My Brief History by Stephen Hawking

                                           The book 'My Brief History' is - a very short autobiography of Stephen Hawking . In my opinion, he is probably the most renowned scientist in the world today, partly because of his disability and partly because of his commendable work in theoretical physics like black holes, time travel and quantum theory. The book is about his life's journey from his childhood (in postwar London) to his ground-breaking work in cosmology and quantum physics.The book is a small memoir, however it gives us valuable insight into the life of Stephen Hawking. My Brief History is a great read for those, who are fans of Stephen Hawking and those who would like to know more about  him.

                                          The book starts from the youth days of Hawking, when he had passion for working train models, boats, planes etc. as he himself describes that he had "an urge to know how systems works and how to control them." From his school days when his father wanted him to pursue Biology as he believes there were more jobs in it while Hawking found biology uninteresting, a subject that was a bit too descriptive to him. He chose to study Mathematics and went on to become a renowned figure in the world of physics. The following chapters described his struggle when he was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease. His deteriorating health lead him into depression from where he needed motivation to fight all odds which came in the form of his first wife Jane Wilde. Life took a turn for the better and he started devoting himself to his work and thus attained marvelous achievements in his work. 

                                        This book is a subtle reminder of how impediments made Stephen Hawking only more resolved, more determined to rise in his life as a role model for millions worldwide. As he himself describes in the end  "I have had a full and satisfying life. I believe that disabled people should concentrate on things that their handicap doesn't prevent them from doing and not regret those they can't do." A wonderful , inspiring book, a must read for all.

Crusader or Conspirator by PC Parakh

                                 This book is about the person P.C Parakh, his long journey in the higher echelons of power as an administrator. We can safely say, book isn't just about the coal scam popularly known as 'Coalgate' scam but about his stint as a member of famed 'Indian Administrative service and struggles involved therefore . Author's official journey from a junior officer stationed at Andhra Pradesh to reaching the top post at the Center, with insight information about how corruption has gradually infected and corroded the civil administration. The author describes his tirade against corruption (justifying word crusader) throughout his carrier, also highlighting efforts put in and endorsed by few other honest individuals who valiantly withstood pressure tactics, threats and intimidation from different quarters but didn't succumbed into corrupt practices.

                                 From working with some of the biggest Indian politicians, starting with Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh to bigwigs in Coal ministry like Mamata Banerjee, Shibu Soren and Dr. Manmohan Singh, who was also the Prime Minister. The author highlighted indirect corrupt practices of Mamata Banerjee to blatant misuse of authority by Shibu Soren, Madhu Koda and deafening silence of former PM on corruption who otherwise was efficient. In 2012, a corruption scandal over allocation of coal blocks to private companies was unearthed by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) valued around 1.86 lakh crore (over $ 30 billion), the biggest scam recorded in Indian History. The government had picked favorites and avoided open and competitive bidding while allocating coal blocks which would have generated far more revenue thus benefiting certain individuals while depriving state its rightful revenues.

                                    Author indicated after the public outcry, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), India's premier investigation agency was unleashed to defame every honest individual associated with coal ministry tarnishing the image of some very competent people of indisputable integrity.The author himself is a supposed victim of this official witch hunt and accuses the former CBI Director Ranjit Sinha to be either incompetent or hand in glove with conspirators. This book gives ample evidence of corruption institutionalized in our system in general and innuendos about conspirators of coal scam in particular. The author, a retired top bureaucrat suggests implementation of certain pending necessary reforms for containing corruption and making administration efficient , free from political interventions and threats. A must read for everyone to understand the working of the administration, the pressure under which civil servants perform.

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Readers can write to me at - garv560@gmail.com

The Indian Renaissance: India's Rise After a Thousand Years of Decline by Sanjeev Sanyal

                                        What fossilization of ideas and false pride, culminating in closed approach towards innovations and newer ideas can do to society and country as a whole, this book tries to explain in detail. From taking into consequence the thread interlinking decline of Indian civilization with the decline of Sanskrit language is truly superb. I only wish the author might have dwelled bit more and had outlined the slump in our society due to increasing grip of Caste system which became intense after Gupta era, but then author has the liberty. The closed door approach towards fresh ideas resulted in the defeat and plunder of wealth and subjugation to barbarians was thought provoking. It is equally interesting to note that the barbarians successfully ruled India when there religious fervor has long past its prime and their influence was in decline. English too succeeded in overpowering impediments, using better technology.  The Author has tried to prove the inevitable message that 'Change is constant' and society that embraces change flourishes .

