Annapurna Devi: The Untold Story of a Reclusive Genius

Incredible glimpse into the lives of the incredible Guru Annapurna Devi, Baba, and other musicians. Thank you for writing this book.

I’m extremely feeble person to give feedback or write review on this book as I don’t have the audacity to do that. Extremely well written and life changing viewpoints. The definition of leading a godly life lies in the small things around you. Music is one way to achieve incarnation. She has shown the way. Author has shown the way. Hats off to you !!

Sublime, to the point and no-holds-bar account of one of the greatest musical mystics and Sadhvi of India.After reading this book, I believe, she belongs to the elite category of spiritual and transcendental beings, that Paramhansa Yogananda ji lists in his book Autobiography of a Yogi.I have heard Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan Saab had attained Bramha (in Kolkata during one of his recitals in presence of Acharya Pandit Gyan Prakash Ghosh). After reading the narratives recorded in this book, I strongly believe that both Annapura Devi ji and Acharya Ustad Allauddin Khan Saab must have experienced such immortal awakening, as well.

Firstly, I must express my profound humility and reluctance in attempting to articulate a review for someone as inherently pure and serene, akin to an embodiment of Sharda Ma - Ma Annapurna. I humbly write here with the sole intention of ensuring the widest possible dissemination of this book, recognizing the pivotal role of reviews and ratings within the Amazon algorithm.Having been nurtured in a family steeped in the traditions of the Patiala Gharana of classical music, I was raised amidst the resounding echoes of maestros such as Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan Sahab, Ustad Allauddin Khan Sahab, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan Sahab, Pandit Ravi Shankar, my esteemed grandfather Pandit Prasun Banerjee, and countless others. However, amidst this illustrious lineage, the melodic strains of Ma Annapurna Devi remained conspicuously absent. My curiosity regarding this enigmatic absence found its answer within the pages of this illuminating book.This book unravels the untold story of one of the most enlightened souls of 20th century. This literary masterpiece is a testament to the author's exceptional skill and dedication. The task of encapsulating the essence of such a revered figure is undeniably daunting, yet the author has accomplished it with remarkable finesse. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to them for unraveling the untold saga of Ma. It is rare for a book to evoke such visceral reactions, but as I delved into its pages, I found myself overcome with goosebumps and chills.Through its narrative, this book resurrects the profound potency of Indian classical music, a heritage that often appears perilously close to fading into obscurity in the modern era. It serves as a poignant reminder of the spiritual depth and transformative power inherent within this timeless art form. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking to explore the transcendental realms of spirituality and the indomitable allure of Indian classical music.

The book is a biography well written. The recluse that she was, we wouldn't have known much about Annapurna Ji had it not been for this book. The authenticity comes from the fact that the writer was personally associated with her for few decades.Though the theme is primarily Annapurna Ji, we get to know much about her father, a colossal figure in the music world and so also her brother.We get peeks of dedication in music; what it entails and what are the demands involved in teaching / learning music the traditional Indian way. Normally, we are bewildered with the end result; this artist performs so well, this Ustad Ji or this Pandit Ji plays so well. What we often ignore is the years of sadhana undergone by them and also the dedication of the teacher.Another aspect of dedication is the complete submission of the taught to the guru.We normally have biographies revolving around the great deeds, feats and heroism of the persona. Here we have descent coverage of the problems and the last days too. Most of the people who were associated with the great lady have been found to be slightly reclusive in later part of their respective lives but probably that is destined for many great souls.We get to see the command of the author on the science of music, history of music and Sanskrit through various chapters of the book.Apparently, the cover and any brief review gives the impression of the book being serious. Trust me, it is easy reading once one gets into it. More than this generation, I suggest, all should suggest it as a compulsory reading for the next generation.