Reviews

The Sword of Tipu Sultan: By Bhagawan S. Gidwani. Allied Publishers Pvt. Ltd., Asaf Ali Road, New Delhi-2. Price: Rs. 45.

In recent times we have been treated to biographical novels in plenty. But rarely novels where history is told more with an understanding of the spirit of the period when the characters chosen lived and fought for saving a country from the enemies. It is not the historical novel exactly but something approaching it which engages attention for its authenticity of facts with an understanding of the main characters and the motives of their actions. Rather it is more a dramatised than a fictional biography.

History of the British period of India, as written by the Englishmen, have been found to have not stated facts without bias. The wars of Hyder and his son Tipu Sultan, have hitherto been drawn only as a kind of savagery and looting by Hyder and his son. Never have we been given such details taken from authentic sources as the author here has provided, as would prove how humane and chasten of spirit Tipu had been in his dealings both with his own subjects and his enemies. His clemency and his sense of enlightened behaviour towards potentates of the times as well as the French and the English who were rivalling each other in plundering whatever riches the Country could yield, are all examples of his highly evolved spirit.

It reads like a romance the very adventure of the author in first catching the idea of the need for reconstructing the life of a prince whose every move in the chess-board of life and relationship with foreigners was absolutely above suspicion of reproof. The love-story of the prince, his father’s uneducated yet highly informed outlook, his tolerance of other religions and his humane attitude to the fallen foe–everything narrated here with fine imagination and with a suitable sense of humour and proportion, only adds to the charm of the book.

It is indeed a stroke of luck that the author had a brief interlude with a foreign student whose remark of Tipu as a significant instance of a monarch dying fighting in the battlefield, that gave him the zest for further pursuing the researches in history in order to reconstruct a beautiful story out of the rise and glorious end of Tipu.

The printing and get-up also require mention for their neat execution.
–K. CHANDRASEKHARAN

Understanding Indian Civilization: By S. C. Malik. Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Simla-171005. Price: Rs. 30.

This thought-provoking book by Dr S. C. Malik, a well-known anthropologist and archaeologist, is essentially a thesis in methodology. It attempts to provide a social science, mainly anthropological, framework of enquiry for examining Indian history and civilization, and in this broad framework, the author emphasises correctly the need for a multi-disciplinary approach for a correct consideration of the problem.

Dr Malik has dealt with the problem in a very interesting and original manner. The author stresses the need for first exhaustively settling the theoretical framework of a given problem to arrive at a coherent account of facts, since, in his view, the framework of actual knowledge emerges only as a solution to problems as mere facts by themselves have neither an independent existence nor can their mere organisation amount to theory. Thus, the aim of the author is to broad-base academic research so that it may be both meaningful and feasible at the same time.

In the course of the book, are examined a number of frameworks of enquiry which have been used in the past, in order to arrive at various profiles of Indian civilization. A vigorous plea is made out for a synthesis of the approaches of a variety of inter-connected disciplines, like archaeology, philosophy, anthropology, sociology, etc., and there are also illustrations by means of practical examples as to how the new approach developed, can be used to a solution of problems.

Next are examined the various misconceptions fostered as a result of the advent of British suzerainty which brought into focus three major approaches to the study of India–the administrator, and the missionary, the orientalist as a result of which, many prejudices and myths have left their mark on academic research on Indian civilization, which even highly competent and learned scholars are finding it difficult, even today, to completely eschew. To give one example, the author believes that it is preposterous to hold, that the chief characteristic of Indian society is metaphysics and religion, simply because such a view was first mooted by the missionary approach to a study of Indian civilization.

Broadly speaking, the theme which the author very earnestly puts forward, is that in historical research, there should be a total approach to a study of history which should include such unconventional things as folklore and myths, etc., and that unless a social science view is employed, there is the risk of producing a lopsided picture of Indian civilization.

Of necessity his treatment of such an abstruse subject is complex, but many of his piercing and thought-provoking perceptions will provoke serious thought and reflection. The approach developed by the author is quite novel and the author has dealt with his subject with ease and expertise.
–Dr. N. RAMAN

An Introduction to the History of Tamil Literature: By M. Arunachalam, Gandhi Vidyalayam, Tiruchitrambalam, Tanjore District. Price: Rs. 40.

