Renuka: The Journey Unexpected

by Anita Gupte

Story of a civilization which flourished more than ten thousand years ago. A narrative reminiscing on the ancient history of a land surrounded by water on three sides. This is the story of Renuka. A princess born in the mighty Ikshvaku dynasty; which could trace its origins to the dawn of mankind. Rejecting several princes and warriors, she chose to wed a Saptarishi; one of the wisest of men of those times. Story of Jamadagni. An ascetic of unmatched wisdom and knowledge; his actions led him to be misunderstood and misquoted through the centuries to come. Story of a son, Rambhadra. His devotion and love for his parents provoked him to annihilate clan upon clan of warriors; several times. This is the tale of a journey; a journey to unknown times and unsolved mysteries. A work of fiction based on legends, this book is also a medium to set sail within, to our own soul.

342 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 2, 2015

About the author

Anita, an accomplished allied health professional with a doctorate in Psycho-Oncology, masterfully weaves her expertise in human resilience into her passion for storytelling. Her career is dedicated to understanding the depths of human strength and vulnerability, which profoundly informs her creative pursuits. A lifelong traveller and avid reader, Anita’s love for history is deeply enriched by her explorations, as she immerses herself in diverse cultures and unearths the stories they hold.
Specializing in historical fiction, Anita shines a light on the untold stories from Indian scriptures and history. Adventures of Sam marks her foray into Children’s literature. Through her compelling narratives, Anita seeks to illuminate the courage, wisdom, and resilience, inspiring readers to embrace their own strength and potential.
Described by her children as “an old soul with a youthful spirit and a true friend,” Anita is celebrated for her warmth, curiosity, and zest for life. Residing in Australia, she gracefully balances a thriving career in allied health with her literary endeavours. Her mission is to create stories that not only connect the past to the present but also empower readers to envision a future built on courage and conviction.
Connect with Anita on:
Facebook-AuthorAnita
Twitter -@anita_gupte
Instagram- @authoranitagupte.

Reviews

[Shalaka Mishra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always believed that our rich ancient vaidik civilization can be taught or spread to the younger generation when it is told in the form of a story. The book 'Renuka - the journey unexpected' is special because it gives a mesmerising account of our ancient civilization where obtaining knowledge was the chief occupation of people. Of times when dharma was not only confined to doing rituals, but when it embodied doing only the righteous deeds with total conviction even at a personal loss. It is a story of Renuka or Yellamma as she is fondly known in Southern India, but it is much more than that!

Narrated in a flawless and engaging language, the book is a must for all book lovers to have a glimpse of the golden era and also to encourage the young generation to know more about their roots. Highly recommended to all those who wish to know more about Indic civilization. People will enjoy the fascinating journey of a royal princess who is still revered as a godly mother by many of us!

[Kalpesh Parab · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mythology lover must read this book.

[Sheetal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book

Mesmerizing book for mythology lovers.The story revolves around a princess "Renuka", the choices she makes & stands through her life journey, and her ultimate rise to Godliness.

[Anita Gupte · Rating 4 out of 5]

She is known to all as a Goddess and as mother of Parashuram.
What else do we know about Renuka and the times she lives in?
My mind sought answers to questions such as who was she apart from a wife and mother and what were her own accomplishments. In the era resounding with vedic hymns and research, when young minds were mentored in a gurukul, what was life like for women?
A civilization when caste was not decided by birth, all had equal opportunities irrespective of gender or class and new discoveries were made everyday. Days of Vaisheshik sutra and Rigved when thirst for knowledge was more than that for power.
Could be my wishful thinking, part fiction and part from legends.
I am no historian or archeologist, not a literature scholar either; but am a story teller and am proud of our ancient culture and heritage.
All feedback welcome.