Review of A Hindu Primer

[Ashwini Tawade]

[Following is a volunteer review of "A Hindu Primer" by Dr. A.V. Srinivasan.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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A Hindu Primer: Yaksha Prashna by Dr. A. V. Srinivasan elaborates on the episode of Yaksha Prashna from the famous Indian epic of Mahabharata. Yaksha Prashna is about the Prashna, or questions asked by a Yaksha, a supernatural being, who in this part of the story is in the form of a mystical crane. These questions are answered by the quintessential dharmic or righteous prince Yudhishthira, the eldest among the five Pandava brothers who had to live in exile and fight against the Kauravas in the battle of Kurukshetra. The author finds it important for the young generation to learn about the righteousness of Yudhishthira and states, “The battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas is within each of us, and we are being tested to see if we hold steadfast to Dharma. Indeed, this world is Kurukshetra—and our children sorely need the wisdom of Yudhisthira.” The author has created this book as a source of reference for the youth belonging to the Indian-Hindu community to learn about their culture and righteousness to lead a successful life.
 
The content of this book is historical, yet it applies to modern times. The questions asked by the Yaksha and the answers given by Yudhishthira are still relevant. For example:
“What treasure is the best? 
Skill 
What wealth is the best? 
Education 
What is the greatest gain? 
Health 
And the greatest happiness?....” Reading this book can help readers know more.
 
This book includes writings in both Sanskrit and English. The writings that are in Sanskrit are transliterated, translated, and elaborated, making it easier for the readers to read and understand the writings.
 
The editing of this book is acceptable. Regarding the content, I found it to be intriguing. Reading this book made me think, brainstorm, and be decisive. It also reminds me to be righteous. I did not find anything too negative about this book. It's a good read on righteousness. It also seems to serve the purpose of orienting the readers to some of the historical writings and about the ways of living a righteous and successful life according to the Indian-Hindu cultural perspective. I will rate A Hindu Primer: Yaksha Prashna by Dr. A. V. Srinivasan 5 out of 5 stars.

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A Hindu Primer
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