Sri Arunachalam, the author of this book, is a seasoned writer in Tamil and has made signal contributions to Tamil language and literature by chronicling the history of them already in seven volumes in Tamil, which remain to be completed by matter in the press. This laudable attempt, as he himself has mentioned in his preface, is an offshoot of the mass of material which he had assiduously collected. Still, in this introduction to the Tamil literature, he has not allowed himself scope to dwell at length on every one of the topics included here. Moreover, to the reader in English the main features of the Tamil literature need only be known in its salient aspects without taxing him with a plethora of legendary accounts and names of non-existing works. No doubt, controversies have been raised so much about the dates of important works like Tolkappium and Kural and the author avoids taking part in them to the relief of the reader.

It is a matter for immense satisfaction that the author, as appreciated by Dr K. R. Srinivasa Aiyengar in his beautiful Foreword, provides “controlled views” of the many points of discussion detailed here. He has not attempted to mar the effect of his writing by inclining to too many adulatory epithets in describing lost works. He has carefully confined his remarks, even when differing from scholars like Sri Viyapuri Pillai, whom be refers to with respect, within the ambit of his discussion as an impartial reviewer. It cannot be said the same of many other scholars in recent years who have undertaken to publish the history of Tamil literature.

Sobriety and clarity are writ large on every page here and the eager aspirant for knowledge will not get bewildered by dates and names which are not relevant to the information set out. In 47 chapters with appendices containing notes, glossary, bibliography, etc., the volume supplies amply the reader with a bird’s-eye look of the vast matter of literary history extending over nearly twenty centuries and more.

But we cannot leave without expressing a little doubt concerning the claim for the existence of the Kirtana model for the output of the great composer Tyagaraja in Tamilnad. We would have been also grateful to have known the name of the sources for Bharata Natya existing earlier to the treatise of Bharata from whom the art itself derived its name.
–K. CHANDRASEKHARAN

Sisler Nivedita’s Lectures and Writings. Ramakrishna Sarada Mission. Sister Nivedita Girls’ School, Calcutta-700003. Price: Rs. 25.

“My life is given to India. In it I shall live and die.” This was the briefly-worded programme of Sister Nivedita. And she followed the programme with complete sincerity.

Indian women who have had the blessings of education in this century owe a great debt to this Irish lady whose first efforts for women’s education at Calcutta had immediate fall-out elsewhere. Her birth centenary was an occasion for the Ramakrishna Sarada Mission to bring out a collected edition of Sister Nivedita’s writings. The present volume contains writings hitherto unpublished. There is much valuable exhortation, many personal memoirs and a few thought-provoking notes on education. To the eyes and ears subjected to a constant barrage of educational verbiage from our guardians of education locked in seminars and conferences, Sister Nivedita’s programmes offer nectarean crystallisation. Education is necessary. But Indians should avoid false education. “It is not by teaching a Bengali girl French, or the piano, but by enabling her to think about India, that we really educate her, and make of her one with whom the world’s greatest minds are proud to be associated.”

It is hard to withhold the temptation of quoting when the author is Sister Nivedita. She never minced her words, and ever went straight to the heart of the matter. What is literacy?

“Let us suppose that a girl learns to read and write, and spends her whole time afterwards over sensational novels. The fact is, that girl, in spite of her reading and writing, remains uneducated.”

Sister Nivedita’s absorption in the Indian mythology is evident every-where–in the ‘Conversations of the Dead’, ‘Passing Thoughts’ and even casual reviews. When she takes up political topics her pen flashes unforgettable sentences. Her occasional poems too are characteristic of her quenchless spirit. Here is one which reminds us of Swami Vivekananda’s ‘Kali, the Mother’:

“Tremble not – child of the future!
Destiny fights with thee,
Shrink not little children of
the nation that is to be.
For the Mother cometh in disorder and
struggle as inorder and peace.
Seek Her in the Terror–
Plunge into the ocean of daring!
In madness and the bloodthirst
Earth receives Her footprint.
Fleest thou the touch of Kali
Because She bears a sword?”
–PREMA NANDAKUMAR

Selected Poems of Kumaran Asan: Edited by K. Ramachandran Nair. University of Kerala, Trivandrum. Price: Rs. 20.

Marvellous lyricist, intrepid social reformer, able administrator, competent teacher–these were the four facets of Kumaran Asan, the unsurpassed romantic poet of Kerala. A selection from his works translated into English is the best homage that K. Ramachandran Nair could do to honour Asan’s memory. For, Kumaran Asan deserves a world audience to listen to his views on society, philosophy and faith in man, nature and God.