                                      Author mentioned two important dates in Indian history. Year 1947 is when we became politically independent and equally important 1991, when our politicians shed their inhibitions and under immense pressure from aspirations of burgeoning middle class and economic upheavel, embraced economic independence.This book is about journey of India from DD transmission and landline telephony to present day IT , cable , mobile revolution. A major paradigm shift in the overall attitude of Indians that is visible on global scenario, where top notch MNC's are efficiently governed by Indians. The author cited many examples to further his point that readiness to adapt better technology , innovative themes transforms society and country for better, it enriches us.

                                   Fascinating book where the author has tried to interlink different domains of economy, technology, environment, culture and politics and its impact on country. He takes you on a journey through different phases of Indian struggle from pre-independence era to 2008 and tries to optimistically reason that we mustn't abandon to reform our system initiated in 1991 and hopes that new dawn will set in if the reform process is not stalled. A must read book for book lovers.

A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking

                                       A Brief History of Time has the reputation of being the most bought yet least read book. Firstly, why is it being branded the best selling science book ? I won't accept the usual reason, that book is well written and  over simplifies complex science and astronomical theories in intuitive and entertaining way which are easily explained  for the benefit of masses. The real reason behind the success of this book is Stephen Hawking himself.  He is a phenomenon, a rockstar, of his generation wrapped in gigantic achievements . In his twenties, he contracted ALS  thus lost the movement of his legs and arms and was confined to a wheel chair. Eventually, his voice faded with time as the disease progressed . Today, unable to speak, his physical condition has stabilized but he can only move his eyes and a finger. Deteriorating physical situation couldn't impede Hawking from his research and he remained productive as a scientist . His grit and determination helped him in overcoming all odds and scaling new heights .With the help of computers, he is able to communicate and give lectures. The physical condition couldn’t deter him from writing books, acting in a movie ,giving lectures etc. and is ranked among the best scientists of his generation.

                                   Now, coming back to the book, the book is very interesting and despite the complexity of the subject Hawking has tried of making it about as understandable as possible and in the words of Einstein “make everything as simple as possible but not more so.” The complex theories and explanations are definitely mind taxing and I had to read a few sections a few times also had to google at times to fully understand what i was reading. This book covers wide areas from Big bangs,time travel to black holes and from origin of Earth to intelligent life forms and question the orthodoxy religious beliefs. From Greek philosophers contribution towards science and rational thinking to modern times. Hawking beautifully summed up by telling that earlier everything was believed as God's creation, with time, science started explaining things.By 20th century God gets credit for whatever can't be understood or unexplained but now most of the erstwhile enigma has been successfully deciphered by science.

                                        This book is a treasure trove for young minds and ordinary people alike. This book is fascinating for science students however people with no interest in astronomy might find it boring . Even though some hypothesis explained in this book were beyond me, still i highly recommend this book for everyone .

India Shastra by Shashi Tharoor

                                            The book “India Shastra” is written by an eminent Congress politician and author Shashi Tharoor. The author paints the picture of contemporary India and its state of affairs after recent unprecedented victory of BJP in parliamentary elections in 2014 . This book has 100 essays segregated into 8 chapters touching different aspects of political and personal triumphs in his life though a sizeable part is devoted to trivializing achievements of PM Modi and mocking Natwar Singh(Former External minister and Gandhi family loyalist).

                                              After reading the book, one can’t help but conclude that the landslide victory earned by the BJP in 2014 parliamentary elections (75 crore girlfriend jibe) has disturbed some people immensely and prompted Shashi Tharoor to devote a couple of sections to ridicule Modi in individual capacity and his government . The author can’t keep his political bias in check and indulged in his mischievous narrow one sided commentary to belittle government. The author halfheartedly appreciated some social schemes implemented by incumbent government (Swatchta Abhiyan or Beti Bachao Beti Padhao) as opposing such schemes would have risked readers wrath while going berserk in criticizing other policy decisions .

                                           The fun part is the accusations of continuing with the previous government policies by Modi government . In a democracy, a regime change at center doesn’t necessarily mean abandoning of all the policies of the previous government . He very shrewdly sidestepped the truth, that before implementing policies, they were debated in parliament as it should be and thereafter suitably amended. It would have been stupid to dump schemes merely because UPA governments inept leadership adopted them, the prudent thing was to tinker with wasteful part while implementing rest as taxpayers money isn’t politicians personal fortune.

