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nation, had created the larger-than-life figure of Justice Harihar Mahapatra. He lived to
the age of ninety-two and established Cuttack Eye Hospital, Utkal University and above

all organised multi-pronged efforts to remove poverty. My biography in Oriya was
released. At the end of my speech the youngsters crowding around put forth many
questions.

The first question was, ‘Sir, tell us which are your favourite books, that you loved and
which have shaped your mind?’

I said, ‘Four books in my life have been very close to
my heart. I cherish reading them. The first is Man
the Unknown by Dr Alexis Carrel, a doctor-turned-

philosopher and a Nobel laureate. This book highlights
how the mind and body both have to be treated in an
ailment as the two are integrated. You cannot treat one
and ignore the other. In particular, children who dream
of becoming doctors should read the book.

They will learn that the human body is not a mechanical

system; it is a very intelligent organism with a most
intricate and sensitive feedback system. The second book,
one I venerate, is Tiruvalluvar’s Thirukkural, which
provides an excellent code of life. The third is Light
from Many Lamps by Lillian Eichler Watson which has

touched me deeply. It illuminates how we live and has
been an invaluable guide to me—for fifty years. And the
Holy Quran is, of course, a constant companion.’

Addressing another gathering of schoolchildren in
Anand, Gujarat, one smart boy asked a very intelligent
question: ‘Who is our enemy?’ I liked the question and

put it to the other students, encouraging them to come forward with their views. Then
came the answer, ‘Poverty.’ What a wise reaction from this young child whom I have
mentioned in the dedication.

The last question, which I am including here, came from the powerful mind of another
child. ‘Tell me, sir, are Pakistani weapons stronger than Indian ones?’ I asked the child
why this doubt arose in his mind.

Reports he read in the media led him to think so, he said.

‘This is a unique characteristic of our country—to belittle our capabilities. It may even

be genetic!’ I said. ‘India can design, develop and produce any type venerate: regard with
of missile and any type of nuclear weapon. This is a capability only great respect

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