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The Great Indian Epics Retold
Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata
In the forest of insecurities, is it possible to discover humanity through pleasure?Can we stop seeing each other as predator, prey, rival or mate, and rediscover ourselves as lovers?Does the divine reside in sensual delight, in emotional intimacy and in aesthetic experience?Yes, yes, yes.That is the promise of the Bhagavata.The Bhagavata is the story of Krishna, known as Shyam to those who find beauty, wisdom and love in his dark complexion. It is the third great Hindu epic after the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. However, this narration was composed in fragments over thousands of years, first as the Harivamsa, then as the Bhagavata Purana, and finally as the passionate songs of poet-sages in various regional languages.This book seamlessly weaves the story from Krishna's birth to his death, or rather from his descent to the butter-smeared world of happy women to his ascent from the blood-soaked world of angry men.
431 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2018
146 people are currently reading
1098 people want to read
About the author
Devdutt Pattanaik
286 books3,325 followersDr. Devdutt Pattanaik (born December 11, 1970) is an Indian physician turned leadership consultant, mythologist and author whose works focus largely on the areas of myth, mythology, and also management. He has written a number of books related to Hindu mythology, including Myth = Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology, a novel, The Pregnant King, and Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata (2010).
He is the Chief Belief Officer of Future Group, one of India’s largest retailers, bringing the wisdom of Indian mythology into Indian business, especifically in human resource management. He also writes a column for the newspaper MID DAY.
He has also written a novel based on a tale from the Mahabharata titled 'The Pregnant King' published by Penguin Books India
He is the Chief Belief Officer of Future Group, one of India’s largest retailers, bringing the wisdom of Indian mythology into Indian business, especifically in human resource management. He also writes a column for the newspaper MID DAY.
He has also written a novel based on a tale from the Mahabharata titled 'The Pregnant King' published by Penguin Books India
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 98 reviews
April 5, 2019
If one makes a list of top ten inventions that changed the fate of us humans, Gutenberg’s printing press is sure to find a place on that list. In an age where books were very few in numbers and access to information was the privilege of rich and mighty, Gutenberg’s press pushed the gates wide open, flooding the world with information. Even the most esoteric, restricted texts were made available to anyone with the intent and interest to read them.
Authors like Devdutt Pattanaik make an equal impact in the world of Hindu religious literature. While the great epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata have already been made accessible to all by various authors, there is still a vast portion of Hindu literature that is beyond the access and understanding of lesser mortals that can’t relish these works in their original Sanskrit form. Authors like Devdutt present such texts in beautifully simplified forms, in their own inimitable style, so that even the uninitiated can partake in the bliss of divine texts. This book ‘Shyam’ is one more such feather in his glorious cap.
Krishna – the very name fills one’s heart with bliss and piety. One of the most loved gods of the Hindu pantheon, Krishna is favorite across cultures, sects and ages. For children, he is a naughty playmate. For elderly women, he is a child that stirs up the motherly emotions in them. For women, he is the ultimate beloved. For men, well, can there be a better role-model?! For the elderly, he is God Incarnate, capable of liberating them from endless cycles of birth and death.
Bhagavatha captures the glory of his life in its whole magnitude. In ‘Shyam’, Pattanaik presents that glory in short and sweet tales that make reading an experience of pleasure. The little nuggets of information the author provides all long, right from mentioning the places of pilgrimage to explaining the great philosophy behind the events in Krishna’ life add to that pleasantness. If you love Krishna and can never have enough of reading about his life, then this book is for you. You can also gift this to your children to initiate them to the ways of Krishna. Bliss to read, pride to own!
Authors like Devdutt Pattanaik make an equal impact in the world of Hindu religious literature. While the great epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata have already been made accessible to all by various authors, there is still a vast portion of Hindu literature that is beyond the access and understanding of lesser mortals that can’t relish these works in their original Sanskrit form. Authors like Devdutt present such texts in beautifully simplified forms, in their own inimitable style, so that even the uninitiated can partake in the bliss of divine texts. This book ‘Shyam’ is one more such feather in his glorious cap.
Krishna – the very name fills one’s heart with bliss and piety. One of the most loved gods of the Hindu pantheon, Krishna is favorite across cultures, sects and ages. For children, he is a naughty playmate. For elderly women, he is a child that stirs up the motherly emotions in them. For women, he is the ultimate beloved. For men, well, can there be a better role-model?! For the elderly, he is God Incarnate, capable of liberating them from endless cycles of birth and death.
Bhagavatha captures the glory of his life in its whole magnitude. In ‘Shyam’, Pattanaik presents that glory in short and sweet tales that make reading an experience of pleasure. The little nuggets of information the author provides all long, right from mentioning the places of pilgrimage to explaining the great philosophy behind the events in Krishna’ life add to that pleasantness. If you love Krishna and can never have enough of reading about his life, then this book is for you. You can also gift this to your children to initiate them to the ways of Krishna. Bliss to read, pride to own!
August 29, 2018
Book review of ‘Shyam: An illustrated retelling of the Bhagavat’ by Devdutt Patnaik
The first book I ever read of Devdutt Patnaik was Myth=Mythya. It was gifted to me by my Mom as I am a Mythology Fan. But Oh Boy! The impression it left on me was lasting and amazing.
Author Devdutt Patnaik has crafted a niche for himself in the Mythology genre amongst young and old, and that is very commendable. Very few Authors have succeeded in achieving this place in India and Devdutt Patnaik is one such Author.
Review
In ‘Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata’ Vyasa narrates the story of Shyam to his unborn son Shuka, who is half Parrot and half human. Shuka who has learned every Veda in his mother’s womb believes Earth to be full of pain and suffering and is very reluctant to live on earth. To entice Shuka to stay on Earth, Vyasa tells him about Shyam in every stage of his life, be that of Yashodha’s little son with the whole Cosmic being in his mouth to the Cowherd of Vrindavana, or being the Kamsa Destroyer or to the Charioteer and a Counsel to Arjuna.
As always the Author has put dark grey boxes of notes at the end of every chapter, comparing various Puranas, giving us facts, Historical occurrences and details related to the chapter, giving it a fresh perspective. The book is divided into 16 chapters. The story is narrated in a very sequential manner, from the Prophecy of Kamsa’s death to many forms and Avatars of Krishna’s to Krishna’s death.
‘Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata’ is pure poetry to the aching soul. The writing is beautiful bouquets of words, simple yet very alluring. The illustrations, mesmerize and enchant you. The best thing is that the Illustrations are done by the Author himself, which gives the retelling of Shyam more personal touch.
This book is an amazing mythological joyride and definitely not a book you should miss.
The first book I ever read of Devdutt Patnaik was Myth=Mythya. It was gifted to me by my Mom as I am a Mythology Fan. But Oh Boy! The impression it left on me was lasting and amazing.
Author Devdutt Patnaik has crafted a niche for himself in the Mythology genre amongst young and old, and that is very commendable. Very few Authors have succeeded in achieving this place in India and Devdutt Patnaik is one such Author.