                                           As a Congress MP and to be in good books of his party also to remain relevant at national scene, it was expected and customary of politicians from their self proclaimed secular front to trade communal charges at Modi government. Author could have spared readers from this mud slinging ‘Cricket’ but then author has the liberty to express himself which he claims is getting stifling under present dispensation . This is a non-fiction book and readable if you can ignore the blabbering and sympathize with pain these rich brats are undergoing as the power slipped out of their hands which they consider their birth right .

India's Bismarck-Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel by Balraj Krishna (Review)

                                        This is a detailed book about a giant of a political personality, who transformed the destiny of India . He was conferred the title ‘Sardar’ justifying the faith people had on his vision and his ability to surpass all odds to achieve success against tyrannical British empire . The successful political campaigns at Kheda, Nagpur, Surat , Ahmedabad made him leader of masses with devoted followers , his grit & determination and prudent maneuvering of tricky political situations to catch the bluffs of opponents led campaigns to its victorious conclusions.

                                      The book reveals the trust Gandhi ji had on his lieutenant Sardar , to stand firm against adversities , thus nominating him the actual PM contender for the Independent India. The extraordinary determination and discipline to unite 560 princely states (self-governing princely states were released from British suzerainty after Indian Independence Act 1947) along with rest of India was a herculean task accomplished miraculously by Patel earning him the title of ‘Iron man of India’. He was well versed with the weakness and unperturbed by vicious propaganda of few unrelenting Rulers and embarked on his successful pious job creating circumstances conducive of United India earning the title of ‘Bismarck of India’ .

                                     This book sheds light on the journey of Vallabhbhai Patel in our country’s history ,different phases of struggle from Indian Independence movement to becoming the first ‘Home Minister’ of Independent India. A comprehensive narration of events from participating in Satyagraha movements against repressive British to supervisory role in the functioning of Congress ministries post 1937 provincial elections. His understanding of ground situations and pragmatic approach had thwarted the balkanization of India much to the dissatisfaction of Jinnah who tried to outbid Congress with British help.

                                                   Much has been written and discussed about the role of Gandhi and Nehru, this book is an attempt to fill the gap by throwing light on stupendous achievements of Vallabhbhai Patel. He was a beacon of hope for countrymen and for disillusioned party men when other stalwarts had succumbed. He rose to the occasion after partition and was active behind the scenes to unite and consolidate Indian landmass.

                                         This book did tremendous job to your knowledge about circumstances and decisions taken by our leaders , a well researched book . In my opinion its a must readable book

Walking With Lions - Natwar Singh

                                       Natwar Singh led an extraordinary life, starting his journey from as the junior IFS officer to the corridors of power is filled with interesting episodes where he rubbed shoulders with the eminent personalities from the world of politics, arts, cinema and even sports of 20th century . This book is a recollection of 50 articles printed before. Natwar Singh sometimes went overboard in expressing his loyalty towards Nehru- Gandhi family while showing contempt for others including Morarji Desai(an elected PM).

                                          Natwar Singh shared some funny details about Gandhi ji’s wasteful expenditure at Eiffel tower to Papua Guinea tradition. His admiration and brush with inspiring personalities like Nelson Mandela , Fiedel Castro and his personal hero, Vietnamese General Võ Nguyên Giáp was interesting to read . His reverence for Nehru family is an understatement telling in detail about numerous incidents, he fondly narrated an incident where Sonia Gandhi reminding her hosts in Russia that her family connection with Natwar Singh will consume whole evening . Some thought provoking episodes on Godman Chandraswami and Margaret Thatcher or Rajiv Gandhi’s first encounter with Nelson Mandela where he told him “Mr Mandela, when my daughter learnt that I would be meeting you, she made me promise that when I shook hands with you, I should think of her. This I am doing now." was moving.

                                        It’s a book worth reading and I recommend it for those interested to read about some very interesting and humorous tales from history (first hand account). Natwar Singh was candid at times and revealed what transpired behind high walls.

