Book Review: ‘Ahimsa’ by Devdutt Pattanaik

Book Title: Ahimsa: 100 Reflections on the Harappan Civilization
Author: Devdutt Pattanaik
Publisher: HarperCollins India
Number of Pages: 272
ISBN: 978-9365699371
Date Published: Sept. 30, 2024
Price: INR 356

Book Review

Dating back around 4,500 years, the Bronze Age society rivaled Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt in its grandeur and was a key player in the trading networks of the time. Yet, many aspects of the Harappan civilization remain shrouded in mystery, leaving scholars pondering important questions. How did the Harappan culture influence later Vedic and Tantrik thought? Did their monastic ideals contribute to the foundations of Buddhism and Jainism? Why did their script, often compared to modern emojis, remain so elusive? Most intriguingly, why were there images of rivalry, but no depictions of war or romance, and how did their cities fade while their villages endured?

Renowned mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik revisits the Harappan civilization in his book, “Ahimsa: 100 Reflections on the Harappan Civilization” after a century. Devdutt Pattanaik offers a fresh perspective by exploring the Harappans through mythology, focusing on their core value of non-violence. In this insightful work, he unravels the peaceful nature of this civilization, whose influence can still be seen in modern Indian philosophies such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Pattanaik dives into the Harappans’ deep understanding of peace and examines their social structures, emphasizing how their legacy has shaped later religious and cultural traditions in India.

From its visually captivating cover to its concluding chapter, “Ahimsa” is an enlightening read. The book is not just a historical exploration; it’s also a visual treat, brimming with illustrations that complement the text. Pattanaik’s ability to blend mythology with historical analysis is both engaging and informative. Each chapter offers a fascinating glimpse into Harappan life, from their agricultural practices to their spiritual beliefs. Notably, the chapter on “Fishing and Farming” stands out for its vivid descriptions and compelling visuals. Pattanaik masterfully bridges the ancient world with the present, showing how many elements of Harappan culture continue to influence Indian life today.

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Any person who is interested to read more about Harappan history will surely be captivated by the book and its links to Vedic culture, this book was particularly satisfying. Literature on the Harappans is relatively scarce, making “Ahimsa” a valuable addition to the field. Author Pattanaik’s reflections not only answered many of questions but also led to intriguing conclusions, such as the idea that Hindu traditions may trace their roots back to the Harappans. One of the most thought-provoking claims in the book is that modern Indians may be descendants of Aryan fathers and Harappan mothers.

Overall, “Ahimsa” is a deeply insightful and thought-provoking book that offers a unique blend of history, mythology, and cultural continuity—an essential read for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.

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