K.Hari Kumar

This evening, I was notified of a defamatory Facebook post alleging that I did not give credit to the photographer for the cover of Daiva. The beautiful photos on the cover were taken by the talented photographer from Karnataka, Rakesh Kumar B (ರಾಕೇಶ್ ಕೊಣಾಜೆ). On any other day this would have been a happy collaboration post but sadly it is not so.

As a creative professional, I understand the photographer’s sentiments and I support it. I tried to explain it to him too that he should take it up with the publisher instead of saying such things about me. However, I also want to clarify that authors do not have a say in decisions related to a book’s cover and design.

The creative decisions for the production of the book entirely lie with the publisher, HarperCollins India. I inquired about the photo and I was informed that the publisher’s art team sourced the photographs for the front and back covers from Wikimedia Commons and credited the website on the back cover (see attached image). As per their company’s policy they have attributed it to Wikimedia Commons.

I have already provided the email address of the publisher’s art department and requested the photographer (in a private message) to write to them. Out of my goodwill I have already respectfully conveyed this fact to the photographer because is a fellow Tuluva and a creative professional. The concerns of the photographer has also been cinveyed to the publisher.

I have asked him politely to take up the matter rightfully with the publisher. What makes me sad today is that all that effort of 16 months for writing and rewriting the book multiple times has been replaced by some heartbreaking messages and comments, because of one defamatory post which presents only one side of the story.

To my friends and well wishers here - Writers only write. Publishers take all other major decisions. Sadly, many of his supporters have gone on to accuse and defame me, the writer. This defamation of a hardworking creative individual by another creative individual is disappointing, especially after explaining the complete truth. If somebody understands the technicalities of publishing and limitations of writers kindly explain this to them.

To clarify, I am posting a screenshot of the image on Wikimedia as well as the credit attributed at the back cover. Rest will be taken care by the Daivas 🙏🏼

As a Pune author, it's an honour to be ‘inducted’ by the most popular bookseller in the city. Embracing the Daivas in the city of Ganesha 🙏🏼

Those in Pune can buy author signed copies of Daiva from Solanki Booksellers.

A few author signed copies of Daiva are available at Express Bookservice, Rohit Enterprises, the heritage bookshop in Pune camp.

Rohit ji from shared insights on his works, charity, and his history with the Murthys. Not me, my name is spelt as Moorthy. These are the in-laws of the UK PM, that he talked about. A quaint place with a lot of history in the heart of Pune.

Book signing at crossword, Kemp’s corner, Mumbai.

Pune readers, meet me and get your copy of my latest book signed at bookstores in our city. Schedule below, save the date!

My interview with a Life Style channel:

BookMeet - Daiva, by Author K Hari Kumar , ...

Read my exclusive interview with Harper Broadcast, where I discuss DAIVA, Tulu culture, and drop a subtle hint about my next book!

Between the Lines with K. Hari Kumar - HarperCollins Publishers India Books, Novels, Authors and Reviews HarperCollins Publishers India has completed more than 25 years in India and HarperCollins as a brand has completed over 200 years globally. HarperCollins India is one of the world’s largest entertainment to education publisher.

From the Publisher's Press Release:

Prerna Gill, commissioning editor, HarperCollins India says, ‘Daiva is an important book about a culture, and its traditions related to spirit-worship, not easily found in the English language. A rare work, this is one to read and treasure.'

Author K. Hari Kumar says, ‘Daiva is more than a book. It is very close to my heart. It chronicles my journey across the heart and soul of Tulu Nadu, in search of the sacred truth that has stood the test of time. It is a tribute to the rich heritage and folklore of Tulu Nadu. Who are the daivas? Why are they so important to the Tulu speaking populace? How are they worshipped? What are their stories? This book tries to answer some of these questions.’

HarperCollins presents Daiva by K. Hari Kumar - HarperCollins Publishers India Books, Novels, Authors and Reviews HarperCollins Publishers India has completed more than 25 years in India and HarperCollins as a brand has completed over 200 years globally. HarperCollins India is one of the world’s largest entertainment to education publisher.

A few pictures from the modest session at Kunzum, DT Megamall, Gurgaon. A humble thanks to everyone who attended and supported my journey with the Daivas 🙏🏼

Watch K.Hari Kumar — author of , a India publication — in conversation with Sharan Poovanna on the release of his book, in ThePrint on 17 May at 6pm. The book delves into extraordinary world of spirit worship, Kola performances and other age-old traditions of Tulu Nadu.

Coverage of Daiva on The Print.

New book explores the extraordinary world of spirit worship Published by HarperCollins India, 'Daiva' by K. Hari Kumar, will be released on 17 May on SoftCover, ThePrint’s online venue to launch non-fiction books.

