Hindu mythology is often compared to a bottomless ocean that cannot be navigated. The sheer number of gods and goddesses can be overwhelming. But it need not be that way. As Tagore says, "You cannot cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the waters." Tagore and Gandhi and Vivekananda were merely ordinary people energized by the tales of Indian mythology. In this book, Swami Achuthananda takes you on a journey--without getting wet--to meet with the gods and share their tales with you. These gods shared a peculiar trait: they were imperfect.

Among the swarm of gods, the most ancient are the Vedic gods which include luminaries like Indra, Surya, Varuna, Agni, and others. Today a minor deity, Indra was once the ruler of the three worlds who, under the influence of a mysterious power drink, fought with the demons and vanquished them. His reign did not last...