What do you think?
Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession
About the Book
Everyone associated with Sri Krishna believes that their relationship with the deity is unique, which explains why every gopika felt that the Lord was dancing with her at the Maharaas. That is Sri Krishna’s magic and also his power that he becomes the centre of their existence. He has that effect on not just humans but on everything on the planet—both living and non-living.
This book is about Sri Krishna’s relationship with nature; the Peacock, the Kadamba tree, the Flute, the herbal plant Tulsi, the Lotus, his cow Kamadhenu, the Conch and the Peepala tree.
All of them believe that Keshava loves them the most. Can this be true?
Keshava, A Magnificent Obsession is the story of these special bindings, stories of passion, submission, devotion and of uncontainable desire.
About the Author
Bhawana Somaaya has been a journalist for almost 40 years. She is a film critic, columnist and author of 14 books and they are a point of reference for students studying cinema at Whistling Woods, Manipal University and now JNU, Delhi.
She has served on Advisory Panel of Film Certificate in India and is currently the Entertainment Editor at 92.7 Big FM Radio channel.
Somaaya’s Krishna: The God who lived as Man released in 2008. Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession is her second offering to the deity.
Somaaya was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2017.
Everyone associated with Sri Krishna believes that their relationship with the deity is unique, which explains why every gopika felt that the Lord was dancing with her at the Maharaas. That is Sri Krishna’s magic and also his power that he becomes the centre of their existence. He has that effect on not just humans but on everything on the planet—both living and non-living.
This book is about Sri Krishna’s relationship with nature; the Peacock, the Kadamba tree, the Flute, the herbal plant Tulsi, the Lotus, his cow Kamadhenu, the Conch and the Peepala tree.
All of them believe that Keshava loves them the most. Can this be true?
Keshava, A Magnificent Obsession is the story of these special bindings, stories of passion, submission, devotion and of uncontainable desire.
About the Author
Bhawana Somaaya has been a journalist for almost 40 years. She is a film critic, columnist and author of 14 books and they are a point of reference for students studying cinema at Whistling Woods, Manipal University and now JNU, Delhi.
She has served on Advisory Panel of Film Certificate in India and is currently the Entertainment Editor at 92.7 Big FM Radio channel.
Somaaya’s Krishna: The God who lived as Man released in 2008. Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession is her second offering to the deity.
Somaaya was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2017.
- GenresFiction
240 pages, Paperback
Published April 20, 2018
About the author
Bhawana Somaaya
26 books18 followersBhawana Somaaya is a film critic, columnist and author. She is the former editor of Screen and written biographies of superstars like Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan. Her books are a point of reference for students studying cinema at Whistling Woods, Mumbai, Manipal University, Mangalore and JNU, Delhi
She is a classical dancer, a podcaster and author of 19 books. She has translated our honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s Gujarati books Saakshi Bhaav and Aankh Aa Dhanya Chhe into English as Letters to Mother and Letters to Self in 2020 and 2022 respectively. She is the Entertainment Editor at 92.7 Big FM Radio Channel.
Somaaya was conferred with Padma Shri in 2017, an honorary Doctorate by Jagran Lake city University in 2021 and Kanak Nartan Puraskaar from Nalanda Nrityakala Mahavidyalay in 2022. Her new book is due for release end of the year.
She is a classical dancer, a podcaster and author of 19 books. She has translated our honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s Gujarati books Saakshi Bhaav and Aankh Aa Dhanya Chhe into English as Letters to Mother and Letters to Self in 2020 and 2022 respectively. She is the Entertainment Editor at 92.7 Big FM Radio Channel.
Somaaya was conferred with Padma Shri in 2017, an honorary Doctorate by Jagran Lake city University in 2021 and Kanak Nartan Puraskaar from Nalanda Nrityakala Mahavidyalay in 2022. Her new book is due for release end of the year.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 12, 2021
Second Read:
Unlike the last time, it feels so silent within my soul. I'm unsure if I'm soothed or left unscathed. However, it shall always remain a jewel on my bookshelf.
First Read:
A book I shall cherish for a lifetime, and beyond!
