Classic Tales from India: How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head and Other Stories

Seven classic Indian tales, illustrated with full-color paintings in traditional Hindu style, are presented in this book. The stories, drawn from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Puranas, teach important life lessons about gods, goddesses, and heroes. The illustrations bring the mystical world of ancient India to life and immerse the reader in the colorful cast of characters.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 240 pages
\n Publication date: 15 October 2020
\n Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company
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Seven captivating traditional stories from India, beautifully illustrated and translated by the authors, transport readers to the ancient culture of this captivating land. These tales, drawn from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Puranas, offer valuable life lessons and showcase the playful, loyal, strong, loving, and wise deities, goddesses, and heroes of India.

In this captivating collection, readers will embark on a journey to discover the origins of the deity Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, who acquired his elephant head through a clever trick. They will also unravel the tale of Parvati, the goddess who won the heart of the mighty god Shiva through her unwavering devotion and purity. Furthermore, they will learn about the goddess Ganga's descent to Earth in the form of the holy Ganges River, bringing life and rejuvenation to all who drink from her.

The stories of Krishna, the beloved avatar of the god Vishnu, are also woven into the tapestry. From his mischievous childhood as a superhero to his eventual destiny as the savior of the world, Krishna's journey is a testament to the power of love, compassion, and self-sacrifice. Two tales from the Ramayana, featuring prince Ram and his heroic battle against the ten-headed demon king Ravana, showcase Ram's unwavering courage and determination. In another tale, the monkey-god Hanuman's selfless act of moving a medicine mountain to save Rams brother, exemplifies the power of loyalty and friendship.

Two stories from the Mahabharata shed light on the themes of good triumphing over evil and the importance of compassion. Karna, the greatest archer in the world, rises to prominence to aid the forces of good in their battle against evil. His unwavering loyalty and dedication to his cause inspire others to follow in his footsteps. Arjuna, in a moment of profound selflessness, confronts his own cousins in a fierce battle to bring peace to the kingdom of Hastinapur, showcasing the power of compassion and the ability to sacrifice for the greater good.

The illustrations in this collection are a testament to the rich artistic heritage of India. Executed in transparent watercolors and tempera paints, they bring the characters to life with vivid detail and vibrant colors. The traditional Indian style, meticulously crafted according to the Hindu canon, adds an authentic touch to the stories and immerses readers in the mystical world of ancient India.

These captivating tales, translated by the authors with love and care, offer a glimpse into the timeless wisdom and values of India. They remind us of the importance of loyalty, friendship, compassion, and self-sacrifice in our daily lives and inspire us to embrace the beauty and diversity of our world. Whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer to the rich tapestry of Indian mythology, this collection is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the depths of this ancient culture.

\n Weight: 426g\n
Dimension: 171 x 240 x 16 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781591433866\n \n