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If we have a past that we aren’t particularly proud of, it doesn’t mean that we can’t have a promising future.’

Everyone has a past. But what if it becomes daunting baggage and spills over into the future?

A fiercely independent, career-driven girl, Angira, has recently changed her Facebook status to ‘single in Mumbai’. While work has been her only priority, a twist of fate brings Ved — a strikingly handsome footballer, the heart-throb of the college — into her life. He seems genuine and fun-loving, but based on past experiences, Angira knows better than to trust him. Despite their contrasting personalities, the two develop an unexpected bond — a link for which they are about to risk everything they have.

A riveting tale about incorrigible lovers with a dark past, It’s Not Right…But it’s Okay is a true story about finding friendship and love again.

Contemporary dilemmas, whether in business or politics, bear an uncanny resemblance to the predicaments witnessed in the ever-timely epic the Mahabharata. Like the example of Bhishma Pitamah can be used to rescue the modern-day manager, politician or bureaucrat! In the epic, Bhishma is the upholder of truth and dharma, his life shaped by the difficult choices he makes. Of course, he isn’t always infallible, but even when his decisions are questionable he serves as a role model. Prof. Balasubramanian uses this powerful figure and his selfless values as a guide to make the right choices in The Bhishma Way. He discusses the importance of values, dharma, truth, justice and governance in businesses and government. The book serves as an instructive read for anyone striving for a higher moral code in day-to-day decision-making and leadership.

The Bhishma Way
by N Balasubramanian. 
Pages 288. 
Random House.
Rs 499

Karmayogi is the dramatic and inspiring story of E. Sreedharan, the much-admired engineer and technocrat, who won accolades for finishing the Delhi Metro project within budget and on time in the face of severe constraints. Known for his efficiency and discipline and regarded the world over for his productivity standards, Sreedharan has, surprisingly, never spent more than the eight-hour workday in office. 

This fascinating book looks back on an extraordinary career full of sterling achievements — Sreedharan’s years with the railways, the building of the Kolkata Metro and the Konkan Railway, followed by the Delhi Metro, and the many metro projects he is involved with now. Translated from a bestselling biography in Malayalam, this is the uplifting story of a person who has become an icon of modern India for his uncompromising work ethic.

Karmayogi: A Biography of E. Sreedharan 
by MS Ashokan.
Penguin.
Pages 264. 
Rs 250 

Samrat Bindusar, son of Chandragupta and the second Samrat Chakravartin of all the Aryas rules over the massive subcontinent from his holy seat in Patliputra. Almost five decades ago, his father had laid the foundations of this vast samrajya guided by the famed guru Arya Chanakya. But now, the wealth and glory of the past has subsided.

As the Samrat’s health continues to decline due to an unknown illness, problems are arising all over his realm. There is infighting and rebellion. No clear successor to him is present. Ninety nine of his sons stand in line waiting for his throne. Bharathvarsha needs a Chandragupta once again. And it needs a Chanakya too. Can the young Prince Asoka, who is the least favourite son of the Samrat, fill the boots of his grandfather? Can Radhagupta, a mere counsellor of the court be what Chanakya was to all the Aryas? Begin a new adventure with the first book of the Ashoka trilogy?

The Prince of Patliputra 
by Shreyas Bhave. 
Frog.
Pages 382.
Rs 350