Full of positive and Krishna-stic affirmations! A magical joy-ride..!
Unlike the last time, it feels so silent within my soul. I'm unsure if I'm soothed or left unscathed. However, it shall always remain a jewel on my bookshelf.
First Read:
A book I shall cherish for a lifetime, and beyond!
Full of positive and Krishna-stic affirmations! A magical joy-ride..!
May 24, 2021
Human isolation is impossible..we can never let go of our relationship with nature.. Reconnect ourselves and start experiencing the happiness...this book is a complete spiritual bliss..
August 14, 2018
Keshava- A Magnificent Obsession is a book which offers great knowledge about Lord Krishna. There are already lot of books based on Mythology, but many are manipulated by some authors just to keep the readers attention intact. However, Bhavana Somaaya, does not go on that path, rather she beautifully explains the Sanskrit Verses and her writing is Simple, Lucid, and very easy to understand.
The writer talks about almost everything related to Lord Krishna- From the peacock feather on his head, Kadaamba Tree, His flute, Tulsi, Lotus, Kamadhenu, Conch and Peepala Tree. The writer has also explained why these things love their deity and why is Lord Krishna fond of them.
The writing is so beautiful that you’ll be enchanted by the choice of words, it’s almost like reading mantras or some ancient scriptures.
The LazyScoop Verdict:
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes to read mythology. If you’re a devotee of Krishna or not, this book would definitely offer lot of mythological knowledge.
Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession absolutely recommended by The LazyScoop. Especially if you’re a mythology lover.
Ratings:
Cover: 4.5/ 5 Stars
Language: 4.5/ 5 Stars
Narration: 4/ 5 Stars
Entertainment: 3.5/ 5 Stars
Knowledge: 4.5/ 5 Stars
The LazyScoop Rating: 4.5/ 5 Stars
The writer talks about almost everything related to Lord Krishna- From the peacock feather on his head, Kadaamba Tree, His flute, Tulsi, Lotus, Kamadhenu, Conch and Peepala Tree. The writer has also explained why these things love their deity and why is Lord Krishna fond of them.
The writing is so beautiful that you’ll be enchanted by the choice of words, it’s almost like reading mantras or some ancient scriptures.
The LazyScoop Verdict:
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes to read mythology. If you’re a devotee of Krishna or not, this book would definitely offer lot of mythological knowledge.
Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession absolutely recommended by The LazyScoop. Especially if you’re a mythology lover.
Ratings:
Cover: 4.5/ 5 Stars
Language: 4.5/ 5 Stars
Narration: 4/ 5 Stars
Entertainment: 3.5/ 5 Stars
Knowledge: 4.5/ 5 Stars
The LazyScoop Rating: 4.5/ 5 Stars
June 12, 2023
4.5/5
It was absolutely delightful reading from the perspective of the objects and adornments of Keshav, talking about themselves and about HIM with so much love.
There were so many wonderful facts - some I knew, many I did not.
The best part were the super beautiful cry-worthy Sanskrit shloks qouted from God knows which all scriptures - ( I'd journal them all!!)
However there are a few fundamental, spelling and name errors which I think, need to be corrected asap.
It was absolutely delightful reading from the perspective of the objects and adornments of Keshav, talking about themselves and about HIM with so much love.
There were so many wonderful facts - some I knew, many I did not.
The best part were the super beautiful cry-worthy Sanskrit shloks qouted from God knows which all scriptures - ( I'd journal them all!!)
However there are a few fundamental, spelling and name errors which I think, need to be corrected asap.
December 31, 2024
When every element associated with Krishna comes to life, I enjoyed and relished reading those perspectives. The title of the book itself is beautiful..need I say more. If you a Krishna devotee..or just love him...go and read this book. I'm sure it will make you happy. Hare krishna!
May 11, 2018
Ever wondered why certain objects like flute, conch or peacock feather became an integral part of Lord Krishna’s life?
Well Bhawana Somaaya’s latest book about the deity, Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession explains how and when the eight wonders of nature namely the peacock, the flute, the conch, the lotus flower, Kamadhenu, the Tulsi plant , Kadamba and the Peepal trees came to be associated with the deity.
