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Ratings: ★★★★☆(4.5/5)
Genre: Reference / Hinduism / Mythology / Religion / Cultural Studies

Book Review:
An Indispensable Guide to the Rich World of Hindu Mythology
Hinduism is one of the world's oldest and most complex religions, with a vast and often bewildering array of gods, goddesses, myths, legends, and traditions. For anyone seeking to navigate this rich and fascinating world, Anna L. Dallapiccola's ''Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend'' is an indispensable guide.

This beautifully produced volume is far more than a simple dictionary. It is a comprehensive and accessible reference work that provides clear, informative, and authoritative entries on over 1,000 topics. Whether you are looking for information on a specific deity like Ganesha or Vishnu, a mythological concept like dharma or karma, a sacred text like the Vedas or the Upanishads, or a cultural practice like yoga or Ayurveda, you will find it here.

Dallapiccola, a renowned scholar of Indian art, brings a deep knowledge and a clear eye to her subject. She explains complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand, without sacrificing scholarly rigor. The book is also beautifully illustrated, with specially researched images of sculpture, architecture, painting, dance, and theater that bring the subject to life. The cover features a striking image of Ganesh from a temple in Goa.

The book also includes a wealth of supplementary material: maps of major cities, regions, and pilgrimage sites; a list of principal dynasties and empires; a chronology of historical events and literary works; and a glossary of Sanskrit terms. These features make it an even more valuable resource for students and researchers.

''Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend'' is a book that will be treasured by anyone with an interest in Hinduism, Indian culture, or comparative religion. It is a perfect introduction for the beginner and an invaluable reference for the scholar. Whether you are reading for pleasure or for study, this book is a joy to explore. Highly recommended.