S.K. Saksena

The second book by S.K. Saksena, the distinguished Professor of Philosophy, collects his essays on western philosophy and Hindustani music. There are a range of meditations on Hegel, Kant and Croce and how their theories illuminate Indian musics.


Reviewed by: Partho Datta
Ina Puri

The first book is an affectionate portrait of Shiv Kumar Sharma put together by his devoted friend Ina Puri. The text comprises a long interview by Puri, an appraisal of the maestro by Vijay Kichlu and an account of Sharma’s career in Hindi films by enthusiast Manek Premchand.


Reviewed by: Partho Datta
Deepa Ganesh

This biographical work on the towering Hindustani vocalist, Gangubai Hangal (1913-2009), is based on a series of visits the author made to the diva’s home, and extensive interviews with people close to her subject. The author’s discovery of this extraordinary personality spans a period of four years (2005-2009).


Reviewed by: Deepak Raja
Deepa Ganesh

This biographical work on the towering Hindustani vocalist, Gangubai Hangal (1913-2009), is based on a series of visits the author made to the diva’s home, and extensive interviews with people close to her subject. The author’s discovery of this extraordinary personality spans a period of four years (2005-2009).


Reviewed by: Deepak Raja
Gary Michael Tartakov

It is a common perception that Art and Disadvantage do not go together. The disadvantaged do not have the time for Art or any such creative activity. The pursuit of creative activity is a privilege for the advantaged or those who have the resources and the time to learn and practise their art.


Reviewed by: Krishna Swamy Dara
Laila El-Haddad

Much has been written and spoken about as well as protested against the brutality of Israel’s occupation over the Palestinian territories. However, Palestinian freelance journalist, Laila El-Haddad’s honest account of being a wife, mother, daughter and simply a Palestinian under occupation exposes the reader to a reality incomprehensible beyond the boundaries of the separation wall.


Reviewed by: Kanchi Gupta