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Once There Was Me: The Extraordinary Life of an Unknown Indian
Caught in the web of communal violence repeatedly, Bobby Sachdeva stares at his burning house set afire by the bloodthirsty mob of the anti-Sikh riots in Delhi. As a fourteen year-old, his world turns upside down, exactly at the age his father had escaped from Pakistan during the Partition of India.
Recovering from the trauma, Bobby re-builds his business and journeys across the US and China, experiencing a life unhindered by religious animosity. Having experienced both sides of religion—of immersion and detachment—he starts questioning the role of religion in our lives.
Based on his vision of an emergent India, Bobby finally submits a PIL in the Supreme Court for religious shrines to distribute their excess income for the downtrodden. What happens next as religious hardliners turn against him?
Recovering from the trauma, Bobby re-builds his business and journeys across the US and China, experiencing a life unhindered by religious animosity. Having experienced both sides of religion—of immersion and detachment—he starts questioning the role of religion in our lives.
Based on his vision of an emergent India, Bobby finally submits a PIL in the Supreme Court for religious shrines to distribute their excess income for the downtrodden. What happens next as religious hardliners turn against him?
- GenresAutobiography
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2020
1 person is currently reading
114 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
August 10, 2020
This is my first book from the author; I took it up as the book's cover, and the title looked quite intriguing. Part autobiographical, part fiction, the author has done commendable work in representing the horrific circumstances that he and his family had to endure during the 1947 partition and 1984 riots. He also places his opinions on religious regards in India. As you read, it gives you goosebumps and leaves you in tears.
I loved the way he has put forth his own encounters in such detail. The story-telling is absorbing, and you can't help but crave to know what's next. The spiritual perspectives are stipulated in detail and totally relatable, however, after a while, it got monotonous and began to take away attention. The end is entirely surprising, and I felt it was a forced one just to give it a big twist. There are a few grammatical errors that can certainly be taken care of in the next version.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It's a glimpse into the truth of today's India that the author has tried to put forth. He believes that his book will spur at least some of them to take the first step towards the prosperity of the nation. He tells that trust and acceptance of fallacious faiths will only lead to downfall; asking questions is absolutely essential.
I would recommend this book to everyone, it keeps you hooked!
I loved the way he has put forth his own encounters in such detail. The story-telling is absorbing, and you can't help but crave to know what's next. The spiritual perspectives are stipulated in detail and totally relatable, however, after a while, it got monotonous and began to take away attention. The end is entirely surprising, and I felt it was a forced one just to give it a big twist. There are a few grammatical errors that can certainly be taken care of in the next version.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It's a glimpse into the truth of today's India that the author has tried to put forth. He believes that his book will spur at least some of them to take the first step towards the prosperity of the nation. He tells that trust and acceptance of fallacious faiths will only lead to downfall; asking questions is absolutely essential.
I would recommend this book to everyone, it keeps you hooked!
August 15, 2020
Once there was me is second book of Bobby Sachdeva. Unlike his first book, this book is his semi autobiography. His first book is "Stories of Us" which is collection of 41 short stories. They are ordinary stories or I can say relatable stories. But if you will read his second book "Once There was Me". You will get the reason behind his relatable short stories.
Once there was me take us an adventurous road lead by Bobby and the events of his life. A full package of drama of society, action with hooligans and police, lives before during and post riots. And what not. Seriously, though this book is around 400+ pages you won't get tired of reading it. First of all, it's fast paced and second his narrative is extremely smooth which will not allow you to blink even once.
I took 4 days to complete it. I mean, I should say nights. However, while reading it, personality and growth of characters was visible and how we unknowingly take our parent's or society's behavior and learn from them. His life is truly a roller coaster ride. But how he manages everything was impeccable. I'm glad I got to read it. And I would implement lessons I learned. And they were: Question every teaching, no matter who and what they teach. We generally brush aside questions from young kids thinking they will learn when they grow up. No we shouldn't do it.
Observe everyone around you, you always take others behavior and try to adopt it. Which can be fatal. How Bobby adopted his father's behavior and what problems he had to face.
I'm trying hard not to disclose everything about book. Some should be left behind for you all to read. But I can't. This is certainly one of the best read of this month.
Rate:5⭐
*Highly Recommended*
Once there was me take us an adventurous road lead by Bobby and the events of his life. A full package of drama of society, action with hooligans and police, lives before during and post riots. And what not. Seriously, though this book is around 400+ pages you won't get tired of reading it. First of all, it's fast paced and second his narrative is extremely smooth which will not allow you to blink even once.
I took 4 days to complete it. I mean, I should say nights. However, while reading it, personality and growth of characters was visible and how we unknowingly take our parent's or society's behavior and learn from them. His life is truly a roller coaster ride. But how he manages everything was impeccable. I'm glad I got to read it. And I would implement lessons I learned. And they were: Question every teaching, no matter who and what they teach. We generally brush aside questions from young kids thinking they will learn when they grow up. No we shouldn't do it.
Observe everyone around you, you always take others behavior and try to adopt it. Which can be fatal. How Bobby adopted his father's behavior and what problems he had to face.
I'm trying hard not to disclose everything about book. Some should be left behind for you all to read. But I can't. This is certainly one of the best read of this month.
Rate:5⭐
*Highly Recommended*
July 26, 2020
Once There Was Me is a Semi Autobiographical work of Bobby Sachdeva. The book mainly dwells with communal violence, racial hatred, religious discrimination, corruption in system and corrupt religious practices. Set in different countries and locations in India the author has tried to showcase different cultural, religious and human behaviour and their consequences.
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In the year 1984 when the prime minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh guards, it stirred a nationwide violence and rioting. The mayhem intensified in Delhi and spread throughout the country. In Delhi there was retaliatory killing of Sikhs. In the midst of this massacre the author and his father tried their best to keep their family safe.
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The tension ebbed after few years but as we delve deeper into the book we came to understand that such kind of violence never stops. Struggling financially the author narrates his personal accounts of different incidents and how it changed his perception. He started to believe that all humans are alike but circumstances mould every people differently. While he was in America situation had left no choice to him but to struggle and thrive in the new country.
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As he grew up and become exposed to more events his experience grew and with that he started to question the blind faith on religious Preachers and the system. And from a religious person he changed into an atheist. The entire book was very thought provoking and it can be an eye-opener. Though I expected it to be more inspirational than just a monotonous autobiography.
.
In the year 1984 when the prime minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh guards, it stirred a nationwide violence and rioting. The mayhem intensified in Delhi and spread throughout the country. In Delhi there was retaliatory killing of Sikhs. In the midst of this massacre the author and his father tried their best to keep their family safe.
.
The tension ebbed after few years but as we delve deeper into the book we came to understand that such kind of violence never stops. Struggling financially the author narrates his personal accounts of different incidents and how it changed his perception. He started to believe that all humans are alike but circumstances mould every people differently. While he was in America situation had left no choice to him but to struggle and thrive in the new country.
.
As he grew up and become exposed to more events his experience grew and with that he started to question the blind faith on religious Preachers and the system. And from a religious person he changed into an atheist. The entire book was very thought provoking and it can be an eye-opener. Though I expected it to be more inspirational than just a monotonous autobiography.
August 13, 2020
Once there was me is a semi-autobiography and the author has portrayed his life journey with a pinch of fiction to it.
