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Devayani
Long before the Ramayana and Mahabharata wars were fought, Yayati, a scion of the lunar dynasty, was the emperor of Aryavarta, the land of the virtuous. He was an ancestor of the Kaurava princes. A tale of love, friendship, betrayal, and passion in the backdrop of a war between the Devas and the Asuras, Devayani, is a modern retelling of an ancient tale from the Mahabharata. Devayani, the self- willed daughter of Sukracharya, the Asura preceptor, became wife of emperor Yayati through a failed love affair with Kacha. How did the princess Sarmishtha, her friend, become her servant and then her rival? Why did Yayati have to ask his children to make the ultimate sacrifice—to give up their youth for him? Devayani takes you on a journey through infatuation, lust, jealousy, rage, betrayal, love and wisdom.Yayati's son Puru would later inherit the land of Saraswati from his father and start the Puru dynasty; the story of which is synonymous with Bharata.
290 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2021
2 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Manjula Tekal
9 books3 followersManjula Tekal is an author and translator. She has several translations to her credit. Manjula holds Masters’ degrees in management from the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and has worked in Fortune 100 companies.Manjula’s early influences included her father, who fostered a sense of pride in her heritage and respect for independent thought, and her mother, who loved literature. She lives with her husband and two children in Illinois, USA. Devayani is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 7, 2021
Devayani
Author : Manjula Tekal
Published by : @garudabooks
This book is a modern retelling of an ancient tale from the Mahabharata .The story begins with Kacha... well not really it begins with the author providing us the context of the premise . Which more or less is that the Asuras and the Devas are at War with each other and Indra , the king of the Devas, sends his daughter Jayanti to spy for him to the Asuras , and she falls in love with Shukracharya , the most respected guide of the Asuras. They marry and have a daughter "Devayani" . Jayanti has to go back to the Devas because she cant stand living with all the taunts and the stares from the Asuras , who dont trust her , being the daughter of the king of the Devas and all.
Years pass , the war is still going on. But the Asuras have one trick up there sleeve. Shukracharya . He knows the ways of the Sanjeevani , using which , he can bring soldiers on thier death beds , back to perfect health . Indra , in a desperate need of learning the ways of the Sanjeevni , sends Kacha , the son of Brihaspati , to learn from Shukracharya. Read about the event that unravel in the book.
We have been taught from childhood that Devas = Good and Asuras = Bad . It is not that simple . Devas, Asuras and Manushyas are presented not as mythical creatures but as different tribes or clans existing at the time. The reasons behind the frequent wars and differences among them have also been brought down to suit modern human perceptions for better understanding. The magic warfare and tricks or a curse by a sage in the original scripts is brilliantly handled and adapted to make it easier for today's reader to relate and appreciate. You will understand what I mean when you read the book. What i have described is just the iceberg . There are several more interesting things and characters to read about in the book. There are some incidents that readers will relate to , to this date . Things like Friendship , jealously , infatuation , lust , rage , love , betrayal and wisdom are described beautifully by the author. Though i did not understand why Shukracharya named his daughter as "Deva"yani.
The author , Manjula Tekal has done a really fantastic and commendable job . And for her debut book! Garuda Prakashan always surprises us with such beautiful books.
HIGHLY RECCOMENDED.
Thank you both @theindiclibrary and @garudabooks for media copies. As i have one extra , i will be giving it away. Watch this space for more!
Author : Manjula Tekal
Published by : @garudabooks
This book is a modern retelling of an ancient tale from the Mahabharata .The story begins with Kacha... well not really it begins with the author providing us the context of the premise . Which more or less is that the Asuras and the Devas are at War with each other and Indra , the king of the Devas, sends his daughter Jayanti to spy for him to the Asuras , and she falls in love with Shukracharya , the most respected guide of the Asuras. They marry and have a daughter "Devayani" . Jayanti has to go back to the Devas because she cant stand living with all the taunts and the stares from the Asuras , who dont trust her , being the daughter of the king of the Devas and all.
Years pass , the war is still going on. But the Asuras have one trick up there sleeve. Shukracharya . He knows the ways of the Sanjeevani , using which , he can bring soldiers on thier death beds , back to perfect health . Indra , in a desperate need of learning the ways of the Sanjeevni , sends Kacha , the son of Brihaspati , to learn from Shukracharya. Read about the event that unravel in the book.
We have been taught from childhood that Devas = Good and Asuras = Bad . It is not that simple . Devas, Asuras and Manushyas are presented not as mythical creatures but as different tribes or clans existing at the time. The reasons behind the frequent wars and differences among them have also been brought down to suit modern human perceptions for better understanding. The magic warfare and tricks or a curse by a sage in the original scripts is brilliantly handled and adapted to make it easier for today's reader to relate and appreciate. You will understand what I mean when you read the book. What i have described is just the iceberg . There are several more interesting things and characters to read about in the book. There are some incidents that readers will relate to , to this date . Things like Friendship , jealously , infatuation , lust , rage , love , betrayal and wisdom are described beautifully by the author. Though i did not understand why Shukracharya named his daughter as "Deva"yani.
The author , Manjula Tekal has done a really fantastic and commendable job . And for her debut book! Garuda Prakashan always surprises us with such beautiful books.
HIGHLY RECCOMENDED.
Thank you both @theindiclibrary and @garudabooks for media copies. As i have one extra , i will be giving it away. Watch this space for more!
April 27, 2021
I have read Manjula Tekal’s short stories on Medium, and was excited that she had decided to write s full length novel based on characters from Hindu mythology. The book was easy to read and the character delineation of Devayani, Kacha, Yayati ans Sharmishta is highly detailed and nuanced. Manjula’s fast-paced and straightforward narrative style set in a contemporary idiom makes this mythological novel a page-turner.
I have read Devayani’s story many times since childhood. The story in the original Mahabharatha does not explore the motivations of the characters and is usually delivered in a moralizing tone. However, Manjula has taken this story and made it her own by recasting the story from Devayani’s feminine point of view. Manjula takes the readers through an emotional journey, navigating the turbulences of a love affair gone sour, a marriage contracted on the rebound in haste, marital troubles because of personality incompatibilities, marital infidelity - both physical and emotional, guilt, and lust with effortless ease. Her narrative style is deceptively simple.
Manjula has set this novel in pre Rg-vedic times and I was particularly impressed by how she encapsulates the pedagogical model followed in the guru-kulam (school led by a guru or master teacher) researching for ancient cures in a few simple sentences. The research she has put in to write the novel shows in the small nuggets of information and insight that I stumbled upon from time to time. I like it that she has contextualized what might have happened in pre Rg vedic times to modern sensibility. She has listed her sources in the References section of this novel! While I might disagree with the conclusions of some of her sources, I still applaud her efforts to set the context of her novel based upon solid research instead of indulging in mere speculation or creative fancy.
I also like that she quotes the original Sanskrit verses from the Rg Veda, I particularly love the description of the mighty Sarasvati river and what the river meant to the people who lived on her banks! Manjula diligently adheres to the original Mahabharata storyline in spirit and content, even while taking creative liberties in retelling it in a modern idiom.
I was disconcerted by the way quotes are used to punctuate long conversations spanning more than one para. Also, I wish that the publisher had taken more care in printing the map of the setting of the story and the genealogy tree provided with care by the author. I could not see the map clearly or read the genealogy tree.
Manjula had also discussed some troubling and knotty issues regarding youth, loyalty, and inheritance. The conversation between Kacha and Devayani, towards the end, is deep and resolves some questions that I always had about what happens to Kacha in the Mahabharata. This was not satisfactory answered anywhere in the original. However, in Manjula’s Devayani this question is resolved to my satisfaction. On the whole, the mythological novel “Devayani” is both deep and enjoyable at the same time. I congratulate the author for writing this book and look forward to more such novels from Manjula Tekal. Bravo! I rate this novel 5* *****
I have read Devayani’s story many times since childhood. The story in the original Mahabharatha does not explore the motivations of the characters and is usually delivered in a moralizing tone. However, Manjula has taken this story and made it her own by recasting the story from Devayani’s feminine point of view. Manjula takes the readers through an emotional journey, navigating the turbulences of a love affair gone sour, a marriage contracted on the rebound in haste, marital troubles because of personality incompatibilities, marital infidelity - both physical and emotional, guilt, and lust with effortless ease. Her narrative style is deceptively simple.
