The cover of my forthcoming book
BEHIND THE HEADLINES
My Belated Foray into the Literary World
People frequently inquire why I embarked on a writing journey so late in life, crossing the threshold into senior citizenship. This question often leads me to reflect on my past. Literature was my Achilles’ heel during my school years, an ironic twist given my later passion for the written word. While I excelled in other subjects, my literary endeavours were met with harsh criticism from teachers and earnest concern from my family, especially my sisters, who endeavoured tirelessly to nurture my literary skills. One particularly vivid memory stands out: our literature teacher, a figure of both dread and admiration, assigned us an essay—its topic now lost to time. After submitting my piece, he asked, “Why did you write a shopping list? I asked for an essay!” The classroom’s laughter was a poignant reminder of my struggles. Despite these challenges, I managed to scrape through high school with a modest 45 marks out of 100 in literature—a few more could have secured me a state rank and that day planted a seed of resolve within me—a promise to myself that I would one day prove my worth in the realm of literature. However, my academic path in engineering and subsequent career as a project engineer diverted my focus, relegating my literary aspirations to the periphery of my life. The most I could manage were occasional letters to newspaper editors and cryptic notes scribbled on cigarette packets. Life has a way of steering us back to our true passions, often through unforeseen circumstances. In the twilight of my career, a severe heart attack and the subsequent ordeal of major surgery brought me face-to-face with my mortality. During those vulnerable moments in the ICU, I resolved that if I emerged from the ordeal, I would honour my long-standing promise to myself. This epiphany marked the true beginning of my writing journey. Post-retirement, I faced another significant decision: whether to return to my ancestral home or remain in the city of Guwahati, where advanced medical facilities could better support my health. With a heavy heart, I acquiesced to stay in the city. But this change of scenery became a catalyst for my writing. Without delay, I embarked on my first book, an autobiography entitled A Sanguine Tale Unfolding the Life of a Project Engineer. This work delved into my experiences in the remote, pristine yet isolated regions of Northeast India. These areas, while breathtakingly beautiful, lacked modern conveniences—communication, healthcare, and educational facilities. The narrative, crafted in simple language and devoid of technical jargon, focused on the human spirit and the ingenuity required to overcome the formidable challenges of working in such an environment to make hydro Power Stations in those places. The book resonated deeply with readers, garnering the Golden Book Award 2024 and the Emerging Writer of the Year accolade at the Kolkata Literary Carnival 2024 and also translated into French, Spanish and Chinese languages. Buoyed by the success of my debut, I ventured into my second book, A New Dawn Adventure in the Golden Years, which swiftly became an Amazon bestseller. My third offering, a collection of short stories titled Whispers of the Diverse Tale, is now accessible online. Although logistical and financial constraints prevent my books from gracing physical store shelves, they are available to a global audience through Amazon and Flipkart. Currently, my first novel, Behind the Headlines—a gripping tale of investigative journalism—and my inaugural poetry collection, Symphony of Life, are in the press. Additionally, I contribute to various anthologies and maintain a blog at musingofrajat.wordpress.com, where I share musings and literary reflections. In essence, my decision to write stems not from a delayed ambition but from a deep-seated determination to fulfil a long-standing promise to myself. This journey underscores the timeless adage that age is merely a number. In fact, the maturity and wisdom acquired over the years have enriched my writing, enabling me to communicate with greater depth and empathy. My evolution from a struggling schoolboy to a winner of the International Tagore Award 24 by DRDC stands as a testament to the belief that it is never too late to pursue one’s true calling and leave a lasting legacy in the literary world.
