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Prem Rao : Stories from a Story Teller

Prem Rao : Stories from a Story Teller

By Prem Rao

To write a lot, you need to read a lot! I am fond of reading so I love exploring different kinds of books, fiction as well as non-fiction.
So, here you have me- a writer- speak on writing. On my blogs and books ( published or otherwise), and on the blogs and books I read.
Also, my take on what's making news!
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Authors I Admire: Ian Fleming

Prem Rao : Stories from a Story TellerDec 01, 2021

00:00
08:27
"Hindus in Hindu Rashtra" by Dr Anand Ranganathan

"Hindus in Hindu Rashtra" by Dr Anand Ranganathan

A "must read" for Hindus all over the world! Dr Anand Ranganathan explains in his meticulously researched book that far from being the "Fascist Majority in a Hindu Rashtra" Hindus in India are really victims of wrongs that have been followed for decades -even after Independence in 1947.

Jan 22, 202409:02
"A Prince Amongst The Patriots: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose" by Maj. Gen M.K.Paul : A Review

"A Prince Amongst The Patriots: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose" by Maj. Gen M.K.Paul : A Review

Even to this day, over 75 years after India gained freedom from British Rule, one of the architects of the fight for freedom, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, remains shrouded in mystery. This book by Maj. Gen. M K Paul, Indian Army (Retd), about one of the greatest sons of India, is a captivating and informative account of the life and times of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

Many books, especially biographies and books on history, leave the reader with a feeling of "What If?" This book too made me wonder what if things had been different. I would highly recommend this book, for those – especially amongst our youth – who are interested in Indian history, military history and biography.

Mar 27, 202309:51
"No End Save Victory" edited by Robert Cowley

"No End Save Victory" edited by Robert Cowley

One of the most fascinating books about the Second World War. A collection of essays that covers the entire duration of the War from how it started in 1939 to how it ended in 1945.

Personal accounts from those who lived through the events described intersperse the contributions from well-known historians and scholars. This makes the book all the more readable and interesting. 

Feb 28, 202307:53
Digital India

Digital India

The economic growth of India is being propelled by digitalisation. It has made our lives easier in many ways. This is the first in a series of podcasts I hope to do on what Digital India means to the people of India. 

Feb 05, 202309:25
"The Mountbattens: Their Lives & Loves" by Andrew Lownie

"The Mountbattens: Their Lives & Loves" by Andrew Lownie

Andrew Lownie's 2019 book is an eye opener on the lives of two people who were very much in the public eye for most of the 20th century in Britain:  Lord Louis Mountbatten, 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma, and his wife, Edwina, Countess Mountbatten of Burma. Lownie writes about aspects of their lives which were not commonly known. 

We follow Mountbatten's career in the Royal Navy from 1916 to 1947, then his tenure as the last British Viceroy of India (1947) and how he resumed his naval career till he became the First Sea Lord in 1955. Edwina, in her own right, was one of the richest women in the world. Ever since they got married in 1922, the Mountbattens were seen as a glamourous couple, members of high society and close to British Royalty. They lived at a time when the British Empire was at it peak and lived long enough to see the Empire collapse after the Second World War. As the title suggests, this book covers their marriage and the many love affairs they had in the course of a long life together.  

Jan 10, 202310:37
Writing Better: Some Perspectives and Tips

Writing Better: Some Perspectives and Tips

Wouldn't you like to write better? May be you aren’t able to make time for writing, may be you are not satisfied with your output, or may be you are not motivated to write as you once were. Here I share my thoughts and those of some famous writers to budding and seasoned writers alike.

Dec 24, 202208:60
My Impressions: Day 2 of The Bangalore Literature Festival, 2022

My Impressions: Day 2 of The Bangalore Literature Festival, 2022

We got the opportunity to listen to many talented writers speak about their books and work on Day 2 of the XI Bangalore Literature Festival, 2022. 

I was delighted to interview authors Raghu and Pushpa Plat on their new historical novel, " Destiny's Child" in one of the sessions today. A most enjoyable experience. 

My mind goes back to the inaugural #BlrLitFest held in 2012 which I had attended. One can see how the Festival has grown from strength to strength over the years. 