Manjula has set this novel in pre Rg-vedic times and I was particularly impressed by how she encapsulates the pedagogical model followed in the guru-kulam (school led by a guru or master teacher) researching for ancient cures in a few simple sentences. The research she has put in to write the novel shows in the small nuggets of information and insight that I stumbled upon from time to time. I like it that she has contextualized what might have happened in pre Rg vedic times to modern sensibility. She has listed her sources in the References section of this novel! While I might disagree with the conclusions of some of her sources, I still applaud her efforts to set the context of her novel based upon solid research instead of indulging in mere speculation or creative fancy.
I also like that she quotes the original Sanskrit verses from the Rg Veda, I particularly love the description of the mighty Sarasvati river and what the river meant to the people who lived on her banks! Manjula diligently adheres to the original Mahabharata storyline in spirit and content, even while taking creative liberties in retelling it in a modern idiom.
I was disconcerted by the way quotes are used to punctuate long conversations spanning more than one para. Also, I wish that the publisher had taken more care in printing the map of the setting of the story and the genealogy tree provided with care by the author. I could not see the map clearly or read the genealogy tree.
Manjula had also discussed some troubling and knotty issues regarding youth, loyalty, and inheritance. The conversation between Kacha and Devayani, towards the end, is deep and resolves some questions that I always had about what happens to Kacha in the Mahabharata. This was not satisfactory answered anywhere in the original. However, in Manjula’s Devayani this question is resolved to my satisfaction. On the whole, the mythological novel “Devayani” is both deep and enjoyable at the same time. I congratulate the author for writing this book and look forward to more such novels from Manjula Tekal. Bravo! I rate this novel 5* *****
May 16, 2021
Devayani, By Manjula Tejal is an interesting and good book with simple and lucid language. Characters of Devayani, Sharmistha, Shukracharya and Yayati are given good background and go with the flow of the story. Mythological TV Serials paint a very horrible picture of Asuras as if they are hungry man eaters. This book gives a very humane and practical view of Asura world and Deva world. I wish more such books are written on mythological stories in Indian History.
May 5, 2021
Many believe the Devas to be Gods. But studying their doings does reveal the damage they seem to have done. DEVAYANI by Manjula Tekal, is one such tragic tale.
Much can be ascribed to her nanaji Indra's scheming. His daughter had left her home to marry Shukra, the preceptor of the Asuras, the sole person with a grasp of lifesaving Sanjeevani.
Unable to resist Indra s demands to steal Shukra's knowledge, she abandons her husband and daughter to return to her maternal home, leaving a big hole in Devayani's life that is filled neither by her father's pampering nor by the efforts of her stepmother. Growing up wilful, she falls in love with Shukra's new student, the latest stooge Indra sent to wrest the Sanjeevani. But he too flees, to escape Devayani.
Circumstances now trigger off a chain of events that spin through decades, in Devayani's unhappy married life and all those around her, father, husband, sons, stepson n friends. Everybody is tarred with the horrific tragedy in which Shukra too plays no mean role in Tragedy.
The detailed word pictures of life n customs of that long ago era make for fascinating reading.
Manjula Tekal's research into that period, covering history, customs n lifestyles etc is commendable, as she puts together an almost visual story of family n political events woven between three adjoining kingdoms of Indra, Vrishparva where Shukracharya lived and worked, and that of Aryavarta Chakravartin Yayati, Devayani's husband.
Some nuggets:
= In the pre-Rigvedic period, some Iranian peoples also inhabited Kashmir.
= not Devayani, but her co-wife, Sharmistha bore Puru, destined to eventually be the ancestor of the Kauravas and Pandavas .
= another of Yayati's descendants later founded Gandhar that became renowned for a special breed of horses and was the homeland of the Mahabharatian queen Gandhari.
Much can be ascribed to her nanaji Indra's scheming. His daughter had left her home to marry Shukra, the preceptor of the Asuras, the sole person with a grasp of lifesaving Sanjeevani.
Unable to resist Indra s demands to steal Shukra's knowledge, she abandons her husband and daughter to return to her maternal home, leaving a big hole in Devayani's life that is filled neither by her father's pampering nor by the efforts of her stepmother. Growing up wilful, she falls in love with Shukra's new student, the latest stooge Indra sent to wrest the Sanjeevani. But he too flees, to escape Devayani.
Circumstances now trigger off a chain of events that spin through decades, in Devayani's unhappy married life and all those around her, father, husband, sons, stepson n friends. Everybody is tarred with the horrific tragedy in which Shukra too plays no mean role in Tragedy.
The detailed word pictures of life n customs of that long ago era make for fascinating reading.
Manjula Tekal's research into that period, covering history, customs n lifestyles etc is commendable, as she puts together an almost visual story of family n political events woven between three adjoining kingdoms of Indra, Vrishparva where Shukracharya lived and worked, and that of Aryavarta Chakravartin Yayati, Devayani's husband.
Some nuggets:
= In the pre-Rigvedic period, some Iranian peoples also inhabited Kashmir.
= not Devayani, but her co-wife, Sharmistha bore Puru, destined to eventually be the ancestor of the Kauravas and Pandavas .
= another of Yayati's descendants later founded Gandhar that became renowned for a special breed of horses and was the homeland of the Mahabharatian queen Gandhari.
April 17, 2021
Devayani, daughter of Jayanti (Indra's daughter) and Shukracharya (the Asura preceptor), who spent her childhood without her mother because of the constant war between Asuras and Devas, finds a best friend in Asura princess Sharmistha. However, always used to getting things done her way through manipulations, Devayani, a fierce, intense, and demanding character, finds her life taking unexpected turns when she falls in love with Kacha, but decides to marry Yayati, the king of Aryavarta. Unfortunate circumstances lead to a rift between Devayani and Sharmistha forcing Sharmistha, Asura princess, to accept servitude to Devayani and serve a penance as her maid. What had happened between Devayani and Sharmistha? Why did Devyani marry Yayati when she loved Kacha?
Through Devayani, author Manjula Tekal has brought forward the story of some of the most interesting characters from the pre-Mahabharat and pre-Ramayana era. An intriguing tale of friendship, love, desire, and vengeance, Devayani is a sure-shot page-turner. The characters have been brilliantly given the color of imagination making them interesting and realistic. The narration is to the point and capable of keeping the readers glued. The historical illustrations are informative and interesting. The story flows at a smooth pace and does not deviate from the storyline. Overall a perfect weekend read if you have an interest in Indian mythology.
Through Devayani, author Manjula Tekal has brought forward the story of some of the most interesting characters from the pre-Mahabharat and pre-Ramayana era. An intriguing tale of friendship, love, desire, and vengeance, Devayani is a sure-shot page-turner. The characters have been brilliantly given the color of imagination making them interesting and realistic. The narration is to the point and capable of keeping the readers glued. The historical illustrations are informative and interesting. The story flows at a smooth pace and does not deviate from the storyline. Overall a perfect weekend read if you have an interest in Indian mythology.
May 30, 2021
Devayani By Manjula Tekal is a very interesting read. It traces back to the pre Mahabharata era . The author has beautifully interpreted each character and weaved the story with emotions and brought out each character's insecurities and their actions. The writing style is lucid and engages the reader completely. Its amazing how our itihasa has documented case studies of human follies which unfortunately we dont learn from. The book touches upon aspects of Politics, Conflicts , Education, Human emotions which are relevant to this day. Despite being a fictional account it reinforces the beauty of our rich scriptures , their relevance and how one can draw from its wisdom and apply it to our times even today
May 25, 2021
Devayani by Manjula Tekal is quite an interesting read. Devyani's story, which is originally told in Mahabharata and several Puranas, is a captivating play of compelling emotions of love, jealousy, vengeance and heartache of characters, mainly from across all the three clans of Deva, Asura and Manushya. The retelling has been set during the pre-Rig Vedic times, somewhere between 20000 -13000 BCE in the geographical location extending northwards from roughly today's Mumbai to the whole of North and Northwest India and beyond.
