Isha Upanishad: A Novel (Upanishads)

In this historical novel, the main character is on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Set in ancient India, the story follows the protagonist as they explore the nature of the universe, the self, and the divine.

The inciting incident occurs when the protagonist realizes that all things in the universe are covered by the Lord and that the Self can be protected through renunciation. This realization leads them to become detached from material possessions and to focus on performing actions that will benefit their soul.

As the conflict rises, the protagonist faces the challenge of balancing knowledge and ignorance. They learn that both must be pursued together to overcome death and obtain immortality. The protagonist also grapples with the worship of the unmanifested prakriti versus the manifested Hiranyagarbha. They come to understand that both forms of worship should be embraced to achieve enlightenment.

The conflict continues to rise as the protagonist seeks to open the door of Truth, which is covered by a golden disc. They call upon the Nourisher, lone Traveller of the sky, Controller, and Sun, Offspring of Prajapati to remove the disc so that they may behold the Truth. The protagonist longs to see the fairest form of the divine and believes that they are indeed Purusha, who dwells there.

As the story reaches its climax, the protagonist realizes that their journey has led them to a profound understanding of the universe and their place within it. They come to see that all beings are connected, and that hatred has no place in this enlightened worldview. The protagonist also learns that the non-dual Atman pervades all things and moves faster than the mind.

Finally, the conflict is resolved as the protagonist accepts their mortality and prepares for death. They offer salutations to Fire and ask for forgiveness for any deceitful acts they may have committed. The protagonist hopes that their breath will return to the all-pervading, immortal Prana and that their body will be burnt to ashes.