Reviewing the Welcome Rain edition in November 1999,
Kirkus Reviews commented that "the most lyrical and introspective pages of his autobiography are reserved for his wife, Sukanya, and his daughter and musical disciple, Anoushka", and concluded of the book: "Unpretentious and [as] spiritually illuminating as Shankar's music." Writing for Soundchecks, Amy Harlib considered
Raga Mala a "surprisingly frank account" and described the author's style in the following terms: "a blend of charm and candour; dignity and humility; spiritual depth and sparkling sense of humour; and a never-ending thirst for knowledge, exploration and growth."
Billboard reviewer Bradley Bambarger wrote that "In many ways, the story of Ravi Shankar is the story of Indian culture in the West", and added: "he is also one of the most inspiring composer/performers of the 20th century – a fact reinforced by his breathtaking autobiography …" In
Rough Guides'
World Music volume,
Ken Hunt describes
Raga Mala as "highly recommended". ==References==