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Made in India
As a child, Biddu dreamt of going west and making it big as a composer. At the age of sixteen, he formed a band and started playing in a cafe in Bangalore, his home town, At eighteen, he was part of a popular act at Trinca's, a nightclub in Calcutta devoted to food, wine and music, At nineteen, he had college students in Bombay dancing to his music.
In his early twenties, he left the country and ended up hitchhiking across the Middle East before arriving in London with only the clothes on his back and his trusty guitar. What followed were years of hardship and struggle but also great music and gathering fame. From the nine million selling "Kung Fu Fighting" to the iconic youth anthem of "Made in India" and the numerous hits in between. Biddu's music made him a household name in India and elsewhere.
In this first public account of all that came his way: the people, the events,the music tours and companies Biddu writes with a gripping sense of humor about his remarkable journey with its fairy tale ending. Charming, witty, and entirely likable, Biddu is a man you are going to enjoy getting to know.
In his early twenties, he left the country and ended up hitchhiking across the Middle East before arriving in London with only the clothes on his back and his trusty guitar. What followed were years of hardship and struggle but also great music and gathering fame. From the nine million selling "Kung Fu Fighting" to the iconic youth anthem of "Made in India" and the numerous hits in between. Biddu's music made him a household name in India and elsewhere.
In this first public account of all that came his way: the people, the events,the music tours and companies Biddu writes with a gripping sense of humor about his remarkable journey with its fairy tale ending. Charming, witty, and entirely likable, Biddu is a man you are going to enjoy getting to know.
- GenresMusicNonfiction
264 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2010
3 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Biddu
6 books5 followersBiddu was born in India, where he started his career playing in a pop band whose influences lay in the classic repertoire of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Following his early success, he decided to hear West and move into the international music arena. He struck gold, signing the unknown Carl Douglas and producing "Kung fu Fighting?" which went on to become a hit all over the world. He also wrote and produced hits for Tina Charles and soul legend Jimmy James.
Around this time, Biddu became involved in Indian music: he composed the cult "Aap Jaise Koi" for the film Qurbani which set a new landmark for sales in India He followed this up with a pop album, Disco Deewane, with Nazia Hassan, which became the largest selling pop album in Asian history, and was the first Indian album to hit the charts in fourteen countries. In 1995, Biddu wrote and produced the three-million-selling album Made in India with the singer Alisha Chinai. To date, Biddu has sold over thirty-eight million records worldwide.
Around this time, Biddu became involved in Indian music: he composed the cult "Aap Jaise Koi" for the film Qurbani which set a new landmark for sales in India He followed this up with a pop album, Disco Deewane, with Nazia Hassan, which became the largest selling pop album in Asian history, and was the first Indian album to hit the charts in fourteen countries. In 1995, Biddu wrote and produced the three-million-selling album Made in India with the singer Alisha Chinai. To date, Biddu has sold over thirty-eight million records worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 24, 2017
I am not very much into reading autobiographies but someone made me pick this one up. And I am glad that he did.
When I think of Biddu, the song Made in India sung by Alisha Chinai instantly popped into my mind. I was in school back then when this album made it huge! It was in a way my introduction to Indipop music. And so it is no wonder that Biddu’s name reminds me of that album that had 10 amazing songs and in a way, this book is also aptly named as ‘Made in India’.
Born and brought up in South India, Biddu was enamored with music from a young age and soon formed a band called Trojans that played at clubs in quite a few cities of India. What is interesting though is the fact that Trojans was most probably one of the first English bands in India. But that did not last and as his bandmates found their own ways, Biddu’s conviction in his path was strong. He left India with a guitar, three pounds in his pocket and a dream to make good music. The journey was certainly not easy, but his determination and diligence forged his way through a lot of hurdles and betrayals. As a result he did finally make a breakthrough and slowly climbed the ladder of success.