Dec 16, 202216:32
My Take on The Bangalore Literature Festival 2022; Day 1 : December 3.

My Take on The Bangalore Literature Festival 2022; Day 1 : December 3.

The Bangalore Literature Festival held on December 3 and 4, 2022 drew a galaxy of writers who spoke about their books and related subjects.

In this podcast, I share my take on the some of the sessions I enjoyed on Day 1, December 3. 

Dec 12, 202212:30
The Bangalore Literature Festival 2022

The Bangalore Literature Festival 2022

My impressions of the XIth edition of the Bangalore Literature Festival held on December 3 and 4, 2022. 

Over two warm winter days, the bibliophiles of Bengaluru, where I live, enjoyed attending the Bangalore Literature Festival- one of the premier literature festivals in India. We were fortunate to listen to a galaxy of authors and speakers who spoke of their books, and topics related to literature and the arts.

This is the first of my podcasts on the Bangalore Literature Festival, 2022.


Dec 07, 202209:54
"How TCS Built An Industry For India" by R. Gopalakrishnan & Tulsi Jayakumar : A Review.

"How TCS Built An Industry For India" by R. Gopalakrishnan & Tulsi Jayakumar : A Review.

This book is about TCS- one of India's greatest success stories in the world of business. It is the first in a series to be called The Shapers of Business Institutions building on the authors’ theme that Shapers of Institutions are institution builders in the true sense of the term. They are several notches above the conventional leaders of organisations. The book lays considerable emphasis on the role of Shapers in organisational building, instilling values, and shaping careers of employees in them for the long term sustainability and growth of the institution.

The Shapers discussed are Mr F C Kohli and Mr S Ramadorai of TCS who between them ran the organisation for 40 years. Today all of us know TCS as a giant- with revenues of $25 billion, operating in 150 locations in 46 countries with over 600,000 employees world wide. The book traces the journey of this institution since it began in a very small scale as a division of Tata Sons in 1969.

Nov 05, 202207:45
"Destiny's Child" by Raghu Palat & Pushpa Palat: My Review

"Destiny's Child" by Raghu Palat & Pushpa Palat: My Review

This book tells the absorbing story of a remarkable lady, Parukutty Neithyaramma, set in the kingdom of Cochin in the South of India in the first part of the 20th century. She was the Consort to the reigning King - Raja Rama Varma XVI- whom she had married when she was just 14. He was then the Heir Apparent and aged 31 at that time. He was struck by her strong personality and character. Over the years, Parukutty demonstrated an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, an inquisitiveness to learn and understand the finer points of statecraft and she remained fiercely possessive.
Raja Rama Varma XI reigned for 18 years till his death in 1932. During these years, the British ruled most of India directly and had a strong influence on the courts of the princely states. How Parukutty broke many social barriers, thought far ahead of her times, and countered the moves of the British is covered in this book. She espoused the nationalist movement but stepped down from the limelight when she ceased to be the Ruler’s Consort following the demise of her husband,
The authors - Raghu and Pushpa Palat-are prolific writers. They use their ability to describe minute detail to great advantage in telling an interesting story of people, places, and palaces.
Oct 15, 202208:42
"1962: The War That Wasn't" by Shiv Kunal Verma. A review.

"1962: The War That Wasn't" by Shiv Kunal Verma. A review.

The Indo-China Conflict in the winter of 1962 thrashed many reputations and left a deep scar on millions of Indians including me. There have been many books written over the decades on the infamous events of those tumultuous days. Shiv Kunal Verma's " 1962: The War That Wasn't" is, in my opinion, the most objective of the lot.

It is, I feel, a "must read" for students of military history and politics. After all, isn't it often said that those who don't learn from history are likely to make the same mistakes all over again? Today's world and India's circumstances are vastly different from our position in 1962, but it is worth remembering how expensive mistakes can result in loss of life, considerable hardship to the men defending our borders, and an irreparable harm to reputations built over years! 

