By the book

Anirudh Tewari, Reflections of Ram Sewak: Reminiscences of a Flowing Spiritual Stream

Anirudh Tewari, a Punjab cadre IAS officer and former Chief Secretary of Punjab, is also an author. Recently, he penned the book “Reflections of Ram Sewak: Reminiscences of a Flowing Spiritual Stream.” Named after his father, Ram Sewak, who introduced him to the epic Ramayana during his early childhood, the book is more than a biography. It is a spiritual journey that underscores the relevance of virtues like compassion, integrity, and dedication in contemporary governance and public life. Through personal memories and insights, Tewari bridges the gap between administrative responsibilities and spiritual enlightenment, offering readers a unique perspective on the role of values in leadership and decision-making.

K Siva Prasad, Gita Acharan: A Beginner’s Perspective

K. Siva Prasad, a 1993-batch IAS officer from the Punjab cadre, has had an illustrious career, including serving as Additional Chief Secretary to the Punjab Governor. Beyond his administrative achievements, Prasad is also an author with a deep interest in spirituality and philosophy. His book “Gita Acharan: A Beginner’s Perspective,” published in nine languages, reflects his profound understanding of the Bhagavad Gita and its application in modern life. The work explores the teachings of the Gita and their relevance in personal and professional contexts, offering readers a thoughtful and practical interpretation.

Mac Saron, “I Did It My Way

Manmohan Lal Sarin, also known as Mac Sarin, released his coffee table pictorial autobiography, “I Did It My Way,” this year. Through vivid anecdotes and encounters with Chandigarh’s elite, Sarin unveils a narrative that captures the spirit of the city. The book portrays Chandigarh as a dynamic, living entity shaped by the aspirations and achievements of its people. A senior advocate, former advocate general of two states, president of Alliance Française Le Corbusier de Chandigarh since 1990, and founder chairman of the SJOBA Foundation, Sarin’s life story is intertwined with the city’s cultural and social fabric.

R K Saboo, My Life’s Journey: A Personal Memoir

R.K. Saboo, also known as Raja Saboo, an industrialist, philanthropist, and past president of Rotary International, released his autobiography “My Life’s Journey: A Personal Memoir” on his 90th birthday this August. The memoir traces Saboo’s life from Rajasthan and West Bengal to Chandigarh, capturing a personal and professional journey that mirrors India’s transformation from a newly independent nation to a confident democracy. The book is both an inspiring personal narrative and a historical account of a changing India.

Mubarak Sandhu, The Mubarak Show Podcast Magazine

Mubarak Sandhu has launched The Mubarak Show Podcast Magazine, an extension of his podcasting journey, which he began in December 2023. The magazine captures highlights from the 50 episodes completed in 50 weeks, featuring interviews with guests and offering a glimpse into his creative process. Alongside this, Sandhu also released a new book, The Best Poetry Book, I Wish It Becomes. A writer of three fiction and two poetry books, Sandhu conceived the idea for the magazine as a record of his podcasting experience. With both print and digital formats, the magazine is an annual, non-commercial publication set to release every December.

Dr. Sumita Misra, Palaan Di Shabnam

Dr. Sumita Misra’s Palaan Di Shabnam is a Punjabi translation of her bestselling Hindi collection Lamhon Ki Shabnam. Comprising 75 poems, the book explores love, relationships, and the human psyche, weaving together themes of despair and hope. An acclaimed poet, Dr. Misra has won several Chandigarh Sahitya Akademi Awards, including the Award of Recognition for her literary contributions. Her earlier work, Waqt Ke Ujale Mein, won the Best Poetry Collection Award in 2017. Besides her literary pursuits, Dr. Misra serves as Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Haryana and is the Founder Chairperson of the Chandigarh Literary Society.

Poonam Khaira Sidhu, Chuckles and Cherished Moments

Former IRS officer Poonam Khaira Sidhu shares her reflections in Chuckles and Cherished Moments, an anthology of articles previously published in national newspapers. The book is a product of rediscovery as Sidhu sifted through boxes of clippings, retracing her journey as a writer. Her experience in the tax department, where precision in language was crucial, honed her skills as a wordsmith. Sidhu emphasises that crafting judicially sound orders demanded a command over words as much as numbers. This collection captures her personal and professional insights, offering readers a blend of humour and introspection.

