A Book A Day - A Literary Podcast from India
536 episodes - English - Latest episode: 16 days ago -Every day, I pick at least one new book, read what it has to offer, make notes and share the best ideas with you.
Sounds fun, right? Join me in this journey and explore a whole new world of books and stories.
For any suggestions/queries please contact us at [email protected] or visit Kalampedia.org on your browser.
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Episodes
Indian Queer Literature | Entering the Maze by Krishnagopal Mullick
April 03, 2024 16:12 - 15 minutes - 14.6 MBIn this episode, I take you to the 20th-century Calcutta, where we explore the queer literature of Krishnagopal Mullick amidst the hustle and bustle of the Bengali city. The book, Entering the Maze: Queer Fiction of Krishnagopal Mullick, contains two short stories apart from the novella with the same title. Let's find out more about the book.
Folk Stories in Andaman's Bo Language | Anvita Abbi
March 28, 2024 15:06 - 15 minutes - 14.7 MBIn this episode, I narrate some short and wonderful stories from Anvita Abbi's book Voices from the Lost Horizon. In this book Abbi traces down and chronicles the stories and songs of Bo language of the Andaman islands, which has since gone extinct. Visit kalampedia.org to know more about the book. Keep sharing your thoughts and ideas.
A Malayalam Short Story | The Flood by TS Pillai | Thakazhi
March 24, 2024 16:06 - 14 minutes - 13.9 MBAlappuzha Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, popularly known as Thakazhi after his place of birth, was an Indian novelist and short story writer of Malayalam literature. In this episode, I narrate one of his short stories. The story is called The Flood and it's about a dog who is stuck at a hut during the floods. Let me know how you found the story.
A Sindhi Short Story | Manjri by Lekhraj Tulsiani
March 21, 2024 15:45 - 13 minutes - 12.5 MBIn this episode I narrate a short story from Sindhi literature. Written by Lekhraj Tulsiani, the story recounts a tale of a poor woman in the court room. Let me know how you like the story.
A Punjabi Short Story | A Whirlwind by Sant Singh Sekhon
March 20, 2024 15:39 - 19 minutes - 17.8 MBIn this episode I narrate a short story called 'The Whirlwind' written by Sant Singh Sekhon. Sant Singh Sekhon (1908–1997) was a Punjabi playwright and fiction writer. He is part of the generation of Indian authors who mark the transition of India into an independent nation, scarred by the tragedies of partition.
Pankaj Mishra in India | Travel Book | Bollywood
March 18, 2024 16:05 - 33 minutes - 31.2 MBIn the final chapter our discussion on Pankaj Mishra's book Temptations of the West, I share his visit to the Bollywood. Let me know what you think of the book.
Pankaj Mishra in Afghanistan | Travel Book
March 16, 2024 17:09 - 30 minutes - 28.6 MBIt's early 2000s. Pankaj Mishra is travelling in Afghanistan and exploring its socio-political challenges. Let's find out what happens there with the help of his book Temptations of the West. Don't forget to share your feedback on [email protected] and I will be happy to respond.
Pankaj Mishra in Pakistan | Temptations of the West | Travel Book
March 15, 2024 16:21 - 32 minutes - 30.7 MBIn his book, 'Temptations of the West,' Pankaj Mishra travels through different parts of India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, and shares his experiences along with his succinct analysis on the social and political dynamics of these countries. I narrate a few passages from the book in today's episode.
Free for All | Manto Short Story | India Pakistan Literature
March 12, 2024 14:50 - 10 minutes - 10.2 MBOriginal called Dekh Kabira Roya (See, Kabir Cried), this short story (now titled Free for All) was published by Saadat Hasan Manto soon after he migrated to Pakistan after the partition. Manto uses the famous 15th century Sufi poet Bhagat Kabir as a protagonist to presciently satirise the emerging trends of intolerance, orthodoxy and cultural chauvinism in the newly-independent state, which are all too familiar in Pakistan in the 21st century. Let's hear the story in this episode.
The Dutiful Daughter | Saadat Hasan Manto Short Story | India Pakistan Literature
March 11, 2024 15:50 - 14 minutes - 13.4 MBI narrate another short story by Saadat Hasan Manto in this episode. The story is called The Dutiful Daughter and it highlights the violence faced by women during the India-Pakistan partition riots.
