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In The Footsteps Of Rama: Travels with the Ramayana
Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni's quest to retrace the trail of Rama's fabled travels during his years in exile began with their trying to locate Chitrakoot on the map and realizing that they had little idea where it might be. Curious about the places mentioned in the Ramayana, they set off on a journey of their own, following Rama's route from Ayodhya to the Dandakaranya forest and Panchavati (near Nashik) and on to Kishkindhya (close to Hampi), Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka.
Along the way they would discover how closely the narrative of the Ramayana is linked to local folklore, and how the stories of the Ramayana and the moral framework that binds them together still speaks to the people who live in the land across which Rama, Sita and Lakshman made their journey.
For the armchair traveller as well as the enthusiast for epic tales, this is a wonderful book with which to revisit the world of the Ramayana.
Along the way they would discover how closely the narrative of the Ramayana is linked to local folklore, and how the stories of the Ramayana and the moral framework that binds them together still speaks to the people who live in the land across which Rama, Sita and Lakshman made their journey.
For the armchair traveller as well as the enthusiast for epic tales, this is a wonderful book with which to revisit the world of the Ramayana.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published April 26, 2021
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523 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
June 29, 2021
This book will definitely make you explore all those places that is mentioned in this book. This book will change you, change your perspective. And i so wish this book had maps and photographs, every travelogue should have that. This book deserve a read. Go for it. I also hope they write travelogue like this on Mahabharata as well.
July 25, 2021
रामाय रामभद्राय रामचंद्राय वेधसे ।
रघुनाथाय नाथाय सीतायाः पतये नमः ॥
Thank you @indicacademy for sending me this beautiful book.
I have sometimes wondered what keeps our Itihāsa still afresh in the minds of people though thousands of years have elapsed since. I must say that I found my answer through this book 'In the Footsteps of Rama' which not only attempts to retrace geographies associated with Ramayana but also unravels folklores that are distinct and popular to each region. These folklores have continued to keep Ramayana alive for time immemorial. They also play a vital role in arousing the interest of an individual to read the original version in addition to several adaptations of the epic.
This book, could be categorised as a travelogue and is divided into three sections— the path taken by Rama, Sita and Lakshmana during their Vanavāsa (exile), the places covered by the two brothers in the quest for Sita after She was kidnapped by Ravana and explore several regions associated with the war in the present day Lanka. In the course of this book the authors Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni shed light on various versions of Ramayana like Valmiki Ramayana, Ramacharitmanas of Tulasidas, Kamba Ramayana, Adbhuta Ramayana, Ekanath Ramayana or popularly known as Bhavarth Ramayana and point out similarities and differences between these versions. The readers are also introduced to various traditions, beliefs and practices of modern times which are often observed in relation to certain incidents of Ramayana.
Personally, being a foodie, another takeaway from the book for me is that I was able to learn a few local delicacies which I had not heard before. I also appreciate the way the authors point out to the fact that how things have been over commercialised in recent times. A huge respect to the authors who are the personification of the adage 'age is just a number'. Being in their sixties the authors have undertaken difficult treks which are overwhelming to even read. The enthusiasm and determination of the authors to explore the places despite innumerable obstacles is truly commendable. Their journey inspires readers to explore at least a few places described in the book.
However, the usage of the word 'myth' was unnecessary at some places instead words like Itihāsa and Purāna would have been more appropriate according to me. I also feel inclusion of pictures from their journey would have fully completed the book.
On the whole the book is highly recommended. Thanks to the authors for taking readers through this divine journey of Purushothama.
रघुनाथाय नाथाय सीतायाः पतये नमः ॥
Thank you @indicacademy for sending me this beautiful book.
I have sometimes wondered what keeps our Itihāsa still afresh in the minds of people though thousands of years have elapsed since. I must say that I found my answer through this book 'In the Footsteps of Rama' which not only attempts to retrace geographies associated with Ramayana but also unravels folklores that are distinct and popular to each region. These folklores have continued to keep Ramayana alive for time immemorial. They also play a vital role in arousing the interest of an individual to read the original version in addition to several adaptations of the epic.
This book, could be categorised as a travelogue and is divided into three sections— the path taken by Rama, Sita and Lakshmana during their Vanavāsa (exile), the places covered by the two brothers in the quest for Sita after She was kidnapped by Ravana and explore several regions associated with the war in the present day Lanka. In the course of this book the authors Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni shed light on various versions of Ramayana like Valmiki Ramayana, Ramacharitmanas of Tulasidas, Kamba Ramayana, Adbhuta Ramayana, Ekanath Ramayana or popularly known as Bhavarth Ramayana and point out similarities and differences between these versions. The readers are also introduced to various traditions, beliefs and practices of modern times which are often observed in relation to certain incidents of Ramayana.
Personally, being a foodie, another takeaway from the book for me is that I was able to learn a few local delicacies which I had not heard before. I also appreciate the way the authors point out to the fact that how things have been over commercialised in recent times. A huge respect to the authors who are the personification of the adage 'age is just a number'. Being in their sixties the authors have undertaken difficult treks which are overwhelming to even read. The enthusiasm and determination of the authors to explore the places despite innumerable obstacles is truly commendable. Their journey inspires readers to explore at least a few places described in the book.
However, the usage of the word 'myth' was unnecessary at some places instead words like Itihāsa and Purāna would have been more appropriate according to me. I also feel inclusion of pictures from their journey would have fully completed the book.
On the whole the book is highly recommended. Thanks to the authors for taking readers through this divine journey of Purushothama.
June 26, 2021
4.5 Stars
Are you one of those who wondered about the places mentioned in our epics? Did you want to know where Chitrakoot is on our Indian map or where Hanuman met Rama and Lakshmana for the first time?
Well, you aren’t alone. The authors of the book, Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni, have done all the hard work locating the places mentioned in Ramayana. The duo visited the places along with their spouses to talk to the locals and gather more information.
The result of their extensive exercise is this book that takes us across the country in the footsteps of Rama. The book focuses on the places Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana traveled during their exile. What makes the book an enriching experience is the various versions and additions of folklore related to Ramayana. Each place has a history, created, written, and sometimes rewritten.
The writing style is casual, with dashes of humor to make you chuckle or even laugh out loud at times. After all, one can hardly travel to multiple destinations without things not going wrong sometimes or another. From enterprising shop owners to humble teachers, well-learned researchers, and temperamental guides, the authors meet them all in their long journey.
However, what surprised me was the lack of mention of Badrachalam, Khammam in Telangana. The town has been synonymous with Rama’s name for centuries. The temple itself is from the 17th century. The region is considered a part of Dandakaranya, where the trio lived before Sita was abducted.
Nevertheless, it must have taken a tremendous amount of planning and patience, not to mention countless hours spent making this book a reality. Kudos to the authors for coming out with such a wonderful book.
Like a few others, I’d love it if they can add images and maps to the book. Being able to at least see the pictures of the places would be great.
This review is a part of the Thousand Reviewers Club hosted by the Indic Book Club. I thank the team for the review copy. The opinions expressed above are my own.
Are you one of those who wondered about the places mentioned in our epics? Did you want to know where Chitrakoot is on our Indian map or where Hanuman met Rama and Lakshmana for the first time?
Well, you aren’t alone. The authors of the book, Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni, have done all the hard work locating the places mentioned in Ramayana. The duo visited the places along with their spouses to talk to the locals and gather more information.
The result of their extensive exercise is this book that takes us across the country in the footsteps of Rama. The book focuses on the places Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana traveled during their exile. What makes the book an enriching experience is the various versions and additions of folklore related to Ramayana. Each place has a history, created, written, and sometimes rewritten.
The writing style is casual, with dashes of humor to make you chuckle or even laugh out loud at times. After all, one can hardly travel to multiple destinations without things not going wrong sometimes or another. From enterprising shop owners to humble teachers, well-learned researchers, and temperamental guides, the authors meet them all in their long journey.
However, what surprised me was the lack of mention of Badrachalam, Khammam in Telangana. The town has been synonymous with Rama’s name for centuries. The temple itself is from the 17th century. The region is considered a part of Dandakaranya, where the trio lived before Sita was abducted.
Nevertheless, it must have taken a tremendous amount of planning and patience, not to mention countless hours spent making this book a reality. Kudos to the authors for coming out with such a wonderful book.
Like a few others, I’d love it if they can add images and maps to the book. Being able to at least see the pictures of the places would be great.
This review is a part of the Thousand Reviewers Club hosted by the Indic Book Club. I thank the team for the review copy. The opinions expressed above are my own.