Vikas Verma: Be Future Proof

Vikas Verma’s Be Future Proof offers a practical guide for professionals, whether just starting or navigating mid-career challenges, to achieve sustainable growth. Drawing on his role as Regional Head of North India for UNDP, Verma presents a framework built on four Sustainable Life Principles (SLPs) and five Sustainable Self-Development Goals (SSDGs). This method helps individuals unlock their potential, align their careers with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, and redefine their professional narrative.

The book emphasises cultivating a sustainable mindset and values to stay relevant and impactful in the ever-evolving professional landscape. It guides readers to confidently navigate the sustainability wave, aiming for meaningful, long-term career growth in a world increasingly prioritising sustainable development.

Mandeep Rai: No Friends No Enemies

Mandeep Rai’s No Friends No Enemies examines the nuanced relationships between Cold War leaders such as Nikita Khrushchev, Charles de Gaulle, and their Western counterparts. Inspired by perspectives like John K. Galbraith’s view of Khrushchev as a potential Western ally and de Gaulle’s vision of a united Europe built on peace rather than ideology, the book explores the possibility of a world free of rigid alliances.

Key moments, including the Cuban Missile Crisis and the disrupted Paris Peace Conference of 1960, highlight missed opportunities for global détente. Through meticulous research, Rai brings to life the strategic decisions that prioritised power dynamics over global harmony, with prophetic warnings from de Gaulle about the broader repercussions of such failures.

By drawing on original accounts from figures like Harold Macmillan, Charles de Gaulle, and JFK’s aides, Rai delves into the personalities of these iconic leaders. The title No Friends No Enemies underscores the ambivalence of Cold War alliances and how this mindset influenced some of history’s most critical decisions.

Dinesh Kumar Kapila, The Varied Hues of Life: A Collection of Thoughts and Insights

Dinesh Kumar Kapila, a retired Chief General Manager from NABARD, presents an engaging collection of reflections in The Varied Hues of Life: A Collection of Thoughts and Insights. The book features chapters such as Unofficial History, And the Secretary Came at Noon, Tales Cafés Don’t Just Tell You, My Varied Laws, A Vision in Red, and Coriander Really Required. Combining light humour with poignant observations, Kapila explores workplace dynamics in chapters like What a Performance Appraisal and Buttering the Boss – It’s an Art. Other pieces, such as Fear and Fearful and An Encounter in My House – Real-Life Action, resonate with everyday experiences, while My Observation – Some Guys Are Kadoos in Love offers a unique perspective on human nature. Currently serving as Senior Vice President and Chairman of the Society for the Care of the Blind in Chandigarh, Kapila weaves professional insights and personal anecdotes into this compelling narrative that balances wit, introspection, and life lessons.

Jashandeep Singh Kang and Col. Daljeet Singh Cheema, Military History of the Sikhs: From the Battle of Bhangani to World War II

This book chronicles the militarisation of Sikhs over three centuries, beginning with Guru Gobind Singh’s pre-Khalsa battles and Banda Singh Bahadur’s campaigns. It highlights Sikh war strategies during periods of persecution and their triumphs against formidable adversaries like Ahmad Shah Abdali. The narrative covers lesser-known battles with Marathas and Rohillas, the rise and fall of the Sikh Misls, and the establishment of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s empire. The book also explores the Khalsa’s military achievements, including General Zorawar Singh’s campaign in Tibet.

Jashandeep Singh Kang, an engineer and Punjab Civil Service officer, combines his passion for writing with a deep understanding of history. Col. Daljeet Singh Cheema (Retd), a prolific author with 18 books to his credit, brings decades of academic and military experience to this detailed account of Sikh military history.

Shruti Bedi, Artificial Intelligence and Constitutionalism: The Challenges in Law

Shruti Bedi, Director of the University Institute of Legal Studies at Panjab University and an accomplished author on legal matters, delves into the profound impact of AI on the legal domain in Artificial Intelligence and Constitutionalism: The Challenges in Law. The book is structured into two sections: Interplay of AI and Constitutionalism, which explores overarching principles, and Critical Legal Concerns, which examines practical themes. Contributions from various authors offer diverse perspectives, keeping readers engaged with the complexities AI introduces to constitutional and legal frameworks.

