A Global Anthology Reimagining Conflict, Justice, and Peace
In a world torn apart by ideological polarization, armed conflict, and the growing erosion of empathy, Kurukshetra: Between War and Peace emerges as a powerful literary reckoning. This global anthology—edited by Prof. Dr. Roopali Sircar Gaur and Anita Joseph—brings together around 200 poems and creative non-fiction pieces from 80 poets and writers spanning continents. The voices include not only literary artists but also war veterans and former military leaders, contributing their truths, reflections, and moral questions.
This is not just a collection of literary works—it is a global chorus of conscience. Drawing from memory, myth, resistance, and lived trauma, the anthology reimagines Kurukshetra—the legendary battlefield from the Mahabharata—as a timeless metaphor. It is a space where humanity continues to grapple with ethical dilemmas, power struggles, and the quest for peace.
From ancient wars to present-day flashpoints, the themes covered are as urgent as they are far-reaching:
- Historical Conflicts and Their Lessons
- The Exodus and Battles of the Israelites
- Ancient Wars and Their Echoes in Modern Society
- The World Wars and the Pursuit of Global Peace
- Genocides: Historical and Modern Perspectives
- Today’s Active Battlegrounds and War Zones
- Contemporary Struggles for Regional Dominance
- Religious and Secular Divides in Conflict Zones
- Cold War and the New Cold War
- Ideological Confrontations and Global Tensions
- Proxy Wars and Superpower Rivalries
Through evocative poetry, soul-stirring essays, and deeply personal reflections, contributors confront the moral and emotional dimensions of conflict—external and internal. The anthology becomes both a mirror and a map: reflecting historical wounds while pointing toward the possibility of peace.
Each piece asks the reader:
- What is my Kurukshetra?
- What battles do I fight—internally and externally?
- What kind of world do we hope to build after the wars are over?
At its heart, Kurukshetra: Between War and Peace is a call to reflect, resist, and reimagine. It is not a glorification of war—it is a lamentation, a protest, and a prayer. A sincere effort to understand the roots of violence, and to envision more compassionate, human alternatives.
The striking cover design, created by Aaryan Das, a talented young designer-artist from Delhi, captures the symbolic intensity of Kurukshetra in bold, contemporary visual language. His work bridges generations, adding fresh perspective and power to the anthology’s message. Complementing this are original illustrations by Stephen Kovoor, whose interpretive visuals enrich the book’s poetic vision.
Together, the text and images offer a complete sensory and emotional journey through war, memory, and the hope of peace.
Get your copy of the book from any of these platforms:
