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Indian Scientistwala Kanference

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The tribal girl Ira was irate when the new teacher skipped her name during attendance. The teacher was firm that she skipped no names from the roll and a to-and-from contretemps later, the teacher broke the news that her official name was Indian Scientistwala Kanference. A moment of stupefaction later, Ira was horrified over the weird practice of her tribe naming a newborn after benefactors leading to names like Harvard 8000, Ramabai MLA, MSRTC MH 29, and Unilever Godown 23. Her brother encourages her to become a scientist and present research findings at the annual conference of the Indian Science Congress. For a tribe which never sent a girl to high school, can Ira become Indian Scientistwala Kanference?

207 pages, Hardcover

Published September 8, 2022

About the author

S.B. Akshobhya

7 books5 followers

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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Rimi.
695 reviews18 followers
December 28, 2022
How do you wish to see the change when you yourself are not adapting the same. To every book that caters a new dimension of thinking what the world could turn out to be if start moving out of our comfort zone.

So,here I had a very simple and soothing read written exceptionally well to enjoy and savour. An amazing title 'Indian Scientistwala Kanference' is a work of fiction narrating story of a tribal girl Iravati. The narrative is one such that you can actually imagine what goes in the story.

The book shows one such phase of tribal world and mainly a tribal girl's life which ends up becoming the well-known. The content although descriptive but also an eye opener one narrating about a community which is usually not given that much heed. Phenomenal work of the author.
Profile Image for Bibliophile Talks.
235 reviews4 followers
October 24, 2024
My rating: 3.5

The story introduces us to Ira, a tribal girl deeply troubled when her new teacher skips her name during attendance. At first, Ira is indignant, confident that her name has gone unnoticed. However, after a brief back-and-forth with the teacher, the startling revelation comes to light—her official name isn’t Ira, but "Indian Scientistwala Kanference". Ira is left in shock as she learns about the unusual custom in her tribe, where newborns are given names after benefactors or sponsors. Thus, this leads to bizarre names like "Harvard 8000" and "Unilever Godown 23" reflecting a quirky yet poignant tradition of honouring those who have contributed to the community.

Ira’s internal struggle becomes the heart of the story as she recognizes that her identity, represented by her name, is tied to a practice that feels strange and disconnected from who she truly is. Yet, amidst this confusion, her brother emerges as a supportive figure, encouraging her to embrace the future and aspire to something greater. He urges Ira to become a scientist and to one day present her research at the Indian Science Congress—the very event her unusual name references.
The larger question is whether a girl from a tribe that has never sent a female to high school can overcome societal barriers and live up to the name "Indian Scientistwala Kanference". Ira’s journey is not just about personal identity but also about breaking free from the limitations imposed on her by tradition, gender, and circumstance. Her path to becoming a scientist symbolizes a larger struggle for empowerment and self-determination in a community that, while rich in culture, has historically restricted opportunities for girls.

In this story, the plot is excellent, and the author has done a commendable job of creating a compelling and thought-provoking. The characters are highly relatable, and the story shines a light on significant issues within our education system—such as discrimination based on caste, colour, financial status, and appearance. It also highlights the lack of faculty in educational institutions and how brilliant students from rural or underprivileged backgrounds are sometimes not supported by their teachers. These are important themes, and the book portrays them logically and effectively, making the concept profoundly impactful. This story thoughtfully explores themes of identity, cultural customs, and the challenges of ambition in the face of adversity. Ira’s journey offers hope and inspiration as she seeks to redefine her future on her terms and in her own way.

One character who particularly stood out to me was Dr. Chandrika. Ideally, teachers should embody her qualities—she is the mentor every student deserves. Despite facing discrimination and neglect during her doctoral journey, she chose to rise above and become an exceptional guide for her students. Her character is a reminder of how we can break cycles of unfair treatment by offering kindness and support to others.

Despite the clear language and enjoyment of the story, I did find the writing style to be different than I'm used to, which slowed the pacing. This book could have been more engaging and fast-paced if the writing style had been more polished. Additionally, some editing issues stood out. Sometimes, it was difficult to discern between dialogue and narrative, as proper markers were missing, which could confuse readers. I had to reread certain sentences to understand their meaning. It felt as though the book had not been carefully proofread, and these small details slightly affected the overall reading experience.
Despite these challenges, the story itself is inspiring and engaging. With more attention to editing and clarity, this book would shine and become an even more compelling read.

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Profile Image for Ishan Agrawal.
946 reviews48 followers
May 25, 2024
Tribal people usually live a life full of difficulty. Also with modernization and development, the indigenous culture has been compromised to a great deal and gradually many local tribes are losing their identity and significance. Author SB Akshobhya who is known for penning novels on myriad subjects has again come up with an enthralling piece of fiction documenting journey of a tribal girl Ira and her struggling life but with an unorthodox take on the events and a bit of humor intact

Ira is born with a purpose in her mind. A lot of things happened during her childhood which makes her question her petty existence and how she can change the future of her tribe for good. She often questions and wonders why their class is treated differently and harbour aspirations of becoming a scientist and enters the fascinating world of research. Will she be able to realize her dream? Grab the book to find out.

