Journey to remember

Kamalika_Reads 06

Book: Conversation With A Yogi

Author: Suman Mukherjee

Publishers: White Falcon Publishing

Genre: Auto-Fiction, Self-help

Rating: 4/5

How I came to know about this book:

I connected with Suman Mukherjee who had authored several books, in an author WhatsApp group, where he suggested I read this book—and I happily agreed.

What the book is about :

The book 'Conversation With A Yogi' is a captivating exploration of life's profound questions during a train journey from Delhi to Thiruvananthapuram. The narrative is centred around the author's opportune encounter with Swami Shivananda, his co-passenger in a first-class cabin on the Rajdhani Express.

The plot unfolds over a 42-hour train journey, during which the author engages in a dialogue with the yogi. The journey is not just a physical one but a spiritual exploration, taking readers through the picturesque landscapes of India while unravelling the mysteries of life.

What I have loved about the book :

The vivid description of the journey is a highlight, immersing the reader in the rhythmic cadence of the train. One commendable aspect is the attention to the Railway attendant, giving due weightage to a character often overlooked in such narratives. This adds a touch of realism to the story, grounding it in the everyday experiences of travel.

What I felt could have been better :

However, the book does have its shortcomings. The decision to pose numerous questions to the yogi without prior knowledge of the encounter feels forced and somewhat awkward. It raises the question of why the author chose this approach rather than letting the conversation unfold organically. The placement of questions at times also creates a sense of disjointedness. This might deter some readers, disrupting the natural flow of the narrative.

Also, the diversity of topics covered in the questions, while ambitious, may overwhelm some readers. A more focused selection of topics and in-depth discussions could have allowed readers to delve deeper, encouraging a more profound engagement with the yogi's insights.

Why one should read or not read this book:

It's important to note that ‘Conversation with a Yogi’ is not a typical narrative for those seeking a conventional story or self-help quotes. Instead, it caters to individuals grappling with unresolved questions about mundane aspects of daily life. Mukherjee's work catalyses introspection, offering a unique perspective on life's complexities. The book succeeds in sparking contemplation about life's inherent mysteries.

You can grab a copy of the book on Amazon: https://amzn.in/d/1N5kgbV

The entire book plot unfolds over a train journey. I always love train journeys...They create memories. What about you? Do you remember any fond memory of any of your Train journeys? Share in the comments.