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The 7 Secrets #2
7 Secrets Of Vishnu
230 (Throughout B/W Illustrations)
Authors Note
It is significant that the stories of Vishnu rose to prominence after the rise of Buddhism. Prior to that Hinduism was the religion of the elite based complex rituals known as yagna and esoteric speculations captured in texts known as the Aranyakas and the Upanishads. These seemed very distant to the common man who focused on fertility rituals worship of plants and animals and nature.
Buddhism spoke directly to the common man in the language of the people and addressed every day concerns. It naturally became very popular. But the Buddhist worldview leaned towards Monasticism. By contrast the Hindu worldview made room for both the hermit and the householder. To fire the imagination of the people moving towards monasticism this had to be communicated using a tool that the masses relished stories.
Stories of Vishnu communicate the hindu worldview from the point of view of the householder. This is complemented by stories of Shiva that communicate an equally valid but alternate viewpoint that of the hermit. Since both Vishnu and shiva were forms of God both worldviews that of the Householder and that of the hermit were held in equal regard.
To ensure that these stories were not reduced to entertainment they were deemed sacred and anchored with symbols and rituals. The symbols and rituals of Vishnu are different from the symbols and rituals of Shiva. For example Vishnu is visualized bedecked in gold while Shiva is worshipped smeared in ash Vishnu is offered sprigs of the Tulsi that is grown inside the house while shiva is offered leaves of the bilva that is grown outside the house Vishnu dances with his eyes open while Shiva dances with his eyes shut. Through these differences different ideas were communicated.
Wisdom that was once restri
Authors Note
It is significant that the stories of Vishnu rose to prominence after the rise of Buddhism. Prior to that Hinduism was the religion of the elite based complex rituals known as yagna and esoteric speculations captured in texts known as the Aranyakas and the Upanishads. These seemed very distant to the common man who focused on fertility rituals worship of plants and animals and nature.
Buddhism spoke directly to the common man in the language of the people and addressed every day concerns. It naturally became very popular. But the Buddhist worldview leaned towards Monasticism. By contrast the Hindu worldview made room for both the hermit and the householder. To fire the imagination of the people moving towards monasticism this had to be communicated using a tool that the masses relished stories.
Stories of Vishnu communicate the hindu worldview from the point of view of the householder. This is complemented by stories of Shiva that communicate an equally valid but alternate viewpoint that of the hermit. Since both Vishnu and shiva were forms of God both worldviews that of the Householder and that of the hermit were held in equal regard.
To ensure that these stories were not reduced to entertainment they were deemed sacred and anchored with symbols and rituals. The symbols and rituals of Vishnu are different from the symbols and rituals of Shiva. For example Vishnu is visualized bedecked in gold while Shiva is worshipped smeared in ash Vishnu is offered sprigs of the Tulsi that is grown inside the house while shiva is offered leaves of the bilva that is grown outside the house Vishnu dances with his eyes open while Shiva dances with his eyes shut. Through these differences different ideas were communicated.
Wisdom that was once restri
219 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
531 people are currently reading
2,634 people want to read
About the author
Devdutt Pattanaik
260Ìýbooks3,272ÌýfollowersDr. Devdutt Pattanaik (born December 11, 1970) is an Indian physician turned leadership consultant, mythologist and author whose works focus largely on the areas of myth, mythology, and also management. He has written a number of books related to Hindu mythology, including Myth = Mithya: A Handbook of Hindu Mythology, a novel, The Pregnant King, and Jaya: An Illustrated Retelling of the Mahabharata (2010).
He is the Chief Belief Officer of Future Group, one of India’s largest retailers, bringing the wisdom of Indian mythology into Indian business, especifically in human resource management. He also writes a column for the newspaper MID DAY.
He has also written a novel based on a tale from the Mahabharata titled 'The Pregnant King' published by Penguin Books India
He is the Chief Belief Officer of Future Group, one of India’s largest retailers, bringing the wisdom of Indian mythology into Indian business, especifically in human resource management. He also writes a column for the newspaper MID DAY.
He has also written a novel based on a tale from the Mahabharata titled 'The Pregnant King' published by Penguin Books India
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
October 5, 2014
7 Secrets of Vishnu Review
I am not sure whether the book confused me or really built a new platform of new thoughts for me.
One thing that caught my attention surely is the description where author relates Maya to Vishnu and Shiva.
