This is an attempt to understand the meaning of Vishnu worship in our time. Written in simple narrative style, it takes us through Vaishnava imagery, philosophy, beliefs, customs, history, folklore and myth.

The book reaches to young and old alike, retelling familiar legends of Rama and Krishna as well as unfamiliar ones like those of Vishnu’s consort and son. Also included are tales of his lesser known incarnations such as Prithu, Hamsa, Hayagriva and Mandhata.

Highlights include lucid explanations and a pictorial key to numerous symbols associated with Vaishnava customs and rituals, a map showing important Vishnu temples, a bibliography for those interested in learning more and over 200 illustrations of Vishnu.

“Let me meditate on the supreme god who rests on the serpent of Time, who rides the bird of light, whose dazzling form contains every dimension of Space, who holds in his four hands, a conch, a discus, a mace and a lotus, who is pleasure and discipline, fulfilment and forgiveness – as his devotee desires, who delights the mind and delivers the soul, who is the source and goal of life and who will embrace all creatures at the end removing fear of death.”