Sep 30, 202210:32
"The Saga Of A Braveheart" by Shakunthala A Bhandarkar

"The Saga Of A Braveheart" by Shakunthala A Bhandarkar

This is the heart warming and inspiring story of Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar, Shaurya Chakra, of the 18 th Battalion (Mysore) of The Madras Regiment of the Indian Army. He was killed in action in October 1999 while serving with the 25 Rashtriya Rifles in the Poonch area of Jammu & Kashmir. He was the second in command of his battalion and volunteered to lead a Quick Response Team  when intelligence gathered indicated that some terrorists had infiltrated into Indian territory. He killed three of them before he succumbed to grievous injurious sustained in the gun battle with the fourth infiltrator. He was awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his courage and exemplary leadership.  Putting behind her deep personal sorrow at her loss, Mrs Bhandarkar has written this book to share her husband's story with the public at large. She hopes through this book to create greater awareness, particularly among many civilians who know little or nothing about life in the Defence Services, and what it means to be an Army wife. The book traces the life of Col Bhandarkar, a fine officer and gentleman whose memory is held dear by many who knew him and worked with him during his service to the nation. 
Sep 01, 202208:20
Pothe! A Tribute to Film Actor-Director Pratap Pothen (1952-2022)

Pothe! A Tribute to Film Actor-Director Pratap Pothen (1952-2022)

My personal tribute to a close friend whom I knew for 63 years! Many knew him as a film personality- an actor, a director etc but I remember him most from our schooldays together at The Lawrence School, Lovedale in the beautiful Nilgiri Hills in Tamilnadu in India.
Jul 31, 202209:34
"Elon Musk: Tesla, Space X and the Quest for a Fantastic Future" by Ashlee Vance

"Elon Musk: Tesla, Space X and the Quest for a Fantastic Future" by Ashlee Vance

A definitive biography of a man who is always in the news these days- Elon Musk. Most recently, his bid of $44 billion to buy Twitter hit the headlines the world over. Such a move is not unexpected of Musk. When you read this book by Ashlee Vance titled, " "Elon Musk: Tesla, Space X and the Quest for a Fantastic Future" you will understand why!

From his earliest start up to his growth as an entrepreneur and now a business leader, this book gives you deep insight into the man himself and his innovative approaches to business. His risk taking abilities have inspired awe. His vision for the future have only a few parallels, if at all.

This book is a must read for anyone who aspires to be a business owner, entrepreneur or business leader. 

Jun 01, 202207:22
"A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership" by James Comey. A Review.

"A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership" by James Comey. A Review.

" A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership" by James Comey is a comprehensive account of his professional life, especially as the 7th Director of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. He was appointed to this office by President George W Bush in 2013. The author shares his views on key personalities he came across in the Bush administration and later in the Obama administration. 

He was the FBI Director when the high profile Hillary Clinton email case was investigated. He continued as FBI Director under the new Trump administration until he was unceremoniously fired by President Donald J Trump in May 2017. 

In this book, Mr Comey who served for decades in the US Department of Justice in various capacities gives his views on basic tenets of ethics and leadership. He gives examples of what he believes are good and bad leadership. 

An interesting book that gives the reader deep insights into the complexities of holding high office, especially in times of crisis. 

Apr 25, 202207:52
"Unaccustomed Earth" by Jhumpa Lahiri: A Review

"Unaccustomed Earth" by Jhumpa Lahiri: A Review

They say that writing short stories calls for special skills on the part of the writer. Not every writer can do this with the elegance of Jhumpa Lahiri, who excels in this form of writing.

"Unaccustomed Earth" is a collection of eight short stories, written in her distinctive style. All of them have characters who are immigrants to the United States. They speak of the many issues that they face as immigrants and how they have to cope with them. This is short story writing at its best! 

Apr 15, 202207:05
"My Full Life" by Indra Nooyi: A Review

"My Full Life" by Indra Nooyi: A Review

The story of a middle class girl from Chennai, India who made it to the top echelons of corporate America. The story of Indra Nooyi- former Chair and CEO of PepsiCo in her own words. An inspirational account of her life, and the challenges she faced in reaching the highest pinnacles of the business world in the United States. 

A story told with candor and simplicity, it reflects her world view and personality to the full.

Highly recommended for students of business and practicing professionals- the world over. 

