MENAKA’S CHOICE by Kavita Kané [Paperback]

This is a mythological retelling of the story of Menaka and Vishwamitra, focusing particularly on Menaka’s perspective and her deepest desire for a family. Menaka, an exceptionally beautiful and intelligent apsara, is sent by Indra to distract Vishwamitra after his severe austerities make him powerful enough to challenge the gods. Their encounter becomes more than a divine scheme as Menaka confronts her own longing for love, belonging and motherhood, while Vishwamitra faces the conflict between his spiritual ambitions and human emotions.

The narrative offers a more human and emotionally nuanced portrayal of Menaka, exploring themes of destiny, desire, sacrifice, love, motherhood, ambition and the conflict between divine duty and personal longing.