26/11/2024

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Photo Courtesy: Rajat Chandra Sarmah

• Lifestyle

Rajat Chandra Sarmah: From Engineering Marvels to Literary Triumphs

NY Weekly Staff 

• November 26, 2024
• 1:32 pm

By: Aman Jalan

Rajat Chandra Sarmah’s name stands as a testament to excellence and versatility, spanning a remarkable 36-year career as a distinguished engineer and a flourishing post-retirement journey as an acclaimed author. He was honoured to be selected for the prestigious LEAD (Leadership for Environment and Development) fellowship, sponsored by the Rockefeller Foundation, in recognition of his dedication to sustainable development. Additionally, he attained the distinction of becoming a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers (India) and earned a C-level project management certification from the International Project Management Association (IPMA). From his early days restoring hydroelectric projects to winning international awards for his writing, Rajat’s story is one of relentless passion, perseverance, and reinvention.

Engineering Legacy

Rajat’s engineering journey began in 1985 when he graduated from Assam Engineering College with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was soon recruited by a central sector power enterprise, stepping into the role of Sub Divisional Officer. One of his earliest milestones was his active involvement in the restoration of two 50 MW units of the flood-damaged Kopili Hydro Electric Project, where he honed his technical skills alongside experienced mentors.

Over the years, Rajat led several monumental projects, including the commissioning of the 3×25 MW Doyang Hydro Electric Plant and managing electro-mechanical works at the 4×150 MW Kameng Hydro Electric Project. His problem-solving prowess shone during his tenure at the Ranganadi Hydro Electric Project, where he tackled significant commissioning challenges. As General Manager of the 275 MW Kopili Hydro Electric Project, Rajat went beyond his technical duties, creating India’s first botanical garden within a power project—a move that combined ecological preservation with industrial operations.

Rajat’s innovative approach extended to renewable energy projects, including the extension of the Agartala Gas Turbine Project into a combined cycle plant and the development of Northeast India’s first megawatt-scale solar plant in Monarchak, Tripura.

The Leap to Literature

After retiring from a career marked by innovation and leadership, Rajat embarked on a new chapter as an author—a decision inspired by an internal drive to excel in literature, a subject he had struggled with in his school years. His debut book, A Sanguine Tale: Unfolding the Life of a Project Engineer, chronicled his experiences in Northeast India’s remote, serene landscapes. The biography received accolades, including the Golden Book Award 2024 and Emerging Writer of the Year at CLC 2024, and was translated into multiple languages, including Spanish, French, and Chinese.

With the success of his first book, Rajat continued his literary journey, publishing A New Dawn: Adventure of the Golden Years (an Amazon #1 bestseller), a short story collection (Whisper of the Diverse Tale), a poetry book (A Symphony of Life), and a thriller (Behind the Headlines). His literary achievements earned him prestigious awards such as the International Tagore Award on Literature 2024, 21st Century Emily Dickinson Award, and Beacon of Hope Award.

Transitioning from Engineering to Writing

The shift from technical problem-solving to creative storytelling wasn’t without challenges. “Project management and literature are opposite sides of a coin,” Rajat explains. “While engineering requires quick decision-making, writing demands emotional depth, careful word selection, and creativity.” Yet, his structured approach and years of experience dealing with human aspects and communication hurdles helped him craft compelling narratives.

Connecting with Readers

Rajat’s writing resonates across diverse genres—biographies, poetry, thrillers, and short stories—through his focus on universal emotions and authentic storytelling. “Whether I’m writing a thriller or poetry, I aim to evoke emotions and create narratives that readers can relate to,” he shares. His ability to blend professional struggles with personal growth has left a lasting impact on readers, as evidenced by feedback from fans who credit his stories with inspiring introspection and balance in their own lives.

Upcoming Projects

Rajat’s literary journey is far from over. He recently completed Beyond the Horizon, a collection of short stories slated for release, and is contributing to various anthologies. With a penchant for exploring new genres and themes, Rajat is eager to continue captivating audiences worldwide.

A Legacy of Excellence

From restoring hydroelectric plants to writing award-winning books, Rajat Chandra Sarmah exemplifies the power of reinvention. His unique blend of technical expertise and creative expression has left an indelible mark on both the engineering and literary worlds, proving that it’s never too late to pursue new passions and achieve greatness.

Follow him on his literary journey, as he continues to inspire through words and stories that transcend boundaries.

