Amit Narang, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, released the book ‘Locked in but not Down’ authored by Samita Chakraborty, educator and Indian School Al Ghubra (ISG) teacher, from Muscat.
The recently published book was launched in Muscat on February 1 at the Hilton Hotel, Al Khuwair.
The book narrates untold stories of Covid-19 pandemic from across the world in the form of an anthology.
The ambassador in his speech lauded the efforts of Samita and the 40 young creative minds spread across the globe from Canada, US, Europe, Middle East, India and the Oceania who shared their lockdown experiences during Covid-19 through the book.
Samita expressed the hope that the anthology of disparate experiences will inspire all for years to come and reflect upon the resilience, courage, despair and aspiration that we as humankind had shown during those trying times.
“The collection of short stories and illustrations showcases similarities in lifestyle during the lockdown period that connects the world from one end to the other with the same thread of misery and desolation,” adds Samita.
Papri Ghosh, Principal of Indian School Al Ghubra International, who hailed the work of Samita, said the dedication of all participants to document in their own words was a defining moment in the history of mankind.
“The book is a treasure trove of unheard stories but at the same time, it will serve as a document for future generations to feel first-hand the trials, tribulations and victories that we as a species experienced during the unprecedented lockdown,” she added.
The book also received a good response at the 2023 Kolkata International Book Fair.
Pyarija Cidar, Vice Principal of Indian School Al Ghubra International, Sunil K, Senior Board member of Indian School Al Ghubra, as well as luminaries from the literary world attended the programme. The launch event was also attended by senior officials of the Indian Embassy.
Anisha Bansal, founder of Oman Book Lovers Club (OBLC), and Matt Jardin, the author, also graced the event.
Book is available on Amazon and Flipkart, Kobo books, Booktopia, Barner and Nobles. It is also available on Amazon Kindle.
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