The analysis highlights current legal systems and proposes innovative strategies rooted in constitutional values to ensure the ethical use of AI technologies. Insights from scholars in the United States and Canada add depth, offering a comparative view of shared and distinct challenges in integrating AI into law.

Anil Malhotra and Ankit Malhotra, Practitioner’s Guide to International Family Law: An Indian Perspective

This book is a comprehensive resource for navigating the intersection of Indian and international family law. Tailored for legal professionals, academics, and students, it addresses cross-border issues like marriage, divorce, child custody, maintenance, adoption, and the enforcement of foreign judgments. The book bridges Indian personal laws—including Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Parsi frameworks—and international treaties, such as Hague Conventions.
It provides detailed guidance on jurisdictional challenges, forum shopping, conflict of laws, and recognition of foreign decrees, incorporating significant judicial decisions and contemporary case law. The text emphasises procedural consistency and includes updated provisions from new legal codes like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA).

Navdeep Singh and Shivani Sharma, In Her Defence: Ten Landmark Judgments on Women in the Armed Forces

This anthology features essays and commentaries by jurists, judges, lawyers, and academics on key constitutional court decisions that have advanced the rights of women in uniformed forces in India. Written in accessible language, the book highlights the judiciary’s role in promoting equality and justice.

Navdeep Singh, a Chandigarh-based army officer turned lawyer and co-author, describes the book as a deeply satisfying endeavour, reflecting the legal journey and societal evolution in this field. “The book stands as a testament to the judiciary’s unwavering dedication to upholding principles of equality and justice,” Singh adds.

Rachna Singh, Raghu Rai: Waiting for the Divine

In this memoir of Raghu Rai, regarded as the father of Indian photography, Rachna Singh offers an intimate portrayal of the legendary photographer. The narrative, enriched with vivid anecdotes and profound insights, takes readers on a journey through Rai’s life, work, and philosophy. It serves as both an inspiring tribute to a master craftsman and a source of learning for photography enthusiasts.

Sonika Sethi, The Albatross Around My Neck

Sonika Sethi’s The Albatross Around My Neck is an anthology of poems that traverses the depth of human emotions. From love and longing to loss and introspection, the collection is a tapestry of affection, regret, and realisation. Sethi’s verses capture the raw and the refined, inviting readers into a world where emotions are not just expressed but deeply felt. This poetic journey celebrates the beauty of human experience, making it a sanctuary for reflection and solace.

Dr. K.K. Khandelwal and Dr. Siddharth S. Khandelwal, The DBS Handbook of Artificial Intelligence

Dr. K.K. Khandelwal and Dr. Siddharth S. Khandelwal provide a comprehensive exploration of AI in The DBS Handbook of Artificial Intelligence. The book traces AI’s historical evolution, including key milestones such as the “AI winters” and “booms,” and delves into modern advancements in deep learning and Artificial General Intelligence. Philosophical discussions include the Chinese Room argument and ethical concerns surrounding AI alignment and regulation.

Technically, the book examines programming languages like Lisp, Prolog, Python, and Julia and explains methodologies ranging from symbolic AI to hybrid systems. It highlights AI applications in sectors like healthcare, education, finance, and government, while addressing the challenges and transformative potential of the technology.

Dr. K.K. Khandelwal, an accomplished author, academician, and former IAS officer, has written 42 books and served in roles such as Chief National Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides. His expertise as an engineer, legal expert, and civil servant adds depth to this essential AI resource.

Dr. K.J.S. Chatrath, Respectful Salute to the Non-Combatant Indians Who Died in France During World War I

Dr. K.J.S. Chatrath’s book honours the contributions of Indian non-combatants in World War I, particularly those who served in France. While combatants often receive recognition, this work sheds light on the vital, yet underappreciated, roles of non-combatants who supported the war effort without weapons or means of self-defence. Their hardships, sacrifices, and dedication are thoughtfully documented, offering a unique perspective on their invaluable service.

The book includes a detailed Roll of Honour for those who perished, ensuring their legacy is remembered. Dr. Chatrath, a retired IAS officer and scholar with a Ph.D. on Indo-French diplomatic relations, brings his expertise to this poignant tribute to a forgotten segment of history.