Devayani is the beautiful but self-centered and spoilt daughter of Sukracharya. Her nature of being focused only on the self and feeling ever self-important makes her blind to the qualities and values of people around her and immune to the advice of her well wishers including her loving father and dearest friend Sharmistha. All her relationships end up to be turbulent. The book begins with, her failed love with Kacha, the Deva student of Sukracharya, her biggest failure as a grown-up that leaves a very deep scar on her psyche. It goes on to tell how this failure to assess and learn from situations brings on bigger psychological losses, even as she is being able to continuously gain many apparent successes in life. Devayani's character has been well defined and portrayed evenly by the author throughout the book. Devayani manipulates and marries Yayati, a valiant warrior manushya king, in a fit of rage, shame and jealousy. And then takes Sharmistha, her close childhood friend, who is the embodiment of love, understanding and forgiveness, the exact opposite of Devayani, as her maid to seek vengeance. Sharmistha happens to fall in love with Yayati at his wedding with Devayani. The consequential complexity of emotions-at-war, led by the inevitable love triangle, is well narrated by the author.
Be it the main characters viz. Devayani, Yayati and Sharmistha or the sub characters like Sukracharya, Kacha, Jayanti, Sumedha, etc.. each has a distinct flavor and that flavor unique to that particular person is well maintained throughout the story. The prologue tells the reader clearly about the earlier events that led to the birth of such unique mixture of emotional characters. Every incident and behavior of these flavorful characters teaches any willing reader valuable life lessons as to how and how not to be. There's a rough map and lineage of the characters and a note on the geographical setting to put things in perspective for the reader.
The author has picked up a few relatable incidents from different ancient scripts and expertly woven them into the story to give the timeline a wholesome look. Also, the mystic and mythical elements in the original scripts are cleverly adapted so as to be acceptable to the present-day reader. So, Devas, Asuras and Manushyas are presented not as mythical creatures but as different tribes or clans existing at the time. The reasons behind the frequent wars and differences among them have also been brought down to suit modern human perceptions for better understanding. The magic warfare and tricks or a curse by a sage in the original scripts is brilliantly handled and adapted to make it easier for today's reader to relate and appreciate.
Manjula Tekal has done excellent work for a debut novel. Enjoyable book. I thank Indic Book Club for encouraging and supporting such books that retell stories from ancient Indian scriptures which common people will never get a glimpse of otherwise. These books, in general, kindle one's curiosity to know more about the rich Indian culture and treasures.
Devayani is the beautiful but self-centered and spoilt daughter of Sukracharya. Her nature of being focused only on the self and feeling ever self-important makes her blind to the qualities and values of people around her and immune to the advice of her well wishers including her loving father and dearest friend Sharmistha. All her relationships end up to be turbulent. The book begins with, her failed love with Kacha, the Deva student of Sukracharya, her biggest failure as a grown-up that leaves a very deep scar on her psyche. It goes on to tell how this failure to assess and learn from situations brings on bigger psychological losses, even as she is being able to continuously gain many apparent successes in life. Devayani's character has been well defined and portrayed evenly by the author throughout the book. Devayani manipulates and marries Yayati, a valiant warrior manushya king, in a fit of rage, shame and jealousy. And then takes Sharmistha, her close childhood friend, who is the embodiment of love, understanding and forgiveness, the exact opposite of Devayani, as her maid to seek vengeance. Sharmistha happens to fall in love with Yayati at his wedding with Devayani. The consequential complexity of emotions-at-war, led by the inevitable love triangle, is well narrated by the author.
Be it the main characters viz. Devayani, Yayati and Sharmistha or the sub characters like Sukracharya, Kacha, Jayanti, Sumedha, etc.. each has a distinct flavor and that flavor unique to that particular person is well maintained throughout the story. The prologue tells the reader clearly about the earlier events that led to the birth of such unique mixture of emotional characters. Every incident and behavior of these flavorful characters teaches any willing reader valuable life lessons as to how and how not to be. There's a rough map and lineage of the characters and a note on the geographical setting to put things in perspective for the reader.
The author has picked up a few relatable incidents from different ancient scripts and expertly woven them into the story to give the timeline a wholesome look. Also, the mystic and mythical elements in the original scripts are cleverly adapted so as to be acceptable to the present-day reader. So, Devas, Asuras and Manushyas are presented not as mythical creatures but as different tribes or clans existing at the time. The reasons behind the frequent wars and differences among them have also been brought down to suit modern human perceptions for better understanding. The magic warfare and tricks or a curse by a sage in the original scripts is brilliantly handled and adapted to make it easier for today's reader to relate and appreciate.
Manjula Tekal has done excellent work for a debut novel. Enjoyable book. I thank Indic Book Club for encouraging and supporting such books that retell stories from ancient Indian scriptures which common people will never get a glimpse of otherwise. These books, in general, kindle one's curiosity to know more about the rich Indian culture and treasures.
May 30, 2021
Devayani by Manjula Tekal - Delicate handling of a Mahabharata Origins tale makes for an engaging weekend read
The story of Yayati, curse of old age and benevolence of his son Puru is probably known to few who have shown a keen interest in Mahabharata. However, author Manjula Tekal gives the story a contemporary treatment from the perspective of Devayani and it is this retelling which dwells deeper into the characters with their interesting backstories, motives and flaws that results in an fascinating and engaging fast read. There are no magical elements, no Gods etc. Instead the story is set in pre-Rig vedic times in the Saraswati-Sindhu river systems where the races of Devas and Asuras are locked in a struggle of supremacy over the fertile lands. Through a vivid description of the customs & cultures of the people, the author invites the reader into her world of pre-vedic times with glimpses of student life, medical research, diplomacy and administration.
The main conflict in the story revolves around four people:
Sukracharya - The guru of Asuras, inventor of Sanjeevini and a doting father
Devayani - The fiery spoilt child of Sukracharya who has to deal with betrayal by her loved ones
Yayati - The ambitious emperor of Aryavarta who seeks undivided love
Sharmistha - The Asura princess who is atoning for a sin and seeks reward for her penance
How Devayani’s life experiences mould her character and how her actions/ decisions in spite of good well-meaning counsel affect not only her life but that of Sharmistha and Yayati is the crux of the story.
What I liked about the book is that the author takes the largely unfamiliar but crucial characters of Mahabharata and beautifully weaves a well researched story of infatuation, love, envy, betrayal, revenge and self-realisation with great character arcs. Manjula’s characters are not perfect, everyone has their flaws and that makes them complex, real and relatable, which in turn makes the story a very interesting read of the interplay of human emotions. One of the author’s strengths is her eloquent expression of emotional conflicts in the characters and this becomes evident early in the prologue during the dialogue between Sukracharya and Jayanti (Devayani’s mother) when they are confronted with the political tensions in their marriage.
In conclusion, Devayani is a fascinating re-telling of a puranic tale that the readers can relate to as the wisdom from the story has contemporary relevance. Anyone who is interested in the many stories and knowledge that form the vast and rich cultural heritage of India will find Manjula’s Devayani to exceed their expectations. I will surely follow the author’s future works with interest. Did I mention that Devayani is the author’s debut novel?
The story of Yayati, curse of old age and benevolence of his son Puru is probably known to few who have shown a keen interest in Mahabharata. However, author Manjula Tekal gives the story a contemporary treatment from the perspective of Devayani and it is this retelling which dwells deeper into the characters with their interesting backstories, motives and flaws that results in an fascinating and engaging fast read. There are no magical elements, no Gods etc. Instead the story is set in pre-Rig vedic times in the Saraswati-Sindhu river systems where the races of Devas and Asuras are locked in a struggle of supremacy over the fertile lands. Through a vivid description of the customs & cultures of the people, the author invites the reader into her world of pre-vedic times with glimpses of student life, medical research, diplomacy and administration.
