Jijith Nadumuri Ravi is not your typical author. A former scientist at ISRO, he played a part in the initial phase of the Chandrayaan-1 mission and even received appreciation from the legendary Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Now, he has turned his scientific mind toward writing, and his latest book, Geography of Mahabharata, is causing quite a stir.
A Unique Approach to History
Jijith’s journey into the world of writing began with a mission: to address a significant issue in Indian history. Many mainstream historical accounts start with well-known dynasties like the Mauryas and Nandas, but they often treat the kings and figures mentioned in ancient texts like the Vedas and Itihasas as mythological. This separation creates an arbitrary division in understanding India’s rich history.
Through his three-volume series, which includes Geography of Mahabharata, Geography of Ramayana, and Rivers of Rigveda, Jijith aims to correct this perspective. He believes that the narratives in the Vedas and Itihasas are not just stories but an essential part of India’s historical framework. He brings together geographical insights and timelines to show how these ancient figures connect to real history.
The Writing Process
Writing this series wasn’t easy. It took Jijith five years to complete, from 2019 to 2023. He put in three times the effort compared to writing a standard book. Along with crafting the narrative, he created hundreds of maps that pinpoint thousands of locations and rivers mentioned in the ancient texts. His research involved analyzing over 110,000 verses from Sanskrit texts and consulting various sources, including geography maps and satellite images. This hard work paid off, resulting in a comprehensive look at the geography and history of the Vedic period.
Discoveries and Insights
In Geography of Mahabharata, readers will find hundreds of new insights about the lives of Rama and the Pandavas. Jijith takes us on a chronological journey, detailing the lives of key figures like Hanuman, Parasurama, and Durvasa, providing context that many other authors have overlooked. The book connects the dots between the kings mentioned in the Rigveda and the epic tales of Sri Rama and the Pandavas, revealing a rich tapestry of history that is both engaging and enlightening.
Readers who dive into this book will find it reads like an intriguing story, full of excitement and discovery. It’s an invitation to explore the ancient past and see how it fits into the broader narrative of Indian history.
What’s Next?
But Jijith isn’t stopping here. He’s already working on a new project focused on Sanatana Dharma. Drawing from his analysis of ancient texts, he aims to provide a strong foundation for understanding this philosophical tradition. He hopes this upcoming book will pave the way for future explorations in the realms of science and spirituality, especially as humanity looks towards the stars for exploration.
Get Involved
If you’re interested in history and geography, or if you want to explore the rich narratives of the Rigveda, Ramayana, and Mahabharata, Geography of Mahabharata is a must-read. You can find it on Amazon here.
Jijith Nadumuri Ravi invites readers to connect with him on social media, where he shares insights and engages with a community passionate about India’s ancient heritage. You can follow him on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
In a world where history is often simplified, Jijith’s work stands out, reminding us that the past is a rich tapestry woven with the stories of many. His books challenge us to see history in a new light, encouraging a deeper understanding of our heritage. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore India’s incredible history through his eyes!