Her new book, apparently her 14th talks about how Lord Krishna became the centre of existence of these eight wonders of the nature and slowly transformed into an obsession.
The narrative of the book is unusual in the sense it introduces you to eight special stories of eight wonders all fascinated with the deity. The ninth story is Lord Krishna himself telling you why he loves all of them so dearly.
The books for all those who are interested in mythology and also those like me who are not drawn to the subject because it packages innumerable unheard folklores, a refreshing read for all.
Well Bhawana Somaaya’s latest book about the deity, Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession explains how and when the eight wonders of nature namely the peacock, the flute, the conch, the lotus flower, Kamadhenu, the Tulsi plant , Kadamba and the Peepal trees came to be associated with the deity.
Her new book, apparently her 14th talks about how Lord Krishna became the centre of existence of these eight wonders of the nature and slowly transformed into an obsession.
The narrative of the book is unusual in the sense it introduces you to eight special stories of eight wonders all fascinated with the deity. The ninth story is Lord Krishna himself telling you why he loves all of them so dearly.
The books for all those who are interested in mythology and also those like me who are not drawn to the subject because it packages innumerable unheard folklores, a refreshing read for all.
July 3, 2022
Bhawana Somaaya is a journalist and an author of 14 books. Her latest book, Keshava - A Magnificent Obsession. Lord Krishna is one of the many gods in Hindu religion. He can be identified in various forms and his identity is spread in a variety of cultures all across the nation. That said, he has been a significant part of Indian Mythology.
This book does not have a significant plot that concentrates on character building with twists and turns. This book is something altogether different. It is divided into nine different chapters in which the lord is himself represented as different entities. These entities vary from being an obsession, lord of knowledge, cows and trees, love, guardian to royalty, and other materialistic things. The fascinating fact I learned from reading this book is the popularity of Lord Krishna among different cultures and he is recognized in them through more than hundreds of names.
There is no wonder why his popularity resides outside the boundaries of Indian culture over the past few decades. In each chapter, he is representing himself and telling tales or observations from the different point of views. The writing style is smooth, clear and I appreciate the author's effort in creating them out of nowhere.
Though the absolute religious mythology is not for me I will still recommend this book to various mythology lovers out there.
3.5 out of 5
This book does not have a significant plot that concentrates on character building with twists and turns. This book is something altogether different. It is divided into nine different chapters in which the lord is himself represented as different entities. These entities vary from being an obsession, lord of knowledge, cows and trees, love, guardian to royalty, and other materialistic things. The fascinating fact I learned from reading this book is the popularity of Lord Krishna among different cultures and he is recognized in them through more than hundreds of names.
There is no wonder why his popularity resides outside the boundaries of Indian culture over the past few decades. In each chapter, he is representing himself and telling tales or observations from the different point of views. The writing style is smooth, clear and I appreciate the author's effort in creating them out of nowhere.
Though the absolute religious mythology is not for me I will still recommend this book to various mythology lovers out there.
3.5 out of 5
June 19, 2018
Bhawana Somaaya is a journalist and an author of 14 books. Her latest book, Keshava - A Magnificent Obsession. Lord Krishna is one of the many gods in Hindu religion. He can be identified in various forms and his identity is spread in a variety of cultures all across the nation. That said, he has been a significant part of Indian Mythology.
This book does not have a significant plot that concentrates on character building with twists and turns. This book is something altogether different. It is divided into nine different chapters in which the lord is himself represented as different entities. These entities vary from being an obsession, lord of knowledge, cows and trees, love, guardian to royalty, and other materialistic things. The fascinating fact I learned from reading this book is the popularity of Lord Krishna among different cultures and he is recognized in them through more than hundreds of names.
There is no wonder why his popularity resides outside the boundaries of Indian culture over the past few decades. In each chapter, he is representing himself and telling tales or observations from the different point of views. The writing style is smooth, clear and I appreciate the author's effort in creating them out of nowhere.