The main conflict in the story revolves around four people:
Sukracharya - The guru of Asuras, inventor of Sanjeevini and a doting father
Devayani - The fiery spoilt child of Sukracharya who has to deal with betrayal by her loved ones
Yayati - The ambitious emperor of Aryavarta who seeks undivided love
Sharmistha - The Asura princess who is atoning for a sin and seeks reward for her penance
How Devayani’s life experiences mould her character and how her actions/ decisions in spite of good well-meaning counsel affect not only her life but that of Sharmistha and Yayati is the crux of the story.
What I liked about the book is that the author takes the largely unfamiliar but crucial characters of Mahabharata and beautifully weaves a well researched story of infatuation, love, envy, betrayal, revenge and self-realisation with great character arcs. Manjula’s characters are not perfect, everyone has their flaws and that makes them complex, real and relatable, which in turn makes the story a very interesting read of the interplay of human emotions. One of the author’s strengths is her eloquent expression of emotional conflicts in the characters and this becomes evident early in the prologue during the dialogue between Sukracharya and Jayanti (Devayani’s mother) when they are confronted with the political tensions in their marriage.
In conclusion, Devayani is a fascinating re-telling of a puranic tale that the readers can relate to as the wisdom from the story has contemporary relevance. Anyone who is interested in the many stories and knowledge that form the vast and rich cultural heritage of India will find Manjula’s Devayani to exceed their expectations. I will surely follow the author’s future works with interest. Did I mention that Devayani is the author’s debut novel?
June 2, 2021
A good one time quick read book. The story revolves around Shukrachrya's daughter Devayani, Brahspati's son Kacha and Chakrvartin Samrat Yayati and of course not to forget the key role of Asura king's daughter Sharmishtha.
The book starts with a war between Deva and Asura, Asura are defeated so shukracharya starts finding way to prepare sanjeevni he finally gets a perfect recipe due to his R&D Indra is terrified so he sends his daughter Jayanti to Shukracharya as a student. Jayanti fells in love with the sage so she married him and decides not to betray him by giving the secret of Sanjeevani to his father Indra. Jayanthi daughter is born the protagonist, due to circumstances jayanti abandons her daughter and the asura and go back to her paternal land. Devayani is brought up by her step mother and her over caring father.
Kacha enters the story, Devayani falls in love with son of brahspati kacha in a way betrays Devayani, Devayani marries Yayati. But the problems don't settle down because of Devayani's self centred behaviour and this is where the story gets intresting.
Though the main plot of the book revolves around love, betrayal, lust and every other equivalent feeling but book also talk about the pre mahabharat times.
The book tries to give a message that, "प्रोब्लम तो है सबके साथ बस नज़रिए की है बात" (everyone has their share of problem, it's about how you see your problems)
The book starts with a war between Deva and Asura, Asura are defeated so shukracharya starts finding way to prepare sanjeevni he finally gets a perfect recipe due to his R&D Indra is terrified so he sends his daughter Jayanti to Shukracharya as a student. Jayanti fells in love with the sage so she married him and decides not to betray him by giving the secret of Sanjeevani to his father Indra. Jayanthi daughter is born the protagonist, due to circumstances jayanti abandons her daughter and the asura and go back to her paternal land. Devayani is brought up by her step mother and her over caring father.
Kacha enters the story, Devayani falls in love with son of brahspati kacha in a way betrays Devayani, Devayani marries Yayati. But the problems don't settle down because of Devayani's self centred behaviour and this is where the story gets intresting.
Though the main plot of the book revolves around love, betrayal, lust and every other equivalent feeling but book also talk about the pre mahabharat times.
The book tries to give a message that, "प्रोब्लम तो है सबके साथ बस नज़रिए की है बात" (everyone has their share of problem, it's about how you see your problems)
August 9, 2021
I had read Kacha - Devayani's story in the Chinmaya Mission's Tarangini which was a text book for us in high school. The story was simplified enough for us to read and grasp the basic motivations and actions of the protagonists. While I still desire to read the unabridged Mahabharata and other Puranas some day, the time and opportunity is yet to materialize.
So, when I received Manjula Tekal's "Devayani" from the Indic Book Club, it was really a great opportunity. An opportunity to know more about the story of Kacha, Devayani, Yayati, Puru and others. While the stories of these leading lights of Bharata were known to me in flashes, I had never connected them earlier.
While the author has made it clear that the story is not a translation, but an active re-imagination by retaining the plot lines and most of the protagonists; it is very easy to imagine this story as one of the perspectives of interpreting and realising those historical characters. The entire story also bears out the foundations of "sanaatana dharma".
The character of Devayani is at once so layered, complicated and simple depending on the point of view of approaching her life. The author has done well to bring out the narrative to suit the different perspectives of Devayani, while allowing Kacha, Yayati, Shukracharya, Sharmishtha to hold on to their characters very strongly.
Throughout the story, there are several instances where some of them had to undergo enormous mental trepidation while taking decisions.
Kacha's single minded focus
While Kacha had indeed developed deep affection for Devayani, he never lost sight of his objective. Once he achieved his objective and his guru permitted him to go back, he didn't think twice about Devayani's proposal. Whether would he've achieved his objective if he shunned the friendship Devayani proferred could be a thought exercise. However, Devayani couldn't detach her affection for him even after she made other practical choices, which shows her lack of maturity and inability to think without being affected by her emotions. However, in my opinion the biggest mistake was made by Shukracharya who didn't provide tempering advice to Devayani and led her on the garden path to her troubled life.
The sons' dilemma
Yayati's debilitated state caused due to Shukracharya's potions would have really made his sons empathise deeply with their father. However, when asked to part with their energy and youth, they obviously had second thoughts. I can't help but draw a comparison between modern children who prioritize their career, life and other interests when it comes to helping parents in their times of need. Some behaviour are hardwired into human nature, I guess.
The author has indeed brought alive, life as it could have happened thousands of years back.
Very inspirational. Very realistic.
So, when I received Manjula Tekal's "Devayani" from the Indic Book Club, it was really a great opportunity. An opportunity to know more about the story of Kacha, Devayani, Yayati, Puru and others. While the stories of these leading lights of Bharata were known to me in flashes, I had never connected them earlier.
While the author has made it clear that the story is not a translation, but an active re-imagination by retaining the plot lines and most of the protagonists; it is very easy to imagine this story as one of the perspectives of interpreting and realising those historical characters. The entire story also bears out the foundations of "sanaatana dharma".
The character of Devayani is at once so layered, complicated and simple depending on the point of view of approaching her life. The author has done well to bring out the narrative to suit the different perspectives of Devayani, while allowing Kacha, Yayati, Shukracharya, Sharmishtha to hold on to their characters very strongly.
Throughout the story, there are several instances where some of them had to undergo enormous mental trepidation while taking decisions.
Kacha's single minded focus
While Kacha had indeed developed deep affection for Devayani, he never lost sight of his objective. Once he achieved his objective and his guru permitted him to go back, he didn't think twice about Devayani's proposal. Whether would he've achieved his objective if he shunned the friendship Devayani proferred could be a thought exercise. However, Devayani couldn't detach her affection for him even after she made other practical choices, which shows her lack of maturity and inability to think without being affected by her emotions. However, in my opinion the biggest mistake was made by Shukracharya who didn't provide tempering advice to Devayani and led her on the garden path to her troubled life.
The sons' dilemma
Yayati's debilitated state caused due to Shukracharya's potions would have really made his sons empathise deeply with their father. However, when asked to part with their energy and youth, they obviously had second thoughts. I can't help but draw a comparison between modern children who prioritize their career, life and other interests when it comes to helping parents in their times of need. Some behaviour are hardwired into human nature, I guess.
