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Hinduism defies definition. It is not a religion in the conventional sense but an ever evolving way of life moulded by wisdom accumulated over the millennia. Dr. Singh rightly points out, "`85 Hinduism calls itself the Sanatana Dharma, the eternal faith, because it is based not upon the teachings of a single preceptor but on the collective wisdom and inspiration of great seers and sages from the very dawn of Indian civilization." Thence he goes on to acquaint us with its scriptures and key concepts. This slim volume has separate chapters on classical Hinduism, Bhakti Movement as well as such personalities as Ramakrishna, Vivekananda, Gandhi, Aurobindo and Ramana Maharshi. You also get a glimpse of the mankind’s future and Hinduism’s relevance even then. Indeed, this book serves us rich fare in simple language.
OUR two epics have been
regaling the pious and the not so pious for ages. As a child one used to
wait impatiently for the next edition of Chandamama to lap up
fresh episode from the Ramayana. In fact, the Ramayana –
which is popular in India, SE Asia and elsewhere – has become part and
parcel of our daily life. It has something for people of different
propensities, ages and walks of life. This amazing mix of drama and
piety entertains and thrills even as it impels us to introspect. And it
holds special attraction for children as it narrates the riveting saga
of Ram, Lakshman and Sita’s travails and exploits during their exile.
The battles against demons and feats of our very own superman, Hanuman,
and others thrill them no end. No wonder Ramayana based comics and
special editions for children are flooding the market. Ma Sarada by M
Sivaramakrishna Sarada Devi was the eldest child of Ramachandra Mukherjee and Shyamasundari Devi. She was born in Bengal’s Jayarambati village in 1853, and was married off to Gadadhar at the age of five – usual in those days. Later on her husband became famous as Ramakrishna Paramahansa. Written in a eulogistic style, this volume provides us with snatches from the life and times of the spiritually evolved couple, especially Sarada Devi. The incidents narrated here should interest the readers. Certainly worth a read.
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Hinduism by Karan Singh
The Ramayana by Bulbul
Sharma
Bulbul Sharma has
come up with this racy, easy-to-read volume that should enrapture young
minds. If it instills in them certain healthy values and ideals it would
be a welcome bonus.