This is what I found interesting~ Vishnu and Shiva are two main gods in Hinduism. With Brahma they form the trinity. It has been said that Vishnu lives with "Maya" but never gets used to it. Maya means pleasure and luxuries which are tempting to the senses. Shiva on the other hand do not looks at Maya. He closes his eyes towards Maya. When someone tries to tempt Shiva he turns him to ashes. Once Kamadeva(the god of love) tried to shoot an arrow of love in Shiva's heart. Furious Shiva opened his third eye and turned Kamadeva into ashes.
So What I could relate, the Maya adorns the best Human but he must also know how to control himself from getting used to it. Then he must also know how to control himself from getting attracted to it.
Lord Vishnu is the best example of a human being and how one should react under certain circumstances when blessed with pleasures in Life. But one must also learn to avoid materialistic things just like Lord Shiva does.
Regards
Nandini
I am not sure whether the book confused me or really built a new platform of new thoughts for me.
One thing that caught my attention surely is the description where author relates Maya to Vishnu and Shiva.
This is what I found interesting~ Vishnu and Shiva are two main gods in Hinduism. With Brahma they form the trinity. It has been said that Vishnu lives with "Maya" but never gets used to it. Maya means pleasure and luxuries which are tempting to the senses. Shiva on the other hand do not looks at Maya. He closes his eyes towards Maya. When someone tries to tempt Shiva he turns him to ashes. Once Kamadeva(the god of love) tried to shoot an arrow of love in Shiva's heart. Furious Shiva opened his third eye and turned Kamadeva into ashes.
So What I could relate, the Maya adorns the best Human but he must also know how to control himself from getting used to it. Then he must also know how to control himself from getting attracted to it.
Lord Vishnu is the best example of a human being and how one should react under certain circumstances when blessed with pleasures in Life. But one must also learn to avoid materialistic things just like Lord Shiva does.
Regards
Nandini
January 2, 2022
7 secrets series has to be my favorite work by the author.
Though I was hoping to learn a lot more abouy Vishnu from this book, I kinda enjoyed what little I got.
The simple and clear insight to hindu symbolism is what I liked the most.
Though I was hoping to learn a lot more abouy Vishnu from this book, I kinda enjoyed what little I got.
The simple and clear insight to hindu symbolism is what I liked the most.
March 17, 2013
This book, talks about various things related to Vishnu. As a series, I feel like reading the "7 Secrets of Shiva" as well because depictions of Vishnu cannot be fully understood without understanding those of Shiva. By explaining the difference between the two major deities who have been worshipped throughout India, albeit in different fashions and at different occasions, a more complete picture of the cultural-spiritual-social-scientific amalgamation which is known as just a religion today is attempted to be exposed by the author.
I would recommend this book to people interested in Hindu Mythology, be it Hindus or not. Hailing from Brahmin family, I grew up on lots of myth and got to know many faces of it by repeatedly exposing my understanding of the ancient life in this subcontinent to harsh treatments. I had pre conceived notions about this book, assuming it to be milder to my understanding.
Many arguments and explanations by the author weren't to my liking, and some took time to process and accept, some were completely sensible explanations for mythical beliefs which I hadn't thought of previously.
But nevertheless, the ideas and concepts put forward by the author has caught my attention and imagination. My own existence is being used, as usual to validate the claims. The contents were somewhat irritating to me at the beginning, but later on the flow became smoother and I could see where the author was leading.
There is not much of a controversial stuff in here worth mentioning about. I am not sure if the author sensibly left them out, given the close to zero tolerance policy of Indian religious 'stakeholders'. It could have had more masala, not the artificial ones, but the natural ones are enough. And I know there is enough masala in the Indian mythology to fuel communal wars for a century if used strategically.
To summarize, to me, this book brought me closer to my own line of thoughts and doubts about various things related to God,beliefs,history of India, the social order, my own lineage,my own existence and beliefs etc. It was a sort of refresher and now I have specific interesting stuff to dig out from archives :)
4.2/5 for lovers of Vishnu and/or lovers of Indian mythology.
I would recommend this book to people interested in Hindu Mythology, be it Hindus or not. Hailing from Brahmin family, I grew up on lots of myth and got to know many faces of it by repeatedly exposing my understanding of the ancient life in this subcontinent to harsh treatments. I had pre conceived notions about this book, assuming it to be milder to my understanding.
Many arguments and explanations by the author weren't to my liking, and some took time to process and accept, some were completely sensible explanations for mythical beliefs which I hadn't thought of previously.
But nevertheless, the ideas and concepts put forward by the author has caught my attention and imagination. My own existence is being used, as usual to validate the claims. The contents were somewhat irritating to me at the beginning, but later on the flow became smoother and I could see where the author was leading.
There is not much of a controversial stuff in here worth mentioning about. I am not sure if the author sensibly left them out, given the close to zero tolerance policy of Indian religious 'stakeholders'. It could have had more masala, not the artificial ones, but the natural ones are enough. And I know there is enough masala in the Indian mythology to fuel communal wars for a century if used strategically.
To summarize, to me, this book brought me closer to my own line of thoughts and doubts about various things related to God,beliefs,history of India, the social order, my own lineage,my own existence and beliefs etc. It was a sort of refresher and now I have specific interesting stuff to dig out from archives :)
4.2/5 for lovers of Vishnu and/or lovers of Indian mythology.
May 6, 2020
Probably the first book I am giving the rating before even completing it and abandoning it.
So many incorrect points mentioned in the book. A person with even a mediocre understanding of Hinduism will know that the author has given stated some incorrect facts. And philosophy is so shallow which a novice can easily counter the so-called philosophical conversations by this author. I am pointing out some below:
1. First about some cooked up shit by the author about Purush and Prakriti. He equates 'materialistic' wealth to 'prakriti' and spiritual welath to purush. He says one cannot attain spiritual greatness without wealth. I dont understand what kind of stupid argument is this. I can counter this even without thinking - Adi shankara who is an epitome of spirituality didnt have any wealth. And I can give countless examples of this
2. He says Shiva is an ascetic and Vishnu is a family man. Again such a stupid thing to say. Shiva is very much a family man or even one step higher. Shiva has even two sons but I doubt Vishnu has any
3. Images in temples on temples of men and women in coitus are to show that materialistic and spiritual things co-exist. Another stupid argument which this author only can fathom
4. The worst of all - Brahma passes on the fear about living to the new born and thats why it cries when it is born. This was the instance which made me think that Swami Nityananda speaks more sense than this Author.
This is only after reading 5% of the book. Each and every page in this book is having atleast one inconsistency. Avoid this book at all costs
So many incorrect points mentioned in the book. A person with even a mediocre understanding of Hinduism will know that the author has given stated some incorrect facts. And philosophy is so shallow which a novice can easily counter the so-called philosophical conversations by this author. I am pointing out some below:
1. First about some cooked up shit by the author about Purush and Prakriti. He equates 'materialistic' wealth to 'prakriti' and spiritual welath to purush. He says one cannot attain spiritual greatness without wealth. I dont understand what kind of stupid argument is this. I can counter this even without thinking - Adi shankara who is an epitome of spirituality didnt have any wealth. And I can give countless examples of this
2. He says Shiva is an ascetic and Vishnu is a family man. Again such a stupid thing to say. Shiva is very much a family man or even one step higher. Shiva has even two sons but I doubt Vishnu has any
3. Images in temples on temples of men and women in coitus are to show that materialistic and spiritual things co-exist. Another stupid argument which this author only can fathom
4. The worst of all - Brahma passes on the fear about living to the new born and thats why it cries when it is born. This was the instance which made me think that Swami Nityananda speaks more sense than this Author.
This is only after reading 5% of the book. Each and every page in this book is having atleast one inconsistency. Avoid this book at all costs
April 27, 2015
Vishnu is one such God or form or concept one has to experience and this book captures brilliantly what is Vishnu. I think it needs to be read and reread with years one can understand how much depth Hinduism has which the world is not completely aware of.
August 21, 2020
Incredible ! !
I love the perception of the Author and diverge vision about mythological Facts and Scenes.
I love the perception of the Author and diverge vision about mythological Facts and Scenes.
February 6, 2025
The text is structured into seven chapters, each exploring a distinct aspect of Hinduism. Chapter one examines how gender is used to explain fundamental metaphysical concepts. Chapter two discusses the distinction between humans and animals. Chapters three and four delve into the struggles of the Devas and Asuras, who are plagued by insecurity and ambition, respectively. Chapters five and six analyze the Ramayana and Mahabharata, highlighting humanity's struggles. The final chapter offers wisdom on the importance of letting go and having faith in renewal.
August 30, 2017
Reading Devdutt Pattanaik’s books are such an eye-opener even for Hindus who believe that they know everything about their God and customs. I am just done reading the 2nd book of the Hindu Trinity Series which is named �7 Secrets of Vishnu�. The book is again written in the same format with each page consisting of a diagram/image and the opposite page consisting of texts related to the God in discussion. This book tries to decode the Lord Vishnu and the explanation behind many of his avatars and the thought process behind each of them. The importance of each of the avatars in the Hindu mythology has been discussed.
