The Magicians of Mazda Paperback – 21 May 2022

The master storyteller of India is back again this time with another riveting and unputdownable epic saga that spans several centuries of historical facts and is blended with a fictional thriller. This is one of the few books that deserves undivided attention due to the enormous research carried out on the main theme - the Zoroastrian community. Since the first book in the Bharat series, the author has used different compositions in his mythological fictional thrillers and each one is a masterpiece by itself.The story begins with an Indian-born US-settled Parsi scientist, Jim Dastoor, founder of Gemini Cellular Research Centre (GCRC) who is abducted from this Seattle laboratory to Portland and then to Tehran. His wife Linda and his closest friend and co-founder of GCRC, Dan Cohen begin to trace his whereabouts and reach Tehran. Jim and his team at GCRC are on the fringe of a new cutting-edge medical discovery that can trigger the human cell regeneration process. This research could benefit mankind from carcinomas to Alzheimer’s. The main ingredient of this research was a closely guarded secret white power called the Hamzaa Dura, which was passed on to Jim from several generations before him. The source material was presumed to be beyond the current knowledge including homeo dilutions. The theorized elements were higher than in the 8th periodic table - either undiscovered or hypothesized. When there are such good intentions, there is always the devil, and this was in the form of Pharma giant Asclepius, who wanted to lay their hands on the formulation and amass wealth.The story now dates back to 720 CE when some fleet of boats land on the shores of Sanjan in Gujarat from erstwhile Persia, fearing their lives from the cruel megalomaniac Umayyad Caliphate. The kings of the western region sheltered them and they began chanting Sanskrit-like prayers and consecrated a sacred fire to thank their god, Ahura Mazda. From here on, begins a parallel story of historical enlightenment to the readers from the times of the Achaemenid kings around the 6th century BCE to how the Zoroastrian community is believed to have come into existence, the origin of the sacred fire, and a plethora of knowledge about this little known community. Some of the chapters of the book were so elaborately explained that I had to go back and read them a few times to have a better understanding. Then there is Cecil, Jim’s grandmother who also narrates the history of the Dastoor family, their lineages, ancestry, and whereabouts of the current generation. Also in the later part of the book, Jim’s wife Linda, a historian brilliantly narrates a Zoroastrian-Hindu connection. This connection is not only in the dialect and religious texts but also between the Zoroastrian-Vedic philosophy which makes the book even more intriguing.The story toggles between these two timelines with Jim, Linda, and their rescuers on a miraculous life-saving journey from the ancient Persepolis to modern-day Tehran, the Taliban camps of Afghanistan, and finally to India to the bewitching landscapes of Kashmir. On the other hand, we have an entire Encyclopedia on the Zoroastrian community, their beliefs, faith, and ideologies, that seem to be unbeknownst to many of us. It is very sad to see that such a resourceful community of the past has dwindled in its population today, but their contribution to society and mankind is beyond anyone’s comprehension.My favorite characters in the book were Cecil and Linda with their gargantuan knowledge about the Zoroastrian community and how it is closely correlated to Hindu tradition in many ways. Several other characters were pivotal to the plot, while some were just passersby. While the kidnapping and the daring escape by Jim and his pals from various adversaries do make it a compulsive thriller, it is the element of meticulous and conscientious research and knowledge of the Zoroastrian community that gives this book an edge over being a thriller.Overall must read for all who not only like thrillers but gain an insight into the Parsi community and their origins. For me, it is certainly, one of those few books that deserve to be read again. Hope to see another blockbuster in the Bharat series from Ashwin Sanghi. Hats off to you for this wonderful series.

However bit lengthy and too many twists and turns.At times it appeared as author didn't want to finish the story.The folks who don't know much about Parsis, this could be a good source of learning.

The Magicians of Masada by Ashwin Sanghi is a gripping tale of magic, history, and political intrigue. Set in modern-day Israel, the story revolves around an ancient secret society of magicians who are tasked with protecting a powerful artifact, the Magen David. The Magen David is believed to possess immense power and is sought after by various groups, including the Israeli government, the Vatican, and a mysterious organization known as the Sons of Light.Sanghi weaves a complex web of conspiracy and betrayal, and the characters are multi-dimensional and flawed. The protagonist, Jordan, is a troubled magician who must confront his past and his own demons to fulfill his destiny. The supporting cast is equally engaging, and the author does an excellent job of bringing the various factions to life.The Magicians of Masada is a well-researched book, and Sanghi blends historical facts with elements of fantasy to create a vivid and immersive world. The pacing is excellent, and the plot twists keep the reader engaged until the very end. However, the ending may be a bit rushed, and some loose ends are left untied.Overall, The Magicians of Masada is a thrilling read that will appeal to fans of fantasy and political thrillers. Sanghi's writing is engaging, and the story is well-constructed, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good adventure.

Another good work from Ashwin Sanghi. Have always found his books gripping and enthralling. Waiting to read his next book.

Story is good . Adventurous. I have read three other books of the same author and I enjoyed. But ..author Can be called a novice regarding knowledge of Quran . A ideal researcher should relax the mind of his reader ..should not use the same rhetoric as laymen do. One suggestion I can add …an ideal story should be like ‘ no ill feelings should come for anyone that can alter the peace of mind’ after finishing the story .

Ashwin Sanghi & his books don't need reviews. Anyone who has read any of his books know that he is India's Dan brown seamlessly blending historical facts with science fiction in his own unique way. Deep research & a fast paced writing makes it difficult to put the book down.Magicians of Mazda is more of an introduction to the Zorastrian religion which shares many common practices with Vedic India. It also highlights how Islam has destroyed everything wherever it reached wether it is belief, religious practices or culture since it follows the "My way or the Highway" approach which has resulted in millions of people all over the world especially India & Iran dying at the hands of those who embraced it.The Zend Avesta has so many things in common with Vedic religion that it seems more like a branch of Hinduism than a separate religion even though it has its own unique identity all of which has been explained by the Author. Once you read it everything becomes clear to the reader as to what caused one of the greatest civilisation on earth to fall to ruins.

What I like about these series of books is that it’s connected to real places and dates in history. The story telling is obviously amazing but for a fact nerd like myself it’s intensely satisfying to see that these places and things can be verified in search results

Ability to combine Fact and fiction is fantastic.