AN INTERVIEW WITH “AN INDIAN”, AUTHOR OF “INDIA WAS ONE”

 

Brief profile of the author: The author was born and raised in Mumbai, India. He came to the US in 1989 and lived in New York. He currently resides in Los Angeles with his wife and two children.

Q  Your novel India was One, has been a big success. In your view, what have been the main reasons for its success?

           I think it is a simple story of love that appeals to everyone. Not just love between a boy and a girl, but love for friends, parents, country etc. It’s not just well received by Indians, but by non-Indians too. And not just Indians in India, but Indians all over the world. I think that a professor from UCLA summarized it very well in his review. He wrote: If you are not from India, you probably know a co-worker or a neighbor who is from India and possibly works in the IT industry. You know a bit about him or her but really not very much. If you read this story, you will understand how he or she thinks, the environment in which he or she grew up, in a light, easy, and breezy read. If you are an Indian-American who was born in the U.S. and grew up here, you will also understand a bit more about how your parents and other extended family members from India think. Those who grew up in India will relate to the story and the characters in the story immediately.

For the first two thirds of the book, it is a nice story with nice characters - no one is nasty, no one is mean, no one is conflicted but it all seems real though not very deep. The last part of the book has a Kafkaesque quality to it. It is a metaphor for the secular, humanist India of the past that many of us could relate to while growing up but then we suddenly wake up to a different India that reeks of fundamentalism, conflict and differences. The author, who has chosen to remain anonymous, is an idealist who worries that the door to the India of the past may be closed. Permanently? He fears. Perhaps not, he hopes. The book is also liked a lot by second-generation Indians who have never been to India. Here is a review by an Indian who has never been to India: http://shaeeza.blogspot.com/p/book-reviews.html I would further like to inform that this book has been submitted to be considered for inclusion in ALL the School Libraries across America (over 26,000). There were 15,000 books submitted, and after passing through all the rounds, India Was One has entered the final round.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Q. How many book-reviewers have reviewed this book and what is the range and average of their ratings of this novel?

            Apart from reviews and ratings on various on-line stores, there are reviews on various personal blogs and media too. And not only in Indian media, but in the US and Canada too. Amazon US had 38 reviews with average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, Goodreads had 30 text reviews and 33 ratings with average rating 3.82 out of 5 stars, Smashwords had 18 reviews with average rating 4.28 out of 5 stars. Among the media in India, reviews were posted by Times of India, Indian Express and India Empire and in US, by India Post and India West and in Canada by The Asian Connection, besides blogs all over the world, mainly on Blog spot and Word press

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Q. Which book-reviewer comes closest to your own assessment of this book?

             As you can see, the book is received very well by folks all over the world. So it is very difficult to single out one thing. However, here are some of my favorite quotes: “The author has now managed to put India on my bucket list of places to visit.  I wish all my geography books had been written like this – I might have learnt more.” “I had never read a book about India and truth be told - I didn't really know much about the country. Everything I knew about India I learned from "The Amazing Race" LOL (which was not good stuff).

              I am glad the Author takes us on this journey through the beautiful country of India introducing us to its culture. For me I got to see a different side of India that I don't think many Americans get to see.” “When the novel ended, I was a little disappointed!  I was not ready for it to end.  I wanted the story to continue for many more chapters, and for more character development.  Maybe there is a part two on the horizon?  an Indian??I think this novel will be enjoyed by many people, from different walks of life, from different countries, including people from India – whether living in India or living in other parts of the world.”“It's one of the most amazing books I've read” “It resonated with me for one very important reason. I live in a country that has threatened and constantly threatens to split because of cultural differences. My wife and I originate from opposite sides of that potential split just like the couple in this book.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q. Under what circumstances, did you get the idea about the plot of this novel?