Name of Published book
1. A SANGUINE TALE UNFOLDING THE LIFE OF A PROJECT ENGINEER ( English)
ISBN 979-8-88704-866-6
Book Amazon link :https://amzn.in/d/02xkVwdV
Award :
a. Emerging writer of the year (Non-Fiction) at Kolkotta Literary Carnival 2024.
b.Golden Book Award 2024
2. CHINESE VERSION ISBN: 978939201382
Book Link: https://amzn.eu/d/eSp7r1m
3. FRENCH VERSION ( A la vie d’un ingenieur CONTE de projet SANGLANT ISBN:9789359208657
Book Link: https://a.co/d/0iPjo381
4. SPANISH VERSION (UN desarrollo de la vida de un ingeniero CUENTO de proyectos SANGRIENTO
ISBN :9789359202426
Book Link :https://amzn.in/d/08a9mmXL
5. A NEW DAWN ADVENTURE IN THE GOLDEN YEARS
AMAZON BEST SELLER NUMBER #1
ISBN:978-93-5847-577-7
Book Link : https://amzn.in/d/0bdbOXNi
6. WHISPER OF THE DIVERSE TALES ( A COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES)
ISBN: 97893626697486
Book Link : https://amzn.in/d/09vvPKso
7. CO-AUTHOR – THOSE BROKEN WHISPERS VOLUME -I
ISBN:9789360498528
Book Link: https://amzn.in/d/03eriz4d
AWARDS: International Tagore award in the specialist genre of Literature by DRDC 2024
BOOK UNDER PUBLICATION ( ANNOUNCEMENT)
CONTACT DETAILS
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajat-chandra-sarmah-76732595
https://www.instagram.com/rajatchandrasarmah5?igsh=MWVvejY5ZjdhdDFqeQ==
D)Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rajatchandrasarmah
E) Blog : musingofrajat.wordpress.com
F) Email ID : rajat chandrasarmah@gmail.com
The Melody of Love
“I thought I’d lost you forever,” Ramesh whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.
“I was always here, in your heart,” Rhea replied, her voice barely above a whisper. “And in mine, you were always home.”
As they performed together, their love became contagious. The crowd was mesmerized, tears streaming down their faces. Strangers became friends, united by the power of love and melody.
But fate had one more twist in store. Rhea’s family, who had never approved of their relationship, tried to tear them apart once again. They threatened to disown Rhea if she continued to see Ramesh.
Rhea was torn between her love for Ramesh and her family’s expectations. Ramesh, sensing her distress, took her hand and led her to the stage.
“We’ll face this together,” he said, his voice filled with conviction. “Our love is stronger than any obstacle.”
Together, they sang a duet that shook the very foundations of the festival. Their voices soared, their love shining brighter than any star. The crowd erupted in cheers, and Rhea’s family, moved by the power of their love, finally accepted Ramesh as one of their own.
Ramesh and Rhea’s melody of love continues to echo through the streets of New York and Mumbai, a testament to the power of love and music to bring people together.( End)
RAJAT CHANDRA SARMAH
4/7/24
GUWAHATI, ASSAM , INDIA
Email ID : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com
Instagram : rajatchandrasarmah5
Ramesh, a 25-year-old musician from New york City, had always been drawn to the sounds of the world. But little did he know, his life was about to take a dramatic turn.
One day, while exploring a vintage shop, Ramesh stumbled upon an old guitar that seemed to call his name. As soon as he strummed its strings, he was transported to the vibrant streets of Mumbai, India. The sights, sounds, and aromas overwhelmed him, but one voice stood out above the rest – a voice that would change his life forever.
Rhea Sharma, a 22-year-old singer from Mumbai, had a voice that could move mountains. Her enchanting tones echoed through the streets, captivating Ramesh’s heart. He followed the sound, his feet moving to the rhythm of her music. When their eyes met, the world around them melted away.
“Who are you?” Ramesh asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
“I am Rhea,” she replied, her eyes sparkling like diamonds. “And you, my friend, are a long way from home.”
As they explored the city together, their connection grew stronger. But fate had other plans. Ramesh’s visa expired, and he was forced to return to New York, leaving Rhea behind.