The most striking feature of the book is not its plot but the way dialogues are written, without any quotes . So the readers have to themselves figure out where dialogues begin and where they end. Also the treatment of central character is done with utmost care and how a person with those kind of circumstances will behave and respond to her environment. The novel is aimed at becoming a better version of your own self irrespective of the background you belong to and still live an accomplished life.

All in all a lovely book with a unique prose.
452 reviews3 followers
December 27, 2022
It is a very true statement that if you educate a girl, you're educating a whole new generation.

We see Ira in this book Indian Scientistwala Kanference by S. B. Akshobhya at the beginning of the story recounting the events of her conference while getting nostalgic about her very first conference.

As we move further, we are taken back into Ira's life to the point where she was born and further proceed from there. We see that though it was not the norm to se d girls to school after 5th standard in Ira's tribal community, Ira's father still chose to send her for further education.

It really just filled my heart with joy and adoration for Ira and her family.

Coming to the writing, it is just so descriptive and allows you to imagine every detail to perfection that you'll love it. It could get a bit dragged of you are not a fan of this type of writing though.

I would just like to say that reading this was so worth my time.

Just loved it.
577 reviews3 followers
December 27, 2022
Fiction reads are always fun,interesting and entertaining. So to this work of fiction which can inspire to go leaps and bounds and attain the success one can attain only by putting their heart and soul into their task.

This current one, Indian Scientistwala Kanference by S.B.Akshobhaya is no less than a roller-coaster read portraying the life of a young girl,Ira. A usual day in her school life was not expected in her wildest of dreams to turn out to be a turning point until her teacher skipped her name during attendance and Ira felt offended about it.

Coming from a tribal family altogether getting education was no less than a benchmark for Ira,but when her identity and presence are not given heed to, she makes up her mind to stand out of the crowd and do something remarkable and commendable in her life.
96 reviews1 follower
December 28, 2022
Do you think success comes easy?
Does it comes well served in a platter of gold ?
The answer may vary from one to another but for ISK or let me quote 'Indian Scientistwala Kanference' ,the name given to Ira by her teacher had a lot to work head over heels for else life wouldn't have turned out to be ,where it is now ?

Titled by the protagonist of the tale Ira, a tribal girl coming from a not so common ideology had too much to go through before reaching her zenith. And still many people took her achievements to be a matter of luck that was totally unjustified after knowing Ira's part of the tale.

This book showcases the author's uncommon imagination penned in this extraordinary book which can be savoured by all age groups. Every person will have their own take away from the book. And my take away is the higher the struggle the greater the achievement
407 reviews7 followers
December 28, 2022
The charm of a book can only be attained by the magnanimous work of the author in interpreting the content in the most vivid yet simplified manner. So, here I had my current read which had been written flawlessly and with the best use of words to mark its impact on the reader.

The book may seem a casual one by the book cover that is deemed to cast the first impression but let me quote you it is no less than an extra-ordinary read.

The protagonist of the tale is a tribal girl Ira,coming from a tribe of Central India who with time and undying efforts attained recognition despite the fact that girls from her tribe are bound in matrimony at an initial stage.

Ira's story narrated with the time frame of the past and present helps you to experience her journey against all odds. Commendable job of the author.
178 reviews2 followers
December 31, 2022
Why does one not remember the events experienced as an infant???

This question popped Ira' mind every now and then. Because there are so many memories and moments that make a childhood worth cherishing but for the infant himself/herself those moments are a long-lost memory.

Indian Scientistwala Kanference, is a highly varied although captivating one of a kind. The story is a work of fiction but definitely it strings the cords of reality which is not much brought into the limelight. Written to keep you intact in the story of a tribal girl named Ira aka Irawati is a relishing one to enjoy.

Best of all the author's perception and imagination gives us an insight of how the tribals also have the determination to bring about one such change which may seem impossible at times but not unattainable.
Profile Image for Sidhnath Yadav.
215 reviews3 followers
January 3, 2023
A great work of fiction written to serve the purpose of humanity. Yes, I believe every book has a purpose to serve, some teach us wisdom, some give us knowledge, some broaden our horizons of thinking, and many more.

This book will offer you insight into the tribal world, efforts made to bring about change, and success delivered by the rigorous efforts of the protagonist, Ira.

Written exquisitely well to convey the thought being this book, justifies the efforts and hard work of the author. Narrating a simple tale in the most extraordinary manner made this book highly engaging and consuming.

What made Ira into Indian Scientistwala Kanference (ISK)? Was she proud of her current identity? Was her success a matter of luck or a fruit of her dedication? Read and find out the answers to many such questions which will pop up while reading this book.
Profile Image for Padmanava DuTTa.
341 reviews5 followers
January 5, 2023
Great book written to be savored by readers. The wonderful approach of the author S.B.Akshobhaya, is to narrate a story that will inspire every reader. Starting at a slow pace, the story takes its speed through the amazing narration of the author.

