BOOK REVIEW: FLOWERS BLOOM BY DR KRISHNA SAKSENA

Parables, fables, mythology and a multitude of practical lessons, that’s what this little book is about. Like flowers, we can bloom to spread joy and pleasure or we can wilt and be gone from this world forever.

As a dominant species, we can be game changers in many ways. But to be a game changer, we need to make judicious use of our faculties. Our ancestors developed their cognitive, moral and ethical values in gurukuls with stories. These wisdom nuggets empowered and motivated people to become a better version of themselves and create a better society. Dr Saksena’s book reminds me of those yesteryear tales. In fact, her presentation is akin to the much-loved stories of Panchatantra, Hitopadesha and more such stories that laid emphasis on strong moral and ethical values.

A distinguished author and activist, Dr. Krishna Saksena is recognized for her advocacy for people with special needs and disability rights. A retired Professor of English from Delhi University, she has penned 12 books. Her academic achievements include being the first woman in Uttar Pradesh to earn a Ph.D. in English from Oxford University. Dr. Saksena’s dedication to education and social welfare extends beyond her academic career; she continued to teach underprivileged children for free after retirement and worked with an NGO supporting minors in prison.

At 97, she has again reigned in her long experience to share stories that reflect upon good values, mental well-being, and a sensible life. In a world lost in social media conundrum, this book comes as a call from the old to the new. While the material world may change with time, innate values, ethics and morals that shape societies need to remain grounded.

Much like flowers that spring anywhere in rich fertile soil, these values become anchors. The 15 short stories in this book highlight lessons from great conquerors, social reformers, parables from the epic Ramayana and stories from the natural world.

The one I particularly liked is of the little sparrow which carries its sack of rocks on all its flights, until it is too weak and tired. Titled The Baggage, the sparrow carves its memories on rocks, and carries the rocky stories that ought to have been left behind long back. Yet, it gives up the sack only when the body can no longer carry the burden. The lesson of surrender and letting go is the central theme in this story. Each story ends with multiple learnings, accompanied by an illustration.

The good part that this book has a big reader-friendly font, which means it can be read anywhere, anytime by anyone, even the elderly. These are stories that you can read to your children, send them to school with thoughts that they share with friends and family.

Flowers Bloom is a gentle yet powerful invitation to nurture our inner selves. In an age of instant gratification and digital distractions, Dr Saksena’s timeless tales offer a grounding force, reminding us of the enduring principles that foster genuine connection and well-being.

Publisher: Shri Krishna Pravaha Ashram, Raman Reti, Vrindavan
Language: English
Pages: 132