July 11, 2021
I would like to thank Indic Book Club for providing such a wonderful book for review. The book can be said a travelogue of Shri Ramachandra from Ayodhya to Guptar Ghat of same Ayodya. Ramayan was made alive through Ramanand Sagar's famous serial. The first show was broadcasted in the year 1987. After long 34 years, the arrival of this book may again awaken devotion to Shri Rama and compels readers to study various versions of Ramayan such as Tulsidas, Kamba, Bhavartha, Krittivashi, Adhyatma along with original Valmiki edition.
This book has fantastic story telling of Shri Rama's journey from North to South, along with travelling. Back and forth movement from 2021 to aeons ago does not allow readers to keep the book down. Blending with unique events of Shri Rama's life and significance of the place, current geography, and condition of temples, ghats and negligence of Archaeological Survery of India (ASI) is what makes the book a page-turner.
Authors not only present references from Valmiki Ramayan but also from Tulsidas, Kamba and many other versions. There are many incidents of Ramayana, which are not mentioned in any versions; it is solely local history propagated through generation. During travel, authors often faced reluctant attitude of local people about unexplored, neglected temples and places related with Shri Rama's journey, deterministic attitude of them brought success to ultimately finding location.
It is quite hard to believe that Ramayan and Shri Ram are just myth as this book documents archaeological evidences painstakingly from North to Sri Lanka at South. However, the major drawback of the book is absence of any maps and photographs, even simple hand-drawn sketch will suffice, and thus readers have been deprived of big flavor of the book.
This book has fantastic story telling of Shri Rama's journey from North to South, along with travelling. Back and forth movement from 2021 to aeons ago does not allow readers to keep the book down. Blending with unique events of Shri Rama's life and significance of the place, current geography, and condition of temples, ghats and negligence of Archaeological Survery of India (ASI) is what makes the book a page-turner.
Authors not only present references from Valmiki Ramayan but also from Tulsidas, Kamba and many other versions. There are many incidents of Ramayana, which are not mentioned in any versions; it is solely local history propagated through generation. During travel, authors often faced reluctant attitude of local people about unexplored, neglected temples and places related with Shri Rama's journey, deterministic attitude of them brought success to ultimately finding location.
It is quite hard to believe that Ramayan and Shri Ram are just myth as this book documents archaeological evidences painstakingly from North to Sri Lanka at South. However, the major drawback of the book is absence of any maps and photographs, even simple hand-drawn sketch will suffice, and thus readers have been deprived of big flavor of the book.
June 26, 2021
In the Footsteps of Rama by Vikrant Pande & Neelesh Kulkarni - An enjoyable travelogue traces the journey of Rama and Sita, immersing the readers in bhakti & wonder
Whether you have read Sage Valmiki’s Ramayana or seen Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan it is likely that few of you may have wondered about the places mentioned in Ramayana. Do they exist? Are they the same as the present day places? Did Rama visit them? What do the local people have to say about Rama’s visit? Vikrant and Neelesh’s book addresses these questions and many more.
The authors did what many would only imagine doing - visiting the places mentioned in Ramayana. In a fascinating book, the authors describe their travel experiences as they trace the journey of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman across the geography of India and Sri Lanka. The authors documented the local stories of the hero’s visit and in doing so they also discover that although some of the local folklores are different from the popular versions of Ramayana the essence of Rama remains constant. The book fills you with wonder that through the countless shrines that vary in size, complexity and design, local customs and beliefs the fabric of faith in Rama neatly ties the varied places of the sub-continent into one single entity.
The authors recount the events of Ramayana as they visit every place and are fortunate to find knowledgeable people who share the local version of the story that also defines their customs or beliefs. The quest for these engaging local stories makes the book a very quick read and in doing so, the reader is treated with fun trivia. For example, it was interesting to learn about villages that are named after the events during the hunt for the golden deer. I personally found the Sri Lankan leg of the journey pleasantly surprising as I was not aware that the sites of Ramayana are held in great reverence there and that the faith and devotion has stayed intact through the ages.
The authors’ style is simple and the narration lucid that shifts smoothly between the events of Ramayana and the authors' own journey. I must have laughed multiple times when the authors recounted their interactions with some of the locals who would only tell a story until they saw a crisp currency note or narrated attempts to dupe them, which I will take a note of in case I travel to any of the places in future.
My only complaint with the book is the lack of a map of the route taken or photos of the places / temples visited. Although, I am not sure how feasible it would have been to have a separate section of photos without disturbing the narrative, it would certainly have enhanced the reading experience. Hopefully, there is an accompanying website or update in later editions of the book.
In conclusion, “In the Footsteps of Rama” will take you on a wonderful journey of history, myth, culture and architecture. You also learn about the many wonderful human beings who are keeping the faith alive by giving up worldly pleasure and are more than happy to serve in devotion and pass the knowledge onto curious tourists. The book will instill anew your faith and leave you with a desire to see the places for yourself and experience what the authors and many pilgrims would have.
Whether you have read Sage Valmiki’s Ramayana or seen Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan it is likely that few of you may have wondered about the places mentioned in Ramayana. Do they exist? Are they the same as the present day places? Did Rama visit them? What do the local people have to say about Rama’s visit? Vikrant and Neelesh’s book addresses these questions and many more.
The authors did what many would only imagine doing - visiting the places mentioned in Ramayana. In a fascinating book, the authors describe their travel experiences as they trace the journey of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman across the geography of India and Sri Lanka. The authors documented the local stories of the hero’s visit and in doing so they also discover that although some of the local folklores are different from the popular versions of Ramayana the essence of Rama remains constant. The book fills you with wonder that through the countless shrines that vary in size, complexity and design, local customs and beliefs the fabric of faith in Rama neatly ties the varied places of the sub-continent into one single entity.
The authors recount the events of Ramayana as they visit every place and are fortunate to find knowledgeable people who share the local version of the story that also defines their customs or beliefs. The quest for these engaging local stories makes the book a very quick read and in doing so, the reader is treated with fun trivia. For example, it was interesting to learn about villages that are named after the events during the hunt for the golden deer. I personally found the Sri Lankan leg of the journey pleasantly surprising as I was not aware that the sites of Ramayana are held in great reverence there and that the faith and devotion has stayed intact through the ages.
The authors’ style is simple and the narration lucid that shifts smoothly between the events of Ramayana and the authors' own journey. I must have laughed multiple times when the authors recounted their interactions with some of the locals who would only tell a story until they saw a crisp currency note or narrated attempts to dupe them, which I will take a note of in case I travel to any of the places in future.
My only complaint with the book is the lack of a map of the route taken or photos of the places / temples visited. Although, I am not sure how feasible it would have been to have a separate section of photos without disturbing the narrative, it would certainly have enhanced the reading experience. Hopefully, there is an accompanying website or update in later editions of the book.
In conclusion, “In the Footsteps of Rama” will take you on a wonderful journey of history, myth, culture and architecture. You also learn about the many wonderful human beings who are keeping the faith alive by giving up worldly pleasure and are more than happy to serve in devotion and pass the knowledge onto curious tourists. The book will instill anew your faith and leave you with a desire to see the places for yourself and experience what the authors and many pilgrims would have.
July 2, 2021
In the Footsteps of Rama (Travels with the Ramayana) by Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni.
This book is an honest account of two intrepid travelers, who take the journey that Lord Rama is said to have undertaken during his Vanvaas (Exile into the forest). They have covered the whole landscape of Bharatbhoomi and beyond, covering the route from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka and back. The authors carry the Valmiki Ramayana, the Ramcharitmanas and other versions of the Ramayana to assist in their journey and to track the places that Lord Rama, Devi Sita and Lakshman had taken by foot. I have visited most of the places mentioned in the book except for Ayodhya and Sri Lanka. My early articles were titled On the Ramayana Trail at Kishkindha and Footsteps of Ram at Rameswaram. Although I am familiar to many of the places mentioned in the book, I found the book engrossing, mainly due to the history, tradition and folklore attached to the sites. The author’s chitchat with the vehicle drivers, stories at the eateries, incidents and accounts narrated by the temple priests and caretakers all make the book more interesting. They have covered many lesser known sites associated with Ramayana incidents like Walkeswar in Mumbai and Lonar lake in interior Maharashtra along with the major locations like Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Kishkindha and Rameswaram.
I especially enjoyed the wonderful account of the trip to Sri Lanka and the narration of the battle fought between Ram, Lakshman and the Vanara sena against Ravana and his mighty Rakshasa sena. It is a wonderful travelogue and a must read for every Indian.