What I liked about this book the most is the author’s very witty and self-effacing narration style. Somehow he would make the simplest of situation seem interesting and funny. His sense of humour is not your forceful or poke-you-till-you laugh kind; instead it is one that genuinely makes you smile while reading. The second thing that shines through the book is the personality of the man himself. A reader will find it easy to relate to him and even feel like that they know the person closely. The author has struggled a lot right from his early years and so it would have been easy for him to put on airs once he achieved the kind of success that many can only dream of. Instead he has stayed very rooted and his narration of both his struggle and glory remained balanced through his narration. The book gives us a look into not only his professional life, but also his personal life as well – and there too a perfect balance has been maintained.
You know how people often tell you that if you have a dream and you are ready to work hard for it without giving up, then success will be yours eventually? Biddu is a live example of it. I admired his belief in himself and his talent, the way he kept on moving forward no matter how many doors were closed on his face and simply how he just did not give up! His passion and obstinacy is truly admirable.
When I think of Biddu, the song Made in India sung by Alisha Chinai instantly popped into my mind. I was in school back then when this album made it huge! It was in a way my introduction to Indipop music. And so it is no wonder that Biddu’s name reminds me of that album that had 10 amazing songs and in a way, this book is also aptly named as ‘Made in India’.
Born and brought up in South India, Biddu was enamored with music from a young age and soon formed a band called Trojans that played at clubs in quite a few cities of India. What is interesting though is the fact that Trojans was most probably one of the first English bands in India. But that did not last and as his bandmates found their own ways, Biddu’s conviction in his path was strong. He left India with a guitar, three pounds in his pocket and a dream to make good music. The journey was certainly not easy, but his determination and diligence forged his way through a lot of hurdles and betrayals. As a result he did finally make a breakthrough and slowly climbed the ladder of success.
What I liked about this book the most is the author’s very witty and self-effacing narration style. Somehow he would make the simplest of situation seem interesting and funny. His sense of humour is not your forceful or poke-you-till-you laugh kind; instead it is one that genuinely makes you smile while reading. The second thing that shines through the book is the personality of the man himself. A reader will find it easy to relate to him and even feel like that they know the person closely. The author has struggled a lot right from his early years and so it would have been easy for him to put on airs once he achieved the kind of success that many can only dream of. Instead he has stayed very rooted and his narration of both his struggle and glory remained balanced through his narration. The book gives us a look into not only his professional life, but also his personal life as well – and there too a perfect balance has been maintained.
You know how people often tell you that if you have a dream and you are ready to work hard for it without giving up, then success will be yours eventually? Biddu is a live example of it. I admired his belief in himself and his talent, the way he kept on moving forward no matter how many doors were closed on his face and simply how he just did not give up! His passion and obstinacy is truly admirable.
September 28, 2015
I've hardly ever given a 5 Star rating to any book, unless its a classic but here's an autobiography by a music icon, who's fan, I've been all my life. And then he writes in a very amusing style with utmost honesty in his voice. I feel the 5 star rating is thus completely justified.
Reading an autobiography gives great insight into an icon's life. There are more than many lessons to take home. Especially after reading this music giant's life story, I am highly inspired to pursue my dreams with a rejuvenated ambition..
You can read the book review at length here....
http://klishmaklaver.blogspot.in/2015...
Reading an autobiography gives great insight into an icon's life. There are more than many lessons to take home. Especially after reading this music giant's life story, I am highly inspired to pursue my dreams with a rejuvenated ambition..
You can read the book review at length here....
http://klishmaklaver.blogspot.in/2015...
June 16, 2020
I don’t read much of auto-biographies because after a point, I feel, the person self-victimizes or becomes narcissistic. However, this book completely changed my opinion!
This book is exactly what people would want to read. The author neither preaches nor blames. He talks in a breezy narration. He shares the story with you like how you talk to your best friend about it. That’s what makes the book a worthy one.
In today's times when I talk to debut authors and listen to their share of stories where they never got parental support in pursuing a career of their choice in this as an author I always feel that this is an age old story which somehow never ends. Though I would also like to add here that there are some parents who are willingly allowing their children to take some risks but at the end of the day all that they want is betterment of their child.
