1. The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh – A beautiful book that describes the need to look inward, the importance of understanding the now, the relevance of detachment from everything and yet living a full life. “Mindfulness is the miracle by which we master and restore ourselves.”
2. The Lowland by Jhumpa Lahiri – Each character is grey in their own way and that’s what makes this story of two brothers, the people who enter their lives and their choices that span two continents and several decades a remarkable read. “The future haunted her but kept her alive; it remained her sustenance and also her predator.”
3. The Architect’s Apprentice by Elif Shafak – It was a wondrous architectural delight to read about the works of Sinan of Turkey through the eyes of a poor elephant trainer. This book has history, love, betrayal, architecture and intrigue set in the 16th century. “Jahan understood that his master’s secret resided not in his toughness, nor in his indestructability but in his ability to adapt to change and calamity and to rebuild himself out of the ruins.”
4. The Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King – The unusual story of two inmates in prison and how they have an unlikely bond that lasts decades. The only film without a heroine to be a smash hit. “I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend, and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.”
5. 100 Lyrics by Gulzar – Music is not just a balm to the mind, but it is a journey into your soul. Gulzar’s lyrics are so beautiful that it will transport you back to the time you heard them first and then you find a new meaning, yet again. “Main uske roop ka shehdaai, Vo dhoop chhanv se harjaai. Vo shokh hai rang badalta hai. Main rangroop ka saudaai. I am a lover of all her forms. Who flirts with light and shadow. She is mischievous, and changes colour. And I am a seeker of the colours and forms.”
