Book, Magazine & OTT Recommendations
 Namaste Parents,
As summer is here, we thought of sharing a curated list of books & OTT we believe kids and you’ll thoroughly enjoy. These selections cover various genres and captivating stories, perfect for relaxing on sunny days. We hope this handpicked collection brings you joy and inspiration throughout the season.
Age under 10:
HPN Expert's Curated Book Sets
This collection is ideal for family storytelling, moral learning, and introducing children to timeless narrative traditions of Hindu Dharma. Includes Bharatiya Katha Vaibhava, Volume 1 to 5 (five books total) – Shreedarshan K, Panchatantra: Illustrated Tales from Ancient India – Shubha Vilas, Airavata – Deepa Salem
Bharatiya Katha Vaibhava -1
How did Sri Ram get the name ‘Ramchandra?’ Why did Kumbhakarana sleep for so long? Why was Arjuna the best warrior? This collection of tales has all the answers. These stories for children take the reader into the wonderful world of gods and goddesses, sadhus and saints, warriors, kings and devotees.
Bharatiya Katha Vaibhava -2
This collection of tales has all the answers. These tales take the reader into the wonderful world of Gods and Goddesses, sages and saints, kings and devotees. Every story highlights the rich cultural heritage of our land, which is a must-read for every growing child, teenager, and adult alike.
Bharatiya Katha Vaibhava -3
The fascinating and endearing tales of the gods and goddesses continues in the third volume of the Bharatiya Katha Vaibhava series. The book introduces children to mythological characters and Hindu deities in a simple and easy-to-follow manner, which is both entertaining and instructive.
Amar Chitra Katha Comics by Anant Pai
We can't recommend them enough. They are the best books to effortlessly introduce Hindu culture and Indian history to kids. Buying a full set of Amar Chitra Katha (ACK) can be a great investment for your kids!
Tiger Comics
Dive into the untold stories from our sacred texts, inscriptions and lores! Learn about our glorious history and Itihaasas through these engaging books.
Age 11 and above
HPN Expert's Curated Book Set - Hindu History Grand Collection
The Hindu History Grand Collection introduces readers to the civilizational journey of Bharat. Through engaging narratives and illustrations, it explores the Indus Valley Civilization, India’s geography, and its intellectual traditions in the fields of mathematics and science. The collection also highlights inspiring figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Ahilyabai Holkar, and Lachit Borphukan. Illustrated retellings of the Ramayana and Mahabharata help young readers connect with these timeless epics. Ideal for families and educators, it serves as a foundational home library that nurtures historical awareness and appreciation of Bharat’s heritage.
HPN Expert's Curated Book Sets - Hindu History Mini Collection
The HPN Mini Collection offers a concise yet meaningful introduction to the history, epics, and inspiring personalities of Bharat.
Through engaging age-appropriate narratives and illustrated storytelling, readers encounter figures of courage and leadership such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Ahilyabai Holkar, while also exploring the timeless wisdom of the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
The collection also introduces young readers to India’s remarkable contributions to global knowledge traditions through The Imperishable Seed, which tells the story of how Hindu mathematics shaped the world.
Shiva Trilogy by Amish
A tale woven around our beloved Mahadev and Sati, the Shiva trilogy is a compelling read whose Dharmic core shines through the fast-paced action, drama, romance, and memorable battle scenes.
Aru Shah (Pandava series) by Roshani Chokshi
Presented by Rick Recordian, the series is a contemporary tale spun with elements from our Puranas and Itihaasas. This thrilling adventure of a 12-year-old Aru has a bit of magic, mysticism, and loads of fun.
Darcy Comes to India by Nellie White
What happens when Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy’s great-great grandson Fitzwilliam Ambar Darcy visit India? He falls in love with an intelligent but headstrong Neeli. A feel-good old-fashioned clean romance for young adult readers, the story is not only refreshing but also is a Dharmic stereotype-buster.
Illustrated Ramayana For Children : Immortal Epic of India
This is an authentic retelling of Valmiki great epic Ramayana that chronicles Lord Rama’s heroism, and Sita’s grit and devotion.
Illustrated Mahabharata: Timeless Tales for Children
Illustrated Mahabharata For Children brings to life thrilling and adventurous stories from the timeless epic.
Ramayana Pack by Shubha Vilas
Ramayana Pack (4 Volumes) by Shubha Vilas presents the epic as a guide to life, with each volume offering a lesson—Courage, Change, Patience, and Strength—blending authentic narration with timeless spiritual insights.
Animal Farm by George Orwell
In George Orwell's timeless classic, "Animal Farm," a seemingly idyllic farm becomes the stage for a powerful and thought-provoking allegory. Set in a rural landscape, this remarkable novel examines the nature of power, corruption, and the human condition. In the current environment of highly idealistic positions on activism, we believe this book is a must-read for both young and adult readers.