All of us have heard about the various communal riots that has happened in various places. But what we don't know is about the victims of such riots. The book gives the reader an idea about the hardships and sufferings the victims of such incidents has to go through in order to bring their disrupted life back to normal. The author and his family are victims of the communal riots that had happened in the year 1984. The author has explained how much they had to suffer in order to re-establish their business and lead a normal life all over again.
Another interesting fact about the book is that the book deals with so many relevant and important topics that's been happening worldwide. The author has beautifully described so many details about the culture, history and customs of his religion too.
This was the first time I had read a semi-autobiography. I had found it really interesting as it was really difficult to differentiate between reality and fiction. Even though it was slow paced at certain places, it was a very interesting read.
All of us have heard about the various communal riots that has happened in various places. But what we don't know is about the victims of such riots. The book gives the reader an idea about the hardships and sufferings the victims of such incidents has to go through in order to bring their disrupted life back to normal. The author and his family are victims of the communal riots that had happened in the year 1984. The author has explained how much they had to suffer in order to re-establish their business and lead a normal life all over again.
Another interesting fact about the book is that the book deals with so many relevant and important topics that's been happening worldwide. The author has beautifully described so many details about the culture, history and customs of his religion too.
This was the first time I had read a semi-autobiography. I had found it really interesting as it was really difficult to differentiate between reality and fiction. Even though it was slow paced at certain places, it was a very interesting read.
July 20, 2020
Religion is something which has integrated into our system even being . Our names are decided on the basis of it . This is even more real for we Indians . Religion and culture is almost everything for us .
This book however will paint a extremely realistic picture in front of you . The author has done a remarkable job in depicting the selfishness and madness behind all this religious organization .
The book is written in an autobiographical manner focusing on the life of the author from the early . The narration of the book is remarkable and sequence of events occurring will hold your attention till the very end .
Overall I this book is food for your thoughts.
This book however will paint a extremely realistic picture in front of you . The author has done a remarkable job in depicting the selfishness and madness behind all this religious organization .
The book is written in an autobiographical manner focusing on the life of the author from the early . The narration of the book is remarkable and sequence of events occurring will hold your attention till the very end .
Overall I this book is food for your thoughts.
July 30, 2020
Actual Rating: ****1/4 (4.25/5)
Bobby Sachdeva’s second book “Once there was me” turns out to be a very relevant social treatise. Be it unraveling the unheard attributes of the society or the streaks of the essence of communal violence, religious discriminations and prejudices—this book has it all.
Sachdeva recalls his own journey from a child to become a successful adult, and traces his life starting from his childhood days up till the modern times. We see him clearing one hurdle after another, stepping into rings of fire and then emerging victorious out of it; and through his story he probably urges us to look at society without the veil of cultural and ethnical differences blocking our views. His book concludes to be a riveting account of not only the life of one man called Bobby Sachdeva, but perhaps personifies the plight of all those men and women who have been at a disadvantage due to such situations. It speaks for the teeming millions who’ve been affected by the disarray of hatred and political frictions, it upholds the agony and the helplessness of householders in the face of discriminations and biases.
Being born into a Sikh family, Sachdeva at a very tender age, had had to experience the instigated mass slaughter of the Sikhs, just post-assassination of Prime Minister, Mrs. Gandhi. The author captures this trauma with an unbelievable innocence, immersing us in a realization with what it must have been felt by the Sikhs of those times. He talks about the mental insecurity prevailing in his mind due to his Sikh ethnicity, he narrates experiences when he was majorly categorized as the odd one out---and the Sikhs had been outcast.
We see Sachdeva gaining stead and battling these stigmas that hold him back. Equipped with a steady and extremely simple narration, this book is nothing short of a vivid cinematic experience. Sachdeva conquers the shackles that hold him back and makes significant progresses in his personal and career-centric life. Rising beyond the odour of intolerance and mutual prejudices, he transcends to become a person much aware.
Sachdeva’s writing points fingers at various societal issues, and he narrates his own take on them quite convincingly. His storytelling is pure and innocent, and devoid of any disguising of facts. He speaks his heart out, fearless and headstrong. This book becomes a window to the society, through which the readers will be able to glimpse at facets they never knew existed. It will make them shudder with cold realizations, and perhaps make them bolder and more tolerant.
The author contrasts the common notion that insensitivity and anger are pillars of domination and staunch masculinity. He makes us see the blunder that such narrow mindset can conjure. All throughout, we somehow sympathize with this young Sikh boy with a turban, hopping from school and school and shifting residences. We feel for his immense insecurity and helplessness. The story preaches not just to showcase radical viewpoints that might rattle the prison bars of the social stigmas, it also instills the spirit of communal harmony and non-violence. In his tender dreams, Sachdeva might have wished for a better India—the one where compassion and peace are the foundations of harmonic living, and not dominance and influence.
Sachdeva manages to portray the quivering and bubbling India of that time, which should teach lessons much beyond the scope of any history textbook or an appendix of sociology. ‘Once there was me’ shatters the concept of division based upon caste, colour or creed. And it is done not very imposingly, rather in a very holistic approach. Sachdeva tells us to fight the social evils, feel for the less privileged and the one’s who’ve been wronged…and thereby evolve as a wholesome human being, working towards a better India.
Disclaimer: This review is in lieu of a review copy
Bobby Sachdeva’s second book “Once there was me” turns out to be a very relevant social treatise. Be it unraveling the unheard attributes of the society or the streaks of the essence of communal violence, religious discriminations and prejudices—this book has it all.
Sachdeva recalls his own journey from a child to become a successful adult, and traces his life starting from his childhood days up till the modern times. We see him clearing one hurdle after another, stepping into rings of fire and then emerging victorious out of it; and through his story he probably urges us to look at society without the veil of cultural and ethnical differences blocking our views. His book concludes to be a riveting account of not only the life of one man called Bobby Sachdeva, but perhaps personifies the plight of all those men and women who have been at a disadvantage due to such situations. It speaks for the teeming millions who’ve been affected by the disarray of hatred and political frictions, it upholds the agony and the helplessness of householders in the face of discriminations and biases.
Being born into a Sikh family, Sachdeva at a very tender age, had had to experience the instigated mass slaughter of the Sikhs, just post-assassination of Prime Minister, Mrs. Gandhi. The author captures this trauma with an unbelievable innocence, immersing us in a realization with what it must have been felt by the Sikhs of those times. He talks about the mental insecurity prevailing in his mind due to his Sikh ethnicity, he narrates experiences when he was majorly categorized as the odd one out---and the Sikhs had been outcast.
We see Sachdeva gaining stead and battling these stigmas that hold him back. Equipped with a steady and extremely simple narration, this book is nothing short of a vivid cinematic experience. Sachdeva conquers the shackles that hold him back and makes significant progresses in his personal and career-centric life. Rising beyond the odour of intolerance and mutual prejudices, he transcends to become a person much aware.
Sachdeva’s writing points fingers at various societal issues, and he narrates his own take on them quite convincingly. His storytelling is pure and innocent, and devoid of any disguising of facts. He speaks his heart out, fearless and headstrong. This book becomes a window to the society, through which the readers will be able to glimpse at facets they never knew existed. It will make them shudder with cold realizations, and perhaps make them bolder and more tolerant.
The author contrasts the common notion that insensitivity and anger are pillars of domination and staunch masculinity. He makes us see the blunder that such narrow mindset can conjure. All throughout, we somehow sympathize with this young Sikh boy with a turban, hopping from school and school and shifting residences. We feel for his immense insecurity and helplessness. The story preaches not just to showcase radical viewpoints that might rattle the prison bars of the social stigmas, it also instills the spirit of communal harmony and non-violence. In his tender dreams, Sachdeva might have wished for a better India—the one where compassion and peace are the foundations of harmonic living, and not dominance and influence.