The distance was crippling. They tried to make it work, but the time difference and physical separation took its toll. Ramesh’s music became his only solace, while Rhea’s voice echoed through the streets of Mumbai, a bittersweet reminder of their love.
Years went by, and Ramesh became a successful music producer, working with artists from around the world. But Rhea’s voice remained etched in his mind, a constant reminder of what could have been.
One day, Ramesh received an invitation to perform at a music festival in Mumbai. He knew it was his chance to reunite with Rhea, to rekindle the flame that had once burned so brightly.
As he stepped onto the festival stage, the crowd erupted in cheers. Ramesh’s eyes scanned the sea of faces, searching for the one that had haunted him for so long. And then, he saw her – Rhea, standing in the front row, her eyes shining with tears.
Their reunion was a whirlwind of emotions. They embraced, their hearts racing with excitement and nervousness. The years melted away, and they found themselves lost in each other’s eyes once again.( To be continued)
RAJAT CHANDRA SARMAH
02/07/2024
GUWAHATI , ASSAM , INDIA
Email ID: rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com
Instagram : rajatchandrasarmah5
As time went on, their business continued to thrive. The feature on the food blog brought a steady stream of new customers, and soon their chaat cart became a popular fixture in Raj Bazaar. But with success came new challenges. One evening, a local official approached their cart, demanding a bribe to allow them to keep their prime spot in the market. Ramesh, with his characteristic humour, tried to negotiate. “Sir, we’re just humble chaat vendors. How about a lifetime supply of gol-gappas instead of cash?” The official was not amused. “I need money, not snacks,” he replied sternly.
Sunita, ever practical, intervened. “We can’t afford a bribe, but we can keep the area around our cart clean and tidy. Would that be acceptable?” The official considered this offer. “Fine. Keep it clean, and I won’t bother you.” Ramesh breathed a sigh of relief. “That was close. You saved us again, Sunita.” “We’re a team, Ramesh. We’ll keep fighting, no matter what,” Sunita replied, squeezing his hand.
Their perseverance paid off, and they eventually saved enough money to rent a small shop at the edge of Raj Bazaar. The grand opening was a simple affair, with garlands of marigolds and the ever-present twinkling lights adorning their new space. “Welcome to ‘Ramesh and Sunita’s Chaat House’,” Ramesh announced proudly to their first customer. Sunita added with a smile, “Home of the best-flavoured pani puri in town!” Their new venture brought a mix of old and new challenges, but through it all, their love and humour remained their greatest strengths. They faced each day with the same determination and warmth that had carried them through their toughest times.
Years later, Ramesh and Sunita’s Chaat House became a beloved landmark in Raj Bazaar. Their children, having grown up in the chaat business, helped run the shop, bringing fresh ideas while preserving their parents’ legacy. On warm evenings, Ramesh and Sunita would sit outside the shop, watching the world go by. Their faces bore the marks of time, but their eyes still sparkled with the same love and humour that had seen them through so many years. “Do you remember our first cart?” Ramesh would often ask, his voice tinged with nostalgia. Sunita would laugh, her eyes crinkling with fond memories. “How could I forget? It was our first step towards this.”
They had built something beautiful from their humble beginnings, and their story became an inspiration for many. Through laughter, love, and the irresistible allure of chaat, Ramesh and Sunita proved that with determination and a touch of spice, anything is possible. (END)
RAJAT CHANDRA SARMAH
GUWAHATI, ASSAM , INDIA
01/07/2024
INSTAGRAM : rajatchandrasarmah5
EMAIL ID: rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com
Under the sprawling banyan tree at the corner of bustling Raj Bazaar, a modest chaat cart stood as a beacon of hope and sustenance. This cart, lovingly tended by Ramesh and Sunita, a couple whose love story was as colorful as the vibrant spices they used, had become a staple in the market.