Indian Scientistwala Kanference, is a story that will be way beyond what you may expect out of the book cover. As many times there is more to the story than what meets the eye.

A story going to and fro with time-frame telling us the journey of Irawati, a tribal girl born in the middle part of the country at odd hours. The struggle her mother had while delivering her and the struggles which she herself made to make something out of her minor life, is commendable.

I feel every young one should be inspired to read and take something out of this amazing book.
457 reviews6 followers
January 28, 2023
While thinking about her past memories ,Ira really felt that if she could remember what made her where she stands today.
This act of her grumbling over the memory which we all tend to forget as and when we grow up really gave me the same thought.

Indian Scientistwala Kanference, is an exciting,engaging and interesting read which will take you on a roller coaster journey of Iravati's life. Ira, a tribal girl coming from the tribe of middle India, has her destiny pre-planned like any other tribal girl. That means, growing up and getting married at the earliest.

But walking out of the same, and taking command of her own destiny gave the determination to Ira to bring a must change in her life to make it where she stands today.

Read this engaging one to enjoy at the fullest,the journey that made Iravati,i.e. Ira into ISK.
Profile Image for Soumya.
649 reviews10 followers
January 28, 2023
Starting from the beginning,when Ita was relishing the facilities being offered while attending a seminar at Singapore. Feeling blessed with what she had achieved with time gave her a feeling of self-accomplishment.

While going down the memory lane she relives ever experience either bitter or sour to realise where she stands now.

This book,Indian Scientistwala Kanference,is a light mode read which can be enjoyed by any reader irrespective of his age or genre .

What I loved the most is the story which kept me hooked till the end .... The characters have been penned after detailed research. Giving an insight a world which is usually unknown and prefer staying out of the limelight makes the book interesting and engaging.

The thought of the author was really impressive and fascinating. The book holds the charm to keep the reader captivated till the end of the story.
796 reviews13 followers
December 28, 2022
While going through the research folders ,having the sight of great scientist the country had like CV Raman ,Homi Bhabha,APJ Abdul Kalam,etc. Ira felt overwhelmed by sharing the tag 'scientist' with them as it were all her consistent efforts and firm belief that brought her where she stands tall

Because fighting all the odds and breaking the stereotypes of the tribal world,Ira was either fortunate or we can say too vigilant to work towards her dreams.

This amazing book is suitable to all age-groups but mostly I recommended them to my young readers who many a times give up way too easily because there are many stones that lay in one's path which needs to be turned . Wonderfully written with an aura of hope and positivity.
Profile Image for SIDDA RAVITEJA.
Author 8 books9 followers
December 28, 2022
ISK which became the well known name for Iravati,gave her one such an identity which can never be matched with others . But l this was not a matter of fortune or sheer luck,it was all her rigourous efforts that took her where she's stands now.

But was the path easy to follow .... No it can never be and that too for a tribal girl who are destined to marry at quite a young age. But what Ira has it,is just her determination and persistence.

Read,this mind-blowing take it ISK,ie. Indian Scientistwala Kanference or Iravati to experience life and all the counterparts that come along. Written to give you an insight into a different world,of people of totally different perception and dwelling. Still from her tribe to Singapore and many more places which conquer,Ira had her own charm.
382 reviews6 followers
December 27, 2022
Have you ever find someone you feel annoyed at the beginning but end up becoming a way better person because of the same person's negligence of your existence.

For a student, a new teacher and for a teacher, a new bunch of students both turn out to be a great experience or just the opposite of a kind.

This book is all about a tribal girl named Ira who will bring about a change end up becoming one in an era. A complex but simplified written tale which will fascinate you and keep you linger about what twists and turns which will engage you in this read to enjoy and relish.

Loved the writing style of the author along with the content covered in the same.
156 reviews2 followers
December 29, 2022
Indian Scientistwala Kanference by S. B. Akshobhya is the story of a little girl who works hard to be what her name was.

My favourite part of the whole book was the second chapter to be honest, I love the way the author describes it all, the manner in which the celebrations are done upon Ira's birth.

The way the author writes about the whole environment of celebration where there are jalebis being made, the love that the parents have for their newly born child can be seen and felt and all of it just reminded me of home.

Points for the fact how author has described everything in vivid details, makes for a good read.
82 reviews
December 23, 2022
Indian Scientistwala Kanference by S B Akshobhya is Ita's story.

The plot opens up with Ira at a conference where she can be seen going down the memory lane about her first conference and how she has reached so so far in her life from a tribal village community.

To say that the plot is so well researched would be an understatement, it is just so on point with all the things.

Love how the author has used the words to create such great imagery.

Enjoyed reading Ira's story very much.
219 reviews2 followers
February 25, 2023
The book Indian Scientistwala kanference is written by SB Akshobya. This book gave me a new plot which I haven't read on. The story of ira is totally different and is very interesting to read. She is grown from a tribal village and want to achieve her goal as scientist. Will she achieve it is the story.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews

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