Avay Shukla, a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, has released his seventh book, "Holy Cows And Loose Cannons - The Duffer Zone Chronicles," published by AUTHORS UPFRONT/ PARANJOY this week. This latest work is a compilation of writings from the past three years, offering a humorous yet critical look at various aspects of Indian society, politics, and culture.
Shukla’s book spans 229 pages and is priced at RS. 595 in paperback. The author, who retired from the IAS in December 2010, has previously published several works, including "SPECTRE OF CHOOR DHAR" in July 2019, "POLYTICKS, DEMOCKRAZY AND MUMBO JUMBO" in August 2020, "INDIA: THE WASTED YEARS" in July 2021, and "THE DEPUTY COMMISSIONER’S DOG AND OTHER COLLEAGUES" in September 2023. His most recent publication, "DISAPPEARING DEMOCRACY-DISMANTLING OF A NATION," came out in March 2024.
The Foreword of Shukla’s new book is penned by Mani Shankar Aiyar, an esteemed author, columnist, and former Union Minister. In his Foreword, Aiyar praises Shukla’s unique ability to blend humor with sharp social commentary, stating, "Avay Shukla is to Indian writing what James Thurber and Art Buchwald combined were to American funny bone journalism." He emphasizes that Shukla’s writing is not only entertaining but also deeply insightful, pointing out the absurdities of contemporary Indian life.
Aiyar highlights Shukla’s wit, noting, "He is the master of the putdown," and shares examples of Shukla’s biting humor, such as his remarks on a book about Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a child, which he describes as available on Amazon under the category of "Fairy Tales/Mythology." Shukla’s commentary often targets the pomposity of politicians and societal norms, showcasing his ability to provoke laughter while addressing serious issues.
In his book, Shukla aims to balance the serious and the funny, arguing that one can find wisdom in humor and vice versa. He believes that by viewing life through both lenses, readers can maintain their sanity and perspective. His observations range from critiques of political figures to reflections on societal challenges, all delivered with a humorous twist.
Shukla’s writings also touch on environmental issues, as he shares experiences from his treks in the Himalayas, blending humor with poignant reflections on nature. His work serves as a reminder of the beauty of the natural world and the importance of preserving it amidst growing concerns about climate change.
As the book was released, Shukla’s reflections resonated with many, particularly those feeling disillusioned by the current political climate in India. His writing encourages readers to engage with the world around them and to find common humanity through laughter.
In addition to Shukla’s book release, the significance of literature is highlighted as World Book and Copyright Day approaches on April 23. This day serves as a reminder of the power of books in shaping minds and promoting cultural understanding. Celebrated since 1995, this event encourages reading and honors authors worldwide.
The theme for World Book and Copyright Day 2025 is "The role of literature in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." This theme emphasizes how literature can influence positive change and foster understanding of global challenges. The SDGs, introduced by the United Nations in 2015, consist of 17 interconnected goals aimed at eradicating poverty and promoting sustainability.
As part of the celebrations, UNESCO has designated Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as the World Book Capital for 2025, recognizing its commitment to literature and fostering reading habits among youth. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in India aligns closely with the principles of the SDGs, particularly in promoting quality education.
However, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in the publishing industry has raised concerns regarding copyright infringement. Recent surveys by Patronus AI have identified significant instances of plagiarism by large language models (LLMs) that utilize copyrighted material without proper attribution. This has led to legal actions, including a lawsuit filed by The New York Times against OpenAI, highlighting the ongoing debate over copyright protection in the age of AI.
Amidst these developments, publishers like Penguin Random House are proactively updating their copyright pages to address unauthorized use of their works by AI algorithms. This move aims to safeguard the rights of authors and maintain the integrity of published literature.
As we approach World Book and Copyright Day, it is essential to reaffirm the importance of literature in fostering understanding and promoting cultural diversity. Avay Shukla’s latest book, with its blend of humor and critical reflection, exemplifies the enduring power of the written word to inspire and engage readers.
In a world increasingly influenced by technology, protecting authors' rights and promoting equitable access to literature remain crucial. By celebrating World Book and Copyright Day, we acknowledge the role of books in shaping a more just and informed society, ensuring that literature continues to inspire innovation and nurture empathy.
Shukla’s work, alongside the global celebration of literature, encourages a culture of reading that connects individuals and communities, fostering a deeper appreciation for the written word.
