Akshat Gupta’s The Hidden Hindu is a modern mythological thriller that combines ancient legends, secret societies, and futuristic science in a gripping narrative. The book offers a high-octane, imaginative journey through India’s forgotten past and uncertain future. It’s the first part of a trilogy that dives deep into the mystery of immortality, Hindu mythology, and the fascinating character of Om Shastri, who holds secrets older than recorded history.
If you enjoy fast-paced novels that blend Indian spirituality with modern conspiracies—think Immortals of Meluha meets The Da Vinci Code—this is a thrilling ride you won’t want to miss.
Plot Summary
The novel begins in 2020 when a man named Prithvi, a curious young researcher, is assigned to interrogate Om Shastri, a mysterious man captured from the Andaman Islands. Om claims to be over 5,000 years old, having lived through the events of the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and every major Indian epoch since.
What follows is a tense and mind-bending exchange, as Om unravels the truth about hidden ancient knowledge, time travel, divine reincarnations, and an eternal battle between secret forces. Through his confession, we learn about the Aghori sect, secretive immortals, and the threat of a cosmic imbalance.
Parallel timelines and hidden agendas start to collide as Om’s narrative challenges everything Prithvi—and the readers—thought they knew about history and mythology.
Themes and Symbolism
At its heart, The Hidden Hindu is about the immortality of knowledge, the cyclical nature of time, and the power of belief systems. Akshat Gupta draws heavily from Hindu scriptures, particularly lesser-known aspects of Puranic stories, tantra, and Agama texts, adding richness to the fictionalized world.
The character of Om Shastri is both a symbol and a vessel. He represents timeless wisdom and the ongoing struggle between dharma (righteousness) and adharma (unrighteousness). The story also explores how modern science—like cryonics and DNA cloning—could intersect with ancient Vedic insights.
This combination of spiritualism and science fiction is what gives the novel its unique voice and appeal.
Narrative Style and Structure
Gupta’s writing is accessible, energetic, and cinematic. The short chapters, rapid plot developments, and crisp dialogues make the book a quick page-turner. The interrogation format of much of the story adds suspense, as layers of truth are peeled back slowly.
Though it takes creative liberties, the storytelling is grounded in real scriptures and texts, giving it authenticity without being preachy. The cliffhanger ending sets the stage for Book 2 in the trilogy, making sure readers are left wanting more.
Why You Should Read It
If you’re fascinated by ancient Indian mythology and have a taste for mystery, The Hidden Hindu will not disappoint. The book caters to readers who love intellectual puzzles and are eager to explore how the ancient past could influence the modern and even futuristic world.
It’s also ideal for fans of mytho-thrillers, a growing genre in Indian fiction. With a story that travels across centuries and confronts the very idea of human limitations, The Hidden Hindu is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Book Details:
- Publisher : Penguin eBury Press (1 January 2021)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 256 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0143455699
- ISBN-13 : 978-0571348176
- Item Weight : 160 g
- Dimensions : 1.32 x 12.9 x 19.8 cm
- Country of Origin : India
- Best Sellers Rank: #1,239 in Books
FAQs about The Hidden Hindu
Q1: Is the story based on real mythology?
Yes, it draws heavily from Hindu mythology, particularly Puranic literature and Aghori practices, but it’s told through a fictionalized lens.
Q2: Is this book suitable for teenagers?
Yes, readers aged 15 and above will enjoy it, especially those interested in mythology and science.
Q3: Is this book part of a series?
Yes, it’s the first book in The Hidden Hindu trilogy. The story continues in Parts 2 and 3.
Q4: How long is the book?
The paperback runs approximately 230 pages, making it a quick and engaging read.
Q5: Does it contain religious preachings?
No, it’s a fictional narrative inspired by mythology, not a religious discourse. It remains respectful and imaginative.