KAALCHAKRA

Hindu mythological figures mold the personalities and fates of two unwitting teens in Dhar’s YA novel.

Fifteen-year-old high school student Abhay can’t understand why his classmate Ira harbors animosity toward him—sure, he’s “different” (“his eyes would often glaze over during conversation with a deep wistfulness as if behind them, his mind wandered somewhere afar”), but the antipathy that radiates from the wild-haired girl seems to come from nowhere. (In Ira’s estimation, Abhay is a pompous know-it-all who deserves to be taken down a notch.) Imagine their surprise upon finding out their adversarial relationship in history class mirrors their roles as mortal enemies in an alternate world. When Abhay posts a picture on social media of an old stone relic that he found hidden away in his grandfather’s closet, the modern world and his dear grandfather disappear. The universe that manifests in its stead is a magical and vividly lush one populated with gruesome monsters hellbent on vengeance and peaceful warriors sent to protect and guide. Abhay and Ira soon learn that the tension in their relationship stems from the fact that, as avatars of Lord Vishnu, they descend from opposing clans: Ira from the Devas, agents of destruction and chaos, and Abhay from the Asuras, protectors of unity and peace. Despite their differences, they must work together as the fate of the world they have always known rests in their hands, according to ancient prophecy. The author differentiates the magical from the modern by using vivid descriptions of colorful and kinetic landscapes, gods, and monsters. Spiritual ideology is woven into powerfully rich dialogue meant to motivate and uplift Abhay and Ira before their impending battle. While enthralling, the philosophical teachings overshadow the main characters at times. Dhar includes a recommended reading list; a glossary would have been a welcome aid, as there is an abundance of italicized terminology that could use explaining. Still, the ideals of unity, love, and individual acceptance translate clearly.

An immersive mythological yarn with a YA twist.