“In an age where negativity rules the airwaves and media channels, when the India story is losing its sheen, owing to the graft and the state of political flux, a book such as Best of India that focuses on the positive aspects of life in this country is a step in the right direction” said Ashok Soota, chairman of Happiest Minds. Speaking at the launch of the Best of India, International Business atlas and coffee table book, published by Raintree media Soota, who has also written the forward of the book, said, “Such books helps reinforce the India story.”
The book is published by Bangalore-based Global Village Publications India (GVP India) and Raintree Media, in partnership with the World Trade Centre Mumbai and the All India Association of Industries. It has been edited by Sandhya Mendonca.
Apart from many others, it has G. Vasudev writing on Indian art, Prathibha Prahlad on dance and Prasad Bidapa about the evolution of India’s fashion consciousness.
The book showcases 62 key businesses across the country. It also includes perspectives from personalities such as Suhel Seth on Brand India, Ashutosh Gowariker on cinema, Rashid Khan on music, Shanta Gokhale on theatre, K Satchidanandan on literature and Sanjeev Kapoor on cuisine.
Sandhya, CEO of Raintree Media said: “It is a comprehensive and compelling study of the Indian success story. It examines the various qualities that contribute to the success of home-grown Indian companies – visionary leadership, focus on innovation, knowledge driven systems, agility, value for people, customers and partners’ customers. The book celebrates the success of sustainable companies and business models and looks to offer inspiration through the individual philosophies that power their growth.”
Prasad Bidappa said, “I enjoyed doing the piece on style. Indian women have managed to hold on to traditional forms such as handoven sarees, while the men have given up traditional wear for polyster. I always ask people to pick up traditional Kanjeevaram saris, since each sari is unique instead of focussing on big brands. I have also written about draping, which is a unique Indian concept.
“The book is a concept that can celebrate the best of Indian ideas.”