Review
In ‘Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata’ Vyasa narrates the story of Shyam to his unborn son Shuka, who is half Parrot and half human. Shuka who has learned every Veda in his mother’s womb believes Earth to be full of pain and suffering and is very reluctant to live on earth. To entice Shuka to stay on Earth, Vyasa tells him about Shyam in every stage of his life, be that of Yashodha’s little son with the whole Cosmic being in his mouth to the Cowherd of Vrindavana, or being the Kamsa Destroyer or to the Charioteer and a Counsel to Arjuna.
As always the Author has put dark grey boxes of notes at the end of every chapter, comparing various Puranas, giving us facts, Historical occurrences and details related to the chapter, giving it a fresh perspective. The book is divided into 16 chapters. The story is narrated in a very sequential manner, from the Prophecy of Kamsa’s death to many forms and Avatars of Krishna’s to Krishna’s death.
‘Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata’ is pure poetry to the aching soul. The writing is beautiful bouquets of words, simple yet very alluring. The illustrations, mesmerize and enchant you. The best thing is that the Illustrations are done by the Author himself, which gives the retelling of Shyam more personal touch.
This book is an amazing mythological joyride and definitely not a book you should miss.
July 20, 2018
The book starts with King Vajranabhi, great grandson of Krishna trying to trace people who can actually describe a clear picture of how magnificent he looked as the king had heard a lot about his ancestor’s beauty but they all varied from each other. In his quest he meets Uttari, Abhimanyu’s widow who gave a beautiful description according to which we come to know different variations of Krishna’s image. In the next chapter we meet Shuka, unborn son of Vyasa who planned to not live on Earth as he believed it is just full of miseries. Since he had attained full knowledge of Vedas while being in the womb, he had no intentions of living on Earth anymore but as he was leaving towards the sky Vyasa stopped him. Using Shyam’s adventurous stories he entices the unborn child to stay & experience the earthly life too.
Read the full review on Just Another Bookaholic
Read the full review on Just Another Bookaholic
January 31, 2020
This is my second book by Devdutt Patnaik and to be honest I liked it..
.
.
This being the story of my fav character so no doubt I was gonna enjoy reading this one.. Not just that I really had many emotional moment.. Like very touchy moments.. Maybe coz of writing or maybe coz I was so much into reading this one..
.
.
He is my fav character and I read a book about him for the first time... Yeah sounds weird right.. 🙈
But I have heard lot of stories about him..
And believe me there were very few things in this one which I didn't already know ..
Like I knew how he got to marry 4 (of the 8) of her queen like how they came to marry him and all... Of other 4 wives I came to know from this one...
Also we know how he came to have 16000 queens.. 😜.
.
.
I also liked the story of Vyasa and his son.. That I heard for the first time..
I liked the introduction to the book... It was really informative..
.
.
.
And the thing that Devdutt does those Grey boxes after few paragraphs that improves our information.. 😜
.
.
In this one also these boxes were there and they had the info which compared the each small story with the different versions of Bhagvata interpreted by different ppl from time to time.
.
.
The thing I felt which was really interesting was knowing the difference in the Jain Mahabharata and Buddhist ppl's story about Krishna.
Wherever there was the difference it was shown in those boxes...
.
.
.
Next one more interest interpretation or lets say comparison I really liked is the comparison between the Greek Mythology and Bhagvat...
(like the one I mentioned in my story).
There are really meant stories which are also found in Greek mythology.
And now I am thinking of buying the book on Greek mythology which is written by Devdutt Patnaik.... 😜
.
.
This book is like 'to the point'. .. Like if you want to know the story but no detailing... Yeah I felt it is like that..
Like if you don't know anything about him I guests read this one.. Or for above comparisons you can say.
Like I started reading Game of thrones to know all the details.. Such details about Krishna was not there in this book...
.
.
.
.
.
This being the story of my fav character so no doubt I was gonna enjoy reading this one.. Not just that I really had many emotional moment.. Like very touchy moments.. Maybe coz of writing or maybe coz I was so much into reading this one..
.
.
He is my fav character and I read a book about him for the first time... Yeah sounds weird right.. 🙈
But I have heard lot of stories about him..
And believe me there were very few things in this one which I didn't already know ..
Like I knew how he got to marry 4 (of the 8) of her queen like how they came to marry him and all... Of other 4 wives I came to know from this one...
Also we know how he came to have 16000 queens.. 😜.
.
.
I also liked the story of Vyasa and his son.. That I heard for the first time..
I liked the introduction to the book... It was really informative..
.
.
.
And the thing that Devdutt does those Grey boxes after few paragraphs that improves our information.. 😜
.
.
In this one also these boxes were there and they had the info which compared the each small story with the different versions of Bhagvata interpreted by different ppl from time to time.
.
.
The thing I felt which was really interesting was knowing the difference in the Jain Mahabharata and Buddhist ppl's story about Krishna.
Wherever there was the difference it was shown in those boxes...
.
.
.
Next one more interest interpretation or lets say comparison I really liked is the comparison between the Greek Mythology and Bhagvat...
(like the one I mentioned in my story).
There are really meant stories which are also found in Greek mythology.
And now I am thinking of buying the book on Greek mythology which is written by Devdutt Patnaik.... 😜
.
.
This book is like 'to the point'. .. Like if you want to know the story but no detailing... Yeah I felt it is like that..
Like if you don't know anything about him I guests read this one.. Or for above comparisons you can say.
Like I started reading Game of thrones to know all the details.. Such details about Krishna was not there in this book...
.
.
.
April 9, 2019
It felt like a book of mythology facts for a beginner. Hardly any continuity in story writing. Most of the facts are well known even to someone who has seen the serial Mahabharata or Krishna. Had high hopes but was disappointed
September 27, 2018
Devdutt is over stretching himself. He's till now dwelt exceptionally with the Indian Mythology and cleared lots of smoke regarding it. However in this book he is sounding verbose. Maybe I've read him a lot and thats why it feels so. On the contrary his illustrated telling of Mahabharat is refreshing each time I read it.
December 15, 2020
Krishna says don't just ask for love from me, you must also love. Only Radha loves me and never expect anything from me in return. That's why Radhe Radhe.
September 6, 2018
Devdutt Pattanaik is a king when it comes to Mythology books. Shyaam - An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata is one of his wonderful creation. From Cover to Illustrations each and everything is amazing. The Narration of the story is Lucid and Gripping.
This book is about Glimpse of Krishna's existence, also about the birth of Kansa, and other stories. What I loved the most about the book is It is well researched and detailed. It tells about Krishna's teachings, observations and his life. There are some uniques stories that I found in this book.
The author has also added notes and other information which builds the interests of the reader. The author gives information about Various avatars of Lord Vishnu, about transformations with communities. The illustrations that the book has are beautiful. Each illustration tells a story making it easy for the reader to understand.
The book is a bit heavy read but the author has written it interestingly. The writing style of the author is enticing. The language of the book is simple and smooth. What is Love? It's the best Chapter of the story. The book gives the message of Humanity, Love, Karma, Trust and Believe.
I loved reading this book. If you love reading Mythology, Do not skip this book.