The author has indeed brought alive, life as it could have happened thousands of years back.
Very inspirational. Very realistic.
September 16, 2021
Devayani is a wonderful read. Even though the story is familiar, the author has pictured the protagonist in a different perspective. A very sensitive and strong portrayal. Its a beautiful narration of a tale of love,passion,hatred,jealousy and revenge. Mythical characters are portrayed as real humans with natur\l emotions. A tale of a tragic woman,who in her short tempered,impulsive behaviour loses her friend,love,husband and children is brought out in a very sensitive and touching manner. Hats off to Manjula Tekal.
June 17, 2021
Devayani retells one of the most complicated love triangles in the Mahabharata. Devayani is a woman who is in love with her father’s disciple, Kacha. However, he ends up refusing to marry her. Shortly after Kacha’s rejection, Devayani has a fight with Sharmishtha. During her fight, she falls down a well and is rescued by King Yayati. To get back at her former lover, she immediately marries King Yayati and becomes his queen. Before she goes to her husband’s kingdom, she wants to get even with Sharmishtha, whom she accuses of trying to kill her, by forcing to become her maid. However, Devayani realizes that her plans for vengeance backfires.
Devayani is a hard character to like. She loves to play the victim card. She believes everyone around her has done her wrong, and she rarely reflects on her own actions. She is a woman that is filled with bitterness and grudges. She is very impulsive which brings trouble to her. When everyone tells her not to make Sharmishtha her maid and to forgive her, she turns a deaf ear to their advice. She is cruel to her husband and does not give him the affection he craves. It is no wonder that he eventually chooses Sharmishtha over her. Thus, Devayani loses everything due to her grievances.
Overall, this novel tells the tragic tale of a woman whose resentments cause her to lose the love and respect of everyone she loves. The moral of the novel is to be merciful. Had Devayani been forgiving, her ending might have turned out differently. The novel is a short, easy read. However, it is very thought-provoking. All the characters are complex. King Yayati longs for a woman to truly love him. Sharmishtha pursues Yayati because of her jealousy for Devayani and ultimately wins him. There were a few flaws in this novel. Most of the time, it read like a cheesy soap opera, and the love triangle seemed drawn out and made an exhausting read. Despite its flaws, it was still worthwhile. Devayani gives readers another unique perspective to a complex character. I recommend this novel for fans of Lanka’s Princess, The Rise of Sivagami, and The Twentieth Wife!
Devayani is a hard character to like. She loves to play the victim card. She believes everyone around her has done her wrong, and she rarely reflects on her own actions. She is a woman that is filled with bitterness and grudges. She is very impulsive which brings trouble to her. When everyone tells her not to make Sharmishtha her maid and to forgive her, she turns a deaf ear to their advice. She is cruel to her husband and does not give him the affection he craves. It is no wonder that he eventually chooses Sharmishtha over her. Thus, Devayani loses everything due to her grievances.
Overall, this novel tells the tragic tale of a woman whose resentments cause her to lose the love and respect of everyone she loves. The moral of the novel is to be merciful. Had Devayani been forgiving, her ending might have turned out differently. The novel is a short, easy read. However, it is very thought-provoking. All the characters are complex. King Yayati longs for a woman to truly love him. Sharmishtha pursues Yayati because of her jealousy for Devayani and ultimately wins him. There were a few flaws in this novel. Most of the time, it read like a cheesy soap opera, and the love triangle seemed drawn out and made an exhausting read. Despite its flaws, it was still worthwhile. Devayani gives readers another unique perspective to a complex character. I recommend this novel for fans of Lanka’s Princess, The Rise of Sivagami, and The Twentieth Wife!
July 22, 2021
Mahabharata has always been one of my least favorite epics because of its complexity in relations and unfair (I would call, not unethical) events depicted in it. As someone said, Ramayana depicts how people lived during the reign of Rama while Mahabharata depicts How not should be the mankind. As every good has a bad to counter with, I feel Mahabharata is one such tale.
The book pictures the story of the generation of Devayani, who is the daughter of Shukracharya- the teacher of the Asuras. Although belonging to the Asura lineage, Devayani is also the bloodline of Devas, as her grandfather is Indra. She is the flower of Shukracharya's early love with Indra's daughter. Belonging to the two worlds, Devayani has always faced the situation of belonging nowhere. Also, all her beloved ones have cheated her and left half-a-way for their personal needs, whether it be her mother, Kacha, her friend Sharmishtha and so on. Devayani has always been stubborn, blinded towards her life which has always resulted in uneventful incidents. The story revolves around Devayani's revenge on Sharmishtha; her lost love for Kacha, and her family life that collided most unexpectedly.
From a moral point of view, the story gives a strong message that swims around Dharma and Karma, which might sound familiar but is still relevant to recent times. The value of life, the unwanted revenge, the vicious circle of Karma, and many more themes are reflected in the story which comes as a part of Mahabharata stories. The best part about the book is its precision. There is no such thing as detailing/over detailing which never bores the reader instead makes us read it in a go. I could complete the book in two days and be worth reading to me. I would happily recommend this to all mythology lovers and beginners.
The book pictures the story of the generation of Devayani, who is the daughter of Shukracharya- the teacher of the Asuras. Although belonging to the Asura lineage, Devayani is also the bloodline of Devas, as her grandfather is Indra. She is the flower of Shukracharya's early love with Indra's daughter. Belonging to the two worlds, Devayani has always faced the situation of belonging nowhere. Also, all her beloved ones have cheated her and left half-a-way for their personal needs, whether it be her mother, Kacha, her friend Sharmishtha and so on. Devayani has always been stubborn, blinded towards her life which has always resulted in uneventful incidents. The story revolves around Devayani's revenge on Sharmishtha; her lost love for Kacha, and her family life that collided most unexpectedly.
From a moral point of view, the story gives a strong message that swims around Dharma and Karma, which might sound familiar but is still relevant to recent times. The value of life, the unwanted revenge, the vicious circle of Karma, and many more themes are reflected in the story which comes as a part of Mahabharata stories. The best part about the book is its precision. There is no such thing as detailing/over detailing which never bores the reader instead makes us read it in a go. I could complete the book in two days and be worth reading to me. I would happily recommend this to all mythology lovers and beginners.
Read
June 10, 2021First of all thanks to indic book club and thousand reviewers club for giving this book as a gift . This is a retelling of an historic story way before Mahabharata took place . After reading this book one may feel fascinated yet saddened by this story. All the credit for such emotions goes to the author as she invests us in the story so much , that we feel what the characters are feeling and experiencing . Whether it be the love between Jayanti and Sukracharya or their grief in separating from each other , or the helplessness and struggle of Kacha when he comes to learn about Sanjeevani . One feels anger towards Devayani while reading as she is a manipulative and always gets whatever she wants , but somewhere we understand the circumstances and events which lead to making of her of manipulative and arrogant nature.; Yes she had sympathy , empathy , everything required for being good but somewhere in the fight between devas and asuras , injustice was imparted to her . She was loved by parents a lot but they were stuck in their grief that the child's basic nature was torn apart and instead it lead to this insecure , sad and manipulative girl or woman. Of course Sarmistha and Yayati cannot be forgotten as they play major roles in Devayani's life, where Devayani represents manipulation , selfishness; Samistha's life represent unselfish love . Their characters are yang and ying to each other . At the end I would like to say kudos to the author for retelling such a beautiful story and that to with proper detailing to each character and their emotions ; that too achieve all this in the first book is a achievement in itself . Would recommend for all those who are interested in reading a totally new story which is not explored many times.
August 7, 2021
Devayani by Manjula Tekal
Devayani, Kacha, Yayati and Devyani, Yayati and Sharmishtha are star crossed friends, lovers, enemies. This novel explores the complicated relationships between these characters . The story is straightforward, Devyani, daughter of Shukracharya falls in love with Kacha who has come to learn the Sanjeevani vidya from Shukracharya. After gaining the knowledge Kacha leaves and Devyani is heartbroken. Sharmishtha is Devyani's friend and the daughter of King Vrishaparva of the Asuras. Devyani marries Yayati , a king of Aryavarta. She takes along Sharmishtha as her maid due to some misunderstanding. Later Sharmishtha and Yayati get married. This leads to tragedy for all of them.