The Great Indian Novel - Shashi Tharoor

                                           One of the finest book, a satire on political class and their selfish propagandas , insecurities and jealousies that shape the destiny of nation. This book is a wonderful piece of fiction written by Shashi Tharoor. “The Great Indian Novel” is a political satire, ingeniously interweaving the mythological characters from epic “Mahaharata” into political players covering time span of independent struggle of country to degenerative politics till 1980’s. Skillful narration of recognizable events in freedom struggle of India keeping mythological characters of Mahabharata at centerpieces is extraordinarily brilliant.

                                         The book re-interprets “Mahaharata” and cleverly moulds the characters into the prime events and characters of 20th century political class. In a way , author was ingenious to choose the epic, as Mahabharata, is perhaps the first and the most bitter account of power struggle that culminated in a catastrophic avoidable war.

                                        This book has two parts with first devoted to the Indian freedom struggle and second towards the dreams of independent nation and slow degradation of politics. This book comprises of 18 books(chapters), symbolizing, war of Mahabharata, which was fought for 18 days. The first part deals with the insecurities and lust of power that eventually divided the country on sectarian basis and contempt of basic human values that was binding us for centuries till independence . The clumsy power struggle that plagued this nation leading to bloodshed and division. The second part showcases the games planned and executed to grab and latch on to power right after gaining independence till 80’s. The nepotism and narcissism of policy makers.

                                           In the end, author dwelled and raised a point whether the hallowed principles(non violence of Gandhi and non alignment of Nehru) of our leaders had any relevance in real world or were just futile exercises by our narcissist leaders .The protagonists were later seen embracing each other in heaven under the righteous Yudhishtir drawing conclusion that “Dharma” is paramount and practicing life without Dharma is despicable.

                                          Its a beautifully crafted book, a masterpiece full of sarcasm and humor(sometimes crude) but nonetheless a must read by all means.

                               Readers can share their opinions with me at- garv560@gmail.com

From Plassey To Partition by Sekhar Bandyopadhyay

                                              One of the most interesting and readable book on our past. It covers about 200 years of socioeconomic, military conditions prevalent at that time. The book is an insight account about important developments without boring the reader . If the reader has vague idea about our past history, than this book gives you new perspective, numerous dots plaguing ones mind are connected, also, some very new important events that one might have missed makes it refreshing. For first timers, well , its more like a novel covering vast unknown tracts of our history, engrossing ones thoughts.

                                            The writer is unbiased and has the courage to strongly put forth his views and gave credit to facts. He took us on a journey, from decline of Mughals to independence and partition with ingeniously apprising readers about Social reformers struggle, Aryan invasion myths, Tribal inclusion in mainstream, Opportunistic leaders etc. Author unbiased articulation of facts bursts several myths around haloness of leaders, promoting readers to conclude, there is no black and white in politics and in life, every thing has an element of Gray.

                                       

                                      One of the meticulously written, very well drafted, book by Historian Sekhar Bandyopadhyay. It brilliantly trespasses the complicated terrain of history showcasing sunset of two alien empires while formation and then emergence of India as nation.

 

The Tryst Betrayed: Reflections On Diplomacy And Development

                                          In this book Retired Indian foreign secretary Jagat Singh Mehta takes back readers on zigzag journey of his carrier and his life which started on the day after India’s independence. It definitely was the most exciting part of Indian diplomacy when the country faced unforeseen challenges. The writer was overwhelmed by the decision making spontaneous ability of Nehru ji but had vividly elaborated upon the limits of our iconic leader.

                                        Although book reveals the haphazard decision making and preconceived notions of policy makers which is interesting to read at times , the book becomes boring in the middle and tempts one to skip these middle pages. In the end this book unfortunately is more about authors self glorification , not worth recommending to others, this book is certainly avoidable .

The Public Intellectual In India by Romila Thapar

 Quote From Book - “The first and foremost thing that must be recognized is that Hindu society is a myth. The name Hindu is itself a foreign name. It was given by the Mahomedans to the natives for the purpose of distinguishing themselves. It does not occur in any Sanskrit work prior to the Mahomedan invasion. They did not feel the necessity of a common name, because they had no conception of their having constituted a community. Hindu society as such does not exist. It is only a collection of castes. Each caste is conscious of its existence. Its survival is the be-all and end-all of its existence."