The team of translators, all of them well-known literary figures, have done their job with competence and humility. It must have been an agonising experience for Kumaran Asan’s swift, rainbow-hued romantic lyricism loses much of its spontaneity when channelised through translations. Nevertheless, as he deals with basic emotions like love, compassion and despair, the Asan magic filters through to give us an idea of the inexorability of time in “The Fallen Flower,” the big change inaugurated by Buddha in “Chandala Bhikshuki” and the shame of casteism in “Reflections of a Thiyya Boy.” As in Valmiki, the adhara sruti of Asan’s poetry is karuna rasa. Nalini and Leela are two long narratives cast in the romantic mould. In Nalini worldly life and Sannyasa are juxtaposed, an echo perhaps of Asan’s own dilemma. Leela is Asan’s version of the Laila-Majnu legend.

However, Asan’s finest poem is “Chintavishtayaya Sita.” Lava and Kusa are grown-up, and Valmiki has taken them to Rama’s court for introduction. Sita remains in the hermitage lost in remembrance of things past. The entire Ramayana comes to us in a series of flash-s seen from the suffering wife’s angle. Sita is angry at Rama’s behaviour towards her in times of crisis. Yet, her wifely devotion absolves him again and again. “The course of Justice is terribly painful; alas! Kings are not their own masters.” She hopes that now there will be no more problems and it will be a beautiful reunion. But Valmiki brings a different message. She must prove her innocence again to the world. No! Not again! The poem leaps to the end in a blaze of sacrificial tragedy.

“Head bent and eyes fixed on the lotus feet of the
Rishi who was saying,
‘Give up your grief, my daughter; come with me,’
She reached the royal hall, went up to Rama in silence,
and in one glance saw her Lord
amidst his people, his face sad with self-reproach; –
and even so she left this world!”
–DR PREMA NANDAKUMAR

Saiyid Ahmad Shahid: By Mohiuddin Ahmad. Academy of Islamic Research and publications, Lucknow. Price: Rs. 40.

The book under review is a biographical sketch of Saiyid Ahmad Shahid who was a fundamentalist. A devout Muslim, he planned to restore Islam to its pristine purity from the stifling accretions, that retarded its propagation and submerged its true personality.

It was the time when Mughal Rule was on its last legs and nascent powers–Marathas, Sikhs and the British–were emerging on the political horizon.

Specially the frontier tribes in the North, oppressed by Ranjit Singh sought the aid of Saiyid to overthrow his yoke and this offer came as a god-send to him, to carry his idea of Jihad and establish a Muslim Hegemony in India which was held as “Dar-Ul-harb,” extinguishing the mushrooming rivals.

Islam for Saiyid is Koran and Hadith and mere comformism to “shari’ah” is regarded as raising the faithful, to “maripat” (gnosis) and “yaqin” (intuitive certainty).

With the support of Mujahids he waged battles with the forces of Sikh colossus and breathed his last as Balakot, his Waterloo.

Subsequent to his demise, the unfinished task was carried on by Ali Brothers, his close lieutenants, which culminated in a disaster after the Britsh smelt out a rat in the Jihad movement and crushed it, once for all through prosecution and persuasion, dangling before them the carrots of liberal English education and employment opportunities.

Whether it is proselytisation or Jihad they constitute a sort of protectionism for the survival and stability of a faith, and he is no God who asks his chosen to shed blood in his cause, himself being an embodiment of compassion and self-sacrifice.

All said and done Saiyid Ahmad Shahid is a religious zealot who set his sights on Islam and its imperial sway, despite his other eminent qualities “confidence in God (tawakkul), resignation (tafwiz), world renunciation (Zuhdfi’d-duniya), contentment (gana’ah) and patience in adversity (sabr)”.

His vision of Imperial Islam lay buried fathoms deep with the rise of the British in Hindus than. The book is an ample illustration of the axiom that man proposes and God, disposes.
–K. S. R.

Narahari-Prophet of New India: By V. K. Gokak. Somaiya Publications, 172 Naigam Cross Road, Dadar, Bombay-14. DD. Price: Rs. 10.

This book is more an idealised picture than a regular novel, of a modern Centre or Ashrama for spiritual uplift of mankind, Along with the wake of modernism in many other fields of human activity, in religious sphere also there have been substantial efforts at regeneration of our people in the pursuit of a higher purpose for life than mere “earning and spending and laying waste our powers.” Centres such as the Aurobindo Ashram, the Sivananda Ashram, etc., where methods of mental concentration and regulated living have been systematically taught to Sadhaks and Antaevaasins, have really attracted a large number of educated trainees for such a dedicated existence. These centres along with practices in Yoga and other exercises in breath-control, Contribute a great deal to a mode of living which is free from the trammels of mundane attractions.