Devdutt Pattanaik has used a very simple language and assures that after the reader finishes the book, he remembers most of the articles and pieces discussed. After reading the book on Shiva, this book sounds more simplistic and easy to understand. The following entities associated with Vishnu are described in the following 7 chapters: Mohini’s Secret, Matsya’s Secret, Kurma’s Secret, Trivikrama’s Secret, Ram’s Secret, Krishna’s Secret and Kalki’s Secret. I, particularly, liked the last three chapters where Lord Rama, Lord Krishna and Kalki are discussed in brief about what is their prominence in our modern society.
Many incidents from Mahabharata have been discussed which clears lots of myth and lets us know about the small incidents that lead to the bigger events. The way author stays democratic in his views and discusses both the good and bad points about the Lord and his differences against Lord Shiva is worth-appreciating. This book is must for everyone who wants to know Lord Vishnu’s philosophies and the perspective of each of his avatars. I rate this book 4 star out of 5.
Thanks.
ABHILASH RUHELA!!!
Devdutt Pattanaik has used a very simple language and assures that after the reader finishes the book, he remembers most of the articles and pieces discussed. After reading the book on Shiva, this book sounds more simplistic and easy to understand. The following entities associated with Vishnu are described in the following 7 chapters: Mohini’s Secret, Matsya’s Secret, Kurma’s Secret, Trivikrama’s Secret, Ram’s Secret, Krishna’s Secret and Kalki’s Secret. I, particularly, liked the last three chapters where Lord Rama, Lord Krishna and Kalki are discussed in brief about what is their prominence in our modern society.
Many incidents from Mahabharata have been discussed which clears lots of myth and lets us know about the small incidents that lead to the bigger events. The way author stays democratic in his views and discusses both the good and bad points about the Lord and his differences against Lord Shiva is worth-appreciating. This book is must for everyone who wants to know Lord Vishnu’s philosophies and the perspective of each of his avatars. I rate this book 4 star out of 5.
Thanks.
ABHILASH RUHELA!!!
August 5, 2015
The book is an extrapolation of the symbolism associated with Vishnu and allied deities in the Hindu culture. Being a fan of symbolism, I absolutely loved Pattanaik's elucidation of Vishnu's portfolio of symbols, which is immense to say the least, counting in the avatars. The title is perhaps a misnomer � I'd have called it just The Secrets of Vishnu or the more straightforward Deconstructing Vishnu; Seven Secrets of Vishnu sounds too definite and a cool-wannabe.
The chapters are fluid despite being titled with different incarnations of Vishnu. Each chapter, while keeping the symbolisms of each avatar as its root, branches out to talk about various allied symbols, deities and myths. Although the narration is more or less factual and not propagandist, at some points I found the writing slightly carried away by Vishnu's glory.
I was not very comfortable with viewing Parashurama as an avatar of Vishnu � don't ask me why, I don't know. Perhaps because he is a violent character � you could argue that so was Narasimha � but also because Parashurama as a character seems to be spanning three yugas! He was born towards the end of Satyuga, met Rama during the Treta yuga, and taught Karna in the Dwapara yuga. It's quite confusing � almost making me think that Parashurama is a nomenclature given to different persons with similar characters throughout the yugas, which kind of beats the theory that he is an incarnation of Vishnu. Or so I think.
The chapters are fluid despite being titled with different incarnations of Vishnu. Each chapter, while keeping the symbolisms of each avatar as its root, branches out to talk about various allied symbols, deities and myths. Although the narration is more or less factual and not propagandist, at some points I found the writing slightly carried away by Vishnu's glory.
I was not very comfortable with viewing Parashurama as an avatar of Vishnu � don't ask me why, I don't know. Perhaps because he is a violent character � you could argue that so was Narasimha � but also because Parashurama as a character seems to be spanning three yugas! He was born towards the end of Satyuga, met Rama during the Treta yuga, and taught Karna in the Dwapara yuga. It's quite confusing � almost making me think that Parashurama is a nomenclature given to different persons with similar characters throughout the yugas, which kind of beats the theory that he is an incarnation of Vishnu. Or so I think.
July 16, 2013
Nothing much has stayed with me on the revealed secrets. I relearned that Ram and Krishna were Vishnu's avatars, that the 4 yugs occur in a cycle of Krita, Treta, Dvapar and Kali, with each yug seeing an avatar taking birth towards its end to take the mankind to the next. The cycle ends in pralaya. Ram took birth in Treta and Krishna in Dvapar. Lakshmi is Vishnu's consort as he knows how to control her rather than be controlled by her. The other avatars were Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vaman, Parashuram, Balaram and Kalki at the end.
