My First Prayer to Lord Ram| Book Review

 Review of Chitwan Mittal, Sarita Saraf’s book – My First Prayer to Lord Ram.

• Title - My First Prayer to Lord Ram
• Author –Chitwan Mittal , Sarita Saraf, Aparajitha Vasudev[Illustrations]
• Year published – 1 January 2023
• Publisher - AdiDev Press
• Pages - 32
• Genre – Children's Books
• Format - Hardcover
• Buy from Amazon

The second book in our best-selling Prayer series! Tulsidas’ classic prayer to Ram is a beautiful introduction to the character and qualities of this beloved Hindu figure. Our translation of the original Awadhi text is crafted especially for young readers. It includes word meanings and a simple text as well as captivating illustrations that will keep them engaged!

Book #7 of 2023

Non Fiction #6

My earliest recollection of learning Slokas goes back to the cherished moments spent with my grandfather during our vacations. He would diligently guide us through the rhythmic recitation of these sacred verses, and those memories, along with the resonance of the Slokas, have become indelibly etched in my mind. Encountering this book was akin to a nostalgic journey, transporting me back to those cherished times.

The book is a translation of the original prayers penned by Saint Tulasidas nearly four centuries ago, devoted to Sri Ram and composed in Awadhi, an archaic form of Hindi.

From its very cover, the book radiates an enchanting charm that engages the senses. Each verse is not only transliterated but also meticulously translated. The inclusion of the Awadhi/Hindi terms in the English translation facilitates a nuanced understanding of the word-by-word meanings, enhancing the accessibility of the content. 

Adding to the charm of the book are the exquisite illustrations by Aparajitha Vasudev, which breathe life into the verses on every page. The visual representation not only complements the literary content but also serves to create a more immersive experience for the reader.

This book stands out as a delightful resource for children, encouraging them to explore and absorb the rich tapestry of Slokas and mythology. The hardbound copy, with its durable and aesthetically pleasing design, makes for an ideal gift for children of all ages. It is a book that is likely to be revisited and treasured, as it seamlessly weaves together the beauty of language, spirituality, and artistic expression.

Overall, a 5/5-star rating for its enchanting cover design, its commendable thematic focus that inspires children to delve into Slokas and mythology, and the captivating illustrations that grace each page. It is, without a doubt, a commendable addition to the bookshelf for young readers.

Chitwan Mittal holds a BSc in English Education from Boston University and an MA in Values in Education from the University of London. She is a published author with titles such as Education for the Complete Person, Taittiriya Upanishad and The Arguments for the Existence of God. Actively involved in children’s education since 2005, she was part of the committee that established the Indian Institute of Teacher Education and the Children’s University by the Government of Gujarat, India. Both institutes are focussed on experiential learning and holistic development of children through innovative education tools. She is now foraying into the field of writing children’s picture books. Her books encourage engagement and diversity and focus on value-oriented education, bi-lingual learning and South Asian culture. She lives between India and Singapore with her husband and two sons, who are her constant source of inspiration.

Sarita Saraf is a writer and an artist, with an intense passion for philosophical literature. She is an author of three short English publications - Nachiketas, Socrates and Abraham Lincoln. She has also authored Rahasyamaya Agni Ke Prati Sukta, a Hindi translation of poet and mystic, Sri Aurobindo’s Hymns to the Mystic Fire. She is currently in the process of translating into Hindi, a 13-volume chronicle of the spiritual journey of mystic, Mirra Alfasa titled The Mother’s Agenda.

For the last 2 decades she has been researching and developing a repository of value-oriented stories for children, used across public schools in India. Her first story emerged as a birthday greeting to her 13-year old daughter. Ever since she fell in love with verse and is today a prolific editor and author. 

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