The book is divided into three parts , Kacha,Yayati and Sharmishta. Named after the person that affects Devyani's life the most. The novel is not just a story about love and betrayal but also about the politics,customs and traditions of that time. It is well researched and subtly weaves in the political implications of each characters actions. The personal strife of the characters is very relatable though I found the political undertones to be more interesting.
Manjula Tekal manges to make these mythological characters very human and they are not boxed into the notions of Devas being all good and the Asuras being all villainous. The passions,vanity, selfishness, sacrifice,dignity of the main characters brings them alive.
Overall an interesting ,well researched and well written book.
Devayani, Kacha, Yayati and Devyani, Yayati and Sharmishtha are star crossed friends, lovers, enemies. This novel explores the complicated relationships between these characters . The story is straightforward, Devyani, daughter of Shukracharya falls in love with Kacha who has come to learn the Sanjeevani vidya from Shukracharya. After gaining the knowledge Kacha leaves and Devyani is heartbroken. Sharmishtha is Devyani's friend and the daughter of King Vrishaparva of the Asuras. Devyani marries Yayati , a king of Aryavarta. She takes along Sharmishtha as her maid due to some misunderstanding. Later Sharmishtha and Yayati get married. This leads to tragedy for all of them.
The book is divided into three parts , Kacha,Yayati and Sharmishta. Named after the person that affects Devyani's life the most. The novel is not just a story about love and betrayal but also about the politics,customs and traditions of that time. It is well researched and subtly weaves in the political implications of each characters actions. The personal strife of the characters is very relatable though I found the political undertones to be more interesting.
Manjula Tekal manges to make these mythological characters very human and they are not boxed into the notions of Devas being all good and the Asuras being all villainous. The passions,vanity, selfishness, sacrifice,dignity of the main characters brings them alive.
Overall an interesting ,well researched and well written book.
June 21, 2021
“There is a pattern in every life.” And this pattern is influenced by the circumstances. If Jayanti would not have left, Devayani might have turned into a different person. If Nahusha would not have turned self-indulgent and lazy, then Yayati’s life would have taken a different path. And if all these would have not happened, then Sharmistha would not have been urged to even the score with Devyani. Above all if Devas and Asuras would have learnt to live in peace then history would have been different. But it seems that destiny finds it ways and forces us to act as per its wishes. Yadavas, Pauravas and Gandhars had to come in existence, Krishna had to born and Mahabharata had to happen.
Manjula takes us on a very fascinating ride with Devayani. She has interpreted the history in a very believable way. If one will read the story without any prejudice, then he/she will find that it was no one’s fault. The writer has tried hard, but she ends up slightly biased against Devyani, which is the popular opinion, by the way.
One important take away from the book is a very significant statement from Nahusha, “People are taught to think in a certain way, and for the most part, they don’t bother to deviate from the pattern.” It’s so contemporary and fits into our current social and political scenarios.
Overall a great and not-to-be missed book.
Manjula takes us on a very fascinating ride with Devayani. She has interpreted the history in a very believable way. If one will read the story without any prejudice, then he/she will find that it was no one’s fault. The writer has tried hard, but she ends up slightly biased against Devyani, which is the popular opinion, by the way.
One important take away from the book is a very significant statement from Nahusha, “People are taught to think in a certain way, and for the most part, they don’t bother to deviate from the pattern.” It’s so contemporary and fits into our current social and political scenarios.
Overall a great and not-to-be missed book.
June 9, 2021
Great one-time read
This was such a fascinating yet saddening read! It is definitely a page-turner. At first, I had absolutely no idea who these characters were and so obviously, I had to get myself acquainted with them. But when I did, boy oh boy, was it enrapturing. Love, anguish and tragedy – is the book’s essence.
From the first page itself, the author commands the reader's attention and gets you hooked. As you read further, you delve deeper into the character's motives, desires, their emotions and especially, the very complex core of Devayani. She was a fun, fun, character to take on this journey with. The narratives have been so well interlaced within the setting of that time, place, culture, and customs that the author's research is quite visible.
Manujla Tekal has brilliantly showcased the emotions of each of them and given life to the otherwise dry and bland story. It adds greyness to the character and in a way humanizes them (if they were not already). This is very different than when you read the regular straight factual stories and hence, allows room for imagination. This was probably the first historical fiction, as a whole and not only the parts of it, that I enjoyed thoroughly.
Kudos to the author. Can't wait to read more!
This was such a fascinating yet saddening read! It is definitely a page-turner. At first, I had absolutely no idea who these characters were and so obviously, I had to get myself acquainted with them. But when I did, boy oh boy, was it enrapturing. Love, anguish and tragedy – is the book’s essence.
From the first page itself, the author commands the reader's attention and gets you hooked. As you read further, you delve deeper into the character's motives, desires, their emotions and especially, the very complex core of Devayani. She was a fun, fun, character to take on this journey with. The narratives have been so well interlaced within the setting of that time, place, culture, and customs that the author's research is quite visible.
Manujla Tekal has brilliantly showcased the emotions of each of them and given life to the otherwise dry and bland story. It adds greyness to the character and in a way humanizes them (if they were not already). This is very different than when you read the regular straight factual stories and hence, allows room for imagination. This was probably the first historical fiction, as a whole and not only the parts of it, that I enjoyed thoroughly.
Kudos to the author. Can't wait to read more!
August 3, 2021
This book is an interesting book which gives you a feel of reading a modern version of an ancient tale. It is a page turner with simple and lucid language.Things like Friendship, lust, desire, rage, jealously, love , betrayal, kindness and wisdom are described beautifully by the author in this book. The scenes are perfectly defined as if one can imagine that one is living in that era ( or can visually imagine that) which actually makes the reader shift from current time to the past. "Devayani" is not only a romantic book but also it tells that how different clans devas, asuras and manushya tried hard to build harmony and lived hand in hand (like different countries existing at present). It is an add on to the roots of Mahabharata.
At last but not the least this book gives a great lesson (atleast that's what I felt) : Anger eats up all your wisdom
It being her debut book, The author, Manjula Tekal has done a really fantastic and commendable job .
At last but not the least this book gives a great lesson (atleast that's what I felt) : Anger eats up all your wisdom
It being her debut book, The author, Manjula Tekal has done a really fantastic and commendable job .
November 8, 2021
I enjoyed reading the book! This book portrays the human side of multiple complex characters in the Mahabharata, at a time before the Kuru and Yadu races were founded. These characters' jealousies, politics and passions gave rise to the future races and their dynamics. Compared to the original telling where there are godly and demonic forces with supernatural powers, this telling adopts a more realistic perspective that does not rely on supernatural powers but portrays gods and demons as two ideologically and politically different races constantly trying to best the other; with the human race in the middle with its own ideologies. While I did not end up liking the main character, Devayani, the book portrays her story as one caught between the huge complexities among these races and trying to navigate her life - albeit in a very impractical way. The book shows well her evolution from a romantic young girl who does not realize these circumstances, to a person who tries to manipulate them to her own gain, and finally one who loses an important component of her life. The focus on the human component, however, did make me have some sympathy for the protagonist. Seeing Devayani as a young girl and then an immature woman who is seeking affection and finding her place in the world -- and consequently making mistakes in the existing power order and world order -- was very interesting! Also, while in the original Mahabharata the focus is more on her husband, Yayati, who is the king; the focus on her brings out several nuanced aspects of how life might have been for women as well as inter-racial relationships in a different world. How the women in the book were instrumental in creating the relationships between future generations was also something i had never thought of. All in all, this book weaves the tale combining political, racial, and psychological perspectives in a very nuanced way. While people who have read the Mahabharata's telling might find a new perspective, the book also provides maps and historical context for those unfamiliar with the Mahabharata and would want to read it as a stand-alone story.