This book is an honest account of two intrepid travelers, who take the journey that Lord Rama is said to have undertaken during his Vanvaas (Exile into the forest). They have covered the whole landscape of Bharatbhoomi and beyond, covering the route from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka and back. The authors carry the Valmiki Ramayana, the Ramcharitmanas and other versions of the Ramayana to assist in their journey and to track the places that Lord Rama, Devi Sita and Lakshman had taken by foot. I have visited most of the places mentioned in the book except for Ayodhya and Sri Lanka. My early articles were titled On the Ramayana Trail at Kishkindha and Footsteps of Ram at Rameswaram. Although I am familiar to many of the places mentioned in the book, I found the book engrossing, mainly due to the history, tradition and folklore attached to the sites. The author’s chitchat with the vehicle drivers, stories at the eateries, incidents and accounts narrated by the temple priests and caretakers all make the book more interesting. They have covered many lesser known sites associated with Ramayana incidents like Walkeswar in Mumbai and Lonar lake in interior Maharashtra along with the major locations like Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Kishkindha and Rameswaram.
I especially enjoyed the wonderful account of the trip to Sri Lanka and the narration of the battle fought between Ram, Lakshman and the Vanara sena against Ravana and his mighty Rakshasa sena. It is a wonderful travelogue and a must read for every Indian.
June 26, 2021
I am the admin of the Delhi Book Club and a voracious reader and hence I keep getting a lot of books to review and I religiously go through them.
I have read a lot of travelogues as well as Ramayana retakes but this one takes the cake for being FRESH. The way the book has been organized to the way it honestly talks about the travels to the new perspectives unheard of for Ramayana. It is hard to put it down. Nice conversational language which takes the reader on a conversation rather than a documentary.
I have read a lot of travelogues as well as Ramayana retakes but this one takes the cake for being FRESH. The way the book has been organized to the way it honestly talks about the travels to the new perspectives unheard of for Ramayana. It is hard to put it down. Nice conversational language which takes the reader on a conversation rather than a documentary.
June 20, 2021
Ramayana means ‘Rama’s Journey’. A journey that he took thousands of years ago to keep his father’s promises. A journey that helped him connect with his subjects. A journey that helped him gain knowledge from the best of Rishis of his time. A journey that taught him to take the adversities of life with patience and equanimity. A journey that finally transformed him from a prince to Maryada Purushottama. Is it possible to trace his journey today? Yes, the writers of this book have made this possible by following the footsteps of Rama.
This is the first travelogue that I read in less than two days. It felt like I was travelling with them and seeing and hearing everything with my own eyes and ears. The cherry on the cake were the stories in the form of local folklores, and from various versions of Ramayana associated with each place they visited.
The journey started from Ayodhya, the birthplace of Rama, and then went on to Prayag, Chitrakoot, Panchvati, Kishkindha, Rameshvaram etc. and finally Sri Lanka. Every place that the author duo visited has been documented in detail. They tried to find and meet somebody who could tell them a tale uniquely associated with that place. Sometimes people were kind enough to help them without taking anything in return but at many places they have to suitably ‘reward’ them to get the tales out.
The language of the book is easy to follow and does not restrict your flow of reading. The stories are given in a shorter font so that you know where the story started or ended and where you have again started travelling with the authors. Some researchers, or pandits with whom they talked had quoted some shlokas, chaupais etc. (mentioning the place they had visited) which were not documented in the book. It would have been an added advantage had they been included as well. Just as the journey transformed Rama, it would be interesting to know if the authors have also gone through any transformation. May be in future editions they can add that to the book. Also, I would like the publisher to think about publishing an edition with pictures of the places that the authors visited.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about the places that Rama visited during his exile and to people who wants to read various stories about Ramayana which may have not been documented anywhere else. Also, anyone who thinks Ramayana is a fictional story should definitely read this book.
I’ll be forever indebted to Indic Academy and Indic Book Club, for sending me this beautiful book as a part of the Thousand Reviewers Club.
This is the first travelogue that I read in less than two days. It felt like I was travelling with them and seeing and hearing everything with my own eyes and ears. The cherry on the cake were the stories in the form of local folklores, and from various versions of Ramayana associated with each place they visited.
The journey started from Ayodhya, the birthplace of Rama, and then went on to Prayag, Chitrakoot, Panchvati, Kishkindha, Rameshvaram etc. and finally Sri Lanka. Every place that the author duo visited has been documented in detail. They tried to find and meet somebody who could tell them a tale uniquely associated with that place. Sometimes people were kind enough to help them without taking anything in return but at many places they have to suitably ‘reward’ them to get the tales out.
The language of the book is easy to follow and does not restrict your flow of reading. The stories are given in a shorter font so that you know where the story started or ended and where you have again started travelling with the authors. Some researchers, or pandits with whom they talked had quoted some shlokas, chaupais etc. (mentioning the place they had visited) which were not documented in the book. It would have been an added advantage had they been included as well. Just as the journey transformed Rama, it would be interesting to know if the authors have also gone through any transformation. May be in future editions they can add that to the book. Also, I would like the publisher to think about publishing an edition with pictures of the places that the authors visited.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about the places that Rama visited during his exile and to people who wants to read various stories about Ramayana which may have not been documented anywhere else. Also, anyone who thinks Ramayana is a fictional story should definitely read this book.
I’ll be forever indebted to Indic Academy and Indic Book Club, for sending me this beautiful book as a part of the Thousand Reviewers Club.
July 11, 2021
Book 21 of 2021. After so long!! In the Footsteps of Rama by Shri Vikrant Pande and Shri Neelesh Kulkarni.
Browsing Amazon for new titles and books is my favourite past time. And this time I stumbled upon this gem of a book. The authors traveled the length and the breadth of India and Sri Lanka, visiting the places where various key incidents mentioned in the Ramayana took place. Through the journey, they uncover various folk tales of the Ramayana prominent on various locations along their journey.
The book is definitely not one to be read fast. The book definitely needs to be read slowly as it takes us on a journey of a lifetime! Highly recommend the travelogue that took me on a journey in the middle of a lockdown. Happy reading!
#book21of2021 #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #readersofinstagram #strength #booksof2021 #inthefootstepsoframa
#vikrantpande #neeleshkulkarni #travelogues #indianmythology
Browsing Amazon for new titles and books is my favourite past time. And this time I stumbled upon this gem of a book. The authors traveled the length and the breadth of India and Sri Lanka, visiting the places where various key incidents mentioned in the Ramayana took place. Through the journey, they uncover various folk tales of the Ramayana prominent on various locations along their journey.
The book is definitely not one to be read fast. The book definitely needs to be read slowly as it takes us on a journey of a lifetime! Highly recommend the travelogue that took me on a journey in the middle of a lockdown. Happy reading!
#book21of2021 #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #readersofinstagram #strength #booksof2021 #inthefootstepsoframa
#vikrantpande #neeleshkulkarni #travelogues #indianmythology
July 8, 2021
This book is a journey interspersed with the authors quest to search for the truth about RAMA. The exploratory and experiential way of writing is refreshing and makes the reader travel with them. Its amazing to see how our country is endowed with places which actually speak of the tales we have been brought up with. Its also a good reference for our culture ministry to actually popularize the places and ensure the sanctity of the same is maintained to ensure future generations are able to retell the stories once again . As a reader its has piped a quest in me to make this journey in this lifetime .. hope it generates the same feeling for all.
June 7, 2021
It's exactly what title says, it's a journey book!
And like all journeys, it has it's drabs and adventures. A good light read if you're into mythology, or maybe want to equip yourself with some side tales of Ramayana. If not anything else, it'll inspire you to travel this beautiful country.
And like all journeys, it has it's drabs and adventures. A good light read if you're into mythology, or maybe want to equip yourself with some side tales of Ramayana. If not anything else, it'll inspire you to travel this beautiful country.
October 2, 2021
Ramayan is one of the greatest epics ever written in the history of mankind. It teaches a lot about essential virtues like honour and following the path of righteousness come what may in the form of deeds of Maryada Purushottam Sri Ram. The legacy which he has left with his legendary life has made an indelible imprint on the psyche of people all around the world belonging to any caste, creed ,religion and this marvellous book encapsulates the travel by the authors on the same iconic path traced by Bhagwan Ram as the title so heartfully express.