                                         After being sidelined for obvious reasons left leaning intellectuals worst nightmares are coming true. The triumph of party and government by alleged right wing nationalists is a nightmarish scenario, never occurred to the arm chair intellectuals like Thapar's of the world . This book is an attempt to mock opponents and rue about the shrinking space for leftists ideology which is very cunningly being portrayed as intolerance. The mismanagement of resources, unending poverty, unemployment ,corruption etc and hordes of present day problems are mischievously twisted to blame opponents completely ignoring the past government dispensation.

                                       Romila Thapar and her colleagues in their zeal to belittle opponents mocked Hindu customs and religion, in whole, while squarely blaming every sin on rigid patriarchal society. Meantime, they never shied away from continuously reminding the readers about the lack of prevailing opportunities their ilks getting to spread venomous thoughts that they have perfected in over decades of practice. This book is an attempt to put blame of misgovernance and social problems on doorsteps of incumbent government completely oblivion of their role. Truth is old guard which blossomed under Congress’s left leaning rule of 60-odd years thinks everything is going to the dogs.The book is complete waste of time and energy as nothing substantial or divergent comes out, best is to ignore it .

Worshiping False Gods

                                              Firstly a book by an esteemed gentlemen known for his honesty and humbleness . In today's politically charged environment simple quotes comes under microscopic scrutiny and sometimes twisted to create political storms. Abuses are hurled freely with dangers of epithets to physical violence looms large. Nowadays people publicly brandishes their political affiliations and violently defend their beliefs and so,its best to refrain from commenting on social matters not out of conviction but safety. This book is a brave attempt to put past historical facts in public domain, no surprise author had to face wrath from certain quarters.

                                           This is a remarkable attempt to understand different ideologies at play during the long and tedious path of freedom struggle. In our zeal to make heroes and worship them as gods we often forget that the person we are idealizing is a mortal with all his flaws. Don't we have the capacity to accept a person with all his flaws as a hero ? Why doesn't we accept a simple truth that heroes can and may commit mistakes ? Does those mistakes make him a lesser mortal ?

                                           In the words of Dr. B R Ambedkar "Bhakti in religion may be a road to the salvation of the soul. But in politics, Bhakti or hero-worship is a sure road to degradation and to eventual dictatorship", hasn't few organizations with trademark victim hood card fallen prey to same ideology that Dr. Ambedkar warned us?  I can only summarize it by saying its a book worth reading without preconceived notions on author.  This book asks too many uncomfortable questions and too many excerpts with references that eventually helps understanding stalwarts by cleaning cobwebs. One of the finest book to read and understand the tussle and dramas inacted during the freedom movement of country

1962: The War That Wasn't

“Avenge our unplayed lives, redeem the unredeemable  sacrifice,
       In freedom and integrity, let this be your inheritance, and our unwritten epitaph.”

Extract From The Book :-  “At the time when rest of the world was exhausted from the Second World War and attention was focused on the Cold war, Chinese supremo Mao Tse-Tung (Mao Zedong) pulled off one of the greatest real estate coups of all time. The Chinese played their cards in such a manner that the Indians lost what should have been at best a defensive war by not fighting it at all.”

                                     Since Indian independence we have fought five major wars four against Pakistan and one with China. While we successfully defended and won wars against Pakistan the battle in the high Himalayas in October-November 1962 left India humiliated and psyche scarred till now. 

                                        1962: The War That Wasn’t by Shiv Kumar Verma is an extraordinary attempt to unravel truth about Indo-China war fiasco, that till now is shrouded in myth and mystery, for the only official inquiry, the Brooks-Henderson/Bhagat Report on India’s catastrophic defeat in the war, has remained locked away, seen only by  very few in the military hierarchy over the past 50 odd years (media reports).

                                     This incredible book should be broadly divided into three phases, complete lack of understanding of the problem coupled with nepotism of narcissist PM and cowardly display by incompetent top military commanders who weren't chosen on merit . The incompetent politicians J.L Nehru(PM) and K.Menon(Defense Minister) who scuttled any positive attempt by Army to assert its authority by taking independent decisions. By humiliating Top military brass and replacing them with incompetent puppet officers with total lack of credentials were the genesis of defeat. In the end, the cowardice of those chosen few with bizarre military decisions on ground led to the worst defeat India faced despite exemplary courage shown by soldiers.

