Indian Mythology

Cold and storms plague a lone ship crossing the Indian Ocean. The Avarta’s crew whisper of ill omens, their eyes on a new cabin boy nicknamed Bilge. Could the orphan foundling be a harbinger of bad luck? Fog stalks the ship. An unnatural mist clings to their keel. The sailors whisper of pirates, haunted derelicts, and monsters. Their warnings, echo in Bilge’s nightmares. A bump in the night. Scraping against the hull. Are the monsters real? Is it all real or hazing and imagination? Surviving the truth might mean facing more than the storm.

Charles Eastman is unique among Indian writers, whether storytellers or oral historians. He was raised traditionally, as a Woodland Sioux, by his grandmother, from 1858 to 1874, until he was 15. He thus gained a thorough first-hand knowledge of the lifeways, language, culture, and oral history. His father (thought to have been hanged at Mankato, Minnesota) reappeared and insisted he receive the white man's education.

Shiva emerges as a protector and savior in times of need, showcasing his compassion and strength. This tale emphasizes his role as both a creator and destroyer.

Kartikeya, the god of war and victory, leads battles against demonic forces. This story highlights his valor, wisdom and the lessons he brings as a warrior deity.

The divine union of Shiva and Shakti embodies balance, strength, and creation. This tale illustrates the cosmic relationship that fuels the energy of the universe.

Roshan Chaya is out for justice. Abandoned by her parents at birth and adopted by the kingdom of Jwala's most notorious bandit before his brutal murder, she is now leader of the Shadow Clan, a gang of farmers-turned-bandits impoverished by the provincial governor’s atrocities and corruption. Roshan’s goal: to avenge her adoptive father and earn back rights and dignity for her people.

This story concludes a Purana, wrapping up teachings and legends with profound wisdom, reminding listeners of the timeless values of ancient Indian scriptures.

When yet another wave of colonizing Felters arrives to strengthen their fortress on the forest's edge, Velu, an indigenous hunter, knows they bring only pain and death. But with them arrives an intriguing older woman who hunts legends. When Velu learns the woman, Lady Greyback, shares his terrifying visions of the ancient scorpion god, Ajakava, she invites him to research what they mean. But the Felters grow hostile, blaming Velu and the other hunters for deaths in a doomed expedition through the forest. Meanwhile, the visions become ever more persistent, hinting the god is awakening.

Insightful, telling, ironic, and moving, 14 Native-American legends reflect a nomadic non-property-owning culture, with a reverence for all things natural.