Chaturanga (Báhubali: Before the Beginning - Book 2) - Anand Neelakantan

The high-stakes game of power intensifies. Full of shocking twists, shifting loyalties, and breathless action, the second installment in the official Bāhubali prequel series will keep you gripped from the very first page.

Political intrigue reaches a fever pitch in the glittering yet treacherous empire of Mahishmathi. In the wake of the bloody, failed coup staged by the rebel Vaithalikas, the fierce and calculating Sivagami finds herself elevated to the powerful position of bhoomipathi. From this new vantage point within the royal court, she gained the leverage she needed to meticulously dismantle the kingdom from the inside and finally avenge her father's unjust execution.

However, the path to vengeance is riddled with chaos. A bitter, ruthless succession tussle has erupted between the two princes—the sons of the Maharaja of Mahishmathi—each desperate to claim the ultimate crown. As the brothers turn on each other, a shadowy, brilliant mastermind pulls the strings from behind the scenes, calculating every move to violently topple the reigning King, Somadeva.

Will Maharaja Somadeva—a ruler historically capable of outwitting the sharpest minds—see through the deception and prevail? Or will one of his many lurking enemies deliver the final checkmate in this savage, real-world game of Chaturanga?

Set against a breathtaking backdrop of soaring ambition, secret love, absolute loyalty, raw passion, and destructive greed, Anand Neelakantan delivers a twist-a-minute masterpiece. Chaturanga is a deeply satisfying, complex political thriller that beautifully bridges the gap toward the legendary events of S.S. Rajamouli’s cinematic epic.

Why This Epic Sequel is a Must-Own:

• Official Bāhubali Lore: Expands the rich, cinematic universe of Mahishmathi, detailing the critical historical events that shaped the destiny of Queen Sivagami.

• Masterful Political Manipulation: A brilliant exploration of statecraft, espionage, and psychological warfare, reminiscent of classic dark fantasy epics.

• Fast-Paced and Structural: Packed with short, high-tension chapters that masterfully weave multiple subplots, grand battles, and shocking character betrayals.