V. K. Gokak, the reputed author of many valuable books, is a thinker of eminence and writer of significance. He has conceived of a spiritual organisation on the lines of the extant Ashramas whose central figure is Narahari–a Satyagrahi and a Freedom fighter with an urge of creativity for a higher order in establishing a Kendra with a specified goal of spiritual attainment. The picture of his own evolution and the gradual rise in importance of the Centre draw many persons belonging to many strata of society such as men of the favoured Civil Service and those of lower rungs as peasants and industrial workers. Narahari’s advancement in the spiritual path is such that he gains powers of foretelling coming events and applying ministrations of a spiritual nature to the mentally wrecked and the basically starved souls in life.

There is not much intricacy of plot or stirring event in the narration of the story except a few episodes which are calculated to instil in the reader how much efficacy can subsist in seeking the road to spiritual unction for the soul. Even the device of a raid by a hostile group of Goondas upon the Kendra which destroys the peace of the place and disturbs the quiet and contented lives of its inmates makes no impression either on the smooth pursuit of the life of the inmate’s or on the reader’s imagination. It is all from beginning to end a continuous narration of a planned communal-living with only problems for achievement of a higher life or rather with only solutions to every kind of trouble in the ultimate guarantee of a new way of life, if lived in the Kendra.

Yet we cannot lay down the book because of its lack of the usual features of a novel; for it is no less absorbing by an innate quality of the writing which makes the reader leave it only after finishing it at a stretch. Indeed,  excellent passages of wisdom are strewn throughout which reveal the author’s maturity of thought and power of expression. In short, it is a novel of a novel kind.
–K. CHANDRASEKHARAN

Economic ground of the Epic Society: By Ashok Kumar Majumdar, Progressive Publishers, Calcutta. Price: Rs. 40.

Ashok Kumar Majumdar has to his credit a number of publications. He was Assistant Editor of the famous “History and Culture of Indian People” published by the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. In the present work, Dr Majumdar gives an exhaustive account of the epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, from the economic viewpoint.

In his preface, Dr Majumdar explains the value of the epics as a source material for depicting the economic life of the people. In the prologue, the author discusses the date of the Mahabharata at length. In the course of his work, he deals with chaturvarna system and the purusharthas. In the epic society, the householder’s life was considered to be the best. Though the Brahmin practised simplicity of life, it was not a general rule. The princes lived in an ostentatious manner. In the chapter “Castes and Profession”, Dr Majumdar points out that the epics show a transitional society between the Vedic and the Buddhist. The epics depict two groups, the Brahmins and the Kshatriyas and the Vaisyas and the Sudras. The second group laid the foundation of the material basis of existence. Even from other higher castes, the pursuit of wealth was an approved goal of life.

The main source of income to the State in the Epic Age was from land revenue. As such, the State undertook irrigational works. In order to increase the fertility of the soil, rotation of crops was practised.

The epics mentioned a number of groups or organization of merchants such as “Nigama” and “Sreni.” From the Mahabharata, it can be learnt that extensive trade was carried to various countries. The main articles of import were animals, woollens, gold and precious stones. In the concluding part, Dr Majumdar points out that the productive system in ancient India was based on caste guilds and social system was oriented towards stability.
–DR K. SUNDARAM

Genghis Khan: Life and Conquests: By Jacob Abbott. Heritage Publishers, Connaught Circus, New Delhi. Price: Rs. 45.

The name of Genghis Khan is famous throughout the world as one who did valorous deeds and built up a Mongul Empire in Asia, which extended almost from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the borders of China. The narrator of his adventures and great conquests here, has given a vivid picture of his early years when known as Temujin. He roused the many tribes of Central Asia into a regular family group and raised hordes from them with which he campaigned West and East carrying wherever he went pillage and plunder of the inhabitants living in peace. His name became a terror soon and his word became a sign of easy admonition to independent rulers to give up their powers and submit themselves to his Supremacy. The accounts provided in this book show the enormous pains taken by the author to get at many details and present them in a manner appealing to readers. Genghis Khan’s victories over the Chinese Emperor and the Sultan of Bhagdad told with immense interesting incidents enrich the account. Rarely historians relate with minute observations of personal traits, etc., as here given, which make the reading quite a pleasure.
–K. CHANDRASEKHARAN

Vedic Texto-Linguistic Studies: By Vishva Bandhu. Vishveshwaranand Vedic Research Institute, Hoshiarpur. Price: Rs. 50.