Apr 03, 202209:34
"Humans Of Bombay" by Karishma Mehta: A Review

"Humans Of Bombay" by Karishma Mehta: A Review

Styled after the iconic, "Humans of New York" by Brandon Stanton, Karishma Mehta's "Humans of Bombay" brings you slices of life in India's commercial capital- Bombay, now called Mumbai. Here you meet people from different walks of life, cutting across age, gender, and religion. Each has a story to tell. The delightful pictures that accompany each story add to the warmth of the story, be they just a page in length, or at times a few pages and sometimes just a few sentences! 

The stories are interesting, very real and often heart warming. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to see contemporary India as exemplified by life in Bombay, often called The City of Dreams and The City That Never Sleeps. 

Mar 19, 202206:44
"The Agent Runner" by Simon Conway, a review

"The Agent Runner" by Simon Conway, a review

This fast paced book by the British author, Simon Conway, published in January 2017, takes you deep into the world of undercover agents, espionage and terror attacks in locations in the United Kingdom, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. 

Conway established his credentials by winning the British Crime Writers Association's  Ian Fleming Steel Dagger Award for the best thriller of the year in 2010. This is one more thriller from him.  

As the title suggests, this story is about an operative in Britain's MI 6 called Ed Mallik, responsible for running agents in Pakistan amongst other places. He finds that his best and most useful undercover has been discovered and killed. What follows are his adventures as he goes to Pakistan to find out who killed his invaluable asset. 

Mar 12, 202207:08
"The Spy Toolkit" by Dr Stephen Twigge, The National Archives,

"The Spy Toolkit" by Dr Stephen Twigge, The National Archives,

History and World War buffs who love stories about spies and spying will enjoy this book.

This is an exciting, visual-rich documentary on the tools of the trade for spies during the Second World War. Coming as it does from The National Archives of the UK, the material is authentic and gives you deep insights into the equipment used by spies. These were specially devised for spies based on field research and user feedback. I must say some of the devices and tools are truly outstanding in their simplicity yet they proved to be so reliable and effective.

 

Mar 04, 202207:10
"Upstairs At The White House" by J B West: A Review

"Upstairs At The White House" by J B West: A Review

Mr J B West was the Chief Usher at the White House from 1957 to 1969. Before that he was the Asst to the Chief Usher from 1941 to 1957. This places him in a perfect position to recount events at the White House. Here, he served six US Presidents and First Ladies, starting from FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt; then Harry and Bess Truman; Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower; John and Jacqueline Kennedy; Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson, and finally Richard and Pat Nixon.

An interesting book for those keen on history and US politics as well as other White House watchers interested in the lives of US Presidents and their families. 

Feb 13, 202209:45
"9.45 To Bletchley" by Madalyn Morgan : A Review

"9.45 To Bletchley" by Madalyn Morgan : A Review

Madalyn Morgan's book, " 9.45 To Bletchley" is set in Britain in the initial years of the Second World War. At that time, there were fears- real and exaggerated- of the presence of a large number of active spies and saboteurs in Britain whose sympathies lay with Nazi Germany. 

Ena Dudley is entrusted with carrying important components made by the firm she works in to the secret defence establishment of Bletchley Park. After a few days, she suspects she is being followed by these spies. Her problem is not having anyone to confide in. 

An interesting story that captures the days and nights in war time Britain very well. This is one of many books that make up the Dudley Sisters Saga by Madalyn Morgan. Highly recommended for you, if like me, you are interested in spy stories and stories set in the Second World War. 

Feb 06, 202207:40
"Indian Spy" by Mihir Bose: A Review

"Indian Spy" by Mihir Bose: A Review

This is a fascinating story of a secret agent during World War II. He was no ordinary agent. The author, Mihir Bose calls Bhagat Ram Talwar: the Most Remarkable Secret Agent of World War II. This is because at various points in time, Talwar, also known as Rahmat Khan, and also codenamed Silver spied for the Italians, the Germans, the Russians, the British, and the Japanese!! 

Jan 30, 202209:25
"Dark Horse" by General Larry O. Spencer USAF

"Dark Horse" by General Larry O. Spencer USAF

 This is the story of General Larry O. Spencer USAF (Retd.)

It  is truly an inspirational story of a man who came up the hard way. He succeeded in his chosen profession despite having to face many challenges due to his being an African-American.

The book is written with considerable candor and life lessons summarized by General Spencer are invaluable. 

