Brijesh Singh’s The Cloud Chariot is a meticulously crafted historical thriller set in the transformative era of first-century BCE Kalinga, a time when the region was recovering from the devastation caused by Emperor Ashoka’s conquest and rising anew under the Mahameghavahana dynasty. The narrative revolves around King Mahameghavahana Kharavela, a visionary ruler striving to restore Kalinga to its former glory while navigating a maze of political intrigue, palace conspiracies, and external threats. Through Singh’s vivid storytelling, readers are transported to an era of cultural resurgence and fierce determination, where the kingdom of Kalinga stands as a beacon of resilience amidst turmoil.
At the heart of the story lies the enigmatic Rudravarman, a polymath and brilliant warrior who enters the kingdom as a stranger. His mysterious past, guarded motives, and rise to prominence within the royal court add layers of suspense to the tale. The book masterfully builds tension around his true intentions, as readers ponder whether he will aid Kharavela in his dream of retrieving the looted Jina idol from Magadha or prove to be a hidden adversary. The interplay of trust, betrayal, and ambition within the royal palace keeps readers engaged, while the external challenges from foreign invaders further intensify the stakes.
The world-building in The Cloud Chariot is nothing short of exceptional. Singh reconstructs Toshali, the capital city of Kalinga, with painstaking detail, drawing on archaeological excavations and historical texts to bring the ancient city to life. From its wooden architecture inspired by the era to its administration rooted in Kautilya’s Arthashastra, every element is steeped in authenticity. Singh’s meticulous research extends to warfare, weaponry, and even medicinal practices of the time, creating an immersive experience that transports readers to the heart of ancient India.
Beyond the thrilling plot and historical depth, the book offers a profound exploration of cultural and patriotic resurgence in Kalinga. The narrative seamlessly weaves together themes of royal rivalry, tribal dynamics, and religious interplay, reflecting the complex socio-political landscape of the time. Singh’s ability to blend strategy, suspense, and emotional resonance makes The Cloud Chariot a compelling read that appeals to history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike.
Brijesh Singh, IPS, is not only a senior police officer with extensive expertise in cybersecurity but also a gifted storyteller with a passion for Indian history. His debut novel, Quantum Siege, is a contemporary thriller set in Mumbai, while his second book, Dangerous Minds, co-authored with S. Hussain Zaidi, delves into the stories of India’s most notorious criminals. With The Cloud Chariot, Singh showcases his versatility as a writer, offering readers a rich tapestry of historical fiction. Currently serving as Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Singh is also championing the use of artificial intelligence in governance, reflecting his innovative approach to both technology and storytelling.
The Cloud Chariot stands as a proof – if it is needed – of Singh’s dedication to capturing India’s rich heritage and presenting it in a way that resonates with modern audiences. It is a story of resilience, ambition, and the enduring pursuit of greatness — one that lingers in the minds of its readers long after the final page is turned. A must-read for those seeking a thrilling and enlightening journey through India’s past.
This book captivates from the first page to the last, pulling readers into a world brimming with epic ambition, breathtaking betrayals, and long-buried truths. Set against the backdrop of India’s turbulent first century BCE, the author crafts a historical thriller that not only mesmerizes with its incredible pace but also leaves an indelible mark with its meticulous attention to detail. The descriptions are vivid and imaginative, making the settings and characters leap off the page with authenticity and life. Every element, from the strikingly well-conceptualized cover to the high production quality, reflects the thoughtfulness behind the creation of this book. For lovers of tightly woven, gripping historical thrillers, this is an absolute gem — truly unputdownable and a testament to exceptional storytelling.
Mr Singh demonstrates an impressive depth of knowledge, drawing from archaeological discoveries and ancient texts like the Arthashastra. This dedication to historical accuracy results in vivid and immersive descriptions that bring the past to life. Singh has masterfully resurrected a relatively obscure period of Indian history, crafting a narrative that is both authentic and thoroughly captivating.
This work marks a departure from Singh’s earlier thrillers; here, he ventures into uncharted territory by delving into an enigmatic era of India’s past. Reflecting on this choice, Singh remarked, “There is not enough clarity on what India was in that era. We are the only country with a cultural continuity, while other empires have broken it. Strangely, we don’t value it. I thought it was important and pertinent to shed light on this period of ancient Indian history.”
The inspiration for this book came from a conversation with a friend who had created a graphic storyboard for children, which Singh felt distorted historical truths. Determined to correct this portrayal, Singh explained, “I found that the graphic representation resembled a comic, displaying clear Greco-Roman influences. For instance, Indian soldiers could never have used metal armours in our hot climate; they preferred leather armours instead. Recognizing this flawed way of graphic storytelling, I abandoned the idea and turned to the written word, combining the richness of three editions of the Arthashastra to craft this narrative.” Mr Singh creates this vivid and factual imagery by words, and how!.
The book is available on Amazon and has won rave reviews.
[The Cloud Chariot, written by Brijesh Singh, IPS, published by Ebury Press, Pages 336.]
A Column By
Raju Korti – Editor
The Resource 24X7
A Journalist With 4 Decades of Experience With Leading Media Houses.