Saadat Hasan Manto's Short Stories | Part 1 | India Pakistan Literature
March 05, 2024 16:29 - 21 minutes - 20.4 MBLet's enter the intriguing, dark (not to mention, humorous) world of Saadat Hasan Manto's pen and read some short stories together. Share your thoughts with me on [email protected].
Homi J Bhabha | A Book by Biman Nath
March 04, 2024 16:23 - 17 minutes - 16 MBIn today's podcast I discuss about the life of one of the 'Rocket Boys', with the help of Biman Nath's monograph. Homi Bhabha was an Indian nuclear physicist who is often regarded as the father of Indian nuclear programme. Learn about his life and works with this wonderful book. As always, your thoughts and suggestions are welcome at [email protected].
Rani Gaidinliu | Freedom Fighter from North East India | Som Kamei
March 01, 2024 15:49 - 17 minutes - 16.4 MBContinuing our series on Pioneers of Modern India, published by Niyogi Books, this time I share the story of Rani Gaidinliu. She was a legendary freedom fighter from North East India who fought for the rights of Zeliangrong Nagas. Not only do we learn about her life, but also her community, their belief system, their history, the challanges they face and much more.
RK Narayan's Malgudi Days | Indradeep Bhattacharyya
February 23, 2024 16:11 - 14 minutes - 13.9 MBIn this episode I discuss a wonderful monograph written by Indradeep Bhattacharyya on life and works of RK Narayan. Visit www.kalampedia.org to read more about RK Narayan's works. If you have any queries or thoughts to share, please feel free to write at [email protected].
Jagadish Chandra Bose by Sudipto Das | The Great Indians Series
February 12, 2024 16:36 - 19 minutes - 17.7 MBIn the next few episodes of this podcast, I am going to share the stories of some wonderful characters from Indian history that have truly shaped this country. I start with Sudipto Das's biography of Jagadish Chandra Bose, the great Bengali polymath. Let's find out more about the book as well as the man himself.
The Bhagavad Gita by Vandana R Singh | Part 3 | Jnana Yoga
January 22, 2024 16:21 - 20 minutes - 19.5 MBIn the concluding part of our Bhagavad Gita series, I discuss Jnana Yoga as it is explained by Krishna in Gita. Check out Vandana R Singh's book to explore all these valuable lessons in greater depth. Thank you for listening. For any queries, please write at [email protected] and I will be happy to respond.
The Bhagavad Gita by Vandana R Singh | Part 2 | Bhakti Yoga
January 18, 2024 16:36 - 18 minutes - 17.7 MBIn the second part of our Bhagavad Gita series, I discuss Bhakti Yoga as described in the Gita. Bhakti yoga, the path of devotion as elucidated in the Bhagavad Gita, holds profound significance in spiritual and personal development. In chapters seven to twelve, the Gita delves into the essence of bhakti, outlining its principles and emphasising its relevance in navigating the complexities of modern life. Check out Vandana R Singh's book to find more on this subject.
The Bhagavad Gita by Vandana R Singh | Part 1 | Karma Yoga
January 15, 2024 16:36 - 20 minutes - 19.5 MBThe Bhagavad Gita -- a profound source of spiritual wisdom. In the three-part series, I discuss Vandana R Singh's The Bhagavad Gita: A Life-changing Conversation. This book presents the most valuable lessons of Gita to contemporary readers. So, join me, and together we explore the pearls if this ancient Indian wisdom and apply it in our 21st century lives. This is the first of the three parts. Stay tuned for more.
The Bhagavad Gita by Vandana R Singh
January 15, 2024 16:36 - 20 minutes - 19.5 MBThe Bhagavad Gita -- a profound source of spiritual wisdom. In the three-part series, I discuss Vandana R Singh's The Bhagavad Gita: A Life-changing Conversation. This book presents the most valuable lessons of Gita to contemporary readers. So, join me, and together we explore the pearls if this ancient Indian wisdom and apply it in our 21st century lives. This is the first of the three parts. Stay tuned for more.
Biblical Stories Part 7 | Books on Christianity
January 03, 2024 17:13 - 17 minutes - 16.3 MBIn the concluding episode of our Biblical Stories series, we discuss the life and death of Jesus Christ. Hope you enjoyed it. Let me know on [email protected].
Biblical Stories Part 6 | Books on Christianity
January 02, 2024 17:49 - 13 minutes - 12.8 MBFrom the Old Testament we now arrive to the New Testament. And Jesus Christ is here. Keep following to learn what happens next.
