Have you always wanted to delve into the rich world of Indian scriptures but have always been bogged down by their sheer vastness and complexity?
Hinduism’s sacred texts form one of the richest and most complex repositories of spiritual wisdom in human history. A Comprehensive Guide to Indian Scriptures by Sunita Pant Bansal serves as a gateway to this timeless world, offering readers a concise yet insightful overview of the philosophical and cultural legacy embedded in these ancient writings.
This guidebook is the culmination of decades of research and reflection by the author, whose lifelong journey with Hindu scriptures began in childhood. Introduced to the vibrant world of gods and goddesses by her paternal grandparents, she was captivated by the stories that unfolded in their puja room. Over time, her fascination grew, extending beyond mythology to encompass the philosophical and spiritual texts housed in her grandfather’s library.
In this guide, the author brings together years of study to distil the vast corpus of Hindu scriptures into an accessible and systematic format. Unlike popular retellings that focus on dramatic narratives or divine conflicts, this book delves into the scriptures themselves, exploring their origins, structure, and purpose. It addresses questions that often intrigue readers: How many Hindu scriptures are there? Which are the most important? How should they be approached?
The book begins with the Vedas—the oldest and most revered texts of Hinduism—and traces the historical development of scriptures through the Upanishads, Puranas, Itihasa, and beyond. It introduces the foundational ideas of Shruti and Smriti, guiding readers through the philosophical texts and their practical applications.
Hinduism, often likened to a sprawling banyan tree, has evolved over millennia without a single founder, central authority, or definitive scripture. This diversity, while enriching, can also be daunting. Recognizing this, the author has carefully avoided imposing interpretations, instead presenting the scriptures in their original essence. Readers are encouraged to engage directly with the texts and form their own understanding.
The book highlights the unique adaptability of Hinduism, which thrives on the coexistence of diverse beliefs and practices. It also acknowledges the challenges of studying scriptures with oral origins, offering an overview that balances historical context with philosophical depth.
A Comprehensive Guide to Indian Scriptures is not a manual on rituals or festivals; instead, it focuses on the profound knowledge and ideas embedded within the texts. Whether exploring the Vedas’ universal truths, the Upanishads’ metaphysical insights, or the cultural narratives of the Itihasas, this guide provides a roadmap for navigating Hinduism’s intellectual and spiritual landscape.
But then, Indian scriptures are more than mere philosophy. They also teach mathematics, chemistry including alchemy, physics, magic, fine arts, sculpture, gemmology, cookery, sports, and many more subjects. Perfect for curious seekers and scholars alike, this guidebook promises to spark interest and inspire deeper exploration of India’s extraordinary scriptural heritage.
Excited?
Click here to get the book at an attractive discount
Sunita Pant Bansal is a renowned mythologist, storyteller, and author with a career that spans over four decades. Throughout her journey, she has worn many hats, excelling as a writer, editor, publisher, and entrepreneur.
She has headed publishing houses and founded and edited newspapers and magazines for readers in India, US and UK. Her contributions to the world of literature extend across multiple platforms, working with prestigious organizations such as Walt Disney, Warner Bros., Pearson Education, The Times of India, Hindustan Times, and ABP Group.
In addition to her global collaborations, Sunita ran her own publishing house creating books for audiences worldwide and served as the President of the esteemed Institute of Indology, further cementing her influence in the literary world.
Sunita has authored over 30 books for adults and young readers, delving into the philosophy of mythology. She has also written innumerable children’s books focused on folk literature and scriptures, which have been translated into multiple languages and sold across the globe. Her books explore and reinterpret the timeless tales of characters from the epics and foundational texts for modern readers. Her storytelling blends mythology with history, making ancient tales accessible in today’s context.
Sunita’s contributions to publishing and literature have earned her recognition, including the 2024 AALEKH Women Achievers Award.
Amongst Sunita’s recent bestsellers are The Return of Vikram and Betaal, Everyday Gita, Puranas: The Origin of Gods and Goddesses, Ramayan: The Journey of Ram, Mahabharat: The Rise and fall of Heroes.
Comments