A colourful larger than life character in his sixties who has the gift of the gab and is liberal with his similes and metaphors and puns, and one who sometimes tends to overuse them is the first impression one gets of veteran musician Biddu.
I highly recommend this book, it’s an excellent read. An easy, fun read! Overall a superbly written book - high on emotions with right doses of practical wisdom. Recommended for people who enjoy biographies. Biddu is someone you really enjoy knowing up, close and personal.
Full review here: https://intheclassroomoflife.blogspot...
This book is exactly what people would want to read. The author neither preaches nor blames. He talks in a breezy narration. He shares the story with you like how you talk to your best friend about it. That’s what makes the book a worthy one.
In today's times when I talk to debut authors and listen to their share of stories where they never got parental support in pursuing a career of their choice in this as an author I always feel that this is an age old story which somehow never ends. Though I would also like to add here that there are some parents who are willingly allowing their children to take some risks but at the end of the day all that they want is betterment of their child.
A colourful larger than life character in his sixties who has the gift of the gab and is liberal with his similes and metaphors and puns, and one who sometimes tends to overuse them is the first impression one gets of veteran musician Biddu.
I highly recommend this book, it’s an excellent read. An easy, fun read! Overall a superbly written book - high on emotions with right doses of practical wisdom. Recommended for people who enjoy biographies. Biddu is someone you really enjoy knowing up, close and personal.
Full review here: https://intheclassroomoflife.blogspot...
September 2, 2016
Between ambition and ability
*
Review of ‘Made in India’ by Biddu
*
If given a choice to read fiction or an autobiography, I will invariably choose the latter because there is so much life breathing in the pages there. It doesn’t matter if it is the real story of an ordinary citizen or a lauded and applauded celebrity. Autobiographies take you right into the heart of the moment when a truth is lived and this is what makes them so invaluable. For instance, who else but Biddu could have described Feroz Khan as ‘a lovable rogue with a cavalier attitude’ or that this actor had an accent that ‘was a fusion of Indian inflection, a BBC newsreader’s plummy-ness and the suggestion of a Yankee drawl’.
We all remember Biddu, don’t we? At least my generation remembers Nazia Hassan, her song ‘Aap jaisa koi meri zindagi mein aaye’, and the pleasantness in her voice that ‘was around C3, from middle C to G4 – warm, expressive, and nubile.’ To my mind and to the minds of many Indians, Biddu got his fame because of Nazia… and not the other way round. But hey, it was Biddu who gave Nazia’s ‘not so great voice’ some oomph and he ‘used a rhythm box with a Latin beat to give it a hip-swaying groove’ As I read through the story of Biddu, written by Biddu, I realised how struggle and devotion gave him the power to create songs that could make even sleeping chromosomes come alive!
Yes, I loved reading ‘Made in India – Adventures of a lifetime’ written by Biddu and his quests that strolled between ambition and ability. The insights and the ‘going back in time’ is not limited to the way he interacted with the listening choices of an average Indian, but as any autobiography must, the journey takes us through stories of how he reached the shores of Britain and of all the varied struggles he had to face. It is these adventures that come across as a combination of hilarity and candor as his life hops from one experience to another.
The author, when he first left the shores of India, was in his own words, akin to ‘savages unused to the touch of silk or the bouquet of a fine Merlot’ and he obviously has his own dose of bumbling and stumbling before he is able to step out of his old skin, so to say.
It is rare to find people writing autobiographies and admitting to their silly hopelessness as candidly as Biddu does… and this is what made me smile as I read about his naïve misadventures:
In my naivety I did not grasp the romance or history of the place. The other big problem was the language. The natives did not speak English. How dare they not? And my idea of Gallic speech was to imitate the shrug of the shoulders when trying to employ a conversation. I found pronunciation of French words horrendously difficult; when I asked passers-by where the ‘Champ Elsie’ was, I got blank stares in return!