May 21, 2021
Devayani was the wife of King Yayati and daughter of sage Shukracharya. Yayati, a forefather to Pandavas also had another wife, Sharmishtha, a childhood friend of Devayani.
Devayani and Yayati were parents to Yadu who was a progenitor of Yadava dynasty / Yaduvansh.
Yayati had another wife Sharmishta (A friend of Devayani) whom he secretly married and had a son called Puru who was the progenitor of Puru dynasty.
The book "Devayani" is dramatization and retelling of the story of Yayati and his spouses - which finds mention in the Mahabharata and some Puranas.
I believe this book will definitely irk the readers who are habitual to reading Corpus of Indic Itihasa - comprising of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Purana. The forthright translations by Bibek Debroy and even retelling by Amish Tripathi captures the ethos of the original where the sub plots are was infused with ethereal dialogues and extensive discussions which eventually result in an overwhelming lesson of a spiritual kind. In this book, Often, the dialogues and interactions are boring and predictable.
The writing is rudimentary in nature and the opening premise is profoundly boring. It only picks up some pace when Yayati enters in the second portion of the book. The story could have been a transcendent entertainer, however, the execution is sloppy. The subplots, sometimes rushed, often end in a void. Maybe, a little more cinematic thrive and sensational decorating would have worked wonders.
Throughout the plot, the titular character is a brat - selfish, jealous and lacks self-control. She never evolves and does not possess any range. So whether it is disappointment, outrage or wonder, it all appears same. There are many moments where she breaks down in a manner that is terribly unconvincing.
All in all, Devayani is a below average Drama, cliched with pangs of love, jealousy and betrayal and also suffers for its simplistic and rushed storytelling. The predictability and the ease at which the narrative progresses kill any little hope of engagement.
Seasoned readers should avoid.
Devayani and Yayati were parents to Yadu who was a progenitor of Yadava dynasty / Yaduvansh.
Yayati had another wife Sharmishta (A friend of Devayani) whom he secretly married and had a son called Puru who was the progenitor of Puru dynasty.
The book "Devayani" is dramatization and retelling of the story of Yayati and his spouses - which finds mention in the Mahabharata and some Puranas.
I believe this book will definitely irk the readers who are habitual to reading Corpus of Indic Itihasa - comprising of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Purana. The forthright translations by Bibek Debroy and even retelling by Amish Tripathi captures the ethos of the original where the sub plots are was infused with ethereal dialogues and extensive discussions which eventually result in an overwhelming lesson of a spiritual kind. In this book, Often, the dialogues and interactions are boring and predictable.
The writing is rudimentary in nature and the opening premise is profoundly boring. It only picks up some pace when Yayati enters in the second portion of the book. The story could have been a transcendent entertainer, however, the execution is sloppy. The subplots, sometimes rushed, often end in a void. Maybe, a little more cinematic thrive and sensational decorating would have worked wonders.
Throughout the plot, the titular character is a brat - selfish, jealous and lacks self-control. She never evolves and does not possess any range. So whether it is disappointment, outrage or wonder, it all appears same. There are many moments where she breaks down in a manner that is terribly unconvincing.
All in all, Devayani is a below average Drama, cliched with pangs of love, jealousy and betrayal and also suffers for its simplistic and rushed storytelling. The predictability and the ease at which the narrative progresses kill any little hope of engagement.
Seasoned readers should avoid.
February 20, 2023
To be honest, I never hv given much thought to Devayani's story. I also nvr thot her story cud hook me so much. But THIS Devayani did.
Manjula's Devayani is REAL, HUMAN and the thing that impressed me most was that the author nvr tried to justify her actions or paint her as the heroine altho she is the protagonist. I loved that abt this book bcos it makes it honest and it does not try to tell me what I shld think. I hope Manjula retains THIS aspect in writing always. It is very refreshing.
The author has fleshed out the main characters, so many of them, beautifully so the story remains very vibrant throughout. One nitpick I had here was I wud hv liked to see Kacha's character fleshed out more. He appeared, disappeared and appeared again and had crucial impact but I don't know as much abt him as I do about say, Ghurnika even.
I loved how the author had contemporized both narrative and dialogue and made it racy and fast paced without sacrificing anything.
BEST PART, the author stays true to the base story overall (and much respect to her for the author's note mentioning that it is dramatized tho she did not take liberty with characterizations).
One thing that was terrifically intriguing was how she explains everything with no divine aspects but gives logical, practical basis.
Overall, Manjula's Devayani was a very intelligently written, interesting read for me.
I did have some issues with it:
-Yayati slightly overshadowed Devi in the 2nd half.
-Some time leaps, esp initially, were a little unnecessary and confusing. The later parts were a easier read bcos there weren't any.
-Again, Kacha- wud hv liked his personality fleshed out more since he played such a big role in shaping Devi's own persona and mindset
-I also felt that maybe author shld hv extended the book until the end of Yayati, but mainly this was bcos I didn't want the book to end :)
Manjula's Devayani is REAL, HUMAN and the thing that impressed me most was that the author nvr tried to justify her actions or paint her as the heroine altho she is the protagonist. I loved that abt this book bcos it makes it honest and it does not try to tell me what I shld think. I hope Manjula retains THIS aspect in writing always. It is very refreshing.
The author has fleshed out the main characters, so many of them, beautifully so the story remains very vibrant throughout. One nitpick I had here was I wud hv liked to see Kacha's character fleshed out more. He appeared, disappeared and appeared again and had crucial impact but I don't know as much abt him as I do about say, Ghurnika even.
I loved how the author had contemporized both narrative and dialogue and made it racy and fast paced without sacrificing anything.
BEST PART, the author stays true to the base story overall (and much respect to her for the author's note mentioning that it is dramatized tho she did not take liberty with characterizations).
One thing that was terrifically intriguing was how she explains everything with no divine aspects but gives logical, practical basis.
Overall, Manjula's Devayani was a very intelligently written, interesting read for me.
I did have some issues with it:
-Yayati slightly overshadowed Devi in the 2nd half.
-Some time leaps, esp initially, were a little unnecessary and confusing. The later parts were a easier read bcos there weren't any.
-Again, Kacha- wud hv liked his personality fleshed out more since he played such a big role in shaping Devi's own persona and mindset
-I also felt that maybe author shld hv extended the book until the end of Yayati, but mainly this was bcos I didn't want the book to end :)
June 20, 2022
I received this book from the author herself. Devyani is a modern retelling of one of the many tales from the great epic Mahabharata. It is the story of Devyani, the tempestuous daughter of Shukracharya, the Guru of Asuras. Through the author’s words, the reader can understand Devyani’s pining for the love of her life, Kacha, and the bitter acceptance of what fate threw her way. Despite her extreme selfish streak, one can’t help feeling sorry for Devyani, a motherless child who never got the love she deserved. The author’s writing is delightful and easy to read making this book a page turner.
November 1, 2021
An amazing read. I was surprised to find myself totally gripped by the book although I heard the folklore Devayani+Yayati story in my childhood. This book makes the entire story that is really complex very relatable. Brings out all the emotions of Devayani and other characters very well.
A must-read for those who are interested in knowing more about who were asuras and what was their relation with devas.
A must-read for those who are interested in knowing more about who were asuras and what was their relation with devas.
October 14, 2021
A great book to start with, if you are looking to start reading mythological stories. This book about Devyani, highlights the reasons for her decisions and behaviours. The author has also highlighted different colors of Devyani's character and how it affected her life as well as people around her. There is an important point to learn from Devyani's story- not to be fixated on one person or incident. Though it's difficult to move on, it's necessary for our own growth.
October 13, 2021
Excellent!!!
Another beautiful narrative about a lesser known woman in history; Devyani. Whilst many may not understand her, I can understand why she behaved the way she did.
Another beautiful narrative about a lesser known woman in history; Devyani. Whilst many may not understand her, I can understand why she behaved the way she did.
