One stage of the hero’s journey in “The Song Between Worlds” by Indra Das is the Call to Adventure. This is the first stage where the hero, in this case, the protagonist Sarthak, receives a call to action or adventure that will change his life. In the story, Sarthak, a young musician, is living a mundane life, playing music for weddings and parties, and living with his mother. However, he receives an invitation from a mysterious stranger named Rudra to participate in a music competition called The Paean of the Heavens, which is being held in a different world. Sarthak is hesitant to accept the invitation at first, but eventually, he decides to embark on this journey to participate in the competition and prove his worth as a musician.
This stage is important as it sets the story in motion and provides a clear motivation for the protagonist. It also creates a sense of mystery and adventure that draws the reader into the story. Sarthak's call to adventure is not just about music, but it also involves his personal growth and transformation. By accepting the invitation and leaving his familiar world behind, Sarthak is forced to confront new challenges, meet new characters, and learn new skills. In this way, the Call to Adventure sets the stage for the hero's journey, which will ultimately lead to his transformation and self-discovery.