Sachdeva manages to portray the quivering and bubbling India of that time, which should teach lessons much beyond the scope of any history textbook or an appendix of sociology. ‘Once there was me’ shatters the concept of division based upon caste, colour or creed. And it is done not very imposingly, rather in a very holistic approach. Sachdeva tells us to fight the social evils, feel for the less privileged and the one’s who’ve been wronged…and thereby evolve as a wholesome human being, working towards a better India.
Disclaimer: This review is in lieu of a review copy
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August 17, 2020There are nine major religions in the world, all of them are practiced in India. India, despite being a secular country, is a highly religion driven country. This book is an account of the same.
Bobby Sachdeva, the writer, and the protagonist is a Sikh Indian man whose family has suffered great losses during the partition, emotionally, mentally, and financially. His family builds its living in independent India from scratch. He starts his childhood and soon faces a lot of religious outbursts in the country targeting a particular religious group. He looks at the outside religion-based discrimination and the internal discrimination within the caste and class. He becomes decisive of his religion, all the religions.
He tries to run from India where he has faced numerous hardships. But the journey to the States wasn’t easy on its own. Since he gets there through illegal means, he has to spend a long time under the fear of getting caught. The financial state of the family keeps getting worse but their status remains the same. All of this makes him come back to India and take over his father’s business. And then again he goes through the stereotypes and the ill-practices of the privatized facilities and the religious gurus looting people in the name of faith.
The book accounts for various events of family losses, emotional trauma, discrimination on the basis of social and financial status, race, caste, religion, and everything that makes India a diverse and beautiful country. The book is a memoir mixed with real events and some fiction. But honestly, it is tough to differentiate. Written in a lucid ad engaging manner makes you live the experiences and feel the emotions. I would recommend it to everyone to read and understand how things that are now generalized affect a lot of people in a country where diversity is considered a force that unites us but does it really happen at all times?
Bobby Sachdeva, the writer, and the protagonist is a Sikh Indian man whose family has suffered great losses during the partition, emotionally, mentally, and financially. His family builds its living in independent India from scratch. He starts his childhood and soon faces a lot of religious outbursts in the country targeting a particular religious group. He looks at the outside religion-based discrimination and the internal discrimination within the caste and class. He becomes decisive of his religion, all the religions.
He tries to run from India where he has faced numerous hardships. But the journey to the States wasn’t easy on its own. Since he gets there through illegal means, he has to spend a long time under the fear of getting caught. The financial state of the family keeps getting worse but their status remains the same. All of this makes him come back to India and take over his father’s business. And then again he goes through the stereotypes and the ill-practices of the privatized facilities and the religious gurus looting people in the name of faith.
The book accounts for various events of family losses, emotional trauma, discrimination on the basis of social and financial status, race, caste, religion, and everything that makes India a diverse and beautiful country. The book is a memoir mixed with real events and some fiction. But honestly, it is tough to differentiate. Written in a lucid ad engaging manner makes you live the experiences and feel the emotions. I would recommend it to everyone to read and understand how things that are now generalized affect a lot of people in a country where diversity is considered a force that unites us but does it really happen at all times?
July 16, 2020
Religion has always been a sensitive topic in our country. Mostly because it has been radicalized. Every believer has their own two cents to give about what it means to belong to a certain religion. In the midst of all this chaos, the real spirit of religion that is humanity often seems to blur. Set in the time of the 1984 communal riots, this book forces you to ask all kinds of questions.
It follows the journey of a fourteen year old boy whose heart and beliefs are crushed time and time again in the face of misery as he endures discrimination on the basis of religion, his skin color not only abroad but in his own country as well.
This book also shows the different sides of religion, where one is driven by empathy and compassion and the other is stained by extremists and their ideas and how it all often mislead the youth.
The protagonist evolves throughout the story, learning new things, dismantling beliefs that need to be forgotten. In short this book is the one that makes you think and make you ask important questions which is what I look for when reading a story.
The book touches sensitive topics but manages to be careful in its story telling while also being descriptive enough to shake you from within.
This is a story about the struggles of a family, of a man trying to find his identity, about beliefs, about injustice, about everything that is raw and brutally honest about being human.
It's beautiful and inspiring and heartbreaking, all at the same time. It is the kind of book that makes you sob and give your stomach a churning twist and provides you insight all in the matter of a few pages. Above all, it is an important book that everyone should definitely read.
It follows the journey of a fourteen year old boy whose heart and beliefs are crushed time and time again in the face of misery as he endures discrimination on the basis of religion, his skin color not only abroad but in his own country as well.
This book also shows the different sides of religion, where one is driven by empathy and compassion and the other is stained by extremists and their ideas and how it all often mislead the youth.
The protagonist evolves throughout the story, learning new things, dismantling beliefs that need to be forgotten. In short this book is the one that makes you think and make you ask important questions which is what I look for when reading a story.
The book touches sensitive topics but manages to be careful in its story telling while also being descriptive enough to shake you from within.
This is a story about the struggles of a family, of a man trying to find his identity, about beliefs, about injustice, about everything that is raw and brutally honest about being human.
It's beautiful and inspiring and heartbreaking, all at the same time. It is the kind of book that makes you sob and give your stomach a churning twist and provides you insight all in the matter of a few pages. Above all, it is an important book that everyone should definitely read.
August 19, 2020
Stories of Us and Once there was me by Bobby Sachdeva has always portrayed values which are sincerely missing in our Indian society. Once there was me by Bobby sachdeva is a memoir which truly engulfs a reader and makes them want to really bring about a change in the society. The book starts with the dark scene of how the author goes through the riots that were started between Hindus and Sikhs. The way they had lived in a terrifying way is truly heart-aching and how the author really worked hard in India and even in America during his stay motivates a reader to work hard in their life.
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Being a memoir, though some parts were fictional but it felt so surreal and connected with the lives of the author and his family. The narration of the story is intriguing keeping the reader hooked throughout. One can easily connect with the book from the very first page.
The simple and gripping language and engaging writing style make this more interesting. The cover of this book is serene and lovely. I liked how this book turned out to be. An amazing book.
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Being a memoir, though some parts were fictional but it felt so surreal and connected with the lives of the author and his family. The narration of the story is intriguing keeping the reader hooked throughout. One can easily connect with the book from the very first page.
The simple and gripping language and engaging writing style make this more interesting. The cover of this book is serene and lovely. I liked how this book turned out to be. An amazing book.
July 15, 2020
Once There Was Me is another marvellous work by author Bobby Sachdeva. Through the subheading "The Extraordinary Life of an Unknown Indian" is conveying the actual plot of this nonfiction and semi autobiography. Kudos to author for choosing one of the sensitive facts he went through.
The story starts from 1984 when our prime minister Indira Gandhi was murdered by a sikh security guard. Because of Anti Sikh riots, author and his family moved to Amritsar from Delhi. The story encloses terrifying murder of sikhs very randomly, the damages they have faced and all kind of violence and brutality. It was indeed a painful era.
Author's writting style was straight and very sensible. The way he has expressed his thoughts, is very honest. Author's effort and dedication towards this book is appreciating indeed. The complete book is a gem for readers. I havent found any fault truly! Ofcourse its a page turner and fast paced book.
Title goes smoothly with the plot and cover is not only gorgeous but also meaningful. I will recommend this book to all who loves nonfiction or autobiography. Also if you are interested in Indian history , religious up and down and so on.
