Is it true that when words arrive…
From a chosen One, they cannot hide?
That when you write a story,
You are but adding glory;
To a saga that began long ago,
Long before time. Before anyone could know,
The words had arrived and waited still…
For the One to capture them with a quill.
Deeds to be cherished, Words to be read;
Thoughts that impressed, A life to be led;
There must be a God unidentified,
Who reads & approves every word you write!

I have been reading “Ramayana Series” by Ashok K Banker (AKB). Inspired by his writing, I decided to send him a mail. Not knowing how to go about it. I did what I always do best : Google. I found his blog instantly : http://ashokbanker.com/

I sent in my first comment hesitantly. But, rest assured the man is true to his work. It took him mere minutes to respond to my comment and with what flourish. I was honestly surprised that THE Author who wrote that many great books would find time to reply back. That’s what he did. And with that began a neat conversation that amazed me all the more. He values his readers a lot and he makes sure they know it. He is open, funny, eager to share his thoughts, respond to the silliest of our queries acknowledged with a smile.

In the conversations that ensued, I grew fond of his real style as much as I liked his writing style. This guy did not get here in a hurry. He has been through his set of ups & downs, cross-roads and hard work before he got to where he is. He is much loved by those who are in touch with him, through his blog or his discussion groups.

The very idea of knowing such a personality is awe-inspiring. To top it, he is down-to-earth. So, well, I asked a few questions since he was so approachable. Here I wanted to add some bits from what he had to say. I need to get his permission to quote them. Which I will ask him for. If he agrees, This is going to be an interesting long post.

Meanwhile I happened to tell him I will write reviews of each one of his books (because I love the books, not because I think I can critique what he has written). In my own way, it’s a selfish motive to write about the impact it has made on my mind.

I read these books in less than 3 months. That is to say I read each of the 6 books in less than a fortnight each, in spite of working during that period. It’s just impossible to put the books down. I am not exaggerating when I say so. Think about it, here is a story that we have heard time and again since god-knows how long. No new characters , No news , No excitement!? Wrong… Excitement there is, truck loads!

What you must understand is that it is not the same “old” Ramayana. The language used is contemporary and yet, easy to relate to. He makes you pick up the dictionary as well, but that adds to the joy. He has used just the right words, anything else would not convey the meaning appropriately. He has described nuances & sentiments of these characters as you/i would feel. In short, he has made them human! The Ayodhya of yonder becomes a dreamworld that you step into as soon as you pick up the book. He makes you question everything you thought you already knew. Now, that is skill, is it not ? That is where the newness lies. The ultimate changes are all because of the questions. When we question, we seek and when we seek, we understand.

On the whole these books are a revelation. Read it to believe it.

Thus, came this poem as a humble dedication to the one AKB who through his work inspired me to dream, to believe – to write!

Jai Shri Rama!