                                     So obsessed was Nehru for his image as leader of "Third World" and statesmanship that he supported China on all international forums despite China’s annexation of Sinkiang (Xinjiang) in 1949 and Tibet in 1950. When General KM Cariappa brought to Nehru’s notice in early 1951 that some Chinese troops were apprehended with maps showing parts of the North East Frontier Agency as part of China, he retorted, “It is not for the Army to decide who the nation’s likely enemies would be.”

                                       Despite total lack of infrastructure, no winter clothing, food to sustain, forget artillery support there's no basic ammunition to fight yet our soldiers on ground fought valiantly. Without providing the additional resources required, handing over the borders to the army was a meaningless gesture.” writes Verma. 

                                        In the end over 4,000 were taken prisoners of war by China , and an entire division of over 15,000 ill-equipped was routed in the face of the massive Chinese onslaught. While Chinese officially admit to 2,419 casualties (722 dead and 1,697 wounded) on their side. In my opinion this book is a must read, as it was not only ill preparedness but total collapse of decision making process at higher level .We must all debate and learn from mistakes and take decisive measures to prevent any catastrophe in future.

Hunt For Kohinoor - Manreet Sodhi Someshwar

Blurb on the Book:-    A spine-chilling ninety-six hour hunt through the world’s most dangerous terrain where history collides with gunfire - will Mehrunisa Khosa get out of this one alive? One morning on her way to work, Mehrunisa gets a call that will change her life forever. The truth about her missing father is at her fingertips - but it will take her on the most desperate chase of her lifetime.A chase that will pit her against hardened Jihadis plotting the deadliest terror attack on India, that will test her mettle against history’s deep secrets, that will teach her that the price of love can mean bloodied hands.

Review

                                   I admit i am not a big fan of fantasy novels but i am glad i got the opportunity to read 'The Hunt for Kohinoor' by Manreet Sodhi Someshwar. The second book in the Mehrunisa trilogy (I need to read the first one and third one ) has been an fascinating. Reader gets on to a journey, a completely uncharted territory with protagonist Mehrunisa, an absolutely enthralling journey that keeps you captivated till the end.

                                  The author has worked nicely on creating the characters who looked real and intricate details of the landscapes, characters, their background, cultural and political histories is exemplary. The chapters are nice, short and crisp using simple, decent language. The plot is beautifully woven and ingeniously executed. I strongly recommend this book to people with penchant for thriller and look forward to read more from the author .

The Accidental Prime Minister (The Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh) by Sanjaya Baru

                                              The Accidental Prime Minister is an industrious account by Sanjaya Baru of former Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh’s survival of two terms in office despite being a novice in politics. Sanjaya Baru, who was Singh’s media adviser during the reign tried vehemently to project his former boss in positive light and glorify achievements of UPA government under leadership of Man Mohan Singh. The book is an inside account of P.M's reluctance in handling vexed national issues where Congress leadership has contrarian view. It talks about the complex Man Mohan - Sonia Gandhi relationship, the coterie culture in the grand old party, the open contempt of P.M by his subordinates and colleagues and lastly numerous corruption scandals that led to its downfall.

                                       The book traverses the journey of a novice employed on top chair by aala-kamaan superseding veteran politicians thus inviting there ire to becoming a confidant leader acknowledged as "Singh is King" by media after much publicized nuclear deal. The irony is Sanjay Baru very conveniently ignores the epithet "Sin is King" leveled by the same media by the end of  UPA second term due to stubborn, insensitive, corrupt and arrogant government under P.M's leadership that lead to sullying country's image around the globe. While all praise and appreciation was bestowed on P.M for successfully confronting hardships in life in general and during UPA's tenure in particular but when it comes to nonperformance or governance debacles Sanjay Baru very skillfully employed old tactics of sympathy generation and deflecting attention on unforeseen hands.

                                                

                          "The outgoing PM, on his part, never shied away from political reality. When confronted with a difficult demand from a political leader, a coalition partner or just about anyone, he would confess to them that he did not have the last word. He was, after all, just an “accidental prime minister”. The actual power centre was Sonia Gandhi."

                                                            Extract from book

                                Sanjay Baru cleverly deflected the question arising in readers mind about corruption scams and paralyzed governance as the incompetency of P.M or his lust to continue in office. Also difficult to understand whether P.M willingly ceded his authority to Sonia Gandhi as a submissive sycophant or she brazenly encroached upon it? In the end, readers belief is cemented that there were two power centers during UPA rein with ministers having no or little accountability towards P.M. At the end of this dysfunctional government's tenure P.M Man Mohan Singh aptly stated "You see, you must understand one thing. I have come to terms with this. There cannot be two centers of power". 