Though the absolute religious mythology is not for me I will still recommend this book to various mythology lovers out there.
3.5 out of 5
This book does not have a significant plot that concentrates on character building with twists and turns. This book is something altogether different. It is divided into nine different chapters in which the lord is himself represented as different entities. These entities vary from being an obsession, lord of knowledge, cows and trees, love, guardian to royalty, and other materialistic things. The fascinating fact I learned from reading this book is the popularity of Lord Krishna among different cultures and he is recognized in them through more than hundreds of names.
There is no wonder why his popularity resides outside the boundaries of Indian culture over the past few decades. In each chapter, he is representing himself and telling tales or observations from the different point of views. The writing style is smooth, clear and I appreciate the author's effort in creating them out of nowhere.
Though the absolute religious mythology is not for me I will still recommend this book to various mythology lovers out there.
3.5 out of 5
Read
September 23, 2022Every devotee wants to be their deity’s favorite. They want to prove that their love for the Supreme exceeds everyone else’s. Its not just humans who want to be the God’s favorite but non-living things too are in this quest.
Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, is widely loved and has a huge following of devotees. But there are few things that have made a special place in his heart. This book tells the stories of these 8 things, namely, The Peacock feather, Bansuri, Conch, Tulsi, Lotus, Kabamba Tree, Kamadhenu and Peepal Tree. Each of the above tells the story of how they became Krishna’s favorite, their importance in his prayer ritual and how each of them has a positive impact on this world. There are Sanskrit shlokas at the beginning of every chapter taken from the religious texts and proving the importance of these 8 entities. This book also mentions Radha at many places and the relationship she had with Krishna.
I love Krishna and hence I enjoyed reading this book. I wouldn’t compare it with regular novels because this book is more inclined towards one’s belief in Krishna. So, you can try this if you want to know more about the elements associated with him. I will not rate this book because it does not fall in the same genre as the other novels I review.
Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, is widely loved and has a huge following of devotees. But there are few things that have made a special place in his heart. This book tells the stories of these 8 things, namely, The Peacock feather, Bansuri, Conch, Tulsi, Lotus, Kabamba Tree, Kamadhenu and Peepal Tree. Each of the above tells the story of how they became Krishna’s favorite, their importance in his prayer ritual and how each of them has a positive impact on this world. There are Sanskrit shlokas at the beginning of every chapter taken from the religious texts and proving the importance of these 8 entities. This book also mentions Radha at many places and the relationship she had with Krishna.
I love Krishna and hence I enjoyed reading this book. I wouldn’t compare it with regular novels because this book is more inclined towards one’s belief in Krishna. So, you can try this if you want to know more about the elements associated with him. I will not rate this book because it does not fall in the same genre as the other novels I review.
May 30, 2018
Reading books that speak mythology is divine for myth lovers. If it is about Lord Krishna the delight doubles. That’s what Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession does to its readers. Bhawana Somaaya who is known for writing bios of Amitabh and Hema Malini, has penned Keshava. It is her 14th book and 2nd on the deity.
Keshava speaks about Lord Krishna’s love for his eight beloved things. The Peacock, the Kadamba tree, the Flute, the herbal plant Tulsi, the Lotus, His cow Kamadhenu, the Conch and the Peepala tree. These eight things play a major role in the deity’s myth. So does in this book.
Complete review: http://www.etale.in/keshava-a-magnifi...
Keshava speaks about Lord Krishna’s love for his eight beloved things. The Peacock, the Kadamba tree, the Flute, the herbal plant Tulsi, the Lotus, His cow Kamadhenu, the Conch and the Peepala tree. These eight things play a major role in the deity’s myth. So does in this book.
Complete review: http://www.etale.in/keshava-a-magnifi...
July 26, 2024
A well penned down book, how every aspect of nature and creation thinks the supreme Lord Krishna is for themselves and how he loves them uniquely.!
I felt really connected as every time you see Krishna you think your love for him is the highest. But when it's the same feeling held by each one who loves him... But eventually it's he who taught us to love and its he who loves us all beyond anyone can comprehend..!!
Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum 🙏
I felt really connected as every time you see Krishna you think your love for him is the highest. But when it's the same feeling held by each one who loves him... But eventually it's he who taught us to love and its he who loves us all beyond anyone can comprehend..!!
Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum 🙏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2018
Everything has meaning and Krishna is that meaning.
May 9, 2019
A fantastic book depicting the life of Krishna and the things around him in a descriptive and beautiful way. It may feel as if though the book has been dragged on, but worth the read.
December 14, 2019
Beautifully worded book.
January 13, 2023
No matter how many times I read this book it makes me fall in love with Krishna again and again.
July 21, 2023
I wanted to read more in detail about it. Some parts were overtly repeated multiple times.
I didnt get that feeling of enjoyment. Some parts were just beautiful to read.
I didnt get that feeling of enjoyment. Some parts were just beautiful to read.
May 11, 2018
Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession touches your heart
Ratings: 4/5
The book leaves you with an essence of peace and fulfillment of sorts. This is my first venture in the world of Lord Krishna – the author has left no stone unturned here. The facts, the mythology, the science behind not just Lord Krishna but everything that surrounds him from the plants to the animals to various objects being used have opened up various perspectives for me.
Needless to say the writing is very eloquent and poignant – easy for a layman to grasp such as me. This book can definitely find its way into the hearts of the least spiritual beings that exist.
Ratings: 4/5
The book leaves you with an essence of peace and fulfillment of sorts. This is my first venture in the world of Lord Krishna – the author has left no stone unturned here. The facts, the mythology, the science behind not just Lord Krishna but everything that surrounds him from the plants to the animals to various objects being used have opened up various perspectives for me.
Needless to say the writing is very eloquent and poignant – easy for a layman to grasp such as me. This book can definitely find its way into the hearts of the least spiritual beings that exist.
May 12, 2018
Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession redefines mythology
Ratings: 4/5
Much as I love reading books I have never exactly been a fan of mythological/ religious subjects. One day, while surfing on the net I happened to see the cover of Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession by Bhawana Somaaya.
I read the cover blurb and ordered my book on Amazon. I am glad I did. The book changed my perception of mythology as the author very interestingly leads you to different characters associated with Lord Krishna.
It is book of Keshava’s relationship with nature be it his favorite bird, the peacock, the flute, the conch, the lotus, his favorite animal, the Kamadhenu, plant Tulsi and trees Kadamba and Peepal. There are stories within stories as the deity talks about his favorites and they talk about their Lord.
It is an engaging and endearing narrative that makes you understand why Keshava is a Magnificent Obsession for everyone around him...
Pooja Sharma
Ratings: 4/5
Much as I love reading books I have never exactly been a fan of mythological/ religious subjects. One day, while surfing on the net I happened to see the cover of Keshava: A Magnificent Obsession by Bhawana Somaaya.
I read the cover blurb and ordered my book on Amazon. I am glad I did. The book changed my perception of mythology as the author very interestingly leads you to different characters associated with Lord Krishna.
It is book of Keshava’s relationship with nature be it his favorite bird, the peacock, the flute, the conch, the lotus, his favorite animal, the Kamadhenu, plant Tulsi and trees Kadamba and Peepal. There are stories within stories as the deity talks about his favorites and they talk about their Lord.
It is an engaging and endearing narrative that makes you understand why Keshava is a Magnificent Obsession for everyone around him...
Pooja Sharma
May 14, 2018
This book is a loving tribute to the beloved deity Krishna and everything related to him, from his flute, the peacock feather that adorns his hair, the conch, the lotus, the Kamadhenu, the gopikas who adore him, and more.
The descriptions are lyrical. The author grabs her readers with her storytelling prowess, weaving a feeling of love and fascination for Keshava. This is an interesting book for both devotees and non-devotees of Krishna and it is enthralling to read the associated legends. A very pleasant read!
The descriptions are lyrical. The author grabs her readers with her storytelling prowess, weaving a feeling of love and fascination for Keshava. This is an interesting book for both devotees and non-devotees of Krishna and it is enthralling to read the associated legends. A very pleasant read!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews