Cover of the book, Namaha

All the stories are re-imaginations of the Vedas, Puranas and Upanishads. The meditative rhythm of Singh's text only lends beautifully to the experience. "Mother, without you, how will I find a place of happiness in this world of broken spirits?" a son asks, in the story, Ansuya. "Wait for the night. That is when everything blends as one. Don't be afraid, just imagine you are inside the womb again," she responds.

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An ink drawing of Ganesh enveloping a baby elephant in his trunk is the most maternal picture of a God bestowing comfort. Another verse that moved us was in the story, The Flute, where the banyan trees and marigold flowers ask Lord Krishna, "Why do you play the flute?" He responds, "Because it's a 'wind' instrument, played by one's breath. But then, whose breath is that we are breathing into this reed? Is it the trees, is the air they take and give back?"

An illustration from Namaha. Pic courtesy/Wonder House

Singh's book is replete with lines that make you think, and make you wise. His drawings have always been exceptional. Namaha is not any different: in some, his gods look like majestic conquerors of everything between land and sea, who have to be both feared and revered. But, then there is also Krishna, sitting demurely on a branch as a peacock listens to his music, and Shiva and Parvati in a vulnerable, loved-up moment that also makes these gods very real. But, this book should also be read for the stories, because they are told by a gifted storyteller.

Price: Rs 999
To buy: amazon.in

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