About the Book: “Bimbisar’s Curse” by Tanushree Podder is a historical novel set during the Haryanka Dynasty’s rule of the Magadh Empire. It follows the reign of King Bimbisar, a contemporary of the Buddha and Mahavira, known for his political cunning and relationship with the courtesan Amrapali. His prosperous rule ends tragically when he is murdered by his son, Ajatashatru. This act of patricide sets off a bloody chain of events, with each successive king murdering his father. The novel explores this “curse” of violence and intrigue that plagued the dynasty’s future.