Ramesh, a lean man with a face weathered by years of labor under the sun, was known for his quick smile and witty banter. His engaging demeanor made him a favorite among the regulars of the market. Sunita, his wife, exuded warmth and energy, embodying the spirit of their small enterprise. Together, they had mastered the art of creating mouth-watering chaats that tantalized the taste buds of their customers. Each morning, they arrived at the market with fresh ingredients, ready to face the day’s challenges.
One sweltering afternoon, as Ramesh handed a plate of sev puri to a customer, he noticed Sunita looking unusually pensive. Her bright eyes were clouded with worry.
“What’s troubling you, my love?” Ramesh asked, offering her a glass of cold water.
“It’s the rent again, Ramesh. We barely scrape by each month, and now the landlord has increased it again. I don’t know how we’ll manage,” Sunita sighed, her voice tinged with anxiety.
Ramesh took her hand, squeezing it gently. “We’ll figure it out, Sunita. Maybe we can introduce a new item to the menu. How about we offer different flavors of pani puri? People love variety.”
Sunita’s eyes lit up with a spark of hope. “Flavored pani puri! That’s a wonderful idea. We could have mint, tamarind, and spicy chili flavors. You always know how to make things better.”
Ramesh chuckled. “Well, I have to keep up with my clever wife somehow.”
The next day, armed with their new idea, the couple set up their cart with an array of flavored pani puri options. Ramesh enthusiastically called out to the bustling crowd, “Come, taste the magic! Pani puri with a twist, straight from the hearts of Ramesh and Sunita!” Curiosity drew a crowd to their cart, intrigued by the promise of new flavors. The tangy tamarind, refreshing mint, and fiery chili options were an instant hit. The cart buzzed with activity, and the air was filled with laughter and satisfied sighs.
Amid the rush, a well-dressed man approached their cart. “This is exceptional! I run a food blog and would love to feature you two,” he said, handing Ramesh his card. Sunita beamed with pride. “We’d be honored! Please come anytime, and we’ll prepare our best for you.”
That evening, as they counted their earnings, Ramesh remarked, “Maybe our luck is changing. Who knows, one day we might even have our own little shop.” Sunita leaned her head on his shoulder, smiling. “As long as we’re together, Ramesh, I don’t care where we are.”
Despite the hardships, their love for each other remained a constant source of strength. They found joy in the smallest things—a shared cup of chai, a tender glance across the crowded market, or a late-night walk through the empty streets. One night, after closing the cart, Ramesh surprised Sunita with a small bouquet of marigolds. “For my queen,” he said with a theatrical bow, handing her the flowers. Sunita giggled, her eyes shining. “Where did you get these?”
“I traded a plate of bhel puri with the flower vendor,” Ramesh admitted sheepishly. Sunita hugged him tightly. “You’re impossible, but I love you for it.” Their romance was woven into their daily lives, a golden thread in the fabric of their struggles. They supported each other through the ups and downs, finding solace and laughter in each other’s company.( To be continued)
RAJAT CHANDRA SARMAH
Guwahati, Assam, India
Email : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com
Instagram : rajatchandrasarmah5
In today’s world, where speed and efficiency often reign supreme, the concept of slow living offers a compelling alternative—a way to find peace, purpose, and fulfilment amidst the chaos. Slow living is not about doing everything at a snail’s pace; rather, it’s about embracing a more intentional, mindful approach to life. It’s about savouring each moment, simplifying our lives, and prioritizing quality over quantity. In this article, I try to explore the principles of slow living, its benefits for mental health and well-being, and practical strategies for incorporating it into our daily lives.
At its core, slow living is a philosophy that encourages us to step back from the relentless pace of modern life and reconnect with ourselves, our surroundings, and the present moment. It’s about being fully present and paying attention to our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment. Slow living is characterized by simplicity, connection, and balance—values that are often overshadowed in our fast-paced world.
Mindfulness lies at the heart of slow living. It’s about being aware of our thoughts, emotions, and sensations in the present moment, without getting caught up in the past or future. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the beauty and richness of each moment.
