Books by Anand Neelakantan

Anand Neelakantan is a contemporary Indian author known for his bold reinterpretations of ancient mythology. Born in 1973 in Kerala, he gained recognition with his debut novel Asura: Tale of the Vanquished (2012), which retold the Ramayana from Ravana’s perspective. This unique approach set the tone for Neelakantan’s career, where he consistently reimagines epics through the lens of characters often sidelined in traditional narratives. He went on to write the acclaimed Ajaya series, narrating the Mahabharata from the viewpoint of the Kauravas. His storytelling, marked by empathy for the "vanquished," challenges conventional portrayals and brings fresh philosophical depth to Indian mythology. Neelakantan’s works extend beyond books—he has also written for television and was the official author of the Baahubali prequel novels, expanding the cinematic universe into literature. His writing style combines detailed research with accessible prose, making mythological tales engaging for modern audiences. Anand Neelakantan’s contributions are not just literary; they also reshape how Indian mythology is perceived and understood. Today, he stands as one of the most successful and thought-provoking voices in Indian writing, bridging tradition and modernity with remarkable creativity.