The story starts from 1984 when our prime minister Indira Gandhi was murdered by a sikh security guard. Because of Anti Sikh riots, author and his family moved to Amritsar from Delhi. The story encloses terrifying murder of sikhs very randomly, the damages they have faced and all kind of violence and brutality. It was indeed a painful era.
Author's writting style was straight and very sensible. The way he has expressed his thoughts, is very honest. Author's effort and dedication towards this book is appreciating indeed. The complete book is a gem for readers. I havent found any fault truly! Ofcourse its a page turner and fast paced book.
Title goes smoothly with the plot and cover is not only gorgeous but also meaningful. I will recommend this book to all who loves nonfiction or autobiography. Also if you are interested in Indian history , religious up and down and so on.
July 11, 2020
/Once There Was Me by Bobby Sachdeva/
Partition was a difficult time for a lot of people and the after-effects of it are still carried by some of them. This book is a story of one such man, who migrated from Pakistan during the partition.
It talks about the Anti Sikh riots or communal riots which started because of the backdrop of Operation Blue Star and killing of former Prime Minister.
It’s a journey of a 14-year-old boy who had to survive the partition, face communal violence, saw his own house burnt down, learns the truth about religion. They had to move back to Amritsar just because they were Sikhs, just like his grandfather had to move during the partition.
I liked this book because of its rawness and the heartbreaking reality that it portrays. The part of the story where he explains about riots, and how badly it affected them and his father’s struggle with cancer, everything was so life-changing aspects of one’ life that have been described so bravely in the book.
Bobby Sachdeva is a man to look up to because he didn’t shakedown but instead, he re-build his life and career, and this book is one which everyone should read.
I would suggest everyone read this book ;)
A MUST READ!
Partition was a difficult time for a lot of people and the after-effects of it are still carried by some of them. This book is a story of one such man, who migrated from Pakistan during the partition.
It talks about the Anti Sikh riots or communal riots which started because of the backdrop of Operation Blue Star and killing of former Prime Minister.
It’s a journey of a 14-year-old boy who had to survive the partition, face communal violence, saw his own house burnt down, learns the truth about religion. They had to move back to Amritsar just because they were Sikhs, just like his grandfather had to move during the partition.
I liked this book because of its rawness and the heartbreaking reality that it portrays. The part of the story where he explains about riots, and how badly it affected them and his father’s struggle with cancer, everything was so life-changing aspects of one’ life that have been described so bravely in the book.
Bobby Sachdeva is a man to look up to because he didn’t shakedown but instead, he re-build his life and career, and this book is one which everyone should read.
I would suggest everyone read this book ;)
A MUST READ!
August 24, 2020
Here's my review of once there was me by bobby sachdev.
This book is filled with painful memories of a tumultuous past.semi autobiographical deep personal account of the narrator's life. And the storyteller is a victim of partition 1947.This forced millions of people to leave their homes to move to the other state. This was the largest forced migration of people that has ever happened, which wasn't because of war or famine.author describe the diffence between religian faith and beliefs.this story will tell you how religian bulid superstition and dishonesty among us. Love the book cover so much. It's a quite long book of 427 pages but I completed it in two days. The narration was kind of slow-paced & plain.
Language used is simple and lucid.
Highly Recommended to all the book lovers out there, you won't be disappointed!
Happy reading all.
Giving this book a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐rating
This book is filled with painful memories of a tumultuous past.semi autobiographical deep personal account of the narrator's life. And the storyteller is a victim of partition 1947.This forced millions of people to leave their homes to move to the other state. This was the largest forced migration of people that has ever happened, which wasn't because of war or famine.author describe the diffence between religian faith and beliefs.this story will tell you how religian bulid superstition and dishonesty among us. Love the book cover so much. It's a quite long book of 427 pages but I completed it in two days. The narration was kind of slow-paced & plain.
Language used is simple and lucid.
Highly Recommended to all the book lovers out there, you won't be disappointed!
Happy reading all.
Giving this book a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐rating
October 23, 2020
The book revolves around how the life of the author takes a tumultuous turn when his family is caught in the middle of the 1984 riots that took place in Delhi which leads them to leave behind everything they had in Delhi and move to Amritsar and start again from scratch. It will take you to the hardship that people from Punjab had to suffer because of 1984 riots, the rising militancy in Punjab of the extremist Punjabi group and the distrust that the Punjabi people had to suffer in the light of all these occurrences.
This books also portrays the story of survival of the author's family in the gruesome environment , the shattered dreams of the family and incomplete childhood of the author and how they overcame everything with sheer grit and determination.
📍What I liked:
The author very blatantly questions the role of religion in our lived and to what extent people are ready to go for the sake of it.
📍What I Disliked:
The beginning of the book seemed really promising however, as the book progressed there were many things that have been written on the hearsay basis for example the lines about Operation Blue Star.There were also many assumption made about the persecution of the Sikh community in the hands of the government. What I disliked most about this is that when a book is claiming such grave issues , it should have mentioned some concrete proof of whatever the author is claiming. As these matter are extremely sensitive.
Secondly , the events described started feeling too repeatative. The viewpoint that the author wanted to portray also was repeatative to an extent that after sometime it became extremely difficult to carry on with the book.
Overall, I had huge expectations from the book after I went through the blurb and the book deviated alot from what the blurb promised. There were certain life events described which was totally unnecessary which ultimately lead to the subject of the book being lost.
This books also portrays the story of survival of the author's family in the gruesome environment , the shattered dreams of the family and incomplete childhood of the author and how they overcame everything with sheer grit and determination.
📍What I liked:
The author very blatantly questions the role of religion in our lived and to what extent people are ready to go for the sake of it.
📍What I Disliked:
The beginning of the book seemed really promising however, as the book progressed there were many things that have been written on the hearsay basis for example the lines about Operation Blue Star.There were also many assumption made about the persecution of the Sikh community in the hands of the government. What I disliked most about this is that when a book is claiming such grave issues , it should have mentioned some concrete proof of whatever the author is claiming. As these matter are extremely sensitive.
Secondly , the events described started feeling too repeatative. The viewpoint that the author wanted to portray also was repeatative to an extent that after sometime it became extremely difficult to carry on with the book.
Overall, I had huge expectations from the book after I went through the blurb and the book deviated alot from what the blurb promised. There were certain life events described which was totally unnecessary which ultimately lead to the subject of the book being lost.
July 13, 2020
This is the book about the extraordinary account of an unknown Indian. Though this book is a semi-autobiography, most of the incidents were taken from the real life account of the author. He has changed the names of the characters to protect their identity and privacy. I did not read the synopsis and the blurb. I would suggest you to do the same. There is a reason behind it. You would understand once you finish reading the book.
However, the case that was put forth in this book by the author would make each and everyone to think twice about the presence of GOD! To all who do not know much about the author, please be informed that he is probably the first in the country who is looking to file a PIL(Public Interest Litigation) on couple of things which I found it unique. Though I am urged to mention the details here, I leave it to the readers because you need to buy the book to find out more as to what these PIL's are all about and what has forced him to think on these lines.
What I noticed while I was reading the book was the author did not take any stance favoring or against any political party or religion. He was certainly against the God men who in the name of The Almighty was enriching themselves at the cost of unsuspecting public by playing with their religion and beliefs.