Acharya Vishva Bandhu is an institution by himself in the field of Vedic research. His Vedic Word-Concordance is a work that no scholar of the Veda can do without. The present volume is compiled from the papers written by him on various occasions on problems of textual and linguistic relevance. Among the eight papers published here are a few on certain Riks in the Rig Veda, one on a problem in the Atharva. A most interesting discussion relates to a grammatical problem in the Gayatri where the neuter pronoun tat has to be correlated with the masculine yah. The author considers the two suggestions offered by mediaeval commentators and finds them unacceptable. He postulates “an alternative neuter form yas for the currently available yat for its correct grammatical concordance with the neuter tat and bhargah.” One need not agree with the proposition to appreciate the scholarship of the exegete.
–M. P. PANDIT

Outlines of Vedantasara: By Dr Muthuraman, Pachiyappa’s College, Madras-3D. Price: Rs. 10.

A lucid presentation of the argument of Vedantasara by Sadananda. In addition, the author gives succinct accounts of the systems of Ramanuja, Madhva, Shankara, the thought of the Gita, Yoga, Karmayoga and allied themes so that the reader has a compact outline of the Vedanta in theory and in practice. A good digest in simple language.

Yoga (Historical ground): By C. T. Kenghe. Bharata Manisha, Pande Haveli, Varanasi. Price: Rs. 40.
Perspectives in Yoga: By A. K. Sinha. Bharata Manisha, Varanasi. Price: Rs. 25.

Dr Kenghe attempts to trace the origins on Yoga in the Rig Veda–or even in the pre-vedic times–the Atharva, the Upanishads and its developments through the Epics, Puranas and the Tantras. The study is fully documented and provokes further enquiry. In the succeeding volumes, he hopes to present Yoga as Depth-Psychology and as Para-Psychology.

Dr Sinha presents in the Perspectives 14 papers read at a Seminar at the Kurukshetra University in 1973. Each approaches Yoga from a different standpoint and aim: as a way of life, as therapy, as para-psychology, as a relaxation exercise, as a Tantra exercise, etc. The editor himself contributes a scholarly paper seeking to bridge the gulf between Yoga and Life. He argues convincingly that the attitude of Yoga and its practice enhances the quality of life, adds to its variety and lends meaning to existence. He points out that Yoga exceeds the realm of the intellect and ranges over wider areas of consciousness and makes for the evolution of the whole man.

The 16 plates appended to the volume illustrate the important Asanas whose therapeutic values are listed.
–M. P. PANDIT

Grace in Saiva Siddhanta, Vedanta, Islam and Christianity: Tamilnadu Theological Seminary, Arasaradi, Madurai. Price not stated.

This collection of papers presented at the Seminar held in 1975 at the Theological Seminary, Madurai, and speeches made on the occasion are stimulating. The role of Grace in the Saiva Siddhanta, the different schools of Vedanta, Islam, the Old and the New Testaments is discussed at length. The differing viewpoints are highlighted in the joint meeting where a number of misinterpretations are pointed out, shortcomings underlined. Naturally the conception of the working of Grace and the “conditions” under which it acts depends upon the philosophy of the particular system. One of the points that is debated upon in this seminar is the doctrine of Avatarhood and the insistence on a single Incarnation in Christianity. There are novel interpretations of Grace as that of Mir Jaffar Ali who considers the imposition of Communism in Russia as a mark of Grace! Of course, there is an element of truth in it but not quite as put by him.

How to square the fact of Grace with the operation of the law of Karma? Does Grace set its conditions under which alone it will work? How does Grace affect “original sin”? These are some of the interesting questions that are raised and attempted to be answered–not always with success. All the same the discussion is thought-provoking.
–M. P. PANDIT

The Science of Consciousness: By E. Anantacharya. Bharadwaj Ashram, Vijayawada-2. Price: Rs. 2-25.

The Vedas, books of inspired and revealed knowledge, have been approached and studied from diverse standpoints. Though the Truth in manifestation is one, the forms it takes are many and it is possible to experience the Truth in any of its forms. It is possible to reconcile the many possible visions in a comprehensive experience. The author of the present monograph is impressed by the Veda as an exposition of Consciousness. All existence is an extension of a divine Consciousness, the several worlds are its several grades, the Gods are its particular formations, Creative Intelligences” and the whole of life is a cosmic Yajna, collective endeavour, in which each Deity plays its part. With the aid of select Riks, it is shown how Agni, Varuna, Mitra, Ushas, Savitr, etc., are both macrocosmic and microcosmic agents of the supreme Creator. The writing is terse and concentrated; perhaps the succeeding books will enlarge upon the hints scattered in these pages and develop the argument at fuller length.

