Mumbai: After the success of ‘Aryavir’, eminent author Anita Shirodkar has launched her much awaited fictional novel ‘Sitanshu’. The book is the second part of her mythological trilogy ‘Guardians of the Blue Lotus’ and picks up the plot from the cliff-hanger at the end of ‘Aryavir’.

The event was graced by actor Roshan Abbas and actress Amrita Puri, who enthusiastically engaged Anita Shirodkar in a conversation about the complex mythological universe she has brought to life.

Upon being asked how she manages to keep up with the expansive universe, its innumerable characters and the complexity of the plot, the author explained the methods she uses to direct her ideas in a productive manner so that the storyline stays on track.

Set in ancient India, the trilogy explores the mystical kingdom of Kamalkund, whose heir is Aryavir- a blue-eyed prince who is blessed by Indivara, a sacred blue lotus.

Aryavir’s journey is explored in book one - with his beloved tiger Kar and friend Sitanshu, he faces the challenges that life throws his way. In this novel, the journey of the characters continues as the plot thickens against the backdrop of the war between Kamalkund and Kalipura.

Sitanshu, a newly minted warrior and Astradhari, is about to discover the path to his own destiny.  

Anita Shirodkar explains why the second novel is named after the character Sitanshu, “This book not only unravels the mysteries which were established in the first book, but it also gives a glimpse into where we are heading for final culmination of the series. Sitanshu is becoming a major part of that storyline."

According to the author Aryavir and Sitanshu have never imagined that life could take them in separate directions, but when so much is at stake in the Old World, unexpected situations are going to arise. In a sense, Sitanshu comes into his own as book two comes to a close.

The fascinating world created by Anita not only explores the outer journey of the characters but also their inner journey of self-discovery, as their experiences shape the decisions they take. The epic is written in a contemporary style, a signature approach of the author.