This 400 odd page book is definitely a worthy read because it would help you in getting to know the reality and most importantly, it would also serve as a strong motivational factor for those who have failed in their life. Why I say is because author's family migrated from Pakistan to India during the migration which happened in 1947 and though they got good amount of land here in India in exchange of their lands in Pakistan, most of them were taken away by local militants and some of them were lost due to various circumstances including the loss in the business. He also witnessed the 1984 Sikh Riots first hand which had forced his family to flee to Delhi. The brutality of the incidents which happened during those days were recorded in a way which couldn't have been done better than this. His ambition to go to US and what happened there was another story of its own accord.
The struggle with the local militants couldn't have been explained better. The loss faced by the family on various occasion like boiler accident, fire accident in the factory apart from being cheated by the customers and the partner would make you feel real sad and those who had witnessed a similar kind of situation in their life would surely shed tears.
The book also has the flavor of family bonding and relationships, treachery, Love, First Kiss, School and College Life etc which would make you feel more connected with the characters in the book. It would be real apt to say that the author was no less than the King Bruce who achieved success despite failing initially after being inspired by a spider. Here the scenario is bit different wherein Bobby wanted to achieve financial freedom and how he achieved it is what that makes this book, a real special one.
However, the case that was put forth in this book by the author would make each and everyone to think twice about the presence of GOD! To all who do not know much about the author, please be informed that he is probably the first in the country who is looking to file a PIL(Public Interest Litigation) on couple of things which I found it unique. Though I am urged to mention the details here, I leave it to the readers because you need to buy the book to find out more as to what these PIL's are all about and what has forced him to think on these lines.
What I noticed while I was reading the book was the author did not take any stance favoring or against any political party or religion. He was certainly against the God men who in the name of The Almighty was enriching themselves at the cost of unsuspecting public by playing with their religion and beliefs.
This 400 odd page book is definitely a worthy read because it would help you in getting to know the reality and most importantly, it would also serve as a strong motivational factor for those who have failed in their life. Why I say is because author's family migrated from Pakistan to India during the migration which happened in 1947 and though they got good amount of land here in India in exchange of their lands in Pakistan, most of them were taken away by local militants and some of them were lost due to various circumstances including the loss in the business. He also witnessed the 1984 Sikh Riots first hand which had forced his family to flee to Delhi. The brutality of the incidents which happened during those days were recorded in a way which couldn't have been done better than this. His ambition to go to US and what happened there was another story of its own accord.
The struggle with the local militants couldn't have been explained better. The loss faced by the family on various occasion like boiler accident, fire accident in the factory apart from being cheated by the customers and the partner would make you feel real sad and those who had witnessed a similar kind of situation in their life would surely shed tears.
The book also has the flavor of family bonding and relationships, treachery, Love, First Kiss, School and College Life etc which would make you feel more connected with the characters in the book. It would be real apt to say that the author was no less than the King Bruce who achieved success despite failing initially after being inspired by a spider. Here the scenario is bit different wherein Bobby wanted to achieve financial freedom and how he achieved it is what that makes this book, a real special one.
July 14, 2020
Part fiction, part autobiography. The book begins with recounting the scene of anti-Sikh riots that took place in Delhi in 1984 and the author and his father trapped inside the house pushing to the limit to save their lives anyhow. The bloodthirsty mob enters the house while they are hiding in a water tank on the roof. A raging fire burns their house.
As the anecdote goes on, the author has spoken how his family had to leave their home and shift to Amritsar and how they survived financial crises due to anti-Sikh sentiments in the nation.
The novel moves ahead and he eases in his life and moves to America, but some events turn him from a believer to an atheist. His encounter with an unethical doctor deeply disturbs him.
The full journey of the author told inside the book is full of self-enlightenment on several questions around him.
What I really liked about the book is the way it has enclosed religion and ethics with the real happenings that took place in our country during 1984 and made a revival in 2002.
It covered the entire incident from the perspective of a citizen who had to face the pains a person can never imagine.
I personally like such books that talk about reality from a common man's outlook. Though the book is a thick one with about 400+ pages and also some of the stories felt excessive to me but it still can have an effect on the reader.
Specifically, if you like reading about past political stories, the religion-based or heart-touching real tales & also if you're a new reader who wants to start with easy to read English books, go for this one.
Lines from the book that had an impact on me ---
"Religion divided people everywhere even in death"
As the anecdote goes on, the author has spoken how his family had to leave their home and shift to Amritsar and how they survived financial crises due to anti-Sikh sentiments in the nation.
The novel moves ahead and he eases in his life and moves to America, but some events turn him from a believer to an atheist. His encounter with an unethical doctor deeply disturbs him.
The full journey of the author told inside the book is full of self-enlightenment on several questions around him.
What I really liked about the book is the way it has enclosed religion and ethics with the real happenings that took place in our country during 1984 and made a revival in 2002.
It covered the entire incident from the perspective of a citizen who had to face the pains a person can never imagine.
I personally like such books that talk about reality from a common man's outlook. Though the book is a thick one with about 400+ pages and also some of the stories felt excessive to me but it still can have an effect on the reader.
Specifically, if you like reading about past political stories, the religion-based or heart-touching real tales & also if you're a new reader who wants to start with easy to read English books, go for this one.
Lines from the book that had an impact on me ---
"Religion divided people everywhere even in death"
July 15, 2020
This was a memorable read for me. So first of all, what makes an autobiography memorable? The interesting/controversial life incidents or the fame acquired till now? None of the above actually. A great autobiography, is the one where the author is able to connect with you so well that you are able to live his/her life and look at it through his/her perspective. Yes, that's what makes an autobiography worth reading. This is exactly what happened when I read "Once there was me". The author, with sheer honesty has opened up about his life, how his viewpoints and opinions changed and developed over time, and what all events have moulded the person that he is today. His meaningful insights on religion were very enlightening and I feel it should be read by everyone. He is one of the person whose thoughts on religion should be read because this book is the journey of his change of being a devout believer to being an atheist; that is he has seen both sides of the complex spectrum of religions. He has been a survivor of communal riots, and no one can know better than him, that how it feels to be threatened because you belong to a particular religion. His observations on society, prejudices and other social behaviours, customs and rituals are worthwhile to read. I totally appreciate the author's bold approach in writing about many other sensitive issues and bring it all out, as openly and honestly as possible.
The writing style isn't overbearing at all. Rather on the contrary, it is extremely casual and easy to read.
This should be read by as many people as possible, because this book speaks volumes of truth that we generally choose to overlook and eventually forget.
The writing style isn't overbearing at all. Rather on the contrary, it is extremely casual and easy to read.
This should be read by as many people as possible, because this book speaks volumes of truth that we generally choose to overlook and eventually forget.
July 23, 2020
I enjoyed reading Bobby Sir's first book The stories of us and now I enjoyed reading about his life, his values and his belief towards life. The book started with how he and his father had undergone the situation in the riots where sikh were killed after Indira Gandhi was murdered. That scene really horrified me as to how one fights with death when death knocks on their doors. Author has also stated alot of true facts in this book and also have given a detailed knowledge about the religion Sikh. He has also stated some things which are happening in India which shouldn't actually take place in the first place.
Things that I found were absolutely true in this book were:
1) Religion, caste and politics has divided India and it also rules over Indian society making poor more poorer and rich more richer.
2) I don't call myself an atheist. I believe that there is a single source who controls this universe however this godmen are truly exploiting the society on the name of preachings. Not all of them will be fake, but most of them are.
3) Hardwork will always lead you to success and that no job is smaller. It is true, in India people judge you on the basis or work you do but when you work in foreign countries now work is smaller or bigger. All of them are equal.