Biblical Stories Part 5 | Books on Christianity | Hebrew Bible
January 01, 2024 17:30 - 24 minutes - 23.2 MBWe start the new year with the story of King David and what the Israelites go through during this period. Keep following the series to listen to some more exciting biblical stories.
Biblical Stories Part 4 | Books on Christianity
December 30, 2023 17:58 - 33 minutes - 31.5 MBContinuing with our Biblical stories theme this week, we join Moses on his journey to Israel. The conflict was much the same back then as it is now: Israel Vs Phillistines. Let's see what happens next. Keep following for more stories.
Biblical Stories Part 3 | Books on Christianity
December 29, 2023 16:53 - 19 minutes - 18.3 MBIn this episode, we find out the story of Moses's birth and how he led his people out of Egypt. Keep following the podcast to know what happens next.
Biblical Stories Part 2 | Books on Christianity
December 28, 2023 15:33 - 33 minutes - 30.9 MBContinuing with our theme of Christianity, I narrate the story of Joseph and Jacob in this episode. Keep listening to explore more stories from the Bible this week. Don't forget to share your thoughts on [email protected].
Biblical Stories Part 1 | Books on Christianity
December 27, 2023 16:38 - 26 minutes - 25.1 MBThis week I am going to narrate some fascinating biblical stories on the podcast. Once you're familiar with the stories, you'd be better able to understand Christian theology. Let me know your thoughts at [email protected].
Mere Christianity by CS Lewis | A Great Theological Read
December 25, 2023 18:03 - 35 minutes - 32.7 MBIn this podcast I discuss one of the greatest books ever written on Christianity. Mere Christianity, first done as a part of BBC radio and later documented as a book, is a masterpiece of CS Lewis. Let's find out what it's all about. If you have any queries or feedback, please write to me at [email protected].
India Pakistan Partition | History Through Books
August 14, 2023 15:34 - 22 minutes - 21.2 MBThe partition of India into two separate nations, India and Pakistan that is, was a significant event in history. I discuss some of the causes behind it in this episode. Please visit our website to read more on this subject. Also do check out our newsletter where you'll find some interesting content in the coming days.
Rain in the Mountains | Ruskin Bond | Monsoon Books
July 14, 2023 16:20 - 12 minutes - 11.1 MBIn this episode, once again, I share a wonderful book on monsoon rains. Written by Ruskin Bond, Rain in the Mountains recounts the author's experience of living in the Himalayas, especially during the monsoon season.
Chasing the Monsoon | Alexander Frater's Travels in India
July 10, 2023 16:57 - 22 minutes - 21.3 MBIn this episode -- since we are in the midst of the monsoon season -- I talk about a wonderful book on the monsoon. It's called Chasing the Monsoon. Please check out the latest newsletter at kalampedia.substack.com to see our complete reading list for the season.
The Story of Ramayana | Part 5
July 05, 2023 17:08 - 14 minutes - 13 MBIn the concluding episode of our Ramayana series, let's find out what happens in the war that takes place between Rama and Ravana.
The Story of Ramayana | Part 4
July 04, 2023 17:28 - 20 minutes - 18.7 MBIn the penultimate episode of our Ramayana series, we reach some interesting turn of events where the war between Ram and Ravan seems inevitable.
The Story of Ramayana | Part 3
June 27, 2023 17:57 - 20 minutes - 19.4 MBContinuing our Ramayana series, I narrate the sequence of events that take place during the exile period. Here we get introduced to another major character. Ravana.
The Story of Ramayana | Part 2
June 26, 2023 16:47 - 16 minutes - 14.9 MBIn this episode of our Ramayana series we follow the life of Rama after his marriage to Sita. Keep following the podcast to listen to the entire series.
The Story of Ramayana | Part 1
June 25, 2023 16:31 - 17 minutes - 16.3 MBRamayana is one of the major Hindu epics. In this series I am going to narrate the key parts of this story. For this I am going to take help of the original text by Valmeeki and the abridged English version by C. Rajagopalachari. Stay tuned.
How Tea Travelled From China to Europe to India | Food History Books
June 03, 2023 16:39 - 20 minutes - 18.7 MBIn this episode, I pick two books and discuss how tea reached us from the mountains of China. These books are: The Classic of Tea (Cha Ching) and Empire of Tea. I would love to hear your thoughts too. You can write to me at [email protected] and share your feedback.