The book is a beautiful recounting journey of the two amazing writers when they tread on the footprints of Sri Ram . Learning about the different local traditions and how from the historical times things have grown and modernised was quite interesting to witness. The various tales from the indigenous people and how they are related to the epic was equally fascinating and heartfelt. The writing style is so outstanding that one can easily visualize the spectacles of those times.
The cover is undoubtedly the best I have ever seen on any book on Bhagwan Ram. It intrigued me to pick this up readily without any second thoughts. Just like I have reservation regarding the usage of work 'Mythology' with every book based on our rich culture, history and dharma , I have the same for this too though the employment is minimal. Even at such an age the voyage of authors is quite inspirational to see and to take cue from .
Overall a delightful and informative read. Looking forward to read more such work
The book is a beautiful recounting journey of the two amazing writers when they tread on the footprints of Sri Ram . Learning about the different local traditions and how from the historical times things have grown and modernised was quite interesting to witness. The various tales from the indigenous people and how they are related to the epic was equally fascinating and heartfelt. The writing style is so outstanding that one can easily visualize the spectacles of those times.
The cover is undoubtedly the best I have ever seen on any book on Bhagwan Ram. It intrigued me to pick this up readily without any second thoughts. Just like I have reservation regarding the usage of work 'Mythology' with every book based on our rich culture, history and dharma , I have the same for this too though the employment is minimal. Even at such an age the voyage of authors is quite inspirational to see and to take cue from .
Overall a delightful and informative read. Looking forward to read more such work
June 22, 2021
In the Footsteps of Rama – A fascinating Book!
Most of us have read Ramayana or watched the serial on TV or grew up watching Ramlila (Stage play) year after year - and always found the epic amazingly enthralling. Since, the story line was familiar, it was fascinating to read the book as the authors travel from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka in their quest of connecting the original Ramayna incidents with the present day objects and places.
What an amazing book with such a superb travelogue, folk tales and stories sprinkled with spicy anecdotes and a liberal dash of humour which only master story tellers like Neelesh Kulkarni and Vikrant Pande can do! The book is written in a simple, yet very engaging style and flows smoothly.
Never ever such an attempt has been made to embark on a trail to demystify the epic. The authors take us through an exciting journey from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka to realize their mission of identifying various places, landmarks, temples, rivers, forests, characters as described in Ramayna and amplifying their relevance, connection and importance thru various stories and anecdotes. The book is full of such interesting tales, and some of them differ in their versions depending on whom do you meet and what place do you visit – but the essence remains the same!
The book swings back and forth, from the epic era dialogues to authors’ narratives, but the authors seamlessly stitch each piece together to keep the story line firmly on track. And one is constantly hooked on to the book with a curious sense of anticipation as to what is coming next!
Sometimes, one really wonders whether the incidents described in Ramayna actually happened or such places actually existed or such sophisticated missiles, jets, technologies were indeed available? How did Rama undertake his journey and navigate without a GPS ? How people from different regions and languages communicated with each other when they met ? But, who knows our past may have been more advanced than today!!!
Found the book absolutely fascinating as it is full of revelations, interesting facts and some deviations from the traditional understanding e.g. was there an actual Lakshman Rekha, did Hanuman bring the entire mountain once or twice to get the life saving herbs, how did Vali derive his power to defeat the enemies, did Shabari actually taste the berries before offering to lord Rama… and it continues. Some new versions emerged, many facts verified and few myths exploded!
The authors have researched their topics well, met so many knowledgeable people & priests and asked the right questions to clarify the doubts and connect the original story with the relevant current objects. It was interesting to know that Ramayana written by Valmiki, Tulasidasa, Kadamb, Adhyatma and others have some different versions of the same story - but, the essence remains the same. Since so many places described in Ramayna actually existed, and amply demonstrated by various stories narrated by the locals, only strengthens our faiths in our epics and makes us proud of our heritage.
The authors did an outstanding work in describing various experiences in intricate details. They traversed thru under ground caves, isolated places, full flowing rivers, thick forest and even encountering wild animals taking huge personal risks. It must have really required tremendous passion, drive, energy and adventurous spirit to undertake such an arduous journey to accomplish the mission.
For the authors, the journey must have been a test of patience and perseverance, frustration and accomplishment, anxiety and eureka moments - but it was the quest to find the truth that must have inspired and energized them to continue with this daunting task. Have never read such a gripping account of Ramayna - experienced and witnessed by the authors.
An amazingly fascinating book! Must read for everyone!
Most of us have read Ramayana or watched the serial on TV or grew up watching Ramlila (Stage play) year after year - and always found the epic amazingly enthralling. Since, the story line was familiar, it was fascinating to read the book as the authors travel from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka in their quest of connecting the original Ramayna incidents with the present day objects and places.
What an amazing book with such a superb travelogue, folk tales and stories sprinkled with spicy anecdotes and a liberal dash of humour which only master story tellers like Neelesh Kulkarni and Vikrant Pande can do! The book is written in a simple, yet very engaging style and flows smoothly.
Never ever such an attempt has been made to embark on a trail to demystify the epic. The authors take us through an exciting journey from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka to realize their mission of identifying various places, landmarks, temples, rivers, forests, characters as described in Ramayna and amplifying their relevance, connection and importance thru various stories and anecdotes. The book is full of such interesting tales, and some of them differ in their versions depending on whom do you meet and what place do you visit – but the essence remains the same!
The book swings back and forth, from the epic era dialogues to authors’ narratives, but the authors seamlessly stitch each piece together to keep the story line firmly on track. And one is constantly hooked on to the book with a curious sense of anticipation as to what is coming next!
Sometimes, one really wonders whether the incidents described in Ramayna actually happened or such places actually existed or such sophisticated missiles, jets, technologies were indeed available? How did Rama undertake his journey and navigate without a GPS ? How people from different regions and languages communicated with each other when they met ? But, who knows our past may have been more advanced than today!!!
Found the book absolutely fascinating as it is full of revelations, interesting facts and some deviations from the traditional understanding e.g. was there an actual Lakshman Rekha, did Hanuman bring the entire mountain once or twice to get the life saving herbs, how did Vali derive his power to defeat the enemies, did Shabari actually taste the berries before offering to lord Rama… and it continues. Some new versions emerged, many facts verified and few myths exploded!
The authors have researched their topics well, met so many knowledgeable people & priests and asked the right questions to clarify the doubts and connect the original story with the relevant current objects. It was interesting to know that Ramayana written by Valmiki, Tulasidasa, Kadamb, Adhyatma and others have some different versions of the same story - but, the essence remains the same. Since so many places described in Ramayna actually existed, and amply demonstrated by various stories narrated by the locals, only strengthens our faiths in our epics and makes us proud of our heritage.
The authors did an outstanding work in describing various experiences in intricate details. They traversed thru under ground caves, isolated places, full flowing rivers, thick forest and even encountering wild animals taking huge personal risks. It must have really required tremendous passion, drive, energy and adventurous spirit to undertake such an arduous journey to accomplish the mission.
For the authors, the journey must have been a test of patience and perseverance, frustration and accomplishment, anxiety and eureka moments - but it was the quest to find the truth that must have inspired and energized them to continue with this daunting task. Have never read such a gripping account of Ramayna - experienced and witnessed by the authors.
An amazingly fascinating book! Must read for everyone!
June 25, 2021
Prompt: Book published in 2021
In the Footsteps of Rama by Pande and Vikrant.
Tracing the footsteps of Rama in the 21st century is proof of the enduring spirit of the Ramayana. It is a living epic and this book follows in the footsteps of the Lord, from the time of His banishment until the final journey. It's replete with myth and local folklore, which adds to the beauty of the quest. The authors are able to visit all the places associated with the Lord. It must have been a difficult journey for over the centuries names and landmarks have got transformed, yet the authors have managed to find them.
While reading the book, it is sometimes difficult to believe that "the mainstay of (their) journey has been belief”. At several places, I was led to believe that this journey was undertaken as tourists not as spiritual seekers. The focus shifts when the authors remain true to the events of the journey rather than the narrative. Also they mention so many irrelevant details, which at times just slows down the narrative. Keeping in mind the lofty theme, this book calls for a certain reverence, which is singularly lacking. There are no pictures to substantiate this journey. Even sketches would have sufficed! Finally, they seemed very ill prepared for the Lankan leg of the journey. Still it is a commendable journey and I'm sure the authors emerged richer from their experiences.
In the Footsteps of Rama by Pande and Vikrant.
