Book Review: ‘Ajita’ by K. Sridhar

Book Title: Ajita
Author: K. Sridhar
Publisher: Westland
Number of Pages: 328
ISBN: 978-9360451912
Date Published: Jan. 27, 2025
Price: INR 331

Book Review

K. Sridhar’s “Ajita” is a fascinating novel that connects two lives across centuries—Ajita, a fifth-century philosopher, and Moksh Malhar, a modern professor. Ajita’s journey begins in childhood when his curiosity about ants sparks a lifelong quest for knowledge, leading him to the Cārvāka school of materialist philosophy. Meanwhile, Moksh, struggling with personal hardships, finds solace in studying Ajita’s work. As he delves deeper, the lines between past and present blur, pulling him into a journey of self-discovery.

What makes “Ajita” truly special is its creative storytelling technique. Each chapter is written without using a specific letter of the alphabet, making the novel a linguistic puzzle as well as a story. This unique approach adds to the theme of breaking boundaries—between language, time, and ideas. The structure reflects the book’s central message: how thoughts and philosophies can loop and connect across different eras, just like a Möbius strip.

Beyond its clever writing style, the novel is rich in philosophical ideas. Ajita meets historical figures like Emperor Ajatashatru, Mahavira, and the Buddha, shaping his beliefs. At the same time, Moksh’s deep study of Ajita’s life influences his own thoughts and struggles. The novel brings together history, philosophy, and storytelling in a way that makes readers think about how ideas travel through time and impact different generations.

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Though its experimental style might take some getting used to, “Ajita” is a rewarding read. Sridhar balances deep philosophical themes with a gripping narrative, making the book both thought-provoking and engaging. It is a novel that challenges the way we see language, history, and human connection—an unforgettable literary experience.

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