This book is about Glimpse of Krishna's existence, also about the birth of Kansa, and other stories. What I loved the most about the book is It is well researched and detailed. It tells about Krishna's teachings, observations and his life. There are some uniques stories that I found in this book.
The author has also added notes and other information which builds the interests of the reader. The author gives information about Various avatars of Lord Vishnu, about transformations with communities. The illustrations that the book has are beautiful. Each illustration tells a story making it easy for the reader to understand.
The book is a bit heavy read but the author has written it interestingly. The writing style of the author is enticing. The language of the book is simple and smooth. What is Love? It's the best Chapter of the story. The book gives the message of Humanity, Love, Karma, Trust and Believe.
I loved reading this book. If you love reading Mythology, Do not skip this book.
October 22, 2020
Nice work by Devdutt Pattanaik. This book gives a clear insight on Krishna's life, from his birth to his death, in the form of short stories. It provides great teachings about life and karma in the form of Vyasa consoling his frightened child, Shuka, who is trying to run away. It also beautifully captures the changes in Krishna's life from a cowherd to a king and then a charioteer who is solely responsible for Pandava's victory in the righteous war. The most interesting part of the book were the doodles drawn by the author. It makes the work more comprehensible.
The only limitation with the book was that it focused less on revelation of Bhagwad Gita and more on Krishna's life in Vrindavan and his dance with the gopis got a bit dragged.
Despite this drawback, the book gives a lot of understanding about Indian culture. It takes us back to the time even before the King Bharata(ancestor of Kauravas and Pandavas) and tells how the events towards Mahabharata started getting unfolded from the very beginning. It was an interesting fact to know how the Kauravas and Pandavas are related to the Yadavas. So this book is highly recommended to those who are interested in learnings from Krishna's life and the lost Indian Philosophy.
The only limitation with the book was that it focused less on revelation of Bhagwad Gita and more on Krishna's life in Vrindavan and his dance with the gopis got a bit dragged.
Despite this drawback, the book gives a lot of understanding about Indian culture. It takes us back to the time even before the King Bharata(ancestor of Kauravas and Pandavas) and tells how the events towards Mahabharata started getting unfolded from the very beginning. It was an interesting fact to know how the Kauravas and Pandavas are related to the Yadavas. So this book is highly recommended to those who are interested in learnings from Krishna's life and the lost Indian Philosophy.
July 20, 2018
Shyam takes us through the life of Krishna, from before his birth to his death and thereafter. It is interspersed with Krishna's observations and teachings. As with any Devdutt Pattanaik book, there are plenty of notes made in the book where the author gives a reference to a place or a text or simply a folktale reference. This is what makes his books a great read for me. You learn something from his books. As with any tale of Krishna, there is plenty of mischief and love. There are a few threads that run through the book. Primarily how when mankind lets go of humanity, Dharma is compromised and the concept of Karma. Devdutt Pattanaik does not get preachy with these concepts but has made sure to give enough anecdotes about Krishna depicting his conundrum of maintaining Dharma and doing what is right. He also subtly shows that Krishna, despite being a reincarnation of Vishnu, has to reap the rewards of his Karma, past and present. There is definitely a lesson in there for all of us.
For the entire review, visit Frost At Midnite.
For the entire review, visit Frost At Midnite.
December 18, 2022
Alright. I am, and will always be, partial to my favourite author. Devdutt Pattnaik. And when he does write along with his own illustrations, it's a win win for me. I absolutely adore his style for both, playing with words and with lines to sketch.
Hari Anant, Hari katha ananta.
It is often said. Truly, you can never get enough when the tales are about Hari.... Shyam, Krishna. Endearing, moving, enchanting and inspiring he has always been, to the crores of devotees and even non devotees. The book takes you to the Bhagwat in its full. With the author's own comments and snippets of comparison with other versions/historical references with the evolution of the version we know as of today. Many unknown and amusing facts noted at the trademark Pattnaik - dark grey portions. All these and as always brilliant Prelude and Epilogue, makes you immersed in love of Shyam.
Hari Anant, Hari katha ananta.
It is often said. Truly, you can never get enough when the tales are about Hari.... Shyam, Krishna. Endearing, moving, enchanting and inspiring he has always been, to the crores of devotees and even non devotees. The book takes you to the Bhagwat in its full. With the author's own comments and snippets of comparison with other versions/historical references with the evolution of the version we know as of today. Many unknown and amusing facts noted at the trademark Pattnaik - dark grey portions. All these and as always brilliant Prelude and Epilogue, makes you immersed in love of Shyam.
July 19, 2018
Within familiarity resides comfort. Most of what is shared via this illustrated retelling of the Bhagavata was already known to me. It ended up as a comfort read, remembering the stories my grandmother would tell me as I grew up.
Some tales, like Shyam taming the crane, were new to me, and I quite enjoyed reading about them. With his unique illustrations, his beautiful narrative style and knowledge about mythology, I think Devdutt crafts another memorable retelling.
There are his thoughts on the stories that add on to contemplation of course, but I think the story counts first and foremost. I liked some of the thoughts, others didn't interest (or disinterest) me.
Some tales, like Shyam taming the crane, were new to me, and I quite enjoyed reading about them. With his unique illustrations, his beautiful narrative style and knowledge about mythology, I think Devdutt crafts another memorable retelling.
There are his thoughts on the stories that add on to contemplation of course, but I think the story counts first and foremost. I liked some of the thoughts, others didn't interest (or disinterest) me.
November 4, 2019
My Rating = 4.5 stars
Devdutt Pattanaik weaves a splendid & beautiful journey of Krishna's aka Shyam’s life in this book. This is a very well conceptualized story, weaving together the birth, childhood, and adulthood of Lord Krishna. Many of the stories are repeated from the other books by the same author but then also the quality of writing and storytelling is awesome...
A must-read to all the Krishna lovers out there...
Devdutt Pattanaik weaves a splendid & beautiful journey of Krishna's aka Shyam’s life in this book. This is a very well conceptualized story, weaving together the birth, childhood, and adulthood of Lord Krishna. Many of the stories are repeated from the other books by the same author but then also the quality of writing and storytelling is awesome...
A must-read to all the Krishna lovers out there...
July 12, 2018
Lovely book...Krishna being my favourite God, i never miss a chance to read up anything written about Him. Devdutt again delivered a beautiful book with all the known stories and some not so known ones too.
July 27, 2022
3.75/5
Not as enchanting as Jaya, but still a decent read. Go for it if you are already aware of stories from Mahabharata or many other stories of Lord Krishna.
Not as enchanting as Jaya, but still a decent read. Go for it if you are already aware of stories from Mahabharata or many other stories of Lord Krishna.
May 5, 2022
A good modern insight of the ancient beliefs
July 21, 2018
Disclaimer: I read a free review copy of this book.
My first introduction to mythology was in Malayalam. Long before I started reading Amar Chitra Katha comics, my mother had introduced me to Mali Bhagavatham and Mali Ramayanam. Mali was a great children's writer, who made mythology readily accessible to children in Malayalam.