Tracing the footsteps of Rama in the 21st century is proof of the enduring spirit of the Ramayana. It is a living epic and this book follows in the footsteps of the Lord, from the time of His banishment until the final journey. It's replete with myth and local folklore, which adds to the beauty of the quest. The authors are able to visit all the places associated with the Lord. It must have been a difficult journey for over the centuries names and landmarks have got transformed, yet the authors have managed to find them.
While reading the book, it is sometimes difficult to believe that "the mainstay of (their) journey has been belief”. At several places, I was led to believe that this journey was undertaken as tourists not as spiritual seekers. The focus shifts when the authors remain true to the events of the journey rather than the narrative. Also they mention so many irrelevant details, which at times just slows down the narrative. Keeping in mind the lofty theme, this book calls for a certain reverence, which is singularly lacking. There are no pictures to substantiate this journey. Even sketches would have sufficed! Finally, they seemed very ill prepared for the Lankan leg of the journey. Still it is a commendable journey and I'm sure the authors emerged richer from their experiences.
Read
July 12, 2021Ever wondered?
Where is the half-cut mountain which Hanuman ji carried to Lanka? where is the other half in Himalaya?
Ever wondered, if Ravana had moved Sita Maa to anywhere else after Hanuman ji ravished the Ashok Vatika?
Ever wondered what had happened to the family of Vibhishana in Lanka when he had come to Ramji after leaving Ravan? Ever wondered if anybody has actually seen/felt Ram Setu before the ferocious Tsunami of 1964?
and the never-ending wonders of the wonderful Katha, was Sita Maa really put under agni-pariksha, and why so different versions are presented by Tulsidas and Valmiki.
These were the unanswered questions with me since my childhood, which this book helped me in uncovering. More than the answers, the book has given me the life lesson, that-is to accept the questions even if left unanswered or diferently answered than what you know. As Sadhu, whom the authors approached to know the story of Sita Gufa has said - "It's all a matter of faith".
The title of the book is- In the footsteps of Rama - is literal and not philosophical. The author has painstakingly traveled from Ayodhyanagri to Lanka and returned. He has been to not so famous shrines but important places where Ramji traveled, and the important event unfolded there, which is now forgotten or less known. Probably the locals from those places didn't make much noise, or also because Ramanand Sagar chose to skip it (for whatsoever reasons).
The book is a blend of travelogue and folk stories around Ramayan and a few selected short stories as written in older versions of Ramayan. They have shared the difficulties of infrastructure, how local language, and the local name of places make you run in circles. Meeting different people, few who go the extra mile to help out, few who dupe you for few bucks. Few go the extra mile to research and dig out oldest if not original texts and few need green paper to utter a word at the holiest of the places.
The entire book is worth cherishing, worth re-telling.
Where is the half-cut mountain which Hanuman ji carried to Lanka? where is the other half in Himalaya?
Ever wondered, if Ravana had moved Sita Maa to anywhere else after Hanuman ji ravished the Ashok Vatika?
Ever wondered what had happened to the family of Vibhishana in Lanka when he had come to Ramji after leaving Ravan? Ever wondered if anybody has actually seen/felt Ram Setu before the ferocious Tsunami of 1964?
and the never-ending wonders of the wonderful Katha, was Sita Maa really put under agni-pariksha, and why so different versions are presented by Tulsidas and Valmiki.
These were the unanswered questions with me since my childhood, which this book helped me in uncovering. More than the answers, the book has given me the life lesson, that-is to accept the questions even if left unanswered or diferently answered than what you know. As Sadhu, whom the authors approached to know the story of Sita Gufa has said - "It's all a matter of faith".
The title of the book is- In the footsteps of Rama - is literal and not philosophical. The author has painstakingly traveled from Ayodhyanagri to Lanka and returned. He has been to not so famous shrines but important places where Ramji traveled, and the important event unfolded there, which is now forgotten or less known. Probably the locals from those places didn't make much noise, or also because Ramanand Sagar chose to skip it (for whatsoever reasons).
The book is a blend of travelogue and folk stories around Ramayan and a few selected short stories as written in older versions of Ramayan. They have shared the difficulties of infrastructure, how local language, and the local name of places make you run in circles. Meeting different people, few who go the extra mile to help out, few who dupe you for few bucks. Few go the extra mile to research and dig out oldest if not original texts and few need green paper to utter a word at the holiest of the places.
The entire book is worth cherishing, worth re-telling.
July 11, 2021
I don't read non fiction much, but this turned out to be my favourite.
This book traces the footsteps of lord Rama, simultaneously wandering through the many variations of Ramayana from Valmiki, Tulsi, Adhyatma, and other regional variants. While we focus on the epic from these sources, the travelogue keeps us grounded of the contemporary reality of those sites/locations.
This is a product of dedication, patient research, and devotion. The writers’ hard effort appears through this gorgeous book, which has a simple language that is easy to read and is laced with a little of humor here and there but never inappropriate. The stories/tales are written in a smaller font so that you can see where the story began or finished and where you may resume your journey with the writers.
If you are completely unaware of what Ramayan is, then you might not enjoy this book.
One thing that could’ve made it a five-star for me was the addition of pictures. I had to google every sight to get a look. It would’ve been wonderful if it contained maps and pictures as well.
This book traces the footsteps of lord Rama, simultaneously wandering through the many variations of Ramayana from Valmiki, Tulsi, Adhyatma, and other regional variants. While we focus on the epic from these sources, the travelogue keeps us grounded of the contemporary reality of those sites/locations.
This is a product of dedication, patient research, and devotion. The writers’ hard effort appears through this gorgeous book, which has a simple language that is easy to read and is laced with a little of humor here and there but never inappropriate. The stories/tales are written in a smaller font so that you can see where the story began or finished and where you may resume your journey with the writers.
If you are completely unaware of what Ramayan is, then you might not enjoy this book.
One thing that could’ve made it a five-star for me was the addition of pictures. I had to google every sight to get a look. It would’ve been wonderful if it contained maps and pictures as well.
June 21, 2021
Thank you very much Vikrant and Neelesh for spellbinding the readers in the mesmerizing journey. I have this feeling that consciously or unconsciously every Indian probably have been curious about the greatest journey of all time and dreamt to explore it. Reading your book brings peace to the mind but then stirs it badly. Yes, it is great that we get to know about all those places without visiting them but then the temptation to see them flames up. And here comes a complain (a drawback?): images of those places should have been a part of this book.
This book is a great service to humanity. It is so sad to know that majority of the population who are residing in the vicinity of those divine places are ignorant about the historic (not “mythological”, the word which even authors have used) importance. This book will certainly bring the much-needed awareness. Having said that, it would have been very useful if references used by authors to trace the geographical locations were included.
Finally, a big thank you to all those sadhus, retired people and young folks who have preserved all those forgotten places. India owes you…
This book is a great service to humanity. It is so sad to know that majority of the population who are residing in the vicinity of those divine places are ignorant about the historic (not “mythological”, the word which even authors have used) importance. This book will certainly bring the much-needed awareness. Having said that, it would have been very useful if references used by authors to trace the geographical locations were included.
Finally, a big thank you to all those sadhus, retired people and young folks who have preserved all those forgotten places. India owes you…
August 29, 2022
In the Footsteps of Rama :Travels with the Ramayana by Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni is a travelogue ; a travelogue of a different kind. This book traces the journey of Sri Ram along with his wife and brother , the places they visited and stayed as they travelled as he went for their exile originating from Ayodhya to Sri Lanka.
This travelogue is more exciting to read because the authors not only visited the places but coaxed stories out of the caretakers and common people . This makes the narrative a beautiful experience because of the versions of the folktales, and histories attached to each place.
This is a work of love, painstaking research and reverence . The hard work of the authors shines through out this beautiful read that has a simple language that is easy to read; sprinkled here and there with a slice of humour but never irreverent.
Last but not the least A very beautiful cover
This book is a work of faith that touched the readers' core . A must read for all familiar with story of Rama and also others. Though a few places are missing but still covers the major and important part of the journey, Though this book could have been more exciting if pictures could have been provided but yet a must read. Thanks @Indicbookclub and @IndicAcademy for this great and fascinating read.
This travelogue is more exciting to read because the authors not only visited the places but coaxed stories out of the caretakers and common people . This makes the narrative a beautiful experience because of the versions of the folktales, and histories attached to each place.
This is a work of love, painstaking research and reverence . The hard work of the authors shines through out this beautiful read that has a simple language that is easy to read; sprinkled here and there with a slice of humour but never irreverent.