However, I disagree to a point where the author feels that god punishes the poor. I feel that everyone has a destiny pre-written and everyone are given choices. However to choose the right ones or the wrong ones are in our hands.
Things that I found were absolutely true in this book were:
1) Religion, caste and politics has divided India and it also rules over Indian society making poor more poorer and rich more richer.
2) I don't call myself an atheist. I believe that there is a single source who controls this universe however this godmen are truly exploiting the society on the name of preachings. Not all of them will be fake, but most of them are.
3) Hardwork will always lead you to success and that no job is smaller. It is true, in India people judge you on the basis or work you do but when you work in foreign countries now work is smaller or bigger. All of them are equal.
However, I disagree to a point where the author feels that god punishes the poor. I feel that everyone has a destiny pre-written and everyone are given choices. However to choose the right ones or the wrong ones are in our hands.
July 26, 2020
This book is a story of Bobby Sachdeva, a common Sikh man who has experienced various struggles in life because of his religion. A lot of things happen in Bobby's life, his house is burnt down in the 1984 riots, his family faces challenges throughout their lives because of their religion. He goes to America looking for a better life but fails there as well. He sees gruesome things happen in the name of religion and he finally loses all belief in God. He tries hard to cope up with his circumstances but fails and again. He finally is fed up with the religious tensions and decides to file a PIL against fake Godmen.
It is a plot-driven story. The author has opened up about his struggles, which is a very brave thing to do. The language of the book is easy and the narration is smooth. The author has raised some excellent questions in the book but I did not agree to a few things the author said and did but we will leave it to him. I liked that the experiences of Sikh people is talked about. It will open the eyes of a lot of people are have been intentionally or unintentionally ignorant about the topic. It shows how the divisions based on religions and castes are harming the country. It also shows how he Godmen are taking advantage of this situation and the government is not doing anything about it.
The cover is beautiful designed. I really liked it.
Overall, I think it is a good read. I recommend people to read it and take whatever the good is in it and ignore whatever isn't.
It is a plot-driven story. The author has opened up about his struggles, which is a very brave thing to do. The language of the book is easy and the narration is smooth. The author has raised some excellent questions in the book but I did not agree to a few things the author said and did but we will leave it to him. I liked that the experiences of Sikh people is talked about. It will open the eyes of a lot of people are have been intentionally or unintentionally ignorant about the topic. It shows how the divisions based on religions and castes are harming the country. It also shows how he Godmen are taking advantage of this situation and the government is not doing anything about it.
The cover is beautiful designed. I really liked it.
Overall, I think it is a good read. I recommend people to read it and take whatever the good is in it and ignore whatever isn't.
July 29, 2020
Once there was me
This is a true story of writer, booby Sachdeva sir. He shares some of his life experiences with us. Told us what was happened in 1984 with Sikh, when Indira Gandhi had killed. What was the situation at that time in India? He also told us some facts from partition, which knew him from his fathers.
He also tells us how his family suffers and struggle in his childhood. Many incidents shocked us, we never imagined the situation of that time which he explains. Author and his family bravely fought all the fights which come in front of them. It teaches us how to overcome the situation or stress which come to us.
The author tells us all the things about Sikhism, which I don't know before. I got a lot of knowledge about Sikhism.
So the book is autobiography cum fiction cum self-help. I said self-help cause it teaches me many things. And many more things are present in this book to acquire knowledge.
Language is simple. Writing is engaging. The cover of the book is very good and attractive. It is my 2nd book by the author. 1st one is "stories of us". That book is the collection of short stories. I like that too. So I recommend both books to you. Keep reading. And Enjoy.
This is a true story of writer, booby Sachdeva sir. He shares some of his life experiences with us. Told us what was happened in 1984 with Sikh, when Indira Gandhi had killed. What was the situation at that time in India? He also told us some facts from partition, which knew him from his fathers.
He also tells us how his family suffers and struggle in his childhood. Many incidents shocked us, we never imagined the situation of that time which he explains. Author and his family bravely fought all the fights which come in front of them. It teaches us how to overcome the situation or stress which come to us.
The author tells us all the things about Sikhism, which I don't know before. I got a lot of knowledge about Sikhism.
So the book is autobiography cum fiction cum self-help. I said self-help cause it teaches me many things. And many more things are present in this book to acquire knowledge.
Language is simple. Writing is engaging. The cover of the book is very good and attractive. It is my 2nd book by the author. 1st one is "stories of us". That book is the collection of short stories. I like that too. So I recommend both books to you. Keep reading. And Enjoy.
August 4, 2020
Every generation bears their own fair share of scars and darkness which shapes them and also the future with time. A part autobiography, a part fiction, "once there was me" shares how politics and religion and larger society impact the emotions and psychology of an individual. The first book of the author "Stories of us", questions various norms of society while this one is more about the author's personal journey with an underlying sadness. From facing the brutality of the partition, formation of Haryana from Punjab which had its own hands bloodied, anti-Sikh riots post-Indira Gandhi assassination to more personal accounts of a factory accident, loss in the business, treachery, friendships with conditions a constant search for peace and stability. A particular portion where the 14years old boy had to wear a frock and open hair sketched the inner dilemma of a teenage mind. as the author pens down his life, he didn't miss to questions the believes and perceptions of society. It makes the book worth reading in understanding how difficult situations made a person empathetic and successful in life yet humble. A beautiful, simple, thoughtful book that I would recommend everyone to read.
July 22, 2020
This book is a semi - autobiographical novel with a bit of fiction. The protagonist, Bobby Sachdeva, is repeatedly confronted with communal violence. It captures the real and raw picture of how the common men were faced with life-death situations during the anti-Sikh riots in 1984 and Partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. This book has a lot of elements, I have a lot to say. Deeply elucidated the horrifying past, the story is emotionally heavy as well, and can't be finished in just one sitting. I felt that the protagonist grew up to be insightful and intellectual as the story moved forward. The characters and the story was developed perfectly. The author questioned the beliefs that we blindly have faith in and it will make you doubt the truth behind your beliefs as well. It's thought provoking and the author searched for the ancient "unity and harmony" perspective of religion and realizes that it has been long lost. The writing style is also simple and good. I would like to read more from the author! I'd recommend it to people who love heavy reading and those who love reading about the common lives.
August 22, 2020
Book Review
ONCE THERE WAS ME
@BOBBYSACHDEVA
@PANMACMILLANINDIA
419 PAGES
Blurb:
Bobby Sachdeva has narrated his story from the very beginning, how he was the victim of communal violence throughout his life be it partition of India and Pakistan or anti-Sikh riot in Delhi. He always tried and came out of the trauma and worked for the wellness of his family, but after all these years and experience he started questioning the religion and their gurus which turned his life upside down. To know more grab this book asap.
I have read his first book and this book back to back and there is a vast difference in his writing style now, it seems to be more flourished.
🍒The title goes well with the story
🍒I personally liked the cover so much.
🍒The writing style is enchanting
🍒The characters are well developed.
🍒The narration is so intense that it keeps you hooked throughout.
I liked the story it was a good read, the only drawback was in the climax where the author was discussing babas and gurus which was quite boring and bit stretched, also I didn't like the abrupt ending of the book I was expecting more.
Overall it an interesting one time read.
