Book Reviews

Manava Sastramu Dr. D. M. Ravi Prasad, Maitreya Publications, University Arts and Science College Subedari, Hanamkonda.

The book “Manava Sastramu” written by Dr. D. M. Ravi Prasad depicts the characteristics of mankind. It preaches an outlook emphasizing common human needs, like love, compassion and mutual respect, irrespective pf caste, creed and religion.

In the preface, he wrote that all men are born with a purpose and to fulfill their ambition, men need fullest freedom and encouragement from the society. Talented men, no doubt need encouragement but the society may recognize them. M. K. Gandhi was recognized later in life. A man longing to accomplish great noble tasks, must accomplish humble tasks as though they are great and noble.

Dr. Ravi Prasad rightly pointed out in the ‘Manava Sastramu’ (the humanology as he puts it) that several invaders from outside the country occupied the rich India, the country of highest cultural heritage because of the disunity among the provincial rulers and local zamindars. After independence in 1947, the country is now more divided than ever before in the name of states, regions, religions, castes and sub-castes. Inter state river water dispute among the states is exploding the country into fragments. Politicians are splitting the people in the name of Forward castes, ward castes, Minority and other classes converting ‘humanism’ into ‘vote banks’.

History is indeed, a record of change. So, old books and scriptures are good enough in their own way. The author had forgotten that old books are the basis for the new books that come out for the new generation. In a progressive country like India, change is constant and inevitable.

Dr. Prasad’s Book ‘Mananva Sastramu’ is more relevant to the present contemporary society. Every issue must be viewed with humanistic approach. He says that humanism and love for fellow-men must go together and are inseparable. Dr. Prasad deserves compliments for his enormous efforts in bringing about this book and the readers will read the book with interest.
A. N. Sarma

The global dominance of English of which England was proud till yesterday has suffered a set. It is no longer its monopoly. Two billions of students in other countries are speaking English today. In many countries around the world English is no longer taught as a foreign language. For example in India and China it is being studied as a basic universal skill required for the demands of Globalization. More people in India and China are speaking the language fluently than any where else in the world.
-Based on a report in ‘The Hindu’ dated 16-2-2006.