Last but not the least A very beautiful cover
This book is a work of faith that touched the readers' core . A must read for all familiar with story of Rama and also others. Though a few places are missing but still covers the major and important part of the journey, Though this book could have been more exciting if pictures could have been provided but yet a must read. Thanks @Indicbookclub and @IndicAcademy for this great and fascinating read.
July 10, 2021
"In the Footsteps of Rama", a travelogue by Vikrant Pande & Neelesh Kulkarni, traces the path followed by Shri Rama in Ramayana. The author duo, starting from Ayodhya, have travelled extensively in major parts of India and Sri Lanka following the trail of Rama. The book captures the folklore and sthala purāṇa which is popular in the places which the author duo visits as part of the journey. For those who have read vālmīki rāmāyaṇa, some of the stories as told by the local surprises many. It also aspires one to read other versions of rāmāyaṇa which is popular in different states. For example: Adhyātma Rāmāyaṇa, Kṛttivāsī rāmāyaṇa of Bengal, Śrīrāmacaritamānasa in central India, Kamba rāmāyaṇa in Tamil Nadu. The authors also have shared their experiences about the adventures during the journey.
I was surprised to know that Sri Lanka has many unexplored tunnels. Also, some of the interesting facts like Hanuman not being worshipped by people of Dunagiri, Uttarakhand for defacing their mountain during the episode of Sanjeevini in Yuddha khanda of rāmāyaṇa.
Even though the authors have made a great effort traversing the path across many states, some of the important places in the Southern part of India like Bhadrachalam (Andra Pradesh), Ramanagaram (Karnataka) are not covered. This book may inspire more people to take this journey at least once in their lifetime.
My sincere thanks to Indic Book Club for sending this book my way & giving me an opportunity to share my reviews.
I was surprised to know that Sri Lanka has many unexplored tunnels. Also, some of the interesting facts like Hanuman not being worshipped by people of Dunagiri, Uttarakhand for defacing their mountain during the episode of Sanjeevini in Yuddha khanda of rāmāyaṇa.
Even though the authors have made a great effort traversing the path across many states, some of the important places in the Southern part of India like Bhadrachalam (Andra Pradesh), Ramanagaram (Karnataka) are not covered. This book may inspire more people to take this journey at least once in their lifetime.
My sincere thanks to Indic Book Club for sending this book my way & giving me an opportunity to share my reviews.
June 27, 2021
First of all, hats off to Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni to come with the ingenuous idea of tracing the Rama journey and then coming up with this book.
This book traces the journey of Rama when he enters into exile, Sita’s abduction, his war with Ravana, back to Ayodhya and then his ultimate return to his heavenly abode.
The writers follow Ram’s jouney from Ayodhya to the Dandakaranya forest and Panchavati (near Nashik) and on to Kishkindhya (close to Hampi), Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka.
Travelling the story, temple to temple, village to village, city to city, and country to country, the book is an interesting travelogue featuring mythology amidst the present day milieu.
The books effortlessly switches between recorded epic tales and present day narrative lending the book an amazing, unique flavour.
Local fables which sometimes clash with known and recorded versions of epic are the interesting and intriguing points of the book such as ‘maybe there never was a lakshman rekha’ or ‘ shabari had never tasted berries before offering them to Lord Rama.’
As in every travelogue, the writers meet a mix of people along their sojourn- the quirky, clever present. …. such as the driver who claims never to know anything, priests waiting for a generous tip before commencing on story telling. And tales of convictions and allegiance…… educated men devoting themselves to the temple or the the surprising case of a family spending their funds on maintaining the manwari temple in Sri Lanka..despite not being allowed to enter the temple as they are not Brahmins.
However, I confess to have only a basic knowledge of the story of Ramayana, and so it became difficult (though only momentarily) to connect when I picked up the book next day to read.
But this book is a real must-for- all….. for people like me who came to know new tales of the Ramayana and for those who are familiar and have always wondered if those places existed, if those tales were true, if the heavens had indeed descended upon the earth.
This book traces the journey of Rama when he enters into exile, Sita’s abduction, his war with Ravana, back to Ayodhya and then his ultimate return to his heavenly abode.
The writers follow Ram’s jouney from Ayodhya to the Dandakaranya forest and Panchavati (near Nashik) and on to Kishkindhya (close to Hampi), Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka.
Travelling the story, temple to temple, village to village, city to city, and country to country, the book is an interesting travelogue featuring mythology amidst the present day milieu.
The books effortlessly switches between recorded epic tales and present day narrative lending the book an amazing, unique flavour.
Local fables which sometimes clash with known and recorded versions of epic are the interesting and intriguing points of the book such as ‘maybe there never was a lakshman rekha’ or ‘ shabari had never tasted berries before offering them to Lord Rama.’
As in every travelogue, the writers meet a mix of people along their sojourn- the quirky, clever present. …. such as the driver who claims never to know anything, priests waiting for a generous tip before commencing on story telling. And tales of convictions and allegiance…… educated men devoting themselves to the temple or the the surprising case of a family spending their funds on maintaining the manwari temple in Sri Lanka..despite not being allowed to enter the temple as they are not Brahmins.
However, I confess to have only a basic knowledge of the story of Ramayana, and so it became difficult (though only momentarily) to connect when I picked up the book next day to read.
But this book is a real must-for- all….. for people like me who came to know new tales of the Ramayana and for those who are familiar and have always wondered if those places existed, if those tales were true, if the heavens had indeed descended upon the earth.
December 25, 2024
What a beautiful journey this has been!! I loved the narration by the authors. It was simple, humble and filled with bhakti. Having known so little of Ramayana, this book was a revelation in many ways. I am thankful to my friend Deepan for sending this lovely book my way. 💛💛
July 14, 2021
Rama has become a rather controversial figure these days. But amidst all the political interpretations of Ramayana and the chief protagonist and antagonist, new readers are missing the charm of the story— especially as it encompasses a large portion of the sub-continent with all its glory.
This book rectifies the situation to a great extent.
The witty and yet erudite prose is just what a doctor might order for a new reader.
Its lucid yet canonical descriptions, punctuating the mythical with the present, provide exactly what a new reader seeking to discover India through her epics would love.
The book is very well-printed and yet rather lightweight— making it a perfect travel companion as well.
Recommended.
This book rectifies the situation to a great extent.
The witty and yet erudite prose is just what a doctor might order for a new reader.
Its lucid yet canonical descriptions, punctuating the mythical with the present, provide exactly what a new reader seeking to discover India through her epics would love.
The book is very well-printed and yet rather lightweight— making it a perfect travel companion as well.
Recommended.
December 7, 2021
I would like to thank Indic club for sending across this book.
If you have ever wondered that the places mentioned in ramayana still exist ? Well then this book will quench your curiosity.
In The Footsteps Of Rama is an extensively researched book by the authors Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni. It is a Travelogue that the authors themselves set out to cover a journey that many bharatvaasis only walk through in their imagination and minds.
A myriad of temples, tales woven into the sands of time with the footsteps of Shri Rama, his dutiful wife & his younger obedient brother. This books brings ramayana alive and also fills a long standing gap, it unfolds each incident in a timeline with comparison between different versions of ramayana. The folk tales passed down from generations are no less of an interesting part of the book.
Felt like I was traveling right there with them. The documention of the local stories with vivid details of the places have been so beautifully painted, it's impossible for a reader to not slip into a different world, a world where you are with prabhu Shri rama, Sita maa, Lakshamana and the testimony of the glorious past, dharma over adharma, that this land witnessed.
This Travelogue speaks that ramayana is not in the past. It's a living legacy of devotion, courage and love.
May this book continue to inspire the youth towards sincerely following dharma.
Drawbacks - When the authors set out on the journey to gather stories from various parts of India and sri Lanka as well, the places visited by them often left them with shelling out money in exchange of stories or information. At various places the priests have been shown in a bad light, as though they were highly hungry for only money. Money is basic requirement and we all know how priests in india, especially of the remote places go by their living. They are hardly paid. But the authors have highlighted more than what was necessary and could have toned down on that part.
If you have ever wondered that the places mentioned in ramayana still exist ? Well then this book will quench your curiosity.
In The Footsteps Of Rama is an extensively researched book by the authors Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni. It is a Travelogue that the authors themselves set out to cover a journey that many bharatvaasis only walk through in their imagination and minds.
A myriad of temples, tales woven into the sands of time with the footsteps of Shri Rama, his dutiful wife & his younger obedient brother. This books brings ramayana alive and also fills a long standing gap, it unfolds each incident in a timeline with comparison between different versions of ramayana. The folk tales passed down from generations are no less of an interesting part of the book.