A progressive essay in Vedic interpretation.
–M.P. PANDIT

Manu and Modern Times: By Nitya Narayan Banerjee. Hindutva Publications, A 14 Green Park, New Delhi-16. Price: Rs. 21.

In the first part of the book, the author provides a free English translation of the salient features, chapter by chapter, of Manusmriti, the Code of Manu, the ancient law-giver. It is followed by an article perceiving Hinduism at a glance. Dr Kewal Motwani’s article “Is Hinduism (and Buddhism) Compatible with the notion of Secularism?” forms the last part of this book under review.

The selection of verses from Manusmriti are so featured as to interest the reader in the original work. The author concedes that the Code of Manu may not be fully applicable to the present changed social structure. But there is no gainsaying of the fact that it has somehow sustained the Hindu society as a living system for thousands of years, against many cultural and political onslaughts.

The author feels that, “a day will come, when the frustrated humanity will search for a model of life, which can give peace and prosperity and not only pelf and power, in this world and in the other world, which will ensure cooperation and coordination instead of conflict and competition amongst the human race and men and the nature. Hindu way of life as laid down by the Manusmriti, will surely be the beacon-light then.”
–S. SHANKARANARAYANAN

Sanskrit Subhashitas in English Verse: By Dr Veluri Subba Rao. Copies can be had from: V. A. Ramam, 5 Pithapuram New Buildings, A. U. Campus, Waltair-3. Price: Rs. 5-50!

Truth has to be spoken and at the same time it should be pleasant. This is the ruling principle of what is known as Subhashita, good speech in the field of Sanskrit literature. It is said that such good speech has to be accepted even from a child baladapi subhashitam. The Sanskrit language has a large repertoire of these Subhashitas in beautiful and didactic metrical form and about three hundred of such verses have been culled out here from various sources.

The Sanskrit text is given here in roman script and is accompanied by a free metrical rendering. The subjects covered are of a wide variety, viz, learning and wisdom, friends and friendship, beggars and poverty, courtesans, cowards, etc., Sound common sense, wit, wisdom, wholesome advice and pleasantry abound in these verses and they are a source of joy to all those who can appreciate good literature.

The author’s effort is intended to evoke popular interest in these kinds of verses.
–S. SHANKARANARAYANAN

Early History of the Andhra Country: By Dr K. Gopalachari. The Registrar, University of Madras, Madras-5. Price: Rs. 11.

Result of research in the well-equipped library of the Madras University guided by a master-historian, Mr. K. A. Neelakantha Sastri, this 1941 Ph. D. thesis gives a cogent and connected political history of the Andhra country between the third century B. C. and the sixth century A. C. The book evidences the author’s flair for such compilation; his historical perspective and talent for efficient handling of chosen material. Part of the history of the period rests on varied degrees of proof ranging from the uninvincible to well-nigh sheer surmise; and it is vain to assert or predict the last say. As such it is a relief to the scholar and the student that most conclusions reached by the author, after diligent study and careful sifting of available material, tend to confirm and corroborate established theories. Where they differ, the author’s criticism though respectful is sharp and unsparing (e.g., tirade against Mr. G. Bose–pp. 214-221).

While the author merely restates existing views where he has nothing new to say, and thus allows darkness or confusion to continue in regard to some matters, he has bypassed some–perhaps wisely. These include items like the Salivahana Era (mentioned in medieval inscriptions); relations with neighbouring countries like N. W. India, Nepal, Tibet and so on. Andhra origin of the Satavahanas; marriage alliances and mutual relations between them and contemporary rulers; similar information of post-Satavahana period, together with a clear picture of history; the place therein of the Pallavas, the Brihatpalayanas, the Vaingeyakas of Salankayana Gotra, the Ananda Gotras and the Kandasas; the correct geneology of the Vishnukundins–all these and several more are ably elucidated. The author’s views as presented in this book are correct in general as they are deduced from carefully selected facts.
Another feature of the book is the clear presentation of what the author has intended to contribute to existing stock of knowledge for the information of the reader.
–T. RAMACHANDRA RAO

“Look Homeward” –A Novel: By Prof. M. V. Rama Sarma. Publishers: Blackie and Son Ltd., Madras-20. Price: Rs. 5.