Devdutt Pattanaik appears to be doing the same for adults in an era where people don't have the time or the focus required to read accurate translations of mythological texts. Pattanaik helps them out by doing the "hard" reading for them, and distilling the essence down to accessible text.
Shyam is the latest in a long series of such books, though it's the first one I've read. If you know your Sanskrit, you would know that Shyam means dark, and Shyam is another name for Sreekrishna, that most enigmatic of the avatars of Vishnu. Born to royals Devaki and Vasudeva, but raised by cowherd Nanda and his wife Yashoda (because his uncle Kamsa wants to kill him), Shyam grows up in a village but spends most of his adult life advising kings and (almost) ruling his own city.
The book is divided into sixteen chapters, each containing stories from the various roles Krishna played in his life. Starting with Avatar (which tells us the reason Vishnu had to take the Krishna avatar), the book goes all the way to Elder, moving through roles such as Infant, Cowherd (during his adolescence), Lover (of the gopikas), Husband (to his sixteen thousand wives), and Charioteer (to Arjuna during the Kaurava-Pandava war).
Shyam follows what I've read is the typical formula for Pattanaik's books - brief stories, followed by even briefer boxes of text explaining the significance of the story, its evolution over the years in different ancient texts, and how the story has been adapted in different parts of India. Most of the stories are also accompanied by simple line illustrations.
The book is clearly based on a lot of research, presumably cross-referencing a variety ancient manuscripts, and also learning about the cultural significance of each story in different parts of India. Pattanaik doesn't shy away from talking about aspects of Krishna that modern day macho Hindus would rather hide - his comfort with his feminine side and cross-dressing, for example, or the fact that his skin is actually coal-black and not the Ujala-blue depicted in comics.
But in trying to make the book accessible to the lay reader, the author has had to sacrifice a lot, too. Mythological stories contain a lot of nuance and drama that don't translate well into Pattanaik's workman-like blocks of text. Stories that could have been truly horrific in the hands of a decent writer are laid out for the reader sans emotion (and sometimes even sans context, it feels like). I also wish the stories had been strung together better, showing the chain of causality so that we can understand WHY people behaved the way they did.
A lot of people read Devdutt Pattanaik's books for spiritual understanding, but I have to admit that the spiritual lessons were underwhelming for me, especially near the end, where Krishna advises Arjuna (the base for the Bhagavat Gita). But then I'm not particularly spiritual, so that may just be me.
Overall, it was an interesting introduction to a genre of Indian writing I've happily ignored so far (even when friends and colleagues raved about it). But will I be picking up another Pattanaik book based on this one? Probably not.
My first introduction to mythology was in Malayalam. Long before I started reading Amar Chitra Katha comics, my mother had introduced me to Mali Bhagavatham and Mali Ramayanam. Mali was a great children's writer, who made mythology readily accessible to children in Malayalam.
Devdutt Pattanaik appears to be doing the same for adults in an era where people don't have the time or the focus required to read accurate translations of mythological texts. Pattanaik helps them out by doing the "hard" reading for them, and distilling the essence down to accessible text.
Shyam is the latest in a long series of such books, though it's the first one I've read. If you know your Sanskrit, you would know that Shyam means dark, and Shyam is another name for Sreekrishna, that most enigmatic of the avatars of Vishnu. Born to royals Devaki and Vasudeva, but raised by cowherd Nanda and his wife Yashoda (because his uncle Kamsa wants to kill him), Shyam grows up in a village but spends most of his adult life advising kings and (almost) ruling his own city.
The book is divided into sixteen chapters, each containing stories from the various roles Krishna played in his life. Starting with Avatar (which tells us the reason Vishnu had to take the Krishna avatar), the book goes all the way to Elder, moving through roles such as Infant, Cowherd (during his adolescence), Lover (of the gopikas), Husband (to his sixteen thousand wives), and Charioteer (to Arjuna during the Kaurava-Pandava war).
Shyam follows what I've read is the typical formula for Pattanaik's books - brief stories, followed by even briefer boxes of text explaining the significance of the story, its evolution over the years in different ancient texts, and how the story has been adapted in different parts of India. Most of the stories are also accompanied by simple line illustrations.
The book is clearly based on a lot of research, presumably cross-referencing a variety ancient manuscripts, and also learning about the cultural significance of each story in different parts of India. Pattanaik doesn't shy away from talking about aspects of Krishna that modern day macho Hindus would rather hide - his comfort with his feminine side and cross-dressing, for example, or the fact that his skin is actually coal-black and not the Ujala-blue depicted in comics.
But in trying to make the book accessible to the lay reader, the author has had to sacrifice a lot, too. Mythological stories contain a lot of nuance and drama that don't translate well into Pattanaik's workman-like blocks of text. Stories that could have been truly horrific in the hands of a decent writer are laid out for the reader sans emotion (and sometimes even sans context, it feels like). I also wish the stories had been strung together better, showing the chain of causality so that we can understand WHY people behaved the way they did.
A lot of people read Devdutt Pattanaik's books for spiritual understanding, but I have to admit that the spiritual lessons were underwhelming for me, especially near the end, where Krishna advises Arjuna (the base for the Bhagavat Gita). But then I'm not particularly spiritual, so that may just be me.
Overall, it was an interesting introduction to a genre of Indian writing I've happily ignored so far (even when friends and colleagues raved about it). But will I be picking up another Pattanaik book based on this one? Probably not.
November 28, 2019
This book contains stories of Krishna's life in chronological order. Though most of the stories of Krishna's life as cowherd in vrindavan and as friend of pandavas in and around mahabharata war are known to us. It is the connecting part of the two - after kamsa's death and before mahabharata - that is lesser known. Also, book contains some stories of Krishna's yadava ancestors. Devdutt Pattanaik's illustrations add beauty to the book.
Overall, It was a light and fast paced read, good for night reading. :)
Overall, It was a light and fast paced read, good for night reading. :)
July 22, 2018
How will you define Shyam ? Is he your friend, lover, husband, well wisher, inspiration behind countless songs/dances, stories, the epitome of bhakti devotion, or a great warrior or perhaps he is the most famous historical/ mythological figure of our times. What is Shyam to us ?
The story of Shyam is perhaps familiar to most of us. What makes this more interesting read is the illustrations by Devdutt Pattanaik and the research put into the most mystical, magical & powerful lore of our times.
Devdutt Pattanaik's book Shyam comes across as a book which feels like a conversations with a wise friend, who is narrating the story of Shyam. Its captivating, enthralling and keeps the reader spellbound right from Shyam's childbirth to the very end.
Devdutt Pattanaik's is now a master of retelling of Indian Mystical & mythological lore. This is just adding one more feather to his cap. Although i Do wish that there were more illustrations in the book.
Devdutt's Shyam is a book, which can be read infinite number of times. The mesmerizing & pleasing to eye illustrations in style of Madhubani paintings are a sight to behold. Devdutt Pattanaik has done thorough research & one can come safely to a conclusion that irrespective of cultures, religions or countries, the concept of Shyam is everywhere.
Devdutt Pattanaik's style of writing & engaging in this ever green journey is a experience for the reader too.
