Chanakya's Chant, Bharat Collection 2

Very interesting book

“Chanakya’s Chant” by Ashwin Sanghi is an enthralling read that seamlessly weaves together two timelines, blending ancient history with modern-day political intrigue. The plot is fascinating, offering readers a gripping journey through the cunning and strategic mind of Chanakya, while also exploring the parallels in a contemporary setting.The historical context and the clever intertwining of past and present make for an intriguing and thought-provoking narrative. However, the literary quality of the book is fairly average. The writing style, while functional, lacks the depth and polish that might elevate the story to its full potential.Despite this, Sanghi’s ability to craft a compelling and immersive plot makes “Chanakya’s Chant” a worthwhile read for anyone interested in historical fiction and political strategy. A solid 4 out of 5 stars for an engaging and enjoyable story.

This was my first time reading an Ashwin Sanghi book. I had a choice between Krishna Key and this one and I picked up this book because I was aware of Chankya's witty moves. Was curious how Chankya strategy was being interpreted in the current day world. I normally read the first chapter of the book and tend to get an idea of whats the book all about. In case of Chanakya's Chants, there are two stories, hence two opening chapters, so after reading Chapter 1 on Chanakya's story set 2300 yrs ago, I came across another story. What intrigued me is the connection between the two stories, and how each and every present day event was inspired from past strategic moves. I particularly like the format jumping from past to present in alternating chapters. In some cases it was a bit confusing because you tend to forget present day characters and their role, but Ashwin has beautiful tied in the chapters and you don’t have to wait to think whats coming next.The fast paced, thriller gets you immediately hooked on from the first chapter itself, it take you to a high and never ever lets it fall. This present day politics as depicted in the book reminds me of hind movie Raajneeti, not in terms of story but the brutal politics that is played in India. If some producer director has not noticed the potential in this story, they probably haven’t understood what Indian audiences like to see. This could definitely be a big contrast to the mindless so called action packed movies currently on.Finally, I really enjoyed the well timed punches and witty quotes added by the author to define the character and thought process of Chanakya and Gangasagar. One of my favourites include "Politicians are like diapers, they need to be changed often and for the same reasons". Ashwin – you now have a new fan, and I am now going for your other books. Please keep writing and help present day generations get a better interpretation of India's glorious past leaders and strategists.

The book follows two story lines, one in the ancient past, during Chanakya's time, and one in the present day. Each is the subject matter for alternate chapters. The author has managed the frequent juggling of the timelines, a pretty daunting task, quite admirably. Achieving the same requires a good suspense at the end of every chapter.For some chapters, in my opinion, it appeared that this task became a burden on the author. Thus, the author has resorted to filling plotholes in a crude manner, by saying that the character had deep contacts in various systems. This can be accepted by a reader a few times, but not repeatedly. I found myself wondering many times how the character managed to do something, and then, "Oh, he knew this fellow, the director of Intelligence Bureau. That was convenient."Some things are very impractical. I do not profess to be an expert, but the practicality of actions by the characters make a thriller thrilling. I found that a let-down.However, the plot, the concept and the correlation between the parallel timelines, was interesting. I would recommend the book, but not wholeheartedly.

This political thriller is an amazing retelling of the story of "chanakya's" tactics to make "chandragupta" the ruler of magadh.The book narates two parallel stories,which although are from different era but are a lot similar.The first story is of chanakya, who wants to avenge his father's murder by the unworthy king of magadh and to make chandragupta the ruler of united bharat.The second story is of "pandit Gangasagar mishra" a modern day chanakya who with his shrewd political mind instils "Chandini gupta" as the PM of India.Personally, i liked the intertwining of both the stories but i liked the modern day story more....All the bad tricks that can be put to use in politics are described...The genius character making of Gangasagar Mishra needs to be appreciated...The different plottings will definately thrill the reader as it did to me.An exciting and entertaining read. For all the thriller fans..Also, you will find a lot of similarities in the present political scenario and this fictional political thriller.Do read this for the amazing shrewdness of a political mind.Enjoy.