ONCE THERE WAS ME
@BOBBYSACHDEVA
@PANMACMILLANINDIA
419 PAGES
Blurb:
Bobby Sachdeva has narrated his story from the very beginning, how he was the victim of communal violence throughout his life be it partition of India and Pakistan or anti-Sikh riot in Delhi. He always tried and came out of the trauma and worked for the wellness of his family, but after all these years and experience he started questioning the religion and their gurus which turned his life upside down. To know more grab this book asap.
I have read his first book and this book back to back and there is a vast difference in his writing style now, it seems to be more flourished.
🍒The title goes well with the story
🍒I personally liked the cover so much.
🍒The writing style is enchanting
🍒The characters are well developed.
🍒The narration is so intense that it keeps you hooked throughout.
I liked the story it was a good read, the only drawback was in the climax where the author was discussing babas and gurus which was quite boring and bit stretched, also I didn't like the abrupt ending of the book I was expecting more.
Overall it an interesting one time read.
July 18, 2020
Author - Bobby sachdeva
Book length - 427 pages
Language - English
Format-paperback
Genre - semi autobiography
⚠️ Warning - mentions of communal riots
Rating- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌸 Once there was me by Bobby sachdeva a businessman by profession and author by heart.
🌸Bobby sachdeva narrates the riots killing of Sikhs in Delhi in the next day after the The assassination of prime minister of India Indira Gandhi by Sikh guards.
The book is an account of 14 years old boy who had to suffer due to these riots.
The story has mentioned how society affects our acts something we do things that we don't intend it to but anyway because of the pressure.
❣️Plot of story is emotional.
❣️The flow of book is well paced .
❣️cover - eye catchy,nice and attractive
❣️ stories are impactful
❣️ language is easy
❣️ The narration is smooth
❣️ The writing of the author is liquid and perfect
Pick for short story lover.
❣️ I like the unbiased narration of story followed by a couple of questions.
🌸A book which I strongly recommend to people.
Book length - 427 pages
Language - English
Format-paperback
Genre - semi autobiography
⚠️ Warning - mentions of communal riots
Rating- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌸 Once there was me by Bobby sachdeva a businessman by profession and author by heart.
🌸Bobby sachdeva narrates the riots killing of Sikhs in Delhi in the next day after the The assassination of prime minister of India Indira Gandhi by Sikh guards.
The book is an account of 14 years old boy who had to suffer due to these riots.
The story has mentioned how society affects our acts something we do things that we don't intend it to but anyway because of the pressure.
❣️Plot of story is emotional.
❣️The flow of book is well paced .
❣️cover - eye catchy,nice and attractive
❣️ stories are impactful
❣️ language is easy
❣️ The narration is smooth
❣️ The writing of the author is liquid and perfect
Pick for short story lover.
❣️ I like the unbiased narration of story followed by a couple of questions.
🌸A book which I strongly recommend to people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2020
My expectations were high after the "Stories of Us" and this book match that so I am glad I pick this.
A Semi-Autobiography of Bobby Sachdeva starts with Sikh riots of 1984, glimpses of horrible partition, then a journey from a religious Sikh boy to a grown atheist.
A journey of an Indian, Sikh, Religious/Atheist men. This is too much for a normal person to handle, but with that fiction touch up I can say the author craft everything gorgeously.
We can't even imagine what he goes through at every stage from Delhi(Sikh riots), Amritsar(militant), USA( lost identity), China(business)at the end Amritsar it was not a simple journey, a lost person was on the search of his true identity.
This book gives us insight into the 1980s to 21st century India where things were not as easy as we think were.
Divide in society on the name of religion, upper and lower class, beliefs and opinion etc.
Life as a Sikh in the 1980s after PM Indira Gandhi assassination by his Sikh guard.
Standing against Godmen or Shrines
And many more things which I don't want to spoil for you.
But one thing I can ensure you that this book will change your view about our nation and religious beliefs.
Bobby Sachdeva penned down this in layman language so everyone can read.
It's a 400+ page book but it's like a one or two sit read, I really like that so casual style of write without much back & forth in time.
Recommendation:-
I recommend this book to everyone no matter what you prefer reading, some books are not for specific people and this is that kind of book.
Happy reading.
Stay safe and indoors.
A Semi-Autobiography of Bobby Sachdeva starts with Sikh riots of 1984, glimpses of horrible partition, then a journey from a religious Sikh boy to a grown atheist.
A journey of an Indian, Sikh, Religious/Atheist men. This is too much for a normal person to handle, but with that fiction touch up I can say the author craft everything gorgeously.
We can't even imagine what he goes through at every stage from Delhi(Sikh riots), Amritsar(militant), USA( lost identity), China(business)at the end Amritsar it was not a simple journey, a lost person was on the search of his true identity.
This book gives us insight into the 1980s to 21st century India where things were not as easy as we think were.
Divide in society on the name of religion, upper and lower class, beliefs and opinion etc.
Life as a Sikh in the 1980s after PM Indira Gandhi assassination by his Sikh guard.
Standing against Godmen or Shrines
And many more things which I don't want to spoil for you.
But one thing I can ensure you that this book will change your view about our nation and religious beliefs.
Bobby Sachdeva penned down this in layman language so everyone can read.
It's a 400+ page book but it's like a one or two sit read, I really like that so casual style of write without much back & forth in time.
Recommendation:-
I recommend this book to everyone no matter what you prefer reading, some books are not for specific people and this is that kind of book.
Happy reading.
Stay safe and indoors.
July 31, 2020
Really good one!/
Once there was me
Have you checked podcast we did a very insightful conversation about topics covered in this book?
So I just finished this book in the morning.
And I have some mixed feelings about it.
This book might be an eye-opener for many of us because of the bold statement which is actually the harsh reality of India.
Even if you are a beginner do pick up this one the language is very very easy you will feel like witnessing the moments.
The story is real-life events from the authors' life. Its a semi-autobiography of the author.
The story starts with one of the well know the incident of the assassination of our prime minister Indira Gandhi. Due to this lot of riots happened, Sikh people targeted.
While all this incident, the narrator is 14 years old. Struggling with the family to save lives. After than how they moved to Amritsar and started a business.
Again the same battle, riot around them. Eventually, the story process in san Francisco recalling all the memories by the author.
My point is it's not only about all those incidents, it's about how we see life. How we face religion. How religion, god changes everything in life.
You have everything in a moment and in the next moment, you have nothing.
That's life.
This book questions a lot of topics around religion, god, and money
At least for those questions read this book.
Once there was me
Have you checked podcast we did a very insightful conversation about topics covered in this book?
So I just finished this book in the morning.
And I have some mixed feelings about it.
This book might be an eye-opener for many of us because of the bold statement which is actually the harsh reality of India.
Even if you are a beginner do pick up this one the language is very very easy you will feel like witnessing the moments.
The story is real-life events from the authors' life. Its a semi-autobiography of the author.
The story starts with one of the well know the incident of the assassination of our prime minister Indira Gandhi. Due to this lot of riots happened, Sikh people targeted.
While all this incident, the narrator is 14 years old. Struggling with the family to save lives. After than how they moved to Amritsar and started a business.
Again the same battle, riot around them. Eventually, the story process in san Francisco recalling all the memories by the author.
My point is it's not only about all those incidents, it's about how we see life. How we face religion. How religion, god changes everything in life.
You have everything in a moment and in the next moment, you have nothing.
That's life.
This book questions a lot of topics around religion, god, and money
At least for those questions read this book.
