Book Reviews

Understanding Asa-di-Var: The Morning Prayer

Author: Satjit Wadva
Publisher: KW Publishers Pvt Ltd, New Delhi
(Pp 256, ISBN 978-93-81904-27-5, Rs 595)

Asa-di-Var or the song of hope is one of the morning prayers enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib. It takes you back to yourself to seek within and find the divine residing in your heart. The book is an attempt to decode the words and paraphrase the poetry to state the underlying message, so that you listen to the musical rendition and let the message sink deep into your heart.

The verses are given in Punjabi language, its transliteration in English, then in Hindi and also in English. So, people who cannot read or understand Punjabi, can also be blessed with this song of hope.

–Varsha 

Spirituality in Daily Life

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Author: JP Vaswani Publisher: Gita Publishing House, Pune
(Pp 440, ISBN 978-93-80743-67-7, Rs 250)

This small-sized book is a powerful book that teaches that spirituality is not an abstract, complex pursuit that is often made out to be. It is born out of an inner aspiration, an awakening to the realization that there is more to life than materialism.

Divided into three sections – what is spirituality, preparing to walk the way of spirituality and the VIDGYOR of spirituality, the book tries to make one aware of one’s inner being, which is more powerful than we can think of. For busy people, the book has an afterword, which gives practical suggestions that one can follow on the path of spirituality. Easy-to-understand, the book helps one explore the firmament of the spirit.

–Varsha

Don’t Lose Out, Work Out!

Author: Rujuta Diwekar Publisher: Westland Ltd 

(Pp 260, ISBN 978-93-83260-95-9, Rs 250)

When you pick up a book from Rujuta, you are bound to get some easy, practical tips to stay fit. Through this book, Rujuta tackles every myth and fad on exercise, demystifies it for everyone and presents it as not a brainless activity but a science which has the potential to combat ageing and all lifestyle disorders including diabetes and obesity. Strength training, cardio and yoga are also detailed along with their pre- and post-workout meals, an often neglected but crucial aspect.

Both diet and exercise are important to keep fit. Rujuta delves into the what, how and when of eating as well. The book actually talks to you, it does not preaches. Real-life examples add to its authenticity and simplicity. All in all, it is a very practical book on exercise and staying fit.

–Varsha

Temple Trips – South India

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Research and Written by: Janaki Venkataraman and Supriya Sehgal
Publisher: Lonely Planet Publications Pty Ltd, New Delhi
(Pp 276, ISBN 978-1-74321-971-3)

The Hindu temples of South India offer pilgrimages that are voyages into faith, antique rituals and varied history. Song, dance, hymn and sculpture have sprung from these temples that have withstood centuries as centres of prayer. A temple trip to South India (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh) shows myriad hues of our rich tradition.

Researched and written by Janaki Venkataraman and Supriya Sehgal, Temple Trips- South India gives detailed information about 100 temples, 130 festivals, 20 pilgrimages, besides expert pick of history, heritage and culture. The book gives complete information for making perfect travel plans, right from accommodation, eating places, activities to do there, shopping areas and most importantly how to get around.

Exquisite pictures take the readers on a journey to these mystical places. A well-researched travel guide for all who wish to take a trip to South India or just enjoy the splendor in the comfort of their home!

–Varsha Verma