Jan 23, 202207:35
7 Factors In Motivating Others

7 Factors In Motivating Others

Motivating others to give off their best at work is a prime responsibility as a team leader, manager or executive. But just how do you do this? Here are 7 Factors you would do well to consider in your effort to motivate others- and keep them motivated! 

This podcast is based on material from my blog, People At Work & Play, which was hugely popular, during my time as a management consultant and executive coach. 

Jan 16, 202209:23
"Ambedkar: An Overview" Book Review

"Ambedkar: An Overview" Book Review

Made up of 10 essays, this book captures the essence of the writings of Bharat Ratna Dr Bhimrao "Babasaheb" Ambedkar, a great son of India. Dr Ambedkar (1891-1956) is the Father of the Indian Constitution and was an eminent jurist, economist, and socio-political reformer.

I think this book is very educative and presents points of view which many may not have come across. 


Jan 09, 202210:09
Of Memory and Memories

Of Memory and Memories

Does your memory play tricks on you? Do you remember in graphic detail something that happened decades ago, but forget something that happened just a few minutes ago? If you do, you are like me! Indeed like most of us- who wrestle with the challenges of short- term and long-term memory, especially as we get older. 

Jan 02, 202211:03
"Navaratri" edited by Bibek Debroy & Anuradha Goyal: Book Review

"Navaratri" edited by Bibek Debroy & Anuradha Goyal: Book Review

"When Devi Comes Home" is the evocative byline of the book which describes in considerable detail how Navaratri- one of the most important of festivals in Hinduism- is celebrated all over India. While there are some things in common in these celebrations all over the country, the book highlights some things that are unique to the celebrations in a particular region. From Kashmir in the North to Kerala in the South, from Gujarat in the West to West Bengal in the East, the celebrations for Navaratri in each of these regions is depicted in considerable detail. We also get to know about other elements of the celebrations such as food, customs, and traditions.  

Dec 29, 202109:33
"Let Me Say It Now" by Rakesh Maria IPS: Book Review

"Let Me Say It Now" by Rakesh Maria IPS: Book Review

The Mumbai Bomb Blast Case, The 26/11 terror strike on Mumbai; the Sheena Bora Murder Case; you will remember these sensational headline grabbing cases. These and more are what Mr Rakesh Maria IPS was tasked to investigate in the course of his distinguished career of over three decades in the Indian Police Service (IPS). 

His book gives us the story from his perspective. You understand just how difficult it is to investigate a case in India and get a conviction in a court of law. This story tells us how difficult it is to be in the hot seat especially in these days of media-driven frenzy when television channels vie with each other to solve the case in their studios! 

An interesting book if you like crime stories and real life drama. 

Dec 26, 202107:27
"Business as Yagna" Ed by B Anantha Bhat: A Review:

"Business as Yagna" Ed by B Anantha Bhat: A Review:

The life lessons of Mr Yajna Narayana Kammaje a leading entrepreneur and industrialist, based in Bengaluru, India, are shared in this educative book, edited by Mr B Anantha Bhat and his team. Mr Kammaje's story is indeed worthy of being shared especially amongst the youth of India. He grew up in humble circumstances being from an economically disadvantaged family. By sheer dint of his merit, hard work and positive attitude he achieved his dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Today he is considered one of the successes in the Micro, Small and  Medium Industry arena. The Sona Group of Companies which he founded in a small scale in 1987 has grown to be a market leader in their defined businesses with an international presence.

Apart from his business successes, the book dwells on the large amount of good he has done to help those less fortunate, in the rural areas, and women in particular. He has demonstrated through word and action how business can be conducted with a social purpose.

The book is replete with lessons for entrepreneurs, budding entrepreneurs, and indeed any one in the world of business.

Dec 22, 202114:56
Conversations: An Appreciation of Sir Henry Lawrence by Wg Cdr Joseph Thomas VM Indian Air Force (Retd)

Conversations: An Appreciation of Sir Henry Lawrence by Wg Cdr Joseph Thomas VM Indian Air Force (Retd)

I am delighted to share that I am staring a new series called "Conversations" on my podcast show. In this, I plan to chat with interesting people on a variety of interesting topics, over time.

