About The Naraka Cycle
A note from the author
Idea. I wanted to deliver an alternative Indian mythology to global audiences in a unique, exciting format. Background stories research and outlining began for The Naraka Cycle about 10 years ago. It’s been a challenging and soul-enriching journey to bring this project to life. I began writing in 2013 and completed Book 1 in 2021. Book 2 is expected to be completed by June 7, 2023 (my birthday!).
Genre. The Naraka Cycle blends various genres such as epic fantasy, mythology, and thriller to create a new genre-bending adventure.
Connection to India. I’ve employed scientific realism throughout the series. It incorporates Indian art, architecture, flora, fauna, cultural traditions, ancient food, clothing, battle tactics, weapons, ornaments, and spiritual teachings from various Indian religious traditions.
Audience. The Naraka Cycle is aimed at young adult (YA) all the way to adults.
Impact. I’m dedicated to get this book into the hands of as many global readers as possible, and feel confident that it will entertain, educate and elevate the conversation around the spiritual journey.
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Explore the World of Naraka
The World of Naraka
The novels of The Naraka Cycle are set in a whole new world. I’ve shared more information below, in the form of brief descriptions of the Landscapes, Peoples, Gods and Weapons.
Landscapes
The continent of Naraka has equatorial, steppe, mountainous, island, and desert regions. The lands of the Asuras and Nagas are covered by equatorial forests with massive trees and jungle canopies that rise hundreds of feet into the sky. The half-human half-horse Kinnaras have adapted to live on both steppe and the Great Narakan Desert. The Vidyadharas live in the great Peaks on the northeast side of the Narakan continent. Southern Rakshasas live on a string of islands that are characterized by warm tropical zones and warm winds. The islands in the far northwest of Naraka are icy, buffeted by cold winds, and occupied by the northern Rakshasas.
Peoples
Rakshasas of Naraka are typically more than nine feet tall, dark-skinned and are accomplished sailors.
Asuras are spellcasters, typically of a wheatish color, and study the Vedas, ancient spiritual texts said to have been left behind by a mysterious race called the Prajapatis.
Vidyadharas are typically wiry and slim. They sport exotic hair and are great politicians, artists and builders.
Nagas are half-human, half-snake ambush hunters. Cityer Nagas live in great cities such as Bhagavassi, whereas wilder Nagas live in villages dotting the equatorial forest of Naraka.
Kinnaras are half-horse, half-human nomads that grow up to seventeen feet in height. They live in the massive steppe on the northwest, and in the Great Narakan Desert.
Devas are from the continent of Swarga, a cold land far away from Naraka. Devas typically have blonde or red hair, are more than six feet tall, and are well-built.
Gods
Rakshasas worship Vaishnavi, the goddess who protects the good and Pavan, the Wind God. Rakshasa saadhvi priestesses are renowned on Naraka for their wisdom.
Asuras worship Shiva, the destroyer of evil, and of the universe at the Dissolution, in his various forms. Asuran priests are called brahmins.
Vidyadharas worship the Goddess Shakti in her prominent forms of the sixty-four - Chausathi Yoginis. Vidyadhara tribes also propitiate Chamundi, Durga, Kali via ojha priestesses.
Kinnaras worship Hayagreeva, the horse-headed form of Vaishnavi. Offerings from Kinnaras are delivered to their god by wise shamans.
Nagas worship the sun elemental Surya. They pray to the great dragon Vritra, considered by many to be the progenitor of all Nagas.
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Inspiration, Resources, Research, Foundational Texts
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