This is no ordinary journey. Originating from different places and travelling in diverse directions, the destinations are divine in nature. 108 Shades of Divinity provides an insight into 108 sacred places of nine religions.
The endeavour also reflects the myriad beauty of India and its many inspiring stories of peaceful coexistence.
The book a visual delight, and treasure trove of information happens to be a concerted effort of Sethu Vidyanathan, Anju Poddar and Late Mukul Singhal.
Reflecting on the reasons for its inception, Sethu says: “In an effort to reach out to the younger audience who look at pilgrimage as long and arduous, we hope, this book will make a difference, alter the preconceived notions and encourage them to set out on a journey to attain their quest for a divine connect.”
To that Anju adds: “Like most kids of today, my grand child relishes his visit to Disneyland. The same way, I want him to be aware of his religious roots. It’s about striking a balance between the materialistic and spiritual world.” Instead of confining the focus of attention on a single religion, the nine pre-dominant religions (Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism, Zorastrianism, Judaism and tribal religion) followed in the country, all find relevant space in 108 Shades of Divinity.
“Covering the Naxal prone areas for tribal religion section was definitely a tough task on hand,” feel the authors. The focus then shifts to numbers and the reason for settling on 108,” said Anju.
“There are hundreds and hundreds of sacred places in India, but after a lot of pondering we finally reached a consensus with 108. It has a relevance across all faiths” says Anju about the “magical figure that worked wonderfully well for this book.”
In an effort to provide the best possible knowledge and keep the interest level high, the authors decided to expand the creative horizon and include other enthusiasts to contribute to the tome.
As the gateway opened, not less than 80 people who are considered well versed in a particular religion or religious site shared their expert views with the writers. Besides offering a fascinating pictorial insight and a fine quality product, the book can inspire readers to embark on a sacred odyssey, giving them details on how to get there, what to expect en route the destination and also interesting titbits on the legends and rituals associated with a particular shrine or deity. “For instance it points out the specific day a particular puja is offered. It also enlightens about the nearby places to visit and other interesting location within the vicinity,” informs Anju.
It also features entrepreneurs, media professionals, actors philanthropists and many creative minds who have shared their on religion, their beliefs and their motivation in life.
On a sad note Sethu remembers co-author Mukul who passed away while the book was still in the initial stages.
“He had conceptualised it but sadly, was not around to witness his dream shape in to reality, he succumbed to cancer. Honouring his memory, the book is dedicated to him.”