This was my 3rd book by the author and if I'd known that he 'mostly interpreted' the godly art as found in calendars, murals or sculptures or God names appearing in scriptures or stories, I wouldn't have invested in so many in a single purchase. That's because every book has presented some data or analogy based on the art the author has found to support his opinion on that God. The chapters and description don't progress in a graded manner to orient the reader on everything there is to know on that God--or even everything that the author might know. They merely present fragmented thoughts based on the artwork that could be found for the book. Or so I'm left thinking.
This was my 3rd book by the author and if I'd known that he 'mostly interpreted' the godly art as found in calendars, murals or sculptures or God names appearing in scriptures or stories, I wouldn't have invested in so many in a single purchase. That's because every book has presented some data or analogy based on the art the author has found to support his opinion on that God. The chapters and description don't progress in a graded manner to orient the reader on everything there is to know on that God--or even everything that the author might know. They merely present fragmented thoughts based on the artwork that could be found for the book. Or so I'm left thinking.
June 8, 2020
Reading Pattanaik is always a sheer pleasure due to his incisive arguments and crafty illustrations. In this work, he carefully examines a wide range of Vishnu myths to provide an ingenious insight into the core tenets of the Vaishnav philosophy. By chronologically addressing the metaphors behind some of his avatars, Pattanaik masterfully drives home the dichotomy of the Prakriti and Purusha that lies at the heart of the Hindu worldview. Considering the wide discrepancies and regional varieties in the myths; an author of such a work is burdened to justify his reasons for choosing the particular narratives. However, Pattanaik illudes his sources on perhaps far many occasions. Though most of the cited myths are from North Indian sects of Vaishnavism, the corresponding pictures are predominantly from the southern temples, creating an asymmetry in the manner his arguments are substantiated. Nonetheless, I greatly enjoyed reading this book and was simply taken away by the incredible depth certain rituals have. I would definitely recommend this work to all people keen on understanding the Hindu belief system.
June 19, 2021
I've been fascinated by the concept and symbolism of Vishnu for as long as I can remember. This book takes a deep dive into the core tenets of Vishnu philosophy, all the while explaining the story behind the symbols in photographic detail. After reading this book, I find my religion to be built on inclusiveness or Dharma: The realisation of human potential in rising above animal instincts and bringing all life together in a sustainable manner. I also understand the coexistence of material and spiritual realities and how humans can interact with material reality without being overwhelmed or obsessed by it by relying on spiritual reality. I'm more informed and equipped to lead a balanced life through the wealth of information in this book.
March 12, 2017
I liked 7 secrets of Devi as much of the explanations on the symbolism made sense. I found some of the explanations here perhaps not so plausible. But maybe I'm too simple to understand politics. This book had a few excerpts listed from the Devi book as regards Lakshmi. I suppose its for those who did not pick up the Devi book but at least the words could have been different. I found the chapters on the early avatars most interesting. Also the parts about the churning of the ocean, I never understood why such preferential treatment was shown, but now it makes more sense. Going to have a look at the 7 secrets of Shiva next.
June 7, 2020
Devdutt Pattanaik has once again proved that why he is the best in Mythology genre. The narration is simple but with deep meaning. The paintings/drawings make the reading experience more interesting. Highlight of the book is any one can read it and connect to it deeply. Even a school kid can easily get hooked to it. Chapters are well defined and some explanation makes you see the connection with our current day to day life too. Beautifully written ..I must thank the author for decoding the Lord Vishnu for us. God bless.
January 24, 2012
The book took me back to my roots. So many words that we've grown up with, whose meanings and history were not clear, became crystal clear after reading this book. Like Alakhi, Lakhi, why Saraswati and Lakshmi never stay together, why Lakshmi is so restless, why did Krishnaleave the flute, Why Brahma is never worshipped, etc, etc A wonderful read, taking you back to your roots. A must for all those interested in mythology and history.
October 12, 2016
this book has tried to describe the symbology and some of the Vishnu's avatars in a more scientific way which will help you understand the mythological components of our scriptures, the contrast between material vs spiritual reality and how its shown in Vishnu is carved out nicely, however it fails to keep the reader curious and doesn't invoke any emotions of wanting to read more of our tradition.. even though this book is a information overload for a newbie.. I would say its not upto the mark.