Published By: Aize Perez

NY Weekly Staff 

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This article features branded content from a third party. Opinions in this article do not reflect the opinions and beliefs of New York

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Instagram : rajatchandrasarmah5

Email: rajatchandrasarmah@gmail.com

Some relationships seem almost poetic in their perfection. My best friend and his wife shared one such bond—a love that felt effortless, built on trust, laughter, and an unspoken understanding that only years of companionship can create. They were the kind of couple people admired, a reminder that true love still existed in a world of fleeting connections.

And then, I saw something I wished I hadn’t.

The first time was at a quiet café. He was sitting across from a woman, strikingly beautiful, with an air of effortless charm. Their conversation was soft, intimate, punctuated by fleeting touches and unguarded laughter. It felt different—too personal to be casual. Still, I told myself not to overthink it. People have friends. Colleagues. Life outside marriage.

But then I saw them again. And again.

A bookstore one evening. A park on a weekend afternoon. A dimly lit restaurant where they leaned in too close. Each time, there was a familiarity, a chemistry that could not be mistaken. And each time, I felt a growing unease.

Curiosity gnawed at me. One evening, in the midst of casual conversation, I mentioned her lightly. “I saw you with someone the other day. A friend?” His reaction was almost rehearsed—too swift, too dismissive. “Oh, just someone I know. Nothing important.” He changed the subject before I could ask more.

And now, I find myself caught in an unsettling dilemma.

What is my role here? Should I confront him, demand the truth? Should I tell his wife, knowing it might shatter her world? Or should I remain silent, convincing myself that this is not my battle to fight?

The burden of knowing is heavy, but the weight of speaking might be even greater.

If you were in my place, what would you do? Would you reveal the truth or carry the burden of silence?

Rajat Chandra Sarmah

Guwahati , Assam , India

07/02/2025

Thanks to my readers , my publishers

( C) All rights reserved by the author.

Instagram : @rajatchandrasarmah5

There are moments when the world feels perfectly aligned, and then there are those that shake the very foundation of our beliefs. Lately, I find myself standing at the crossroads of thought, burdened by questions that refuse to settle. These are not the grand philosophical puzzles of existence, nor the fleeting confusions of everyday life. They are dilemmas—deep, unsettling, and uncomfortably human.

In a world that thrives on absolutes, we are often told that right and wrong are clearly defined. But are they? Does morality function in black and white, or is it an ever-shifting spectrum of grey? When confronted with choices that tug at both reason and emotion, how do we decide which path to walk? More importantly, does the ‘right’ decision even exist, or is it merely a construct of perspective?

Over the next four days, I want to explore four such dilemmas—questions that have left me restless, lingering in my mind without resolution. I will not present answers, for I have none. Instead, I will share my thoughts, my confusions, and the weight of indecision that accompanies them. Perhaps you, my readers, can offer clarity where I see only contradiction.

At the end of each day’s narrative, I will leave you with a question—a moment to pause, reflect, and, if you wish, share your own perspective. Because in matters of the heart, ethics, and conscience, there is no singular truth—only the wisdom we gather from one another.

Tomorrow, I begin with the first dilemma. But before that, I ask you—do you believe there is always a right answer, or do we simply choose the lesser wrong?

Rajat Chandra Sarmah

Guwahati , Assam , India

06/02/2025

Writing has always been personal to me—an outlet, a journey, a way to share my thoughts. But what truly keeps me going is you—the ones who take the time to read, reflect, and connect.

There are days when I struggle to put thoughts into words, when I wonder if what I write even matters. And then, I see your comments, your encouragement, your quiet presence, and I realize—this space isn’t just mine; it belongs to all of us.

Your support gives my words purpose. Every read, every share, every kind word is a push to keep going. I may be the one writing, but it is you who make this blog alive.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. This journey wouldn’t be the same without you.

Rajat Chandra Sarmah

Guwahati , Assam , India

06/02/2025

4. Fashion Trends:

Sunita walked in wearing last year’s clothes like she was on a fashion runway. “Vintage is the new black,” she said proudly.

 Her friends looked at each other. “If that’s true, then my dad’s old sweater is a designer piece,” one of them muttered.

5. The Gossipy Neighborhood:

A new couple moved in, and before they could even unload their boxes, the neighborhood aunties had gathered.

“They seem nice,” said Mrs. Sharma.

“Too nice,” replied Mrs. Patel, nodding knowingly.

By evening, the whole lane had theories—some said they were millionaires, others guessed spies. 

Turns out, they were just two IT professionals who liked peace and quiet.

6. Political Debates:

Dinner started peacefully. Then politics came up. Within minutes, uncles were shouting, aunties were arguing, and cousins were taking sides.