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June 24, 2021I would like to begin this review by thanking indicbookclub for sending me this book under their 1000reviewers program.
Devyani by Manjula Tekal is a retelling of ancient Indian king Yayati and his two wives Devyani and Sharmishta. The title of the book implies that the author has presented the story from the perspective of Devyani. However, the other two main characters Yayati and Sharmishta are well developed by the author. I would try to elaborate on each character in brief without giving away spoilers.
Devyani's character is of a daughter who has grown up under the care of his father Shukrachary and stepmother. Throughout her childhood, her father has always given her whatever she demanded and this has made her entitled. This is later shown when she asks Yayati to marry her as she believes this act will serve as her revenge on Kach and when she asks Sharmistha to be her maid because she blames her for wrongs in her life thus far. This trait continues after her marriage with Yayati to the very end of the book.
Yayati is the king of Aryavrat the kingdom mostly spread in northern India. He’s also the ancestor of both Kaurav and Pandav brothers who are the main characters in the epic Mahabharat. In this book, he is shown as a king who is kind to his subjects and protects them by fighting wars against Dasuys who are infiltrating into Aryavat and by making alliances with both Asurs and Devtas. He gets attracted to Sharmishta after marrying Devyani as he starts to resent Devyani soon after the marriage.
Sharmishta is the princess of Asurs and a childhood friend of Devyani. Although they have grown up together, Sharmishta has always known the entitled nature of Devyani and ignored it. However, she is attracted to Yayati when she seeing him for the first time and later falls for him.
Other minor characters are Shukrachary, the guru of Asurs and father of Devyani, and Kach who is a student of Shukrachary sent by Devtas to learn the secret of Sanjivani healing technique. Devyani falls in love with Kach who uses her to learn about Sanjavani and later ends his relationship with her leaving Devyani heartbroken.
The novelty of the book is that it is told from Devyani’s perspective. The author has taken several liberties to come up with fictional cities and places. Overall, it is a decent first attempt by the author and a good read if you are looking for a short book.
Devyani by Manjula Tekal is a retelling of ancient Indian king Yayati and his two wives Devyani and Sharmishta. The title of the book implies that the author has presented the story from the perspective of Devyani. However, the other two main characters Yayati and Sharmishta are well developed by the author. I would try to elaborate on each character in brief without giving away spoilers.
Devyani's character is of a daughter who has grown up under the care of his father Shukrachary and stepmother. Throughout her childhood, her father has always given her whatever she demanded and this has made her entitled. This is later shown when she asks Yayati to marry her as she believes this act will serve as her revenge on Kach and when she asks Sharmistha to be her maid because she blames her for wrongs in her life thus far. This trait continues after her marriage with Yayati to the very end of the book.
Yayati is the king of Aryavrat the kingdom mostly spread in northern India. He’s also the ancestor of both Kaurav and Pandav brothers who are the main characters in the epic Mahabharat. In this book, he is shown as a king who is kind to his subjects and protects them by fighting wars against Dasuys who are infiltrating into Aryavat and by making alliances with both Asurs and Devtas. He gets attracted to Sharmishta after marrying Devyani as he starts to resent Devyani soon after the marriage.
Sharmishta is the princess of Asurs and a childhood friend of Devyani. Although they have grown up together, Sharmishta has always known the entitled nature of Devyani and ignored it. However, she is attracted to Yayati when she seeing him for the first time and later falls for him.
Other minor characters are Shukrachary, the guru of Asurs and father of Devyani, and Kach who is a student of Shukrachary sent by Devtas to learn the secret of Sanjivani healing technique. Devyani falls in love with Kach who uses her to learn about Sanjavani and later ends his relationship with her leaving Devyani heartbroken.
The novelty of the book is that it is told from Devyani’s perspective. The author has taken several liberties to come up with fictional cities and places. Overall, it is a decent first attempt by the author and a good read if you are looking for a short book.
May 22, 2021
"Devayani" by Manjula Tekal qualifies as a historic fiction based on the story of Yayati and his two wives, Devayani and Sharmistha. The author has made an attempt to weave the famous story of Yayati mentioned in itihasa-purana from Devayani's perspective. Devayani, daughter of Asura guru Shukracharya, is a pampered child. Kacha, the son of Brihaspati, from Deva clan comes to Asura kingdom seeking education from Shukracharya. His intention is to learn the art of Sanjeevini, the art of saving people from death. During his stay, he gets close with Devayani and makes an impression in her life. After a series of events, when Kacha, after learning Sanjeevini, decides to leave Asura kingdom to join Devas, Devayani feels devastated.
Devayani and Sharmistha, the princess of Asura kingdom, are childhood friends. A series of events makes Devayani to meet Yayati in an unexpected way and bring bad fate to Sharmistha. The subsequent part of story explains the life of Sharmistha as a maid to Devayani, how Yayati falls for Sharmistha and their relationship, Devayani's discovery of their relationship, Yayati's request to his children to sacrifice their youth so that he can enjoy his youth life.
Even though the story starts with a good plot, it gets dragged towards the end. Those who have already read the original story of Yayati from Mahabharata and fictions like "Yayati" by VS Khandekar might find this book less interesting. My sincere thanks to Indic Book Club for sending this book to read and share my reviews.
Devayani and Sharmistha, the princess of Asura kingdom, are childhood friends. A series of events makes Devayani to meet Yayati in an unexpected way and bring bad fate to Sharmistha. The subsequent part of story explains the life of Sharmistha as a maid to Devayani, how Yayati falls for Sharmistha and their relationship, Devayani's discovery of their relationship, Yayati's request to his children to sacrifice their youth so that he can enjoy his youth life.
Even though the story starts with a good plot, it gets dragged towards the end. Those who have already read the original story of Yayati from Mahabharata and fictions like "Yayati" by VS Khandekar might find this book less interesting. My sincere thanks to Indic Book Club for sending this book to read and share my reviews.
February 6, 2023
The author lends her voice to the characters of her book in present day terms bringing a fresh relatable feel to the ancient retelling of the predecessors of the Pandavas. What makes the book a breezy read is how simply but cleverly the author weaves the intricacies of human flaws and their repercussions thereof. The four main characters Devayani, Katcha , Yayati and Sharmistha bear testimony to this fact.
The heightened emotions make Devayani a gripping tale ,making the reader believe that maybe the story will take a turn for a more benevolent end; but the story remains true to its narrative. The numerous roles that the characters fulfill throughout the story bring out the challenges they face as a person and the role they are obligated to fulfill for the position they acquire.
The book brings a map well researched by the author which introduces us to Bharat and it glory. I loved the mention of slokas and how they have been put in context. The story presents a solid foothold of the politics prevalent in those times and how it holds true at any point in time. This book serves as an introductory understanding of history prevalent without being methodical.
The book Devayani by Manjula Tekal , is a delightful and insightful read. More score points for it being her debut novel. It would be wonderful to read more Indic historical fiction and a new perspective to the ancient characters .Wondering if the ending will lead to another beginning!
A book which had been on my shelf for a while, but worth the wait.
Go, read your copy now!
The heightened emotions make Devayani a gripping tale ,making the reader believe that maybe the story will take a turn for a more benevolent end; but the story remains true to its narrative. The numerous roles that the characters fulfill throughout the story bring out the challenges they face as a person and the role they are obligated to fulfill for the position they acquire.
The book brings a map well researched by the author which introduces us to Bharat and it glory. I loved the mention of slokas and how they have been put in context. The story presents a solid foothold of the politics prevalent in those times and how it holds true at any point in time. This book serves as an introductory understanding of history prevalent without being methodical.
The book Devayani by Manjula Tekal , is a delightful and insightful read. More score points for it being her debut novel. It would be wonderful to read more Indic historical fiction and a new perspective to the ancient characters .Wondering if the ending will lead to another beginning!
A book which had been on my shelf for a while, but worth the wait.
Go, read your copy now!
October 26, 2021
A great job one had to read the book to enjoy it.
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