Ram Chandra Series 1: Scion Of Ikshvaku is the fourth book of the author, Amish Tripathi. It is also the first book of the Ram Chandra Series by him and the bestseller of 2017. A treat for the lovers of mythological fiction, Scion Of Ikshvaku revolves around Ram. The literary prowess of Amish shines bright as always. Most of us know who Ram was, how he rose to his greatest glory and all. But Amish spins wildly deviant plots while retaining the essence of familiar mythology of Ram.
Plot of Scion Of Ikshvaku: Ram Chandra Series 1
It is India, 3400 BCE. Ayodhya is the kingdom of King Dashrath, who belongs to the Raghu Clan. He is also the father of Prince Ram. But the kingdom lies weakened by divisions. A terrible war has taken its toll. Consequently, the damage runs deep. The demon King of Lanka, Raavan, does not rule over his defeated. Instead, he imposes his trade on them. Thus, draining the rich Sapt Sindhu of all it’s riches and wealth. The people of Sapt Sindhu dwell in poverty, dejection and corruption. They are in the need of a leader, who will lead them out of this nightmare.
But, little do they appreciate the potential leader among them. A prince, who was tortured and ostracised by them. A prince, whom they tried to break. He’s none other than Dashrath’s eldest son, Ram. Even when his people and his father torment him, he loves his motherland. He stands alone for the law. He stands against the darkness of chaos with his brothers and his wife, Sita. Through a period of hate from his family and countrymen, he rises to be the Vishnu. He is subjected to mishaps, emotional suffering, lost childhood and separation to fight Raavan.
Review
The fact that Ram was not loved in his early life will be a bit hard to digest for some. But his actions and characteristics prove and show us what an ideal person is like. I loved the way Amish portrays Ram. Being the pivotal character, Ram has different shades to himself. Likely so, he is shown as the grateful son, dutiful administrator, a perfect brother and a suitable husband for Sita.
Amish’s writing style is tough to understand. Personally, I found it difficult and a good two rounds of reading showed me the books entirety. All in all, the new turn of the known mythology of Ram is sure to excite the readers. The portrayal of the battle scenes, techniques used in it and the strategization is a winner. The Kshatriya ideologies of humanity, duties and patriotism in the book should be the footsteps for one to follow. Moreover, the philosophical values will lend a new perspective for life and mankind.
Ratings and other Information
Publisher: Westland Ltd, Price: 169 INR
- Cover: 8.5/10
- Theme: 9/10
- Style of Writing: 7.5/10
- Story: 9/10
Do comment your favourite part of the book. Also, let me know which character, besides Ram, you’ve liked.