Ravi, an engineering researcher and Prem, a girl specializing in dramaturgy in different American universities, meet at a picnic spot. As the foolish saying goes, it was love at first sight and it ever increases through correspondence, which they wish to solemnise into marriage. Some irritants like caste, socio-economic differences, conflict between old and changing values, reluctance of Ravi’s father, a Gandhian–not a politician, who ruined himself by doing benevolent acts, now trying to restore the family prestige by marrying off his American educated son with a well-to-do girl, seem to blunt the prospects of their marriage. Lal, a contemporary of Prem in the university, apparently a fop, has dotes on Prem though she has only repulsion for him. Lal is not a full-length villain, soon he retires from the scene without any physical and not much mental damage.

Gupta, a contemporary of Ravi, was infatuated with western life, took an American spouse with a view to settle down in the States and has all the contempt for India and her poverty. Soon he gets disillusioned as his wife divorces him taking away all his savings. An exorcized Gupta discovers a new India and new values. He plays the Puck between the oscillating Ravi who was in doubt of Prem’s love, owing to misunderstanding created by Lal and Prem.

The novel discusses at length the serious problem “brain drain” and gives some solutions. It is an exhortation to our students abroad, to “Look Homeward.”

Lal, trained in management science, Gupta, specialised in medicine, Ravi, the mechanical engineer, Prem’s artistic vision, Ravi’s father Ramesham ultimately blessing the marriage–all become the symbols of the needed change to usher in a new era.

Prof. Sarma avoided all vulgarity and sentimental rant. The few kisses and embraces and a lone pre-marital bliss of the hero heroine are structural necessities.
–A. G. K. MURTY

The Book of Thousand Lights: By S. Athar Husain. Academy of Islamic Research and Publications, Lucknow. Price: Rs. 12.

All religions are, so many, admonitions! Of Course, they have their metaphysical side. Their ethical codes contribute much to social cohesion. Efflorescence of higher nature in man is itself God-realisation. The stepping stones are laid by various faiths and Islam is one such.

The book under review deals with the traditions of Islam. These, otherwise called Hadith or Sunnat, are elucidations of Quranic abstruse doctrines. The Prophet is hailed as “Quran in action.” His sayings touch life at many points and make a richly rewarding study. A religion is best served or promoted by accommodation, tolerance and genuine fellow-feeling. The word Jehad smacks of aggressive proselytization.

Hell and Heaven can be envisaged to have no extra terrestrial existence. These concepts are reducible to psychic states induced by pleasure and pain. Balance and imbalance are the things that count. There is an obvious “Here” but no “Here-after.”
–K. S. RAO

SANSKRIT-ENGLISH

Bhaavanopanishad: By S. Mira. Ganesh and Co., (P.) Ltd., Madras-17 Price: Rs. 6.

The worship of Tripurasundari is of three kinds–physical, vocal and mental. The third of these is the most secret one and is explained in the “Bhaavanopanishad.” Srichakra is an abode of the Supreme Goddess Lalita Tripurasundari with all Her attendent Saktis, and is also symbolic of the process of manifestation of this creation from the interplay of “Prakasa and Vimarsa.” A Saakta devotee in this mode of worship identifies his body from the outer-most to the innermost being, the soul, with the Goddess Supreme with all her Saktis. “As a culmination everything is sensed as absolute pure consciousness” and the devotee experiences a bliss that is only to be experienced. In short, this process in one way is but a practical method leading to the Advaitic realisation of the upanishadic statement “Tattvamasi.”

Messrs. Ganesh and Co., have once again laid the Saakta devotees under a deep debt of gratitude by publishing this Upanishad, with Bhaskararaya’s commentary both translated into English by S. Mira who has eminently succeeded in the job undertaken. But for the commentary the original text is not at all clearly understandable; and to those that do not know Sanskrit the translation is very useful. The value of this work is enhanced by the elaborate notes appended to the text and the diagram of Srichakra in colours, a short preface and a foreword which contains a very brief life sketch of Bhaskararaya also. It goes without saying that the book is a must to all saakta devotees. How we wish that other works of Bhaskararaya, like Nyaasa, Setubandha and Commentaries on Tripura Upanishads are also published on the same lines.
–B. KUTUMBA RAO

TAMIL

Existentialism–An Introduction (in Tamil): By S. V. Rajadurai. Published by CreA, 23 Type II, P.F. Quarters, Thirumurtinagar, Madras-34. Price: Rs. 9.

