AJITA: A NOVEL

AJITA: A NOVEL

Ajita is a beautifully crafted philosophical novel that connects the life of the ancient Cārvāka philosopher Ajita with the contemporary journey of Moksh Malhar, a college professor searching for meaning and understanding. Blending history, philosophy, science and literature, the novel explores timeless questions about knowledge, existence and human curiosity.

📖 About the Book

Set in the fifth century, Ajita follows the journey of a curious young boy fascinated by the mysteries of nature. His endless questions about ants—their movements, communication and intelligence—spark a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and inquiry.

As Ajita grows into a philosopher of the Cārvāka school, his path crosses with some of the most remarkable figures of ancient India, including Emperor Ajatashatru, Makkhali Goshala, Mahavira and the Buddha. Through these encounters, the novel explores debates on philosophy, belief, reason and the nature of reality.

In the modern world, Moksh Malhar, a college professor, struggles with memories of his past and seeks refuge in books, ideas and philosophy. His growing fascination with Cārvāka thought and Ajita’s life leads him into a profound exploration where the boundaries between past and present begin to dissolve.

Told through two interconnected narratives that merge like a Möbius strip, Ajita is structured across twenty-six chapters, with each chapter creatively omitting one letter of the alphabet. This unique literary experiment makes the novel a captivating journey through philosophy, language, form and human thought.

✨ Key Highlights

• A philosophical novel connecting ancient India with the modern world.
• Explores the life and ideas of Cārvāka philosopher Ajita.
• Features encounters with iconic historical figures like Buddha and Mahavira.
• Blends philosophy, science, history and literary experimentation.
• Presented through two parallel narratives across different time periods.
• Uses a unique twenty-six chapter structure based on the alphabet.
• A thought-provoking read for lovers of philosophy, ideas and literary fiction.

✍️ About the Author

K. Sridhar is a theoretical particle physicist who has lived and worked in Bombay for most of his life before moving to Bangalore. Alongside his scientific research, he has developed a deep interest in philosophy, education and the intersection of science and human thought.

He has published works on physics and science education, along with numerous research papers in the fields of physics and philosophy. He is also an art critic who regularly reviews exhibitions and explores creative expressions beyond science.

His first book, Twice Written, was published in 2011. Ajita is his second novel, showcasing his ability to combine scientific curiosity with philosophical exploration and imaginative storytelling.

📚 Why Read This Book?

Ajita is an intellectually rich and imaginative novel that invites readers to reflect on knowledge, belief and the search for truth. With its unique structure and deep philosophical themes, the book offers a fascinating experience for readers interested in Indian philosophy, history, science and literary innovation.