Felt like I was traveling right there with them. The documention of the local stories with vivid details of the places have been so beautifully painted, it's impossible for a reader to not slip into a different world, a world where you are with prabhu Shri rama, Sita maa, Lakshamana and the testimony of the glorious past, dharma over adharma, that this land witnessed.
This Travelogue speaks that ramayana is not in the past. It's a living legacy of devotion, courage and love.
May this book continue to inspire the youth towards sincerely following dharma.
Drawbacks - When the authors set out on the journey to gather stories from various parts of India and sri Lanka as well, the places visited by them often left them with shelling out money in exchange of stories or information. At various places the priests have been shown in a bad light, as though they were highly hungry for only money. Money is basic requirement and we all know how priests in india, especially of the remote places go by their living. They are hardly paid. But the authors have highlighted more than what was necessary and could have toned down on that part.
July 11, 2021
Love the Ramayana? Love Travel?- Go for this book
The book, "In the Footsteps of Rama- Travels with the Ramayana", written by Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni- is a travelogue where the authors make a very sincere effort to retrace the footsteps of Rama in exile; from Ayodhya to Shrungarveripura to Prayagraj to Chitrakoot, to Panchavati, to Kishkandha to Rameswaram to Lanka and back to Ayodhya. The books is a wonderful recounting of this journey in simple lucid flowing language. The cover illustration by Wasim Helal and Shabnam Yasmin is quite beautiful ,appropriate and eye-catching.
The authors follow the same route, meeting various people, humble folk, moody guides, and skilled raconteurs alike, who narrate to them the part of the Ramayana which is supposed to have taken place in their village/ area. It goes to the extent of investigating the meanings of names of the villages and check if they resulted from any incident in the Ramayana. For example, it was exciting to learn about villages that are named after the incidents during the hunt for the golden deer .There are many such anecdotes shared in the book and it makes the reading quite interesting. This book tries to capture this oral history/ tribal knowledge.
In terms of the structure, the book is divided into 4 parts, based on milestones in Rama’s exile. The authors pick up passages from the Ramayana, and then cleverly juxtapose it with the conversation that happened at the same place when they visited to research their book. This has a lovely effect on the reader. Thus the reader switches from one paragraph having the specific verse to the next paragraph which records their conversation with locals. This style is quite engaging and inspires the reader to keep reading further.
The book also brings to light a certain tendency with Indians, an overzealousness to project a little known local tale to prove the connection of the local folk/ temples/ caves to those described in the Ramayana, even though there is no authoritative knowledge available about it, in the Ramayana or elsewhere. Ultimately, this is the realm of bhakti, of submission, of unquestioning faith. This is the masses’ way of keeping up their connection with Bhagavan Rama and this comes to the fore several times in this book.
The book could have been made more nicer if it would have been accompanied by maps and definitely pictures of existing structures or like caves, sandbars, etc., from the author’s travels. In summary, if you love the Ramayana and also love travelling, do not miss this book!
The book, "In the Footsteps of Rama- Travels with the Ramayana", written by Vikrant Pande and Neelesh Kulkarni- is a travelogue where the authors make a very sincere effort to retrace the footsteps of Rama in exile; from Ayodhya to Shrungarveripura to Prayagraj to Chitrakoot, to Panchavati, to Kishkandha to Rameswaram to Lanka and back to Ayodhya. The books is a wonderful recounting of this journey in simple lucid flowing language. The cover illustration by Wasim Helal and Shabnam Yasmin is quite beautiful ,appropriate and eye-catching.
The authors follow the same route, meeting various people, humble folk, moody guides, and skilled raconteurs alike, who narrate to them the part of the Ramayana which is supposed to have taken place in their village/ area. It goes to the extent of investigating the meanings of names of the villages and check if they resulted from any incident in the Ramayana. For example, it was exciting to learn about villages that are named after the incidents during the hunt for the golden deer .There are many such anecdotes shared in the book and it makes the reading quite interesting. This book tries to capture this oral history/ tribal knowledge.
In terms of the structure, the book is divided into 4 parts, based on milestones in Rama’s exile. The authors pick up passages from the Ramayana, and then cleverly juxtapose it with the conversation that happened at the same place when they visited to research their book. This has a lovely effect on the reader. Thus the reader switches from one paragraph having the specific verse to the next paragraph which records their conversation with locals. This style is quite engaging and inspires the reader to keep reading further.
The book also brings to light a certain tendency with Indians, an overzealousness to project a little known local tale to prove the connection of the local folk/ temples/ caves to those described in the Ramayana, even though there is no authoritative knowledge available about it, in the Ramayana or elsewhere. Ultimately, this is the realm of bhakti, of submission, of unquestioning faith. This is the masses’ way of keeping up their connection with Bhagavan Rama and this comes to the fore several times in this book.
The book could have been made more nicer if it would have been accompanied by maps and definitely pictures of existing structures or like caves, sandbars, etc., from the author’s travels. In summary, if you love the Ramayana and also love travelling, do not miss this book!
July 28, 2021
In the Footsteps of Rama, a travelogue by Vikrant Pande & Neelesh Kulkarni, traces the path followed by Shri Rama in Ramayana. The author duo, starting from Ayodhya, have travelled extensively in major parts of India and Sri Lanka following the trail of Rama.
The book is a blend of travelogue and folk stories around Ramayan and a few selected short stories as written in older versions of Ramayan. They have shared the difficulties of infrastructure, how local language, and the local name of places make you run in circles. Meeting different people, few who go the extra mile to help out, few who dupe you for few bucks. Few go the extra mile to research and dig out oldest if not original texts and few need green paper to utter a word at the holiest of the places.
The journey started from Ayodhya, the birthplace of Rama, and then went on to Prayag, Chitrakoot, Panchvati, Kishkindha, Rameshvaram etc. and finally Sri Lanka. Every place that the author duo visited has been documented in detail. They tried to find and meet somebody who could tell them a tale uniquely associated with that place. Sometimes people were kind enough to help them without taking anything in return but at many places they have to suitably ‘reward’ them to get the tales out.
The book's language is simple to understand and does not obstruct your reading flow. The stories are written in a smaller type so that you can see where the storey began or finished, and where you might resume your journey with the authors.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about the places that Rama visited during his exile and to people who wants to read various stories about Ramayana which may have not been documented anywhere else. Also, anyone who thinks Ramayana is a fictional story should definitely read this book.
The book is a blend of travelogue and folk stories around Ramayan and a few selected short stories as written in older versions of Ramayan. They have shared the difficulties of infrastructure, how local language, and the local name of places make you run in circles. Meeting different people, few who go the extra mile to help out, few who dupe you for few bucks. Few go the extra mile to research and dig out oldest if not original texts and few need green paper to utter a word at the holiest of the places.
The journey started from Ayodhya, the birthplace of Rama, and then went on to Prayag, Chitrakoot, Panchvati, Kishkindha, Rameshvaram etc. and finally Sri Lanka. Every place that the author duo visited has been documented in detail. They tried to find and meet somebody who could tell them a tale uniquely associated with that place. Sometimes people were kind enough to help them without taking anything in return but at many places they have to suitably ‘reward’ them to get the tales out.
The book's language is simple to understand and does not obstruct your reading flow. The stories are written in a smaller type so that you can see where the storey began or finished, and where you might resume your journey with the authors.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to know about the places that Rama visited during his exile and to people who wants to read various stories about Ramayana which may have not been documented anywhere else. Also, anyone who thinks Ramayana is a fictional story should definitely read this book.
July 27, 2021
‘In the footsteps of Rama: Travels with the Ramayana’ by Vikrant Pandey and Neelesh Kulkarni, is about Rama’s journey through the exile. The concept of the book itself is just so interesting. The idea of being at all those places, where the Prince of Ayodhya had been, is so very thrilling. So, thanks to Vikrant and Neelesh for having taken this trip, and for having taken us, the readers, along the Ramayana.
The stories of the epic, as they exist in the local and popular lore, and its different versions, are admirably blended in the travelogue. The book, though written in a very simple style about one of the most popular legends is reflective of the extensive research and intricate planning that must have gone into charting out the itinerary. The authors have made sincere and successful effort to be with the local folklores while being guided by the ancient editions of the epic.
The one thing, that I am sure everyone reading this book will find lacking, and this is a big void that the authors have left here, the pictures. Without the photographs, of the places being talked about, the reader has to either visualize or go to the search engines to get a feel of the locations. Hope they have sufficient images that they must have clicked, and they even mention clicking at some places, and the further prints have them included. I even found the repeated mention of tips expected in return of information shared avoidable.
