"Handbook of Hindu Mythology" offers a number of pathways by which to approach Hinduism's ever-changing gods and goddesses (e.g., Brahma, Vishnu, Siva), spiritual verses (such as the "vedas"), secular epics (including the "Ramayana" and the "Mahabharata"), myths within myths, devotional and esoteric traditions, psychic and yogic disciplines, and magical practices.

With this handbook, readers can explore the history of Hindu mythology, follow a detailed timeline of key episodes and historical events, and look up specific elements of historical or contemporary Hinduism in a beautifully...