 The only person winning? The pizza guy, who left with a fat tip. 

Meanwhile, Ravi sat there, holding his stomach—his diet had lost the battle again.

7. The Gym New Year:

Every January, Mohan joined the gym with big dreams. He went once, took a selfie, grabbed the free towel, and never went back. 

By February, even the gym trainer had forgotten his name.

RAJAT CHANDRA SARMAH

GUWAHATI , ASSAM , INDIA

05/02/2025

1. Job Hunt
   “Applied for a job. They wanted ‘miracle workers.’
   Thought I had a decent shot.
   Turns out, they hired someone who just knew how to dodge work.”
2. Marriage Wisdom
   “Thirty years of marriage. Learned three survival rules.
   Separate TVs. Separate remotes. A well-timed ‘Hmm, you’re right.’
   Still married, still sane!”

   3.Diet Chronicles
     “Tried eating only salads for a week.
       Lost a few pounds. Lost my temper.       

       I lost my will to live.
       On day eight, a burger saved my soul.”

RAJAT CHANDRA SARMAH

Guwahati , Assam , India

04/02/2025

      

        

PROUD TO BE RANK -2 AND AMONGST THE TOP WRITERS OF 2024 .

The captain’s voice crackled through the speaker, announcing our descent into Guwahati. I instinctively leaned toward the window, eager for my first glimpse of home after twenty long days of travel. The sky was painted in shades of deep blue, fading into a warm amber glow near the horizon. Below, the Brahmaputra snaked through the city like a ribbon of liquid silver, reflecting the last remnants of daylight.

As we sank lower, the city lights began to twinkle—tiny specks of gold and white, scattered across the landscape.  The heart of the old city, glowed softly by the river. The Saraighat Bridge, standing tall over the river, was a familiar sight—a silent guardian watching over the city’s past and present. Even in the dimming light, I could make out the silhouette of the Kamakhya Temple, perched atop the Nilachal Hills, its presence a comforting reminder that I was home.

A Journey Across Places, A Heart That Longed for Home

As the wheels touched down with a gentle thud, a strange mix of exhaustion and relief washed over me. Twenty days had passed—twenty days of exploring, learning, and losing myself in places so different yet equally fascinating.

The sheer speed and efficiency of the Delhi Metro, the lifeline of a bustling metropolis, had amazed me. In stark contrast, Bali had been a serene escape—waves lapping against the shores, the fragrance of frangipani in the air, and the soft chanting from temples creating an almost dreamlike ambiance.

At Birla Institute of Technology and Science, I had felt the weight of academia, standing in awe of a place where great minds were shaped. The energy at Ajmer Sharif Dargah had been unforgettable—the qawwals’ soulful voices, the sea of devotees, the scent of rose petals and incense mixing into a spiritual experience unlike any other.

Jaipur had been a quick but charming interlude—Patrika Gate, Jawahar Circle, and the vibrant streets offering a glimpse into a city that balances history and modernity with effortless grace.

And now, here I was, back in Guwahati, my heart beating faster as I stepped out of the airport and inhaled the familiar, humid air.

The Road Home

I hailed a cab, the driver giving me a polite nod as he placed our luggage in the trunk. The ride home was quiet, the city whizzing past in streaks of light and shadow. Azara, Maligaon, Panbazar—each neighborhood brought back memories, each turn in the road making me feel closer to my own world. Both my wife and We keep almost silent throughout the road may be due to exhaustion or may be losing the charm and beauty we enjoyed for the last twenty days and now back again to the routine.

I glanced outside at the Bharalu River, the traffic on AT Road moving sluggishly, yet there was something comforting about this chaos. The tea stalls were still alive with  customers, a few rickshaw pullers huddled together, chatting over cups of steaming chai.

As the cab neared my house, I felt a deep contentment settle over me. No matter how beautiful the places I had visited, no matter how exhilarating the experiences, nothing quite compared to coming home.

I unlocked the door,and we stepped inside, and let out a long sigh. The familiarity of my space—my books on the shelf, the chair by the window, the soft glow of the night lamp—felt like an embrace. Dropping my bags, I stretched out on my bed, letting the comfort of home wrap around me like a warm blanket.Tomorrow, I would sort through my photographs, relive the journey through stories, and cherish the moments I had collected along the way. But tonight, I would simply close my eyes and breathe in the peace of home.

With it , we completed our  journey for now and plan for some other beautiful place as soon as possible .

RAJAT CHANDRA SARMAH

GUWAHATI , ASSAM , INDIA

03/02/2025 .