It was an enjoyable read, particularly liked the Dandakaranya experience, the grand old banyan trees, the temples for every little incident of the Marich-wadh episode, and the mystery behind the Lakshman Rekha, and then later down south of Shabari’s berries and Vali’s cremation. The trip to Sri Lanka is also very enriching with Rama’s and of course Ravana’s legends and symbols lying scattered over the beautiful island.
The best thing that this book does is, it reminds us how the Ramayana is embedded in the spirit of the two countries. How, just how, can anything about the legend of Rama not be true!! As the authors rightly say, ‘The truth is only what we want to believe’.
Read to relearn, relive and recall Rama’s journey in a concise and eloquent form.
Thanks Indic Academy, Indic Book Club.
The stories of the epic, as they exist in the local and popular lore, and its different versions, are admirably blended in the travelogue. The book, though written in a very simple style about one of the most popular legends is reflective of the extensive research and intricate planning that must have gone into charting out the itinerary. The authors have made sincere and successful effort to be with the local folklores while being guided by the ancient editions of the epic.
The one thing, that I am sure everyone reading this book will find lacking, and this is a big void that the authors have left here, the pictures. Without the photographs, of the places being talked about, the reader has to either visualize or go to the search engines to get a feel of the locations. Hope they have sufficient images that they must have clicked, and they even mention clicking at some places, and the further prints have them included. I even found the repeated mention of tips expected in return of information shared avoidable.
It was an enjoyable read, particularly liked the Dandakaranya experience, the grand old banyan trees, the temples for every little incident of the Marich-wadh episode, and the mystery behind the Lakshman Rekha, and then later down south of Shabari’s berries and Vali’s cremation. The trip to Sri Lanka is also very enriching with Rama’s and of course Ravana’s legends and symbols lying scattered over the beautiful island.
The best thing that this book does is, it reminds us how the Ramayana is embedded in the spirit of the two countries. How, just how, can anything about the legend of Rama not be true!! As the authors rightly say, ‘The truth is only what we want to believe’.
Read to relearn, relive and recall Rama’s journey in a concise and eloquent form.
Thanks Indic Academy, Indic Book Club.
July 5, 2021
Getting a chance to read such good book, is matter of luck. A travelogue where two authors start their travel from Ayodhya and then follow footsteps of Ram to all the way to Sri Lanka and then back to to where they started on the banks of river Saryu.
The motive of travel was not to prove weather events took place on that bery spots, but to gather more folk stories. Throughout their they found many folk stories and they're very nicely written in the book. During the journey they are encountered with some popular myths which are debunked for eg: there's no mention of Lakshman Rekha in Valmiki Ramayana or Tulsidas Ramayan now from where did Lakshman rekha come, how it became popular among the masses is all mentioned in the book.
For me the most interesting part of the book was to read how Goswami Tulsidas ji met lord Hanuman and then the two mystical brothers of Ikshvaku clan. Now, did he really meet or is it just another folk story is a matter of debate, but one cannot deny that the story is really beautiful. There's another folklore on why in a village in Uttrakhand even talking about Hanuman is a crime, why do these villagers hanuman as their villan? Ram leela is stooped here after seeta haran because after this there's Hanuman is introduced and since they hate him they don't want to show him as a part of an holy act or even talk about him. Why such hate for one of the most loveable character? There's a story behind it, read the book.
Book also discovers on what Sri Lankan's think about Ravan?
In short this book is a must read, even if you know the basic storyline of Ramayan you should pick this book and discover more folk stories and places. Even if Ramayan is not your intrest you'll at least know more about Bharat and it's undiscovered places.
This is one of the covers I've seen in recent times, not given it 5 🌟 because there are know pictures or maps. With pictures band maps this would be more interesting read, nevertheless the authors have described places very beautifully and it seems that you yourself bare travelling with them.
The motive of travel was not to prove weather events took place on that bery spots, but to gather more folk stories. Throughout their they found many folk stories and they're very nicely written in the book. During the journey they are encountered with some popular myths which are debunked for eg: there's no mention of Lakshman Rekha in Valmiki Ramayana or Tulsidas Ramayan now from where did Lakshman rekha come, how it became popular among the masses is all mentioned in the book.
For me the most interesting part of the book was to read how Goswami Tulsidas ji met lord Hanuman and then the two mystical brothers of Ikshvaku clan. Now, did he really meet or is it just another folk story is a matter of debate, but one cannot deny that the story is really beautiful. There's another folklore on why in a village in Uttrakhand even talking about Hanuman is a crime, why do these villagers hanuman as their villan? Ram leela is stooped here after seeta haran because after this there's Hanuman is introduced and since they hate him they don't want to show him as a part of an holy act or even talk about him. Why such hate for one of the most loveable character? There's a story behind it, read the book.
Book also discovers on what Sri Lankan's think about Ravan?
In short this book is a must read, even if you know the basic storyline of Ramayan you should pick this book and discover more folk stories and places. Even if Ramayan is not your intrest you'll at least know more about Bharat and it's undiscovered places.
This is one of the covers I've seen in recent times, not given it 5 🌟 because there are know pictures or maps. With pictures band maps this would be more interesting read, nevertheless the authors have described places very beautifully and it seems that you yourself bare travelling with them.
December 14, 2022
What a fascinating journey retracing the footsteps of Lord Rama from Ayodhya to Lanka and back to Ayodhya.
During the coarse of their journey, the authors encounter many local fables,myths and several versions of the epic but the essence of it remains the same!
The only thing missing in this book were the photographs. But the descriptions help in creating a virtual image.
During the coarse of their journey, the authors encounter many local fables,myths and several versions of the epic but the essence of it remains the same!
The only thing missing in this book were the photographs. But the descriptions help in creating a virtual image.
July 3, 2021
In The Footsteps Of Rama, the adventure of Neelesh Kulkarni and Vikrant Pande who goes on the trails of the Indian epic (itihas) Ramayan. Searching and exploring the places mentioned in the Ramayan.
The story of a man with full of ups and down The journey we all grew up hearing about, the story which keep reminding us that whatever life throws at us we just keep on going ahead no matter what. The journey of a man with an iron will. The journey the authors of this book went through, the journey we all come to know about by reading this book and to know about the local folklore related to all the places.
The adventure start from the Ayodhya then to nashik to hampi to dhanushkodi to sri Lanka and then back to Ayodhya and all the numerous other places, temples, caves and hills where the trio Ram, Sita and Lakshmana stayed at and passed by.
The way the authors have written this book is very gripping and easy to read, it makes you want to read more and more, and makes you want to explore those places yourself. The only thing left now is to go to all those places and live and experience the journey myself.
The story of a man with full of ups and down The journey we all grew up hearing about, the story which keep reminding us that whatever life throws at us we just keep on going ahead no matter what. The journey of a man with an iron will. The journey the authors of this book went through, the journey we all come to know about by reading this book and to know about the local folklore related to all the places.
The adventure start from the Ayodhya then to nashik to hampi to dhanushkodi to sri Lanka and then back to Ayodhya and all the numerous other places, temples, caves and hills where the trio Ram, Sita and Lakshmana stayed at and passed by.
The way the authors have written this book is very gripping and easy to read, it makes you want to read more and more, and makes you want to explore those places yourself. The only thing left now is to go to all those places and live and experience the journey myself.
January 30, 2024
With a lot of talk in Jan 2024 of a major event in Ayodhya - this book came up in some group. No matter what you currently believe in or follow - story of Ram has been part of the fabric of India and most of its people for thousands of years. You feel it more in Northern India than in South perhaps. This book was a part travelogue and part spiritual experience trying to retrace a mythical/historic journey. The authors trace the journey of Rama from the time he starts vanvas to battle in Lanka and back. Along the way armed with 5 major versions of Ramayana they explore places which are likely candidates today for places visited by Rama. Along the way they come across what is in a sense essence of Hinduism with no codified text and multiple narratives with each area having its own versions but as they say no matter the different stories the essence remains the same. This was a very easy to read book filled with several nuggets of information about the great epic as well and easy to follow for someone like me with casual interest.
For all the rich history and culture there is still a lot that needs to be done to preserve places of historic interest in India. All in all this was a good read on the hot topic of the month.
For all the rich history and culture there is still a lot that needs to be done to preserve places of historic interest in India. All in all this was a good read on the hot topic of the month.
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