Since the time man has been endowed with the power of intellect, the two questions “What is the relationship between me and the Universe?” and “What is the meaning of my life?” have received varied answers from different philosophers, spiritualists and idealists from time to time, depending on the situations they were forced to experience. From Plato to Bertrand Russell through Rene Descartes, man and nature were equated in different planes and a correlation was aimed at. Those interested in this pursuit are called existentialists who faced life squarely with all its fears and disasters and driven to desperation and frustration they did not lose hope in mankind standing on its precipice but could still find a new solution for the uplift of man. They were demeaned as encountering with nothingness.

With a view to introduce the existentialists with an open mind, the author has chosen to write the book in Tamil. It is very difficult to write a philosophical work in Tamil: much more so to write a book on existentialism.

This book has been mostlybased on Freedom, Choice and Authentic Existence found in the works of Soren Kier Kegaard, Martin Heidegger, Jean-Paul Sartre and also on the Marxist thoughts of John Lewis. William Barret’s “Irrational Man” and Viteziar Gardarsky’s “God is not yet dead” have been referred to frequently. Dread, fear, superiority and inferiority
complexes have been the basic foundation on which Existentialism has planted its deeper roots. The myth that all existentialists are not progressive is attempted to be exploded in this work.

The author has elaborated in detail the growth of this “ism” through the Greek and Jewish thoughts, sculptured and nurtured by the Renaissance Movement and come to its present state.
–P. SRINIVASAN

KANNADA

Katharupaka Yogasana (I): By Tiruka. Anatha Sevashrama, Malladihalli, Mysore. Price: Rs. 10.

The author, Sri Raghavendra Swami of Malladihalli, has devoted his whole life for the uplift of the less fortunate–both socially and culturally–and for the propagation of Yogasanas. The present publication is a novel attempt to present the Asanas in a story form, with illustrations. Thus in the first chapter, there is a story from Ramayana and in the passage relating to the holding of the bow and arrow, there is a picture illustrating the Dhanurasana, with an inset of the Bow. 55 Asanas are thus presented in an arresting manner.

The book will appeal not only to the young but to the adults as well. We trust the next volume will contain instructions for the practice of these Asanas.
–M. P. PANDIT

TELUGU

Yogadarsanamu: By K. V. Raghavacharya. For copies: Author, Gandhi Nagar, Tenali, Guntur Dt. Price: Rs. 15.

The author of this precious work is one of those few writers who know what they are writing about. His writings reflect his versatility and a deep insight into and a clear grasp of the subject he is presenting. His presentation is characterised by brevity consistent with perspicuity and analysis. His language is sweet, simple and unequivocal. The work under review describes not only Patanjali’s Yoga-philosophy in all its aspects, but “Saamkhyayoga”  “Astaangayoga”of Buddha, Amanaskayoga, and Taantrikayoga also in addition to Kundalini Sakti and Atmajnaana. Another merit of this work is, it does not indulge itself in abstruse dialectics. It leaves no stone unturned and no doubt uncleared as far as its subject matter extends. Author’s personal experience in Yoga dispels the doubts of Thomases. Chapters dealing with Aasana Praanaayaama and Amanaskayoga deserve special study. They can be of some practical utility also to the readers. A summary of this work in English given at the beginning is useful to non-Telugu-knowing readers. Packed with a mine of information this serves as a text-book of Yoga philosophy in general, and is worth treasuring in all good libraries.
–B. K. SASTRY

Natanaasilpamu–Rangasthalam, Chalanachitram (Acting Techniques for stage and screen): By N. Venkateswara Rao. Saanketika Prachuranalu, Shantiniketan, Pentapadu, West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. Price: Rs. 15.

The culture of a nation reflects in its theatre. Among the states in India, Andhra Pradesh has an important place in theatre arts. In the production of films the state has a major share. The author of the book under review is involved for over two decades with the practical aspects–as camera assistant, assistant director, producer, etc. He made a thorough study of the techniques relating to the stage and the screen which are intimately connected to each other. He explained the fundamental differences between the two art forms. The book gives very useful and practical suggestions to the aspiring artistes.

This is perhaps the first book of its kind in Telugu and we commend it to the artistes of the stage and the screen, as well as to the discerning critic. Let us hope that the enthusiastic author , would bring out more books relating to the theatre arts.
–BHAVARAJU