Manasvi by Sriram Chakradhar
A transformational journey of gaining clarity on the choices that we make in life, assessing the efforts required to reach the desired goal, and how to lead our life, etc. Manasvi is the outcome of enormous research by the "Thavaasmi" team on Sundara Kaanda.
The Incredible History of the Indian Ocean by Sanjeev Sanyal
The book introduces young adult readers to the theater of the Indian Ocean that has always been active. Unlike the conventional history that trivializes the lives of the indigenous population of the region by accrediting the discovery of the sea route to India to Vasco Da Gama, this book is a tribute to the forgotten indigenous populations.
The Incredible History of India’s Geography by Sanjeev Sanyal
Unlike the ideologically motivated apologia that is typically sold as ancient history of the Indian subcontinent, this book meticulously chronicles the story from the Indic perspective.
Revolutionaries: Fight For Freedom (Abridged edition for children) by Sanjeev Sanyal.
This is an abridged edition of Sanjeev Sanyal's Revolutionaries: The Other Story of How India Won Its Freedom, shortened and illustrated for younger readers. This story is about swashbuckling adventure, intrigue, espionage, incredible bravery, treachery, and shockingly unpredictable twists of fate.
Ahilyabai Holkar: The Guardian Of Indic Civilization by Deepali Patwadkar
In this engaging biography, Deepali Patwadkar explores the life of Punyashloka Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, the 18th-century Malwa ruler whose governance—rooted in daily study of Itihas and Purana—blended military skill, diplomacy, and cultural revival. Her temple building, support for Sanskrit education, and just leadership offer enduring lessons in dharmic governance and social responsibility.
Advanced readers
Mahabharata unravelled, Mahabharata unravelled II, Ramayana unravelled, Why Are We This Way: A Guide to Hindu Shastras by Ami Ganatra – These books are not retellings or imaginations, but an attempt to go back to the original itihasa and present the story, learnings, and nuances for what they are, and make the epics accessible to all.
The Curse of Gandhari & Hindu Love Stories by Aditi Banerjee – Aditi is a prolific writer and speaker about Hinduism and the Hindu-American experience. Considering her grasp of the subject and engaging writing style, we wholeheartedly recommend any books written by her.
“Being Different: An Indian Challenge to Western Universalism“ by Rajiv Malhotra argues for the uniqueness of Indian civilization and Dharmic traditions, contrasting them with Western thought. He critiques Western frameworks for universalizing their perspectives and marginalizing non-Western viewpoints, advocating for a pluralistic and inclusive global discourse. Though dense, the book includes helpful summary tables and is a must-read for parents and young adults.
For Parents
Hinduism Today Magazine
If you're looking for a comprehensive and insightful resource on Hindu culture, spirituality, and current affairs, subscribing to Hinduism Today magazine is an excellent choice. This esteemed publication offers in-depth articles, interviews with spiritual leaders, and features on temples and cultural events from around the world. Each issue provides valuable perspectives on Hindu philosophy, practices, and the global Hindu community.
Many Lives, Many Masters
This book from author and psychotherapist Dr. Brian Weiss explores the subject of how past lives affect our behavior in current life. It validates the core Hindu principles of Karma and rebirth and how they worked in the life of a girl who could recall all her past births.
OTT Titles for Age 6 and above (Parent’s Discretion Advised)
New Mahabharata
While some still prefer to watch BR Chopra’s classic Mahabharata , the 2013 Mahabharata series has become an attractive option for the younger generation. With enhanced graphics and well-chosen characters, this series successfully brings the Mahabharata story to life for a new audience. Please note that a Hulu subscription is required to access the series. Note: You can only see the series posting after you log into Hulu.
Valmiki Ramayan by 21 Notes
21 Notes brings to life the world’s oldest epic. Follow the extraordinary journey of Shri Ram as he walks the path of dharma and satya. This series reimagines the timeless tale through the lens of adventure, courage, and character, making the Ramayan resonate with modern minds and hearts. Watching Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan along with this also helps if you are new to this epic.
Upanishad Ganga
Upanishad Ganga , produced by Chinmaya Mission, is a remarkable series that brings the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads to life through engaging storytelling and dramatization. This 52-episode series delves into the profound philosophical and spiritual teachings of the Upanishads, making them accessible and relevant to modern audiences.
Aadi Shankaracharya
Aadi Shankaracharya is a 10-episode Hindi-language historical drama produced by The Art of Living, Sri Sri Publications Trust, and ONM Multimedia, directed and written by Onkar Nath Mishra, and released on November 1, 2024, via the Art of Living app. It focuses on the early life and spiritual journey of the young Adi Shankaracharya, portraying how his teachings of oneness helped unify a politically and religiously fragmented India. The series, available in multiple Indian languages and it requires app subscription.
Prachyam
Dive into a world of captivating stories, historical documentaries, and cultural treasures. PrachyamTV offers exclusive content that celebrates India's rich heritage. This Indic OTT platform features content suitable for all ages. Please note that a subscription is required to access most of the content.