My first guest is Wg Cdr Joseph Thomas, VM, Indian Air Force (retd) who like me is an alumnus of The Lawrence School, Lovedale, in the Nilgiri Hills of South India. My guest talks about Major General Sir Henry Lawrence KCB (1806-1857) in whose memory our school was founded in 1858.  

We have recently started a blog to complement the book called,  " Glimpses Of A Glorious Past: An Informal History Of The Lawrence School, Lovedale." This effort produced by Old Lawrencians coming together across generations was published in May 2017.  

Dec 19, 202127:59
A Day In The Mall: Part 4

A Day In The Mall: Part 4

The concluding part of a short story written for the Christmas season called, "A Day In The Mall".

An engineer by profession but a dreamer by choice, Shalini loves to hang out in Bangalore's biggest mall. She liked going there with her friends but was as happy even if she was there all by herself. There were people there and they drew her there like a magnet. She loved watching others and wondering who they were, what brought them there, and what they were like as people.

This particular visit to the mall proved to be quite eventful.

Dec 15, 202109:22
"A Day In The Mall: Part 3"

"A Day In The Mall: Part 3"

This is Part 3 of a short story for the Christmas season called, "A Day In The Mall".

An engineer by profession but a dreamer by choice, Shalini loves to hang out in Bangalore's biggest mall. She liked going there with her friends but was as happy even if she was there all by herself. There were people there and they drew her there like a magnet. She loved watching others and wondering who they were, what brought them there, and what they were like as people.

This particular visit to the mall proved to be quite eventful.

Dec 12, 202109:37
A Day In The Mall Part 2

A Day In The Mall Part 2

This is the second part of a short story for the Christmas season called, "A Day In The Mall". 

An engineer by profession but a dreamer by choice, Shalini loves to hang out in Bangalore's biggest mall. She liked going there with her friends but was as happy even if she was there all by herself. There were people there and they drew her there like a magnet. She loved watching others and wondering who they were, what brought them there, and what they were like as people.  

This particular visit to the mall proves to be quite eventful. 

Dec 08, 202111:29
A Day In The Mall - Part 1

A Day In The Mall - Part 1

This is the first part of a short story for the Christmas season called, "A Day In The Mall".  An engineer by profession but a dreamer by choice, Shalini loves to hang out in Bangalore's biggest mall. She liked going there with her friends but was as happy even if she was there all by herself. There were people there and they drew her there like a magnet. She loved watching others and wondering who they were, what brought them there, and what they were like as people. 

This particular visit to the mall proves to be quite eventful. 

Dec 05, 202110:04
Authors I Admire: Ian Fleming

Authors I Admire: Ian Fleming

Who are the authors you admire? I shall speak of a few of the ones that I admire in a series of podcasts. The first is Ian Fleming (1908-1964), the creator of James Bond, Special Agent 007 of MI6. It is fascinating how authors put -consciously or otherwise - some  part of themselves into their characters. Fleming is no exception. Bond got his love for adventure, fast cars, and fast women from him. 

His books have sold over 60 million copies and made into 13 movies. After his death, others have continued the Bond saga with books and films but, in my view, there can never be another Ian Fleming. Just as, I believe, no actor came close to being James Bond on screen, after Sean Connery!! 

Dec 01, 202108:27
"Devi: The Goddesses of India" by John Stratton Hawley & Donna Marie Wullff. A Review.

"Devi: The Goddesses of India" by John Stratton Hawley & Donna Marie Wullff. A Review.

An informative and educative book about the Goddesses who figure prominently in Hinduism, the religion of some 1.6 billion people all over the world. In this scholarly collection of essays, different Goddesses and places and events associated with them are described by different authors.

The beauty about this book is that each essay can be read separately and there is no compulsion to read the book at one go. Indeed it is best if you read each essay at your convenience and at your own pace, depending of course on how familiar you are with the Hindu religion.  

The book is edited by two eminent scholars. It is recommended both for those who know India and Hinduism as well as those who wish to learn something about the vast Indian sub-continent with it's huge population. Here, even today ancient traditions are followed as closely as modern trends.  

