Rahul Manghat and The Origin of the Ten Fires: A Thoughtful Literary Exploration of the Human Inner World

In contemporary fiction, it is rare to encounter a work that engages deeply with both ancient philosophical thought and the modern psychological condition without simplifying either. The Origin of the Ten Fires, a series by Indian author Rahul Manghat, attempts precisely this—mapping the emotional and cognitive forces that govern human life through a narrative rooted in symbolism, restraint, and reflection.

Rather than presenting emotion as mere reaction or weakness, Manghat reimagines it as elemental power—ancient, enduring, and capable of shaping civilizations as much as individual lives.

The Concept: Ten Fires That Shape Humanity

At the heart of the series lies an ambitious framework inspired by Indian philosophical traditions. The “Ten Fires” represent core forces of human consciousness:

Buddhi (Intellect)
Ahamkara (Ego)
Chitta (Memory)
Krodha (Anger)
along with Desire, Mind, Delusion, Greed, Pride, and Envy

These are not treated as abstract ideas. In Manghat’s narrative universe, they exist as dormant forces—waiting, observing, and gradually awakening as humanity reaches a critical threshold of transformation.

Each book in the series focuses on one fire, allowing the author to examine it in depth without dilution or narrative haste.

**Book One: Buddhi — The Fire of Intellect**

The series opens with Buddhi, a measured and contemplative beginning that prioritizes awareness over action.

Here, intellect is not portrayed as supreme or infallible. Instead, it is a force that awakens reluctantly, aware that once active, it must confront ego, memory, and emotion. The narrative unfolds quietly, inviting readers to reflect on how reason both guides and limits human understanding.

Buddhi sets the philosophical foundation of the series, signaling that this is not a tale driven by spectacle, but by inner conflict and moral inquiry.

The Expanding Arc: Ego, Memory, and Anger

Subsequent volumes—Ahamkara, Chitta, and Krodha—build steadily upon this foundation.

Ahamkara examines identity, self-perception, and the fragile architecture of ego.
Chitta turns inward, exploring memory as both anchor and burden.
Krodha confronts anger not as chaos, but as suppressed energy seeking release.

Each book stands independently, yet gains greater resonance when read as part of the evolving whole. Together, they trace a gradual escalation—from awareness to confrontation.

The Author’s Voice and Perspective

Rahul Manghat brings an unusual duality to his writing. Professionally trained in cybersecurity, he operates in a world defined by logic, systems, and precision. Creatively, however, his work leans toward metaphor, introspection, and philosophical depth.

This balance is evident throughout The Origin of the Ten Fires. The prose remains controlled and deliberate, resisting excess while allowing space for interpretation. Manghat does not instruct the reader on what to think; instead, he creates conditions for reflection.

This is his debut literary series, yet it carries the weight of long observation and quiet contemplation.

Literary Significance

What distinguishes The Origin of the Ten Fires is its refusal to simplify the human condition. It neither moralizes nor resolves its themes too neatly. Emotion is presented as power—capable of creation and destruction, clarity and delusion.

The series will particularly resonate with readers interested in: