Best Books To Uplift Your Mood In Pandemic Time

Biswajit Banerji

‘The Secret Murder Witness Of Siraj-Ud-Daulah' by Reetwika Banerjee

The powerhouse of talent and a woman of substance, Ms. Reetwika Banerjee has thrilled everyone with this captivating work of historic research and literature titled ‘The Secret Murder Witness Of Siraj-Ud-Daulah'. The novel delves out betrayals against Bengal Nawabs and many other exhilarating chronicles of mutilation, bloodbaths and power fights that had shattered the fate of India, especially Bengal Province, leading to two centuries of British Rule in our country. Special attraction of the book is the photo gallery of the ruins in their present conditions.

Recipient of multiple prestigious awards like 'Apollon Sirmiensis Award 2021' from Serbia, 'Swami Vivekananda Excellence Award' from Ministry of Youth Affairs (GOI) and nominee of 'Padma Shri', one of the apex civilian honours of the Indian government in the domain of 'Literature & Education' in 2020, Ms. Banerjee's novel is a first of its kind historical thriller. Reetwika takes an extremely detailed look at some of the darkest secrets of Bengal history. She has also tried to analyze the root causes with an investigative yet fictional acumen. Reetwika being a decorated filmmaker as well, it will be safe to say this gripping story can act as the perfect material for a blockbuster movie.

‘Brahmahatya' and ‘Panchatheertha' by Rajiv Mittal

IIM-A alumnus, seasoned author Mr. Rajiv Mittal makes it to the list for his books - Brahmahatya and Panchatheertha (Part 1).

Brahmahatya is a story of revenge and spiritual redemption which will make the readers reflect about relationships and life during these strange times. A woman employee of a retirement home is shocked to discover that a new resident is in fact the son impersonating his father. A senile woman-resident, an enigmatic founder and Hindu philosophy play their part in ensuring justice is served but in a karmic manner.

While The Panchatheertha (Part 1) is an outrageously funny, satirical revision of sections 1 & 2 of The Panchatantra. Vishnu Sharma's reincarnation Shiva Varma has, in this redraft, revived the ancient Indian tradition of parampara. The Panchatheertha was considered lost but the discovery of these two altered strategies ‘The Loss of Friends' and ‘Gaining Friends' should create hope in this lockdown period where society is having considerable success with the first and complete failure with the second.

‘Soul Curry' by Shikha Gupta

Renowned blogger, author and poet Mrs. Shikha Gupta makes a sensational debut with this book. The book is a collection of blogs which she wrote over the last few years and received rave reviews from critics and readers alike. Soul searching is the need of the hours in today's tough time and this book can be the perfect company of a reader in doing so. Any reader looking forward to get enriched and entertained simultaneously can't afford to miss this book.

‘Potpourri - Stories for Children' by Urvashi Tandon

Potpourri by Mrs. Urvashi Tandon is an anthology of stories written for children. The book is nothing but pure bliss for its intended young readers. The charm of the book begins with the beautifully designed cover page and the same continues throughout the pages of the stories. Other than telling amusing stories, the book gives much needed environmental awareness lessons to children making it a perfect cognitive gift for a developing mind.

‘Shivshakti - The Continuous Continuum' by Anita Rajani

ShivShakti - The Continuous Continuum is a book for all to read. The main theme of the book is about how the Divine principles - masculine and feminine exists in all things that exist in the universe. It also explains how these two thrive and expand on a continuous basis and keeps on evolving with the different experiences. The main concept of Shivshakti is to experience life through the breath and evolve and expand its consciousness. It's a Divine at play within each one of us and everything that exists. The conversations between Shiva and Shakti are very enthralling and one can experience a meditative space while reading this book. It's a must read for all.

‘Shalom Namaste' by Nurani S Ravi

This book is a timely read for people tired of reading about the Indian fugitives yet to be brought to justice. It explains the deeds of Ibrahim, Baskar, Johar, Zaveri & Meera, the five fictitious selected fugitives and how a special operation brings them back to India. It makes the reader ponder how the government if it wants, can be proactive. The unique subject and effective storytelling make the book a must read.

‘Happimess' by Biswajit Banerji

This book by well-known author and humorist Mr. Biswajit Banerji is a wonderful satirical reflection of present society. Through relatable characters and incidents Mr. Banerji spells a humorous cast which makes the readers laugh at the beginning and make them ponder on a set of hard-hitting realities driving our lives. This set of naughty stories is bound to excite your funny bones.