In 1967 Roger Zelazny’s Lord of Light was published. The book would go on to win the Hugo award for best novel in 1968, and be nominated for the Nebula award in the same category. And both are well deserved.
Zelazny wrote a novel that is a wonderful blend of science fiction and fantasy. In a distant future, humanity has founded a colony world. For generations the original starship crew has guided younger generations with a social structure of portraying themselves as the Hindu gods. Now one of their numbers moves to challenge the stranglehold they have placed upon the humans of the world.

Through the use reintroducing Buddhism to the world, and gathering allies for open war, Sam sets himself the goal of liberating the world. The story draws inspiration from the Hindu faith and myths for super science technology and paranormal psychic abilities.