             This plot has been playing around in my mind for quite some time. I finally decided to pen it in January of 2010. Once I decided to write it, the thoughts came pouring down. It took me less than a week to write down my initial story. I knew exactly how many chapters I wanted, what they should be titled, what I wanted as the beginning artwork of each chapter, etc. It then took me over a year to expand, fine-tune, correct and edit etc.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

 Q. The present title of this book apparently seems to indicate that India is not one today? How do you reconcile to this comment?

         On the contrary, the book is trying to say India is One. We all love India…in our own way.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q. The novel brings to light and highlights the inter-state and inter-language problems in the lives of the persons of India. It does not appear to do any good to the country.

            I agree that the novel highlights the differences between various Indians. But I disagree that it appears not to do any good to the country. The message is very clear. Though we are different, we are all Indians.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q. Was it not possible to do away with the use of some Hindi words in this novel?

             Sure, it was possible. However, it didn’t make sense to me. You have to remember that this book also is read by folks who don’t understand Hindi. So to them, it is very appealing. Those who know Hindi tend to skip it. Moreover, there are just a few words, with their meaning in English and how they are pronounced phonetically. It’s not like there are full sentences in Hindi that break flow of the story.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Q. What are the possible reasons not to disclose your real and full name? Has the present pen name helped you substantially?

              As I said in one of my interviews, I really think that labeling my name as a Hindu, a Muslim, etc. would have pre-conceived notions in the reader’s mind. It is more important to me that it was written by ‘An Indian.’  A review in a newspaper summed it up very well.  In order to honor the concept of India, in order to remain true to his Indian-ness, the author has rightly avoided naming himself. For by doing so he would end up disclosing his native state, and that would give cause for judging his thought process and the reader’s biases would set in.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Q. What has been the contribution of your spouse in your writing career?

                “Writing career”!!! Although I am the author of this book, I don’t consider myself a writer. I am a software developer. I enjoyed designing and developing my book’s website (www.IndiaWasOne.com) as much as I enjoyed writing the book. My spouse has helped me a lot, but the person who has helped me the most is my brother.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Note:  The book is not only available in India and the US, but all over the world. The best way to see its availability, is to visit the book’s website (www.IndiaWasOne.com) and click on Availability. Folks can also join on Face book (www.facebook.com/IndiaWasOne) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/IndiaWasOne)

                                                                                                               Vijaiksharma

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMPROVEMENT IN PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH MEDITATION

During meditation process, our nervous system remains more relaxed. Meditation causes better coordination between mind and body, increases alertness & self-confidence, reduces anxiety, dullness, response time and emotional obstacles. All these also lead to improvement in concentration, awareness, capability, knowledge, better execution of works and effective interaction and more energy for purposeful activities. Our mind working undisturbed, peacefully and with concentration and our feelings of vigour and happiness is helpful in improving the speed and quality of completion of our work. We need creativity for increasing productivity. For this purpose, it will be helpful if a person is free from tension. Through this process of meditation we can return fast from the condition of tension to normal condition. . With a person free of tension, a proper atmosphere for creativity, quality and productivity is created. We can then rightly expect that the person will be duly motivated to achieve many beneficial things. It may be difficult for one to visualize, as to how meditation can lead to improvement of productivity, quality, reduction of accidents, self-analysis and there from realization of our own mistakes. But it is advisable to give it a try in the first instance. 

       
Note:In this connection, reviews of two books are relevant    (a) Meditation (A way to take charge of your life) by Arun Yogi Parekh, which can be accessed at www.shvoong.com/books/493475-meditation-charge-life/   (b)   Self Awareness through Meditation by Ranjit Singh Kumawat, which can be accessed at    www.shvoong.com/books/guidance-self-improvement/1693849-self-awareness-meditation-comparative-study/
                                                                                                                    vijaiksharma

SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

Objective of any production organization (or even any other organization), is known to be making profit, for which manufacture and marketing of variety of goods is carried out. The major trade, whether national or international, is in manufactured goods. Therefore, for sustaining success in this field, a steady stream of new products should be generated with continuous innovation, which points towards the need for creativity in product design. An analysis of the profit of the companies would indicate that 50 to 60 % of the profits came from products which were less than 5 years old. The needs of the customers go on changing, shifting and evolving with changing life styles. Flow of information is fast, due to the latest means of communication. Therefore product life span is small and hence the necessity for development of new products. Once the product is made to enter the market, making it sustain in the market is very difficult and ultimately, the quality and reputation of the product and the company in the global market may help in the long run.