                                  This book is a serious brave attempt by a renowned journalist to showcase achievements of P.M ManMohan Singh while playing victimhood card to garner sympathy for all the blunders. There can be no doubt in anyone's mind about the credentials of P.M Singh's personal honesty, sincerity and hardworking nature but as an able administrator who was supposed to take tough,bold decisions for country and hold his ground without wilting to adversaries or party leadership only history will judge.

                          

The Accidental Prime Minister (The Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh) by Sanjaya Baru

                                              The Accidental Prime Minister is an industrious account by Sanjaya Baru of former Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh’s survival of two terms in office despite being a novice in politics. Sanjaya Baru, who was Singh’s media adviser during the reign tried vehemently to project his former boss in positive light and glorify achievements of UPA government under leadership of Man Mohan Singh. The book is an inside account of P.M's reluctance in handling vexed national issues where Congress leadership has contrarian view. It talks about the complex Man Mohan - Sonia Gandhi relationship, the coterie culture in the grand old party, the open contempt of P.M by his subordinates and colleagues and lastly numerous corruption scandals that led to its downfall.

                                       The book traverses the journey of a novice employed on top chair by aala-kamaan superseding veteran politicians thus inviting there ire to becoming a confidant leader acknowledged as "Singh is King" by media after much publicized nuclear deal. The irony is Sanjay Baru very conveniently ignores the epithet "Sin is King" leveled by the same media by the end of  UPA second term due to stubborn, insensitive, corrupt and arrogant government under P.M's leadership that lead to sullying country's image around the globe. While all praise and appreciation was bestowed on P.M for successfully confronting hardships in life in general and during UPA's tenure in particular but when it comes to nonperformance or governance debacles Sanjay Baru very skillfully employed old tactics of sympathy generation and deflecting attention on unforeseen hands.

                                                

                          "The outgoing PM, on his part, never shied away from political reality. When confronted with a difficult demand from a political leader, a coalition partner or just about anyone, he would confess to them that he did not have the last word. He was, after all, just an “accidental prime minister”. The actual power centre was Sonia Gandhi."

                                                            Extract from book

                                Sanjay Baru cleverly deflected the question arising in readers mind about corruption scams and paralyzed governance as the incompetency of P.M or his lust to continue in office. Also difficult to understand whether P.M willingly ceded his authority to Sonia Gandhi as a submissive sycophant or she brazenly encroached upon it? In the end, readers belief is cemented that there were two power centers during UPA rein with ministers having no or little accountability towards P.M. At the end of this dysfunctional government's tenure P.M Man Mohan Singh aptly stated "You see, you must understand one thing. I have come to terms with this. There cannot be two centers of power". 

                                  This book is a serious brave attempt by a renowned journalist to showcase achievements of P.M ManMohan Singh while playing victimhood card to garner sympathy for all the blunders. There can be no doubt in anyone's mind about the credentials of P.M Singh's personal honesty, sincerity and hardworking nature but as an able administrator who was supposed to take tough,bold decisions for country and hold his ground without wilting to adversaries or party leadership only history will judge.

                          

A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Mohammed Hanif

                                      One of the finest novel(fiction) i have come across. It is an intriguing, comical novel by the Pakistani writer Mohammed Hanif based on the mysterious plane crash that killed General Muhammad Zia ul-Haq, former president of Pakistan near Bahawalpur on 17 August 1988 . There are plenty of circumstances nicely elaborated, laced with humour and perfectly blended with satire and hardships faced by commoners for readers to enjoy and find the book worth reading.

                                    The story revolves around a young military officer named Ali Shigri who accuse Dictator and President General Zia ul-Haq to be the conspirator of his father Colonel Shirgi's suspicious suicide. Hanif playfully gets into the heads and lives of multiple characters, including that of anxious General Zia who's obsessed about his security, his over ambitious ISI chief General Akhtar, torturer named Major Kiyani,an interesting room partner Obaid at PAF Academy, a communist street sweeper,a blind rape victim accused of fornication; and a wayward and sugar-drunk crow.

                                    Its a funny yet cleverly attempted story by Hanif that added new dimension to the conspiracies and coincidences leading to the mysterious 1988 plane crash that killed Pakistan’s dictator General Zia ul-Haq.