Nov 28, 202108:25
"Black Beauty" by Anna Sewell : A Review

"Black Beauty" by Anna Sewell : A Review

This timeless classic - "Black Beauty" the autobiography of a horse- will appeal to all lovers of animals. Amazing that it was written over 140 years ago and yet holds interest. It is the story of a horse in Victorian England. Of how the horse copes with the ups and downs that present themselves in his life, as he passes from one owner to another. The story brings out the cruelty in men as also their compassion. 

Published in 1877, this book by Anna Sewell is said to have sold over 50 million copies in 50 different languages. There is a tinge of sadness that this was her first- and last book, as she passed away barely six months after it was first published. Many believe her book did a lot to influence people to be more kind to horses and contributed towards the removal of some extremely painful practices for the horse such as the use of the bearing rein. 

Nov 24, 202110:26
Malini Vs Melanie Part 4: End of Short Story

Malini Vs Melanie Part 4: End of Short Story

This is the fourth and last part of a short story I wrote some years ago called, "Malini Vs.Melanie". I have presented this once again in this new medium over four episodes- giving the old story a new lease of life! 

The story is set in Bengaluru, India where I live. It is about a young lady struggling to balance the conflicting demands of her conservative family on one hand, and her love affair on the other. 

Nov 21, 202112:35
Malini Vs. Melanie: Part 3 of a Short Story

Malini Vs. Melanie: Part 3 of a Short Story

This is the third episode in a series podcasting a short story called, "Malini Vs Melanie" which started with Season 2 Episode 12. I had written this short story a few years ago. Through this medium, it gets a new lease of life! 

It is a story of a young lady torn between two identities. She has to deal with a conservative family on one hand and her own love affair on the other. 

The story is set in the city of Bengaluru, where I live. 


Nov 17, 202114:54
Malini Vs Melanie Part 2 of a Short Story

Malini Vs Melanie Part 2 of a Short Story

This is the second part of a short story called, "Malini Vs. Melanie" 

I am podcasting this short story that I wrote some years ago in several episodes.

The story is set in Bengaluru, India where I live.

It's about a girl called Malini or hey wait a minutes, isn't she Melanie???

So, here we go with ........Part 2 of Malini vs Melanie

Nov 14, 202115:05
Malini Vs Melanie Part 1

Malini Vs Melanie Part 1

For the 12 th episode of Season 2, curious to try new things as I am, here's an experiment.
I am podcasting a short story I wrote some years ago in several episodes.
The short story is set in Bengaluru, India where I live.
It's about a girl called Malini or hey wait a minutes, isn't she Melanie???
So, here we go with ........Part 1 of Malini vs Melanie
Nov 10, 202116:31
"Five Presidents" by Clint Hill and Lisa McCubbin: A review

"Five Presidents" by Clint Hill and Lisa McCubbin: A review

" Five Presidents: My Extraordinary Journey With Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford" is written by Clinton J Hill who served the US Secret Service from 1958 to 1975. In this fast-paced book he covers his experiences at the White House and elsewhere. He had the privilege of serving 5 US Presidents during that time.
Many of us remember Clint Hill for his attempt to protect the Kennedys that fateful day in Dallas, Tx in November 1963 when Kennedy was assassinated. A short video film by a bystander Zapruder shows US Secret Service Agent Hill rush to the President's limousine and attempt to clamber on the speeding car to protect the President and First Lady from more shots.
Hill's book is a honest description of the difficulties involved in serving on the White House detail. He gives his impressions on each of the Presidents he served and how different they were from each other.
Nov 07, 202108:56
Mossad: The Greatest Missions Of The Israeli Secret Service by Bar-Zohar & Mishal. A Review.

Mossad: The Greatest Missions Of The Israeli Secret Service by Bar-Zohar & Mishal. A Review.

A fast paced interesting book in which the two authors, who know the Mossad and the world of espionage so well, share their stories of Israel's Secret Service. They cover some of Mossad's great successes over the decades, some carried out against overwhelming odds. Many of the incidents described in this book are being revealed for the first time to the wider world.

Interestingly, the authors also touch upon a few failed missions. They point out that missions get botched as they are conducted by people- and people do make mistakes, however well trained and committed they might be.

All in all, a book that will be much enjoyed by readers who like spy fiction and espionage. It goes to show all that a nation can- and should - do to protect its sovereign interests. 