Stay tuned for the launch of , authored by K.Hari Kumar, on ThePrint on 17 May at 6 pm. A HarperCollins India publication, the book delves into the extraordinary world of spirit worship, Kola performances & other intriguing aspects of this timeless traditions from Tulu Nadu.

The powerful Satyappe Kallurti & Panjurli

Know more about them in DAIVA.

Daiva - Discovering the Extraordinary World of Spirit Worship. Published by HarperCollins India.

Coming to Bookstores ON 13 MAY 2024.
Order the online from:
Amazon: brnw.ch/21wJl3r
Padhega India: https://padhegaindia.in/product/daiva-discovering-the-extraordinary-world-of-spiritworship/
Get ready to be spellbound.

In Tulu Nadu, a skilled kola artist performs the paardana by singing the sacred songs of the daiva while rhythmically beating a small traditional drum. These paardanas are deeply rooted in the folk traditions of Tulu Nadu, representing a sacred and cultural expression cherished by the community.

Read more about Tulu folk songs in Daiva - Discovering the Extraordinary World of Spirit Worship. Published by HarperCollins India.

Coming to Bookstores ON 13 MAY 2024.
Order the online from:
Amazon: brnw.ch/21wJl3r
Padhega India: padhegaindia.in/product/daiva-…
Get ready to be spellbound

On the occasion of , I delve into mythological creation story of Tulu Nadu on my blog. You will find the reference to Parashurama in the second chapter of my book, Daiva - Discovering the Extraordinary World of Spirit Worship.

Parashurama's Creation: Tulu Nadu — K. Hari Kumar Parashuram, the sixth avatar of Vishnu, created Tulu Nadu and Kerala with his axe. This region is therefore called Parashurama Srishti.

Immersed in reading the edited manuscript of my next jungle fiction set in East India, when this Tagore gem plays on my Spotify playlist:

mayabono biharini horini... gohono swopno soncharini...
keno tare dhoribare kori pon? okaron?
mayabono biharini...

A fitting vibe for May 7th - Tagore's birth anniversary 🙏

Daiva Kola is a captivating tradition celebrated for its beautiful artistry that adorns the faces of dancers with a myriad of colors, ranging from mild yellow to the deepest black. Experience the seamless blending of hues and discover the vibrant beauty of Kola as you immerse yourself in this enchanting cultural tradition.

Know more in Daiva. Published by
Coming to bookstores in May 2024.

Order the online from:

Amazon: brnw.ch/21wJl3r
Padhega India: padhegaindia.in/product/daiva-…

Get ready to be spellbound 🙏🏼

Find out how a few unexpected books inspired my journey, Daiva. Read the story of how they sparked a path of self-discovery.

When The Alchemist Met Amar Chitra Katha Amar Chitra Katha, Chandamama, The Alchemist and Nine Lives inspired author K. Hari Kumar to write his latest book, Daiva.

Inspiration behind Daiva — the books that shaped my journey.

Nine Lives by William Dalrymple
The tagline on this cover sparked my adventure.

Folktales and Inspiration
Chandamama and Amar Chitra Kathas — Classic Indian folktales that fueled my imagination. Can’t thank my parents enough for feeding me these periodicals instead of chocolates and chips during my childhood.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Santiago’s journey resonated deeply within my heart.
Daiva, similarly, is a quest for answers, a journey of self-discovery navigating through the red soils of Tulunadu.

I am so excited to see Daiva take shape and arrive at bookstores. Do get your copies before stocks run out.



Order the online from:

Amazon: https://brnw.ch/21wJl3r
Padhega India: https://t.co/fP0CaHNibl

Get ready to be spellbound 🙏🏼

Daiva among 10 books to read in May 2024.
Read more:

10 Books to Read in May 2024 | Books - Storizen Embark on a literary journey through May 2024 with Storizen Magazine's handpicked selection of captivating books to read that promise to enrich your mind and soul.

Some of you might have noticed this in Kantara. Gaggara (गग्गरा): The sacred anklet graces the feet of dancers embodying the revered daivas of Tulu Nadu. This may look similar to the chilampu used by oracles of Kerala. Their rhythmic chime ignites devotion and inspires awe.

Know more in Daiva. Published by
Coming to bookstores in May 2024.

Order the online from:

Amazon: https://brnw.ch/21wJl3r
Padhega India: https://t.co/fP0CaHNibl

Get ready to be spellbound 🙏🏼

The paraphernalia or sacred objects belonging to daivas are an integral part of spirit worship of Tulu speaking people of southern Karnataka.

Know more about them in Daiva.

Coming to bookstores in May 2024.

Order the from this link:

Amazon: https://brnw.ch/21wJl3r
Padhega India: https://t.co/fP0CaHNibl

Get ready to be spellbound.