Published by Rupa Publications, ‘Rasas in Divine Relationships’ offers a unique perspective on the interplay of emotions and divine relationships. The book seamlessly blends ancient scriptures, such as the Vedas, Puranas, Ramayana, and Mahabharata, with the insightful concept of "rasas" from the Natya Shastra. It explores how these emotions shape the lives of divine couples, providing a fresh and thought-provoking lens through which these timeless narratives can be understood.

The launch event commenced with the unveiling of the book, followed by an engaging panel discussion moderated by Baisali Chatterjee Dutt. The panelists, Priti Patel and author Shalini Modi, delved into the significance of rasas in both human and divine relationships.

The evening was a celebration of culture, art, and spirituality, attracting a diverse crowd of artists, writers, and performers. The event concluded with intriguing questions from the audience, further enriching the discussion on the profound impact of rasas.

About the book:  Rasas in Divine Relationships uniquely interweaves the concept of emotions, rasas, from the Natya Shastra (a treatise on the performing arts) and the lives and stories of deific couples, to lead as an example. These larger-than-life characters with extraordinary qualities, upon whom we mortals base our belief system, are depicted as being vulnerable to some of the base desires and vices, thereby making them relatable for the present generations.

About Shalini Modi: Shalini Modi is an astrologer and an avid follower of old Indian scriptures, the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas and epics,which she feels have a lot to offer. It is her belief that the stories and the philosophy in them are relevant to our lives even today and parallels can be drawn to any situation in our lives. Before Covid, Shalini ran an NGO called Pragati Kendra, which supported underprivileged children in their education and encouraged underprivileged women to become economically independent. 

About Oxford Bookstores: Established in 1919, Oxford Bookstore is one of the oldest heritage bookstores of the nation. It is India’s only bookstore to curate multiple literary festivals like Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival, Apeejay Bangla Sahitya Utsob and Hindi Sahitya Utsav. The Oxford Bookstore not only offers book lovers access to the very best books and ambience, but also India’s first of its kind tea boutique, Cha Bar. At Oxford Bookstores, success is measured by the smiles on millions of happy readers that the brand has served over the last 100 years. Each time you walk into our iconic store in Kolkata, its old-world charm leaves you enchanted and desiring for more. Our fleet of ‘happy to help’ the knowledgeable booksellers and conversant hosts, work round the clock to bring to our vendees and world-class reading experience. Be it through our books or our fine teas we abide by the brand’s motto – Much more than a bookstore – at every Bookstore.