Abhimanyu

Book excerpt: ABHIMANYU, beloved son of Arjuna is one of the most endearing figures of Indian mythology. The Golden Prince, blazed across the realm of myth like an effervescent comet that lit up the heavens, yet was extinguished far too soon. In the killing field that was Kurukshetra, where countless evil deeds were perpetrated in the name of righteousness, Abhimanyu was a shining beacon of valour. All are aware of the legend but how many can claim to really know the young man, who was the best among the best? Anuja Chandramouli, bestselling author of Arjuna, takes apart a familiar narrative and puts it back together with originality and flair, delivering a profoundly moving take on a classic text. Narrated with deep intensity, Abhimanyu’s saga unfolds, shedding light on unexplored aspects of his remarkable life and extraordinary persona. The story casts a spell over the reader, who is left to agonize over the tragic fate of one of the most luminous heroes of the ancient Indian epic – the Mahabharata.