July 16, 2020
The book once there was me is very fascinating. In this story the author is sharing some of his real incidents that occurs at the time of partition. This book is based on unknown Indian in order to protect their privacy and identity. Through this story I get to know that what kind of dangerous incident happened at the time of Indian Pakistan partition. That era was very struggling. Well I am not going to disclose every phase of the story so I want everyone to go through it.
August 3, 2020
This is a story of a business man, Bobby Sachdeva, who lives his life with consciousness. When one lives life with consciousness our perceptions definitely change. Bobby is a victim of riots in his childhood when Prime minister Indira Gandhi is assassinated. He moves on with life and evolves as a successful business. The author shows problems man faces in day to day life in India. Author touches on every drawback that really needs to be improved in India. Some of the day to day life problems touched are racism, corporate hospitals behavior towards patients, corruption, poor man struggles to fill his stomach and many smaller things that we ignore generally. Many people in India believe in Godman than believe themselves. How many godmen becoming rich is also mentioned in the story. He understands society and tries to do his part for a better society.
It is an excellent read to improve our perception towards life. Narration is clear and crisp but somehow lagged in the last few chapters. I enjoyed the reading. Quick page turner.
It is an excellent read to improve our perception towards life. Narration is clear and crisp but somehow lagged in the last few chapters. I enjoyed the reading. Quick page turner.
June 2, 2024
"Hum kyun chalein us raah par
Jis raah par sab hi chaein
Kyun na chine woh raasta
Jis par koi nahi gaya"
Once There was me by Bobby Sachdeva is undeniably a heart wrenching, a core-shaking book that will make you come face to face with the harsh yet true reality of India.
The narration is set against the backdrop of Operation Blue Star that happened in Punjab years ago, resulting in communal violence and very tragic riots causing hundreds of houses getting burnt down and lives being taken. The incident took place when the narrator was 14 but the indelible impact it had on his mind, seeing his own house burnt down and having people at each other’s throats, still remains. His memories getting triggered with what happened in the pasts takes the author down the path to take some action. Having experienced both sides of religion- of immersion and detachment, he looks for the real essence of religion and its presence in India and files a PIL trying to cut down the corrupted power of the Religious hardliners.
The book pulses along the genres of autobiography and part fiction, considering the sensitive topic its about. Writing about the tragic incidents that happened in one’s own life isn’t easy but its important to raise your voice about issues like these, that need to be talked about in the public light in order to avoid certain corrupt micro-regionally powerful people declaring themselves ‘The GOD of the territory’ who have ‘the authority to punish’ those who just want their basic rights.
The book aggravates you, distresses you and makes you think how depraved religion could make people. The plot is an amalgam which would answer your questions about religion, blind faith, god, money and the tyranny of tradition but at the same time it also makes you introspect, and I guess that’s Mr. Sachdeva’s speciality.
Coming to the writing, I have read the earlier work of Mr. Sachdeva and like that one, the writing is easily understandable, even for beginners. The pace of the book will suit one easily and the narration will keep you hooked. I liked the writing in the Initial part of the book better than the final one but overall, it was an emotional roller coaster that makes the cruel reality hit your face and the gruesome incidents churn your stomach enough for you to raise voice about what's really necessary.
Jis raah par sab hi chaein
Kyun na chine woh raasta
Jis par koi nahi gaya"
Once There was me by Bobby Sachdeva is undeniably a heart wrenching, a core-shaking book that will make you come face to face with the harsh yet true reality of India.
The narration is set against the backdrop of Operation Blue Star that happened in Punjab years ago, resulting in communal violence and very tragic riots causing hundreds of houses getting burnt down and lives being taken. The incident took place when the narrator was 14 but the indelible impact it had on his mind, seeing his own house burnt down and having people at each other’s throats, still remains. His memories getting triggered with what happened in the pasts takes the author down the path to take some action. Having experienced both sides of religion- of immersion and detachment, he looks for the real essence of religion and its presence in India and files a PIL trying to cut down the corrupted power of the Religious hardliners.
The book pulses along the genres of autobiography and part fiction, considering the sensitive topic its about. Writing about the tragic incidents that happened in one’s own life isn’t easy but its important to raise your voice about issues like these, that need to be talked about in the public light in order to avoid certain corrupt micro-regionally powerful people declaring themselves ‘The GOD of the territory’ who have ‘the authority to punish’ those who just want their basic rights.
The book aggravates you, distresses you and makes you think how depraved religion could make people. The plot is an amalgam which would answer your questions about religion, blind faith, god, money and the tyranny of tradition but at the same time it also makes you introspect, and I guess that’s Mr. Sachdeva’s speciality.
Coming to the writing, I have read the earlier work of Mr. Sachdeva and like that one, the writing is easily understandable, even for beginners. The pace of the book will suit one easily and the narration will keep you hooked. I liked the writing in the Initial part of the book better than the final one but overall, it was an emotional roller coaster that makes the cruel reality hit your face and the gruesome incidents churn your stomach enough for you to raise voice about what's really necessary.
December 20, 2020
Book review 📖💯
🌟My rating - 4.5🌟
📖Pages- 419📖
💖The book "Once there was me" is an Amazing book written by Bobby Sachdeva.
🌟 It is commendable that the author has chosen to write so boldly about such sensitive issues.
🌟The book is a semi autobiographical deep personal account of the narrator's life.
🌟It brings out the unexpected demise of the then Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi. The author reminisces the difficulties his family had to go through during the time.
🌟The story starts with brutal happenings of his life, who was a victim of communal violence repeatedly, staring at his burning house set afire by the anti-Sikh riots in Delhi.
🌟The plot describes about the author who has been recovering from trauma and that he had gone through a lot of ups and downs in his life which had made him more confident about himself but the trauma had deeply impacted his life.
🌟Having experienced both sides of religion – of immersion and detachment, he realizes its influence in our lives. He really contemplated a lot and finally submits a PIL in the court for religious shrines.
🌟The story exposes to us the ongoing violence, brutality, division and differences because of religion.
✨The Language used is simple, smooth and easy to comprehend.
✨The narration was strong and deep. At some point, I felt heavy hearted while reading the struggles faced by the Sikhs.
✨The cover pic and the title was catchy and apt for this plot.
💖Overall it is a great read and I would definitely recommend this book for all autobiography lovers out ter!!
🌟Give it a read 🤗📖
🌟My rating - 4.5🌟
📖Pages- 419📖
💖The book "Once there was me" is an Amazing book written by Bobby Sachdeva.
🌟 It is commendable that the author has chosen to write so boldly about such sensitive issues.
🌟The book is a semi autobiographical deep personal account of the narrator's life.
🌟It brings out the unexpected demise of the then Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi. The author reminisces the difficulties his family had to go through during the time.
🌟The story starts with brutal happenings of his life, who was a victim of communal violence repeatedly, staring at his burning house set afire by the anti-Sikh riots in Delhi.
🌟The plot describes about the author who has been recovering from trauma and that he had gone through a lot of ups and downs in his life which had made him more confident about himself but the trauma had deeply impacted his life.
🌟Having experienced both sides of religion – of immersion and detachment, he realizes its influence in our lives. He really contemplated a lot and finally submits a PIL in the court for religious shrines.
🌟The story exposes to us the ongoing violence, brutality, division and differences because of religion.
✨The Language used is simple, smooth and easy to comprehend.
✨The narration was strong and deep. At some point, I felt heavy hearted while reading the struggles faced by the Sikhs.
✨The cover pic and the title was catchy and apt for this plot.
💖Overall it is a great read and I would definitely recommend this book for all autobiography lovers out ter!!
🌟Give it a read 🤗📖
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