Mythological Stories About Tea | The Tea Philosophy Book
June 02, 2023 17:01 - 12 minutes - 12 MBBringing some interesting myths and legends from ancient China to tell you more about the origins of tea. Please check out our latest Kindle book on the subject: The Tea Philosophy: A Modern Guide to the Ancient Way https://amzn.eu/d/3llUsh6
The Book of Tea | Okakura Kakuzo | Teaism
June 01, 2023 17:27 - 17 minutes - 16.1 MB‘Teaism is a cult founded on the adoration of the beautiful among the sordid facts of everyday existence,’ wrote Okakura Kakuzo in The Book of Tea. I discuss this book in today's podcast. You can get it from the link below. Let me know your thoughts. Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3N5M45l
From the Memoirs of Rabindranath Tagore | The Himalayas
May 25, 2023 18:08 - 15 minutes - 14.4 MBTo conclude our theme of Himalayas, I am going to narrate a few passages from Rabindranath Tagore's memoirs where he describes his childhood experience in the Himalayas.
Swami Vivekananda in Himalayas | Hindu Spirituality
May 24, 2023 19:17 - 22 minutes - 21 MBHimalayas have always inspired the spiritual seekers of the Indian subcontinent. The mighty, majestic mountains fill you with a feeling of mysticism. This was true in the 19th century as well, when Swami Vivekananda, the famous Indian monk, pursued his spiritual yearnings. In his biography Swami Vivekananda on Himself, the monk recounted his travel experiences. I narrate some passages from this account in today's podcast.
A Train from Calcutta to Darjeeling | Mark Twain in India
May 23, 2023 18:19 - 27 minutes - 25.7 MBThe year was 1894. Mark Twain, the great American writer, had gone bankrupt due to some poor investment choices. Therefore, in order to extricate himself from the debt, he undertook a journey through the British Empire, which, back then, meant pretty much the entire world. The route provided a wonderful opportunity for Twain to deliver his lectures and also write a book, which was published in 1897 as Following the Equator: A Journey Round the World. I narrate some of the passages from this b...
A Himalayan Village | Ruskin Bond
May 22, 2023 17:02 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MBIn the next few episodes I will share some fascinating writings on the Himalayas. In the first part of this series I narrate a short essay by Ruskin Bond, where he describes his experience of spending a night in a remote Himalayan village.
Stories from the Quran | Solomon the Wise
March 31, 2023 17:21 - 2 minutes - 2.45 MBHere is another short story from the Quran. Again, this story comes originally from the Hebrew Bible, whereas in the Qur'an you'd find slightly different versions of these stories.
Stories from the Quran | David and Goliath
March 30, 2023 15:46 - 5 minutes - 5.26 MBIn this short episode let me narrate the story of David and Goliath as it is mentioned in the Qur'an.
Stories from the Quran | Prophet Ezra (Uzair)
March 29, 2023 17:53 - 7 minutes - 6.98 MBContinuing the theme of Islam, I am going to narrate a few stories from the Qur'an in the next few days. These stories are taken from Tafsir Ibn Kathir. This book is the most renowned and accepted explanation of the Quran.
Controversial Issues in Islam: Feminism, Apostasy, Ex-Muslims, Sharia.
March 25, 2023 15:53 - 20 minutes - 19.1 MBI discuss the controversial issues related to Islam which often divide today's politics. The Muslim world has to grapple with these questions and settle them, if different cultures are going to live in peace and harmony with each other. Let me know your thoughts.
Understanding the Qur'an | Ramadan Series | Islam
March 24, 2023 16:41 - 21 minutes - 19.5 MBTo understand Islam, we have to understand its primary source, the Qur'an. In this podcast I discuss the approach we need while reading and interpreting the sacred text. Please share your feedback and questions at www.kalampedia.org.
Does Islam Teach Peace or Violence? | Ramadan Series
March 23, 2023 17:30 - 20 minutes - 19 MBIs Islam a religion of peace? Or does it preach violence? These are some of the controversial questions that divide today's political discourse in many parts of the world. Let's try to untangle this in our Ramadan special series.
History of Early Islam | Ramadan Series
March 22, 2023 17:53 - 22 minutes - 21.2 MBWishing Happy Ramadan to all the Muslims out there. In this series I am going to discuss some of the historical, political and philosophical aspects of Islam. Stay tuned. Don't forget to subscribe.
History of The Gita by Devdutt Pattanaik | Hindu Philosophy
March 16, 2023 17:15 - 22 minutes - 21.2 MBIn this episode I briefly talk about the history of The Gitas (remember there is not just one, The Bhagavad Gita), and how they have evolved over time.