Chalisa Sangrah

In the life of a human being the most sweet and memorable part is its childhood, say from its second year till its seventh or eighth. During this time the child is very innocent, full of life, playful, has no responsibility or worry, and when in fear or pain it calls its mother and she is there ever ready to protect it. It understands no restriction and has freedom to go and talk to anybody in the house. It does not know how to hate anyone — in fact, it is like the manifestation of the ever-gracious divinity in the world. A child is loved, respected and even adored.

This book is a small attempt to express the love, affection and feelings towards children. In Hindu pantheon the only divine family having children is that of Shiva and Parvati or Uma. Through pleasing illustrations, another made-for-each-other couple — the Kogatas — have touched upon the various facets in the life of the divine chidren — Ganesha and Karttikeya — together with their doting parents. The delightful verses add sweetness and charm to the book.

This volume juxtaposes the history, culture, occupation and the lifestyle of people in the desert district of Jaisalmer of western Rajasthan, bordering Pakistan. Popularly called the “Golden City in Desert”, the city has much more to say beyond its popular fort and palaces. Jaisalmer was an old city of commercial magnitude for centuries till the onset of British rule in India. It was en route connecting the East and West in trade. It has now been transformed to a tourist destination, enticing people from India and abroad.
The book details its past glory, lost significance and the regained charm through centuries of developments. It also accounts for the brief history of Marwar, its rajas of valor, and their heroic struggle for existence and survival against foreign attacks. The picturesque portrayal of the fort, the people of Jaisalmer, their cultural, ethnic and religious mores, and the “must see” spots in the city are the quintessential focus of the book.
Moving away from the city life, the book also focuses on the village life, exploring the mysteries and charm of the desert life. It unearths the hidden charms and the warmth of village life in this desert region, alongwith a brief account of occupation of people around.
This connoisseur’s collection would motivate also researchers of ancient monuments and history, and enthuse tourists who would like to visit the Golden City in Desert.