Simplicity is another key principle of slow living. It’s about decluttering our lives—both physically and mentally—and focusing on what truly matters. By eliminating excess and distractions, we can create more time and space for the things that bring us joy and fulfilment.
Connection is essential to slow living. It’s about building meaningful relationships—with ourselves, others, and the natural world. Slow living encourages us to spend quality time with loved ones, foster deep connections, and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Balance is perhaps the most crucial aspect of slow living. It’s about finding harmony between work, leisure, and rest. In a world where busyness is often glorified, slow living reminds us to prioritize self-care and honour our need for rest.( BTO BE CONTINUED)
Rajat chandra sarmah
11/06/24
Guwahati , Assam , India
Mail ID : rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com
Henry and Margaret had always dreamt of an adventure. Married for over forty years, the couple had traversed much of Europe and America, but their wanderlust led them to a desire for something more exotic. So, when they stumbled upon an article about Kaziranga National Park in Assam, India—home to the renowned one-horned rhinoceros and the majestic Royal Bengal tiger—they knew it was the next destination on their list.
They arrived in Assam in early November, eager to explore the vast and vibrant landscape that promised to be unlike anything they had ever seen. The air was crisp and cool, a pleasant contrast to the oppressive summer heat they had left behind. Their journey to Kaziranga National Park started with a drive from the state’s capital, Guwahati. As they travelled, they were greeted by a kaleidoscope of lush green tea gardens, mist-covered hills, and vibrant local markets.
Upon reaching the park, Henry and Margaret were awestruck by the sheer beauty of Kaziranga. Spanning approximately 430 square kilometres, the park boasted a diverse array of flora and fauna. Tall elephant grass swayed gently in the breeze, and the air was filled with the melodic calls of exotic birds. The couple checked into a quaint eco-lodge that blended seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The wooden cabins, set amidst verdant gardens, provided a rustic yet comfortable retreat.
That evening, as they sat on their porch sipping Assamese tea, the distant roar of the Brahmaputra River was a constant reminder of nature’s omnipresence. Their host, Mr. Dutta, a knowledgeable and passionate conservationist, briefed them about the park’s ecosystem and the challenges it faced, especially during the monsoon season when the river swelled and inundated large parts of the park.
The following morning, Henry and Margaret embarked on their first safari. Their guide, Rajiv, was a young and enthusiastic naturalist with a deep love for the park. They set off in an open jeep just as the sun began to rise, casting a golden hue over the landscape to the elephant riding point. Rajiv dropped them there and both of them took the Elephant ride to visit the park. The Mahut ( the elephant handler) can speak good English as he used to take foreign tourists for the safari. They started the tour and the mahut goes on explaining. Margaret asked him one question after another.
The couple’s first encounter with wildlife came in the form of a herd of elephants. Henry marvelled at their sheer size and grace as they moved through the tall grass. Margaret, an avid photographer, clicked away, capturing the gentle giants against the backdrop of the misty dawn.
As they drove deeper into the park, Rajiv pointed out various species of birds, including the Great Hornbill and the Crested Serpent Eagle. But the highlight of the morning was their sighting of a one-horned rhinoceros. The massive creature grazed calmly by a waterhole, its armoured body glistening in the sunlight. Henry and Margaret watched in silent awe, appreciating the tranquillity of the moment. They soon saw a lot of barking deer buffaloes and wild pigs. The mahout told them that the wild pig is a dangerous animal and to keep their distance from them
The couple’s quest to see the Royal Bengal tiger, however, proved to be more elusive. The Mahut explained that tigers were solitary and territorial creatures, often hard to spot due to their nocturnal habits and the dense foliage of the park. Undeterred, Henry and Margaret signed up for an evening jeep safari, hoping that dusk would bring them better luck.( TO BE CONTINUED)
Rajat chandra sarmah
Guewahati 07/06/2024
Mail ID: rajatchandrasarmah@ gmail .com