The story of Shyam is perhaps familiar to most of us. What makes this more interesting read is the illustrations by Devdutt Pattanaik and the research put into the most mystical, magical & powerful lore of our times.
Devdutt Pattanaik's book Shyam comes across as a book which feels like a conversations with a wise friend, who is narrating the story of Shyam. Its captivating, enthralling and keeps the reader spellbound right from Shyam's childbirth to the very end.
Devdutt Pattanaik's is now a master of retelling of Indian Mystical & mythological lore. This is just adding one more feather to his cap. Although i Do wish that there were more illustrations in the book.
Devdutt's Shyam is a book, which can be read infinite number of times. The mesmerizing & pleasing to eye illustrations in style of Madhubani paintings are a sight to behold. Devdutt Pattanaik has done thorough research & one can come safely to a conclusion that irrespective of cultures, religions or countries, the concept of Shyam is everywhere.
Devdutt Pattanaik's style of writing & engaging in this ever green journey is a experience for the reader too.
October 4, 2018
The best part of this book was that the non-Mahabharata part of the life of Krishna has been given its due coverage & attention. Devdutt Pattanaik once again does a fab in including as many folk lores, local renditions of the Bhagvata and multiple interpretations of the same text, as possible, which makes the book worth reading.
December 30, 2020
Wow!! Simply wow!! Mr. Pattanaik never fail to impress me. Once again, a thoroughly entertaining book with a riveting account on Lord Krishna's life. Indian mythology is rich in content and every event pertaining to Krishna is explained thoroughly. A book with absolutely no loopholes and is engrossing till last page.
I'm happy that i bought and read this book.
I'm happy that i bought and read this book.
May 6, 2019
There are some errors and lots of reference to Greco-Roman Mythology.
September 7, 2019
This book stumped me when I sat down to collect my thoughts about it. Having devoured multiple books and adaptations of Ramayana, Mahabharata and other Puranic myths, I expected this book to be more of the same. The title led me to expect a detailed dive into the teachings of Gita. It turned out to be anything but.
It begins, like all other tales, with a troubled parent. Vyasa's son, having received the Vedic knowledge in his mother's womb, refuses to be born for years. And when he does, he tries to hightail it to heaven, not wanting to suffer in a world of attachments and ignorance. To entice him into staying, Vyasa begins retelling the tales of a God who is : Vishnu to sages, Govinda to cowherds, Krishna to kings and Shyam for those who yearn for love. What follows is a detailed account of Shyam's life broken into sixteen chapters, one for each stage of his life. Recounting the reason for his birth, his adventures in infancy and childhood, his dalliances in youth, his transformation into a statesman, his commitment to his family and household, his role in the Mahabharata and his end. These stages are threaded together with his divinity that asserts itself in all the instances for upholding the dharma. It wouldn't be a stretch to conclude that Shyam was born to uphold and preach the path of dharma in a declining world plagued with greed and ignorance.
Although the author has employed poetic license in recounting these well known tales, they stick to the most popular version of the events, while also including post chapter notes to inform of the variations that might be encountered in different parts of India and South Asia. The scope of the book expands as one realizes the different degrees of veneration for a God that is a household name in the Hindu culture. At times the author calls out the hypocrisy of modern day Hindu fanaticism, by debunking their justifications, which they believe to be the founding tenets of their religion (cow-worship comes to mind). The book doesn't concern itself with Shyam's divinity as much as it focuses on his journey through a finite world, in finite form, exploring every facet of humanity: taking, giving, receiving, sharing, connecting, disconnecting, listening, speaking, witnessing and finally letting go. Bhagvata then, is the story of he who feeds the hungry, who comforts the frightened, who enlightens the ignorant, who is father and mother, who is Bhagavan the infinite.
Through this story, Vyasa hopes to expand his son's heart just as his Vedic hymns expanded his mind in the womb. The hermit tradition that is venerated in Shaivism meets its counterpart in the householder tradition venerated in Vaishnavism. But Krishna's story embodies the enlightened householder, taking the best of both. He lives as a householder but thinks like a hermit, is engaged in everything but possessive of nothing. Through Krishna Vyasa alleviates his son's fears of the material world .
There is much to learn within the covers of this book. The lessons are subtle, grounded in the interactions of God in finite form with ignorant humans. And a discerning eye might glean more than is explicitly said. If anything at all piques your intrigue after reading the review, do give this a try. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will conclude with one of my favorite parts :
It begins, like all other tales, with a troubled parent. Vyasa's son, having received the Vedic knowledge in his mother's womb, refuses to be born for years. And when he does, he tries to hightail it to heaven, not wanting to suffer in a world of attachments and ignorance. To entice him into staying, Vyasa begins retelling the tales of a God who is : Vishnu to sages, Govinda to cowherds, Krishna to kings and Shyam for those who yearn for love. What follows is a detailed account of Shyam's life broken into sixteen chapters, one for each stage of his life. Recounting the reason for his birth, his adventures in infancy and childhood, his dalliances in youth, his transformation into a statesman, his commitment to his family and household, his role in the Mahabharata and his end. These stages are threaded together with his divinity that asserts itself in all the instances for upholding the dharma. It wouldn't be a stretch to conclude that Shyam was born to uphold and preach the path of dharma in a declining world plagued with greed and ignorance.
Although the author has employed poetic license in recounting these well known tales, they stick to the most popular version of the events, while also including post chapter notes to inform of the variations that might be encountered in different parts of India and South Asia. The scope of the book expands as one realizes the different degrees of veneration for a God that is a household name in the Hindu culture. At times the author calls out the hypocrisy of modern day Hindu fanaticism, by debunking their justifications, which they believe to be the founding tenets of their religion (cow-worship comes to mind). The book doesn't concern itself with Shyam's divinity as much as it focuses on his journey through a finite world, in finite form, exploring every facet of humanity: taking, giving, receiving, sharing, connecting, disconnecting, listening, speaking, witnessing and finally letting go. Bhagvata then, is the story of he who feeds the hungry, who comforts the frightened, who enlightens the ignorant, who is father and mother, who is Bhagavan the infinite.
Through this story, Vyasa hopes to expand his son's heart just as his Vedic hymns expanded his mind in the womb. The hermit tradition that is venerated in Shaivism meets its counterpart in the householder tradition venerated in Vaishnavism. But Krishna's story embodies the enlightened householder, taking the best of both. He lives as a householder but thinks like a hermit, is engaged in everything but possessive of nothing. Through Krishna Vyasa alleviates his son's fears of the material world .
