sake of drama they’re just like us. They make mistakes, they care, they pull away, they come back, and they try to figure out life. Arjun and Monty’s bond especially hits hard sometimes funny, sometimes tense, but always full of genuine warmth.
The writing style is simple and easy, yet thoughtful. There are quiet philosophical shades inspired by the Bhagavad Gita, but nothing heavy or preachy. It’s just there, blended into choices and moments in a way that makes you think later, not while being lectured.

The pacing never drags. It’s immersive, like watching a movie where you don’t realize how much you’ve emotionally invested until it’s over.
And that ending unexpected, emotional, and honest. It stays with you.

In short, this book feels human, heartfelt, and worth reading.
Profile Image for RK.
183 reviews5 followers
December 10, 2025
This book feels like an honest reminder that everyone carries their own kind of courage. Arjun’s love for adventure and crazy heights makes the story instantly exciting, but his inner struggle in figuring out life shows that even the bravest people can be unsure on the inside.

Aayushi’s journey stood out even more. Her wish to be a writer, while her father wants her to become a CA, shows how tough it is to choose yourself. You truly understand how heavy expectations can feel. The author beautifully shows the emotional weight of choosing between what you love and what others want from you. Her struggle to tell her father about her real dream feels painfully true.

Agastya Shankla brings two very different personalities together and talks about courage, choosing your path, accepting who you really are, and self-esteem in a very gentle way. The Mahabharata reference gives a deeper meaning to Arjun’s journey. It’s not forced; it just fits naturally into his personality and shows how ancient wisdom can guide modern struggles.

Agastya’s writing is simple, readable, and from the heart. This book reminds you that dreams matter, choices matter, and the biggest adventures often happen inside us.
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