MAHABHARATA

How do you entice readers who are not fans of war stories to read a novel that traces 18 days of battles?

Alagan used the war as a backdrop to present a tapestry of stories encompassing adventure, love and romance, family life, humour, and intrigue. Yet he does not disappoint die-hard fans of war stories too, touching on weapons, tactics, and battle formations.

He fills the third and last book of his Mahabharata trilogy with backstories about life in the ancient world, and the characters and their roles—the why, how, what, when and where—in the epic. Along the way, he also reveals many little-known twists and turns that culminate in the tragedy of this epochal family saga.

Did you know to ensure Pandava victory, the Goddess of War and Destruction, Durga, required a human sacrifice?

She demanded the life of one of 3 Chosen Ones: Krishna, Arjuna, and a 3rd Chosen One. Readers familiar with Mahabharata know that Krishna and Arjuna were not sacrificed.

Who was the 3rd Chosen One? 

How did he meet his fate? Why is it mainstream popular culture—movies, TV and even fictional takes—hardly mention him?

Enjoy Karna's love affair with his wife, Vrushali, who was a woman ahead of her times. Learn who betrayed Duryodhana. Discover who among the Kuru dynasty had first claim to the Hastinapura throne—no, it is not Karna—and why the rightful claimant rejected Krishna's offer?

And many more side stories that add depth and breadth to the characters and plot.