There is much to learn within the covers of this book. The lessons are subtle, grounded in the interactions of God in finite form with ignorant humans. And a discerning eye might glean more than is explicitly said. If anything at all piques your intrigue after reading the review, do give this a try. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will conclude with one of my favorite parts :
From the earth, I learned tolerance; from the wind, how movement creates breath; from fire, that the ashes of all things look the same; from water, about refreshment; from the sea, the restraint of its shorelines; from the sun, the cyclical nature of things; from the moon, the shifting moods of life; from the swan that was caught by the fowler and separated from its mate, that relationships can end for no fault of ours; from the kite that is attacked by larger eagles fro the meat on its talons, the power of letting go; from the beehive attacked by the bear, the danger of hoarding; from the butterfly that collects honey without hurting the flower, the wise way to satisfy hunger; from the wandering snake, the importance of never resting; from the python, waiting for opportunities to come our way; from the moth drawn to fire, the male elephant that loses control of his senses when sexually arounsed by the smell of the female, the deer trapped by the hunter's music, the fish caught by worms hanging from the fisherman's bait, how our sense organs entrap us in the world of suffering; from the baby that cries when hungry and gurgles when happy, how emotions are temporary and bound by need; from the clinking bangles on the cook's hand, how isolation is better than company if one seeks silence; from the damsel whose happiness needed the appreciation of lovers, the power of autonomy; from the arrowsmith who failed to notice the king, the power of concentration; from the spider's web, the interconnection of things.
September 1, 2021
For how long will you keep your sight attached to it? And For how will you resist your hunger and your other responsibilities? Will you do not stop staring at it?
Remember, Krishna, if you have made your decision, then who am I to stop you but there are certain things that cause no harm when shared.
It was you who taught this world to slay their inner beast called desire. The world you are eying upon by appearing so withdrawn from your responsibilities is a dense forest of insecurity. Here, people’s attitude can take an extreme turn in a moment like a lit earthen lamp under the gush of wind.
In contrast to the world, you last manifested, it is totally different. Injustice and iniquity were existed in the former one too but were quite overshadowed by the power of righteousness.
In this world, humanity has ceased to wander door-to-door in order to keep itself alive. It is dead now.
Humans are crushing humans, behaving even wilder than animals. Nature and culture are being abolished. Fences have been drawn on the land. Can you believe it?
Remember, Krishna, bright and golden it might look from here, but this world is conducted by the power of darkness. People are forced to live in sceptical paradoxes, which is certainly depressing.
So paradoxes they might seem but you have to be tough to be gentle, you have to be unstable to be firm and you have to be cruel to be kind.
Remember, Krishna, I will not stop you, but in this world experiencing those similar mortal truths will be more painful.
Because this world is not fond of love and affection anymore, I am not able to overcome this suspicion that what if your spell of love and emotional intimacy and your promise of security will not be able to enchant people’s minds again.
The foliage of dead leaves covers the entire ground of this dense and thick forest. In absence of sunrays, its leaves at the bottom of trees are moribund. They could not have been so if they were not still diversifying and categorizing into new orders. Only the leaves at the height are greener and healthier. On their shoulders, they carry a keg of duties to keep the forest alive. They are artists.
Remember, Krishna, take all your mystical powers with yourself, as you are the most powerful in the universe, infinity resides in your naval and only you can manipulate space and time with an eye blink. But very less they guarantees that this world will be allured by your supremacy and divinity again.
Who am I to stop you?
But will you be able to face it?
‘Yes’, assures Krishna.
Let these eternal Vishnu-Krishna stories,
suggest you that even in a violent place like a battlefield,
one can seek knowledge and divinity,
and never cease to attract, enchant, allure and make us realize,
that peace and unity in the world can never be pulled down from circulation.
Remember, Krishna, if you have made your decision, then who am I to stop you but there are certain things that cause no harm when shared.
It was you who taught this world to slay their inner beast called desire. The world you are eying upon by appearing so withdrawn from your responsibilities is a dense forest of insecurity. Here, people’s attitude can take an extreme turn in a moment like a lit earthen lamp under the gush of wind.
In contrast to the world, you last manifested, it is totally different. Injustice and iniquity were existed in the former one too but were quite overshadowed by the power of righteousness.
In this world, humanity has ceased to wander door-to-door in order to keep itself alive. It is dead now.
Humans are crushing humans, behaving even wilder than animals. Nature and culture are being abolished. Fences have been drawn on the land. Can you believe it?
Remember, Krishna, bright and golden it might look from here, but this world is conducted by the power of darkness. People are forced to live in sceptical paradoxes, which is certainly depressing.
So paradoxes they might seem but you have to be tough to be gentle, you have to be unstable to be firm and you have to be cruel to be kind.
Remember, Krishna, I will not stop you, but in this world experiencing those similar mortal truths will be more painful.
Because this world is not fond of love and affection anymore, I am not able to overcome this suspicion that what if your spell of love and emotional intimacy and your promise of security will not be able to enchant people’s minds again.
The foliage of dead leaves covers the entire ground of this dense and thick forest. In absence of sunrays, its leaves at the bottom of trees are moribund. They could not have been so if they were not still diversifying and categorizing into new orders. Only the leaves at the height are greener and healthier. On their shoulders, they carry a keg of duties to keep the forest alive. They are artists.
Remember, Krishna, take all your mystical powers with yourself, as you are the most powerful in the universe, infinity resides in your naval and only you can manipulate space and time with an eye blink. But very less they guarantees that this world will be allured by your supremacy and divinity again.
Who am I to stop you?
But will you be able to face it?
‘Yes’, assures Krishna.
Let these eternal Vishnu-Krishna stories,
suggest you that even in a violent place like a battlefield,
one can seek knowledge and divinity,
and never cease to attract, enchant, allure and make us realize,
that peace and unity in the world can never be pulled down from circulation.
August 11, 2024
As a person who has been interested in mythology ever since I was a kid, watching the animated movies of Hanuman and the adventures of Krishna, not knowing that Mahabharat is an epic with a rich involved of Krishna too, I got exposed to Indian mythology via various short stories in magazines and discourses and the newer made version of Mahabharata on Star Plus. The epic channel version of the tale was an interesting take too.
And so were the author's takes on the Devdutt Patnaik show that I've heard as a podcast.
Krishna is a character and a god that's very alluring to me. As a writer, I love the way he plays the trickster and tries to establish equality on both the sides of the balance, and how he's key to the war of Mahabharata so essential to the establishment of dharma (a word I learned the meaning of through this very book. Thank you for that.)
I love how Krishna, or Shyam, is almost everything and everyone you can need in life. He's a child to a mother, a brother, a friend, an advisor, and a teacher.
All in all, I can't exactly put it in coherent words but I felt a lot of things. And it's not because of Patnaik's writing style (the writing style is not the sole factor), the stories of Krishna helped me find peace and calm in my life, even if for a little while, and see a bigger picture.
Sometimes, I get so lost in my day to day struggles, I forget that other people have their own sufferings, that my own suffering is not the worst. That I can trudge through one more day.
This book and the stories of Krishna made the day feel lighter and helped ease off my mind.
Thank you.
I don't know how to describe it in words but Vishnu being the preserver, among the three supreme gods and his avatar, Krishna, being the trickster, the liar, the chhaliya who breaks nearly almost all the rules which are upheld by Vishnu's former avatars, but he still breaks the rules in such a way that there's no evil intention behind it.
While reading this book, the characterisation of Pandavs was different from how they were depicted in the TV serial, and for a moment, I wondered, why did Krishna even side with them? But it all made sense.
I've always had great respect for the character as someone who has not been very religious. But this book has it all. I understand now why households take such care of Bal Gopal, or why Radha is considered a goddess despite not even being married to Krishna or why is their love so important in the mythology/history itself.