Nov 03, 202107:18
Glimpses of a Glorious Past : The Nilgiris in the 19th Cent

Glimpses of a Glorious Past : The Nilgiris in the 19th Cent

This is an extract from Book 1 of "Glimpses of a Glorious Past: An Informal History of The Lawrence School, Lovedale" which I had the privilege to edit. The first volume covers the first 50 years of the School, from 1858 to 1908.

In this extract, we recall what made the British choose the picturesque Nilgiri Hills in South India as the location for the third Lawrence Asylum, which was established in Ootacamund in September, 1858. 

Oct 31, 202116:30
"50 Desi Super Drinks" by Lovneet Batra : A Review

"50 Desi Super Drinks" by Lovneet Batra : A Review

Here's a book that can nudge you towards a more healthy lifestyle. "50 Desi Super Drinks" by Lovneet Batra, the well- known nutritionist has a simple yet effective design. For each of the 50 drinks covered, the author explains what that drink contains and how they can help us. This is followed by the recipe for this drink. Turmeric Milk, Jal Jeera, and Masala Chai are fairly commonly used and well-known. However there are many others which came as a surprise to me, as they well might to you! 

The book has recommendations from Bollywood stars like Neha Dhupia and Soha Ali Khan. In his foreword, the noted Indian celebrity chef, Sanjeev Kapoor  writes, " Local, healthy and organic is what I have always followed, practised and believed in. And I recommend everyone to try these recipes to reach their ultimate goal of a healthy life style. Let's together go back to our roots and ride the wave of nostalgia with these amazing indigenous drinks."

Oct 27, 202106:15
"Glimpses Of A Glorious Past" An Informal History of The Lawrence School, Lovedale.

"Glimpses Of A Glorious Past" An Informal History of The Lawrence School, Lovedale.

This is the story of The Lawrence School, Lovedale (std. 1858) in the form of an informal history, which I had the privilege of editing. It is available as an ebook and now is a show on the YouTube and Facebook channels of the Old Lawrencians Association (OLA). 

More recently, a blog has been set up for "Glimpses..." to complement the books which are in three volumes: Book 1 which covers the period from from 1858 to 1908; Book 2 which is about the years from 1908 to 1958; and Book 3 which cover the 50 years from 1958 to 2008.

Do tune in to the show, go through our blog, and send in your comments and suggestions to; olalovedale@gmail.com 

Oct 24, 202107:01
"Her Master Key: A Hotel Housekeeper's Stories From Inn-dia" by Shruti Johri

"Her Master Key: A Hotel Housekeeper's Stories From Inn-dia" by Shruti Johri

When we think of a hotel, most of us think of the exterior, often glitzy, and the Front Desk which is quite glamourous. Not many think of the Housekeeping, which has such a crucial role to play in enabling guest satisfaction. This book, by Shruti Johri, which is almost autobiographical presents the experiences of a housekeeping executive in a leading luxury hotel.

So far there hasn’t been much written about the work lives of the housekeeping staff in our hotels. Johri’s book reveals a lot about what remains unseen and unknown as we enter and leave hotels as guests. It also speaks of the typical issues and problems  most working women wrestle with in balancing their responsibilities at work and at home. 


Oct 20, 202107:24
"Restless: Chronicles Of A Policeman" by Dr V R Sampath IPS

"Restless: Chronicles Of A Policeman" by Dr V R Sampath IPS

"Restless" is the story of a restless individual, who is constantly seeking the true meaning of life in its entirety. Interestingly, this is not the story of a philosopher but of one who spent most of his adult life as a policeman. I mean policemen in a general sense. The author, Dr V R Sampath IPS held positions of high responsibility during the 25 years he served in the prestigious Indian Police Service. He quit the service a decade ahead of his retirement and took up some challenging assignments relating to his field of expertise in the private sector. These brought him in close contact with some of India's biggest business tycoons like the Ambanis and the Adanis. His experiences in policing and security matters are covered in the first part of the book. 

The restless bug struck him again and he left this to become a student again. This time enrolling for a MFA in Creative Writing in California in the United States. The second part of Dr Sampath's book is more about his interests in spirituality. He is aspiring to complete his second Ph.D. in the related area ion Consciousness Studies in the United States,  where he now lives. 

Oct 17, 202107:54