January 4, 2017
Stories from the Epics Mahabharata and Ramayana have been narrated very well. Lovely illustrations of the Goddesses, heavily illustrated images of sculptures from temples of Cambodia and several temples from all over India, and beautiful murals are all great points for the book. List of all the temples at the end of the book would have been great. Also, the captions of the images and illustrations could have been better.
April 27, 2021
This is a fascinating collection of allegories from Hindu mythology centered around the incarnations of Vishnu, with the author's rich interpretation and surrounding subtext.
I specially recommend the ancient art clippings and annotations that are carefully chosen to bring the storyline to life. This combination brings out a visually striking sensory experience that combines history, art and literature centered around the extended narration. 4/5.
I specially recommend the ancient art clippings and annotations that are carefully chosen to bring the storyline to life. This combination brings out a visually striking sensory experience that combines history, art and literature centered around the extended narration. 4/5.
August 12, 2018
Repetitive themes
If you've read Myth vs Mithya, there is no point in getting this. Themes get repeated across his books.
That said for someone interested in learning Hindu mythology, this gives a good overview of each avatar of Vishnu. I have rated this three stars because it mostly touches all avatars in brief except for Krishna who is talked about in 40% of the book.
If you've read Myth vs Mithya, there is no point in getting this. Themes get repeated across his books.
That said for someone interested in learning Hindu mythology, this gives a good overview of each avatar of Vishnu. I have rated this three stars because it mostly touches all avatars in brief except for Krishna who is talked about in 40% of the book.
July 21, 2018
This isn't exactly mythology, more like a demythification of mythology. The author explains his understanding of the tales from mythology we're aware of, by association with emotions like desire, or material things like wealth. Perhaps it's an attempt to make it more believable, I'm not sure. I liked reading it.
December 20, 2019
I would place this book only next to Myth=Mithya among the list of mythological books that explain the stories from our epics, in a way that gives lessons relevant for today, without being overly evangelical.
Devdutt Pattanaik skillfully administers doses of stories and explains the key messages for each of Vishnu's avatars.
Devdutt Pattanaik skillfully administers doses of stories and explains the key messages for each of Vishnu's avatars.
August 5, 2019
Insofar as it is possible for me to have a religious awakening... this would be it. Gorgeous food for thought about the mysteries of divinity. So many things to think about, but in a logical, compassionate faith-based way without the colonial mindset of Western religious philosophy.
Want to read
August 14, 2012its not what I expected but interesting nevertheless so will read on
July 18, 2015
A nice one where a detailed explanation of the avatars of Vishnu were stated. Got to know origins of sum stuff that I knew were a part of the Hindu culture...
July 4, 2017
Unfolds the truth!!
and brings meanings... It never fails to make sense and slowly unfolds what you think of Vishnu to what he is
and brings meanings... It never fails to make sense and slowly unfolds what you think of Vishnu to what he is
December 17, 2023
The seven secrets of Vishnu explores the hidden perspectives of the Godly stories we have always been listening with a spiritual understanding of the meaning behind. The book starts with drawing a distinction between spiritual and material reality, their consequences and effects. It is beautifully explained how the Hindu Trinity Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu represent the mix of extremes of these two forms. All the avatars of Vishnu are touched in brief and their agenda and motives are explored. The significance of various Hindu Gods like Lakshmi, Saraswati, Shiva, Indra, etc are explained with good reasoning. Most importantly the perspective is not offending and doesn't feel absurd. Additionally other important questions are also answered, for instance. Why are Asuras linked to evil, are they really evil? or Why the avatars of Vishnu have promoted treachery and partiality in some situations? Along with these there are beautiful illustrations and images that add to the overall experience of the book. Had a great time!
January 5, 2024
This book deals with stories of Vishnu and his avatars along with their symbolism and philosophical analysis. I liked 7 secrets of Shiva better may be because I already knew the stories of Vishnu since my childhood. The analysis is good but too much to take at times. A decent start to the year.
June 1, 2024
If you like mythology then read and enjoy it. Avoid over-thinking about the stories. Nobody of that era is alive to validate them. Hence read with an open mind to understand the author's perspective. Take the learnings that you agree with and leave the rest.
March 16, 2025
Lacks the clarity that 7 secrets of Shiva had. Would have benefited from a larger commitment to the overarching theme of Vishnu being the external alternative to Shiva's internal path. Enjoyed it as an airport read, wouldn't recommend it as anything else.
June 1, 2019
Its good to see that the author lnows what he is talking abt. Liked it. Will dedinitly try reading other by the author.
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