I've never understood the law of Karma. Or why we have so many rituals when we could just follow the ideologies preached by our gods and call it a day.
But I'm realising now that such practices have their own place in the hearts of people who hold onto faith in times of prosperity and trouble.
I've read more books
And so were the author's takes on the Devdutt Patnaik show that I've heard as a podcast.
Krishna is a character and a god that's very alluring to me. As a writer, I love the way he plays the trickster and tries to establish equality on both the sides of the balance, and how he's key to the war of Mahabharata so essential to the establishment of dharma (a word I learned the meaning of through this very book. Thank you for that.)
I love how Krishna, or Shyam, is almost everything and everyone you can need in life. He's a child to a mother, a brother, a friend, an advisor, and a teacher.
All in all, I can't exactly put it in coherent words but I felt a lot of things. And it's not because of Patnaik's writing style (the writing style is not the sole factor), the stories of Krishna helped me find peace and calm in my life, even if for a little while, and see a bigger picture.
Sometimes, I get so lost in my day to day struggles, I forget that other people have their own sufferings, that my own suffering is not the worst. That I can trudge through one more day.
This book and the stories of Krishna made the day feel lighter and helped ease off my mind.
Thank you.
I don't know how to describe it in words but Vishnu being the preserver, among the three supreme gods and his avatar, Krishna, being the trickster, the liar, the chhaliya who breaks nearly almost all the rules which are upheld by Vishnu's former avatars, but he still breaks the rules in such a way that there's no evil intention behind it.
While reading this book, the characterisation of Pandavs was different from how they were depicted in the TV serial, and for a moment, I wondered, why did Krishna even side with them? But it all made sense.
I've always had great respect for the character as someone who has not been very religious. But this book has it all. I understand now why households take such care of Bal Gopal, or why Radha is considered a goddess despite not even being married to Krishna or why is their love so important in the mythology/history itself.
I've never understood the law of Karma. Or why we have so many rituals when we could just follow the ideologies preached by our gods and call it a day.
But I'm realising now that such practices have their own place in the hearts of people who hold onto faith in times of prosperity and trouble.
I've read more books
July 22, 2018
A beautiful Illustrative story of the most loved and adored god in India!
I am not a mythology fan, but I have read Devdutt Pattanaik’s work before and he is excellent at narrating the tales in his own pretty fashion. Having being grown in India in a family that worships Krishna, the story of the god and his tales has been quite familiar. But when you get an illustration copy of this favourite writer to re-read the tale in a new way with a lot of facts stored in little boxes here and there – you sign up for it! That’s what I did!
When I received the book, the cover was just so interesting that I kept turning the pages just to look at the scribbles, and enjoy the beauty of it. One thing that made me love all the art instilled in the book ‘Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata’ is HIS portrayal as a dark skinned, big eyes, sharp features and strong built. Every picture seemed to connect to the picture I have in my mind. The reading started from next day and it was a beautiful read!
The book is a tale of Lord Krishna, his life and all the phases that he went through right from his birth. Right from the famous story of how he was born and the way people started worshipping his birth, to his childhood tales where he was the most mysterious and naughty child. His bond with his mother, his popular love story that binds readers even today, and his influence in the war of Mahabharata – everything is portrayed in a special way with reference to historical facts and famous places. The portrayals of some scenes are very intriguing and bind the reader. I particularly happened to love the special bond shared between Shyam and Arjuna – their friendship, discussion and their roles into the fight for Dharma.
Through this book I have come across a lot of new characters that I hadn’t known existed. All mythological books mainly talk about the key characters and their role in the story. In each story I found a new name which indeed widened my knowledge of the Krishna Story in many aspects.
Devdutt Pattanaik celebrated the Indian Mythology through his collection of books and his tales aren’t just inspiring and knowledge but also a refreshing take on the god we worship so dearly. Packed in each book s a revelation and connection to the life of today, the places and people with the mighty that existed before us!
Read full review here MyPlateReview
I am not a mythology fan, but I have read Devdutt Pattanaik’s work before and he is excellent at narrating the tales in his own pretty fashion. Having being grown in India in a family that worships Krishna, the story of the god and his tales has been quite familiar. But when you get an illustration copy of this favourite writer to re-read the tale in a new way with a lot of facts stored in little boxes here and there – you sign up for it! That’s what I did!
When I received the book, the cover was just so interesting that I kept turning the pages just to look at the scribbles, and enjoy the beauty of it. One thing that made me love all the art instilled in the book ‘Shyam: An Illustrated Retelling of the Bhagavata’ is HIS portrayal as a dark skinned, big eyes, sharp features and strong built. Every picture seemed to connect to the picture I have in my mind. The reading started from next day and it was a beautiful read!
The book is a tale of Lord Krishna, his life and all the phases that he went through right from his birth. Right from the famous story of how he was born and the way people started worshipping his birth, to his childhood tales where he was the most mysterious and naughty child. His bond with his mother, his popular love story that binds readers even today, and his influence in the war of Mahabharata – everything is portrayed in a special way with reference to historical facts and famous places. The portrayals of some scenes are very intriguing and bind the reader. I particularly happened to love the special bond shared between Shyam and Arjuna – their friendship, discussion and their roles into the fight for Dharma.
Through this book I have come across a lot of new characters that I hadn’t known existed. All mythological books mainly talk about the key characters and their role in the story. In each story I found a new name which indeed widened my knowledge of the Krishna Story in many aspects.
Devdutt Pattanaik celebrated the Indian Mythology through his collection of books and his tales aren’t just inspiring and knowledge but also a refreshing take on the god we worship so dearly. Packed in each book s a revelation and connection to the life of today, the places and people with the mighty that existed before us!
Read full review here MyPlateReview
October 29, 2018
An Interesting Retelling
I picked up Shyam because I like Devdutt's narrative. Last year, I read his Olympus and before that Business Sutra: A Very Indian Approach to Management and I liked the intelligent way in which he connected the concept of a Yagna to management. Olympus was amazing because it covered a vast subject in an effective manner and while he kept the narrative as simple as it can be, he also was able to draw some parallels between Indian and Greek mythology.
Indian mythology is a very difficult subject. Mythology's roots may have been in History, but it's not an accurate account. Especially, where there is an oral tradition, one can expect that adaptations and changes would have happened throughout and what the original story was wouldn't remain that way for long. So is the case with Bhagavata Purana. Devdutt points this out adequately throughout this book.
What is important in retelling and what is exactly missing in this book is the point of view. Is Krishna a historical figure? Is he a human being who has been turned into God through narrative? Or is he a God who descended to earth as an Avatar? Is he a mythical figure and a figment of imagination of an ancient poet? What is your point of view? It is not clear. Devdutt tries to create Krishna as a probable historical figure but also wants him to be a superhero. Thus, the narrative loses its grip.
There are some interesting observations and these may or may not be factually correct. That there is an impact of Greek mythology on Indian mythology and vice-versa, it is too far-fetched when he says "Hercules" can be "Hari-Kula-Esha" or Lord Baladeva, it is tough to digest. As a common reader, the idea appealed to me much more because of its creative and wild imagination than because of its factual accuracy.
