Why Are We This Way: A Guide to Hindu Shastras By Ami Ganatra
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June 14, 2026
By Shivendra Shandilya
Book Review
Language:ENGLISH
Format: PAPERBACK
Pages: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 9789365478440
Publisher: Occam
The book serves as an insightful primer for those unfamiliar with the foundations of Hindu civilisation, covering its rich traditions, rituals, philosophy, and the meanings behind mantras. Titled "Why Are We This Way," it offers a comprehensive introduction to the essential concepts of Shruti and Smriti literature within Hindu scriptures. The author skillfully summarises each chapter in a tabular format, enhancing comprehension and making the information more accessible. The author explained the important Vedic worldview of Rna, Varna & Ashrama, & Four fold foundational aims of Life, i.e., Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha in the beginning. The main focus of the book is to explain the Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda as part of Shruti Literature, along with the Vedangas, Upavedas, Darshanas, Dharmashastras, Itihasa, Puranas, and Agamas under Smriti Literature.
One of the notable features of the book is the author's thorough examination of various Dharma Shastras, including Manusmriti, Yajnavalkya Smriti, and Parashara Smriti. By exploring crucial topics such as property inheritance and women's rights within these texts, the author elucidates their significance in a manner that is easy for a layperson to grasp. Furthermore, the book integrates intriguing factoids on anekantavada in Jainism, as well as a concise explanation of the six main Pramanas in Indian philosophy, complete with relatable examples. This inclusion makes the book a valuable reference for anyone new to the intricate Indian Knowledge System.
The storytelling aspect of the book is particularly engaging, featuring notable historical events such as the Great Debate between Adi Shankara and the Mimamsaka Mandapa Mishra. The author also delves into select verses from the Aitareya Brahmana, enriching the chapters with profound insights. In addition, the book provides a clear explanation of ancient Vedic rituals, including the Panigrahana ceremony traditionally observed in marriages.The author aptly highlights the Itihasas—specifically the Ramayana and Mahabharata—as case studies that exemplify life's complexities and the concept of Dharma. By drawing parallels to contemporary challenges and the moral lessons derived from these epic narratives, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own lives. Through this book and her previous works, "Mahabharata Unravelled" and "Ramayana Unravelled," the author is dedicated to guiding a broad audience, particularly those who have not previously engaged with primary Hindu texts or who may have been exposed to misconstrued or Westernised interpretations of ancient Hindu literature. Her efforts make this book an essential resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Hindu culture and philosophy.
Format: PAPERBACK
Pages: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 9789365478440
Publisher: Occam
The book serves as an insightful primer for those unfamiliar with the foundations of Hindu civilisation, covering its rich traditions, rituals, philosophy, and the meanings behind mantras. Titled "Why Are We This Way," it offers a comprehensive introduction to the essential concepts of Shruti and Smriti literature within Hindu scriptures. The author skillfully summarises each chapter in a tabular format, enhancing comprehension and making the information more accessible. The author explained the important Vedic worldview of Rna, Varna & Ashrama, & Four fold foundational aims of Life, i.e., Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha in the beginning. The main focus of the book is to explain the Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda as part of Shruti Literature, along with the Vedangas, Upavedas, Darshanas, Dharmashastras, Itihasa, Puranas, and Agamas under Smriti Literature.
One of the notable features of the book is the author's thorough examination of various Dharma Shastras, including Manusmriti, Yajnavalkya Smriti, and Parashara Smriti. By exploring crucial topics such as property inheritance and women's rights within these texts, the author elucidates their significance in a manner that is easy for a layperson to grasp. Furthermore, the book integrates intriguing factoids on anekantavada in Jainism, as well as a concise explanation of the six main Pramanas in Indian philosophy, complete with relatable examples. This inclusion makes the book a valuable reference for anyone new to the intricate Indian Knowledge System.
The storytelling aspect of the book is particularly engaging, featuring notable historical events such as the Great Debate between Adi Shankara and the Mimamsaka Mandapa Mishra. The author also delves into select verses from the Aitareya Brahmana, enriching the chapters with profound insights. In addition, the book provides a clear explanation of ancient Vedic rituals, including the Panigrahana ceremony traditionally observed in marriages.The author aptly highlights the Itihasas—specifically the Ramayana and Mahabharata—as case studies that exemplify life's complexities and the concept of Dharma. By drawing parallels to contemporary challenges and the moral lessons derived from these epic narratives, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own lives. Through this book and her previous works, "Mahabharata Unravelled" and "Ramayana Unravelled," the author is dedicated to guiding a broad audience, particularly those who have not previously engaged with primary Hindu texts or who may have been exposed to misconstrued or Westernised interpretations of ancient Hindu literature. Her efforts make this book an essential resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Hindu culture and philosophy.