Many of our new products are those which have been developed as a result of R and D done outside India. When these are to be produced in the country, the technology is transferred to this country. Although this appears to be a case of simple transfer of know-how, but the matter is far from simple. Whenever such transfer of technology takes place, there are problems in the path of progress. In some cases, the whole thing becomes a non-starter. With the product developed with indigenous R and D, not only there are problems in transferring technology from R and D  to the production shop floor, but also in marketing the product in Indian market, besides those in marketing them in foreign markets owing to different parameters prevailing there. Hence it is necessary to examine the international linkages from the point of view of anticipated problems, by looking at this subject closely and deeply, by organizing an industry-wide set-up to guide the industry in totality, prior to the actual agreement for transfer of technology. A proper action plan should be made for acquiring any technology by transfer and selection and suitability of the technology should be examined completely, by the experts of the organization and also by outside consultants, who should be made to play a sizeable role. Also an action plan is required to be made to cover the period “after acquisition of the technology”, so that the acquired technology is fully absorbed in the organization and the expected results envisaged in the action plan are achieved. Above all, the mode and quantum of payments for the technology transfer vis-à-vis expected results and gains from the technology transfer, need to be critically analyzed, before entering into the agreement for the technology transfer. Anticipated problems in the reverse technology transfer from India to overseas also need to be attended to adequately, wherein international image of the country is an important factor.

                                                                                                              vijaiksharma

GETTING SUCCESS IN BUSINESS IN LIFE

Any individual or group visualizes, plans, executes and manages business to its best ability,   to get success in it, as early as possible and thereafter maintain and improve it on regular basis. By just desiring more money, we can’t get money and our basic necessities in life. As per practical experience, there are problems & obstacles at every stage, which have to be overcome with some qualities, which we should have or generate in ourselves. Some of these are, being ambitious, clearly defining the goal, choosing the clear path to achieve the goal, prior knowledge of expected problems on the way, realistic assessment of the situations & also our capabilities, being prepared for the worst, managing available time well, taking calculated risks, noticing and utilizing talent, obtaining outside assistance when needed, positive thinking, determination, belief in self, dedication, hard work & sincerity etc. If things like resources, direction, guidance and effort are right, success will be achieved soon, in spite of the differences of education, financial background and cultural environment etc.  A human being gets guidance and motivation of parents, teachers, mentors and others right from beginning of his life.When we select right profession or business based on our aptitude, we can progress fast. Sometimes thinking of our career/goals in our life is done under parental pressure, without adequately considering the interests and likings of the individual person. This should not happen otherwise there may be difficulties and delay in the progress in the life of that person.

                                                                                                            vijaiksharma

SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT APPRAISAL REPORTS

Appraisal reports of many of the officials may not be true reflections of their real status/position.  Generally, the bosses may not want to come in the way of the progress of their subordinates and hence they may avoid giving adverse appraisals, probably except to those who have quarrelled with the boss. However, an adverse report needs to be substantiated adequately. Relations with such persons may become sour and even violent, and they may appeal to the higher ups or the courts of law and win. Then even the boss may get into problem and so he may play safe. After all, no one has time for all these things. Also, very good appraisals may be given to some persons, who may be having linkages with the boss due to caste, language, religion, state/village or some such thing. Generally the boss may play between good and very good, but when it suits the boss, it will be told that good is no good. Also sometimes the boss may not like to give excellent report, since it may undermine his own position. Outstanding may be reserved for those people who are closely related, who give something special and out of the way, in cash or kind so that the boss is under obligation to give an inflated appraisal to them. Some lazy boss may draw heavily from last year’s appraisal report, for writing the current year’s appraisal, without proper reassessment. Sometimes the top boss may suddenly give an order to the lower level officers, to give the grading of their own subordinates on an adhoc basis, due to inadequate time for fresh assessment. This may even contradict the appraisal made earlier by the same person at the due time of reporting. Generally, writing of appraisal report has a schedule. Some persons may resort to dinner diplomacy or some such unfair means to influence their grading in the report. If we happen to see the appraisals of some persons for their entire service life, we may find that different bosses have adjudged the same person from outstanding to below average at different times. This present system/type of reporting is neither in the interest of the organization nor the individual. May be, a reporting system for performance should be worked out on weighted average basis, based on feedback from all others, with whom the person has dealings, both inside and outside the organization, just like students give the feedback on the performance of the faculty in some institutions. Since no one is perfect, the subordinates should be made aware of the feedback/shortcomings and given guidance for improving. We must have a long-term point of view, both for the individual and the organization. The boss may think that the organization is running only because of him, but we must accept the fact that the organization runs with the collective efforts of everyone, by getting the best out of the whole team.

SAVE MONTHS AND NOT DAYS

  Saving in time is a good habit, but sometimes microscopic observations are made, small delays are exaggerated and attention focused on them unnecessarily, leaving aside the bigger delays. One incident made me use a scientific basis of information collection and analysis in this field also. Once I faced a peculiar situation when one of my colleagues (let us call him A) made a general observation to the Chief Executive, during my absence (probably to save his skin) that I was taking too much time in clearing my files/papers. After my return when confronted, I did not immediately give my reaction and requested for some time. I decided to arrange collection of data on daily basis for some reasonable period of time, about the various files/papers being received by, and cleared from my office. Based upon statistical analysis of this data, I found conclusively that the observation of my colleague A was far from truth. As a matter of fact, I located one particular file and after a thorough study of the same I found that this file travelled back and forth four times between me and my colleague A. From a statistical analysis of the various travel times of this file I observed that out of the total 110 days  the file took for final clearance, it was in my office for 16 days, whereas it was with my colleague A for 94 days. Further I found that the ten days time taken by me during the third occasion was due to obtaining advice from another colleague, which took that much time. On the other three occasions I took just two days each, to dispose the file (as required at that time) in contrast to 27, 28, 25 and 14 days taken by my colleague for disposal of the file on the four occasions respectively.  This data along with the other general data recorded by me proved conclusively that my performance did not deserve such an adverse comment, but on the other hand, this study did earn an appreciation. Moral of the story is that quick disposal actions should be taken by all concerned, (instead of passing on the blame to others wrongly) and the areas where there is saving of some substantial periods of time, should be taken up first.  

NEED OF DESERTIFICATION CONTROL

I live in the state of Rajasthan (India). A sizeable part of its western region consists of desert. I happened to visit these desert areas more than once and experience their beauty, as well as the vagaries. No doubt, the deserts provide plants and trees for various industrial, medicinal and other uses, as well as offer good opportunity for tourism but they also give lot of problems to the desert dwellers. The wild life in the deserts generally has an abundant population of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and insects and this also leads to loss of indigenous flora and fauna. The deserts also have a tendency to expand and encroach on other areas, converting fertile lands into deserts. We must therefore combat, arrest and control desertification and restore such lands for productive use. It is essential to assess and ascertain the causes and problems of desertification and adopt suitable strategies so that the deserts can be contained and ecological crisis can be averted. Further the ecology should be developed for a sustainable development of economic resources in the deserts. Such deserts exist at many places all over the world. Desertification is a global phenomenon, with severe ecological, economic and social consequences for the civilization over the period of time. Activities for controlling desertification and assessing potential for growth of other valuable plants in such areas deserve to be taken up at national and international level.