Quite an interesting read and strongly recommended if you want a simple read. Dont take this book or Devdutt as an authority on the subject. Take it as a PoV read.
I picked up Shyam because I like Devdutt's narrative. Last year, I read his Olympus and before that Business Sutra: A Very Indian Approach to Management and I liked the intelligent way in which he connected the concept of a Yagna to management. Olympus was amazing because it covered a vast subject in an effective manner and while he kept the narrative as simple as it can be, he also was able to draw some parallels between Indian and Greek mythology.
Indian mythology is a very difficult subject. Mythology's roots may have been in History, but it's not an accurate account. Especially, where there is an oral tradition, one can expect that adaptations and changes would have happened throughout and what the original story was wouldn't remain that way for long. So is the case with Bhagavata Purana. Devdutt points this out adequately throughout this book.
What is important in retelling and what is exactly missing in this book is the point of view. Is Krishna a historical figure? Is he a human being who has been turned into God through narrative? Or is he a God who descended to earth as an Avatar? Is he a mythical figure and a figment of imagination of an ancient poet? What is your point of view? It is not clear. Devdutt tries to create Krishna as a probable historical figure but also wants him to be a superhero. Thus, the narrative loses its grip.
There are some interesting observations and these may or may not be factually correct. That there is an impact of Greek mythology on Indian mythology and vice-versa, it is too far-fetched when he says "Hercules" can be "Hari-Kula-Esha" or Lord Baladeva, it is tough to digest. As a common reader, the idea appealed to me much more because of its creative and wild imagination than because of its factual accuracy.
Quite an interesting read and strongly recommended if you want a simple read. Dont take this book or Devdutt as an authority on the subject. Take it as a PoV read.
January 1, 2019
The fact that these tales are less heard of as compared to Ramayana and Mahabharata, makes it an interesting read. Initially the book seemed to be slow but gradually picked up pace as Krishna became an adult and got involved in larger scheme of things.
There is a chapter for each role Krishna is known for - son, lover, householder, wrestler, politician, charioteer etc. The stories of how he married his 8 wives exhibit the vision of Shyam as he made powerful alliances with 8 kingdoms in order to safeguard Dwarka in years to come. The last few chapters coincide with the Mahabharata but with slightly heavier focus on Shyam.
I actually got to know a lot of things by the grey boxes at the end of each section where author extends the story based on the other sources of literature. For example, the 8 types of marriages in ancient India that are described in Manusmriti:
Brahma-vivah: Boy approaches girl's father
Prajapati-vivah: Girl approaches boy and offers dowry
Deva-vivah: Girl is given as a service fee to the service provider
Rishi-vivah: Girl is given to a hermit with a cow and an ox to set up a household
Asura-vivah: Girl is bought
Rakshasa-vivah: Girl is abducted
Gandharva-vivah: Boy and girl choose each other seeking no one's approval
Pisacha-vivah: Girl is forced into marriage without her approval
Also the terminology using which you can segment the population:
Ram - follows rules - Maryada Purshottam
Krishna - breaks rules - Leela Purshottam
Finally some really wise quotes:
"Peace does not come when you shut your eyes to the world. Peace comes when you appreciate the true nature of the world and discover your true self."
"Every villain you face is at heart a victim. So even if you must fight them, do not hate them. That is the way of Dharma."
"Shyam saw how it is impossible to change the destiny of friends, or children. You cannot control everything in this world. Sometimes it is best to accept and be a witness."
October 5, 2024
Review - SHYAM - Devdutt Pattnaik
Who is Shyam?
The dark one or The blue one?
The cunning one or The generous one?
The mischievous one or The caring one?
The passionate one or The sincere one?
The rustic one or The statesman?
The loved one or The tolerated one?
The lover or The householder?
The thief (butter/hearts of milkmaids)or the protector?
He is so much to encompass in one individual. He definitely has to be God.
There are so many layers of him , it's a difficult task to figure him out. Shyam is not everyone's cup of tea. Devdutt Pattnaik has once again done a brilliant job. He has stated most of the details from Harivamsa and Bhagvata Purana. He has compared Krishna's story and Greek mythology.
Many people have the question why Krishna left the battlefield of Mathura and got the name Ranchodrai . Well this book has the answer and will satisfy you to your hearts content. Krishna the charmer doesn't say no to any of his admirers . Every one is welcome in his world who comes with their arms open and surrenders. My favourite part is definitely his role in Mahabharata as a charioteer. In detail comparisons of various different events in our puranas age wise is beautifully and aptly done by the writer. The journey of Krishna from Deviki Nandan to Gokul Nandan to Makhanchor to Chitchor to Radheshyam to Manmohana to Kamsantaka to Dwarkadhish to Parthsarthi to Jagannath to Paramatma is a soul opener. A unique thing which I found in this book is Krishna's relationship with Draupadi. It's neither of a sister nor of a beloved but of a sakhi i.e friend which has been aptly portrayed through different purana stories. Rest you have to read it to find out more.
I couldn't stop my tears when the 18 day battle comes to an end when everybody had lost. The end of Krishna and the Yadava clan breaks my heart which was a result of a heartbroken Gandhari's curse.
Personally there is a lot I still need to understand about Shyam. It's just the start of the journey.
Definitely recommended.
Who is Shyam?
The dark one or The blue one?
The cunning one or The generous one?
The mischievous one or The caring one?
The passionate one or The sincere one?
The rustic one or The statesman?
The loved one or The tolerated one?
The lover or The householder?
The thief (butter/hearts of milkmaids)or the protector?
He is so much to encompass in one individual. He definitely has to be God.
There are so many layers of him , it's a difficult task to figure him out. Shyam is not everyone's cup of tea. Devdutt Pattnaik has once again done a brilliant job. He has stated most of the details from Harivamsa and Bhagvata Purana. He has compared Krishna's story and Greek mythology.
Many people have the question why Krishna left the battlefield of Mathura and got the name Ranchodrai . Well this book has the answer and will satisfy you to your hearts content. Krishna the charmer doesn't say no to any of his admirers . Every one is welcome in his world who comes with their arms open and surrenders. My favourite part is definitely his role in Mahabharata as a charioteer. In detail comparisons of various different events in our puranas age wise is beautifully and aptly done by the writer. The journey of Krishna from Deviki Nandan to Gokul Nandan to Makhanchor to Chitchor to Radheshyam to Manmohana to Kamsantaka to Dwarkadhish to Parthsarthi to Jagannath to Paramatma is a soul opener. A unique thing which I found in this book is Krishna's relationship with Draupadi. It's neither of a sister nor of a beloved but of a sakhi i.e friend which has been aptly portrayed through different purana stories. Rest you have to read it to find out more.
I couldn't stop my tears when the 18 day battle comes to an end when everybody had lost. The end of Krishna and the Yadava clan breaks my heart which was a result of a heartbroken Gandhari's curse.
Personally there is a lot I still need to understand about Shyam. It's just the start of the journey.
Definitely recommended.
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