But life stories do not maintain their prime position because of misadventures alone and must have their fill of insights, however trivial they may sound to any ear. Biddu admits that he ‘saw some of the singers on television and even the average ones were better than I was. As for the good ones… Hare Ram!’ It is this realisation that that fills him with a nervous dread and he thinks: ‘Could I cut it here in the West? India was a rivulet of flair, while Britain was an ocean of deep talent, and I realised there is a vast difference between ambition and ability.’ The journey of a man with an ear for music is interesting… but gets more intriguingly fascinating when this man happens to be an Indian trying to make it on British soil. Biddu did not believe ‘this tiny island could have so much talent. The music scene was infinitely more crowded than a slum dweller’s hut in Bombay’s Dharavi, and here I was preparing to enter this crowded dungeon of musical genius.’
The language is quite unlike the way Indians write their English and the writing style reflects the number of years he has spent in Britain, where ‘when I came to London I found there were more accents in this little island than there were flies in India.’ He goes on to reveal that ‘it was a time of love, peace, sexual revolution, eastern philosophy and drugs. A joint was no longer a junction or a place to hang out in and dope was no longer an idiot.’ And this is precisely what I mean when I say that Biddu uses his metaphors, similes, and other expressions as if English were his native tongue.
For the hard-core music lovers, the writer delves deep into the times he had lived in and his text, therefore, flows like the lyrics of a song flow into a composition conceptualized by a master!
Yes, there are revelations into the good, not so palatable, and the murkier side of the music scene as well. After all there will always be people managing the music business like Ghenzis Khan would manage his empire. So we come across laments like: ‘Sitting in his ivory tower, he had forgotten how others lived; he was unaware of their needs, their desperation or their desolation. For all his height, he was a pygmy of a man with no heart.’ And not far is the cry emanating from a creative soul that sighs and talks about good music that relies on acceptance by the radio, for instance. Biddu explodes at a point when he writes: ‘If Radio One did not play your song you could kiss its chances of success goodbye.’ Or ‘I realised that without Airplay, the chances of having a big hit were, in the words of the boxing promoter Don King, slim to nil. And slim was out of town.’ These are manoeuvres that the not-so-musically-inclined like me would not even be aware of. So there are insights not just into creating music but also into how to go about selling or marketing it… and also on how Biddu learnt to understand these moves because he too had his quota of songs that had‘…lost amid a thousand songs that suffered a similar fate every year. At least Marc wasn’t out of money, having recouped his costs from the advance that I negotiated with the record company. It was the one other thing I had learnt from making the Tiger’s record.’...
...please read the complete review here:
http://passey.info/2015/10/between-am...
*
Arvind Passey
http://www.passey.info
*
*
Review of ‘Made in India’ by Biddu
*
If given a choice to read fiction or an autobiography, I will invariably choose the latter because there is so much life breathing in the pages there. It doesn’t matter if it is the real story of an ordinary citizen or a lauded and applauded celebrity. Autobiographies take you right into the heart of the moment when a truth is lived and this is what makes them so invaluable. For instance, who else but Biddu could have described Feroz Khan as ‘a lovable rogue with a cavalier attitude’ or that this actor had an accent that ‘was a fusion of Indian inflection, a BBC newsreader’s plummy-ness and the suggestion of a Yankee drawl’.
We all remember Biddu, don’t we? At least my generation remembers Nazia Hassan, her song ‘Aap jaisa koi meri zindagi mein aaye’, and the pleasantness in her voice that ‘was around C3, from middle C to G4 – warm, expressive, and nubile.’ To my mind and to the minds of many Indians, Biddu got his fame because of Nazia… and not the other way round. But hey, it was Biddu who gave Nazia’s ‘not so great voice’ some oomph and he ‘used a rhythm box with a Latin beat to give it a hip-swaying groove’ As I read through the story of Biddu, written by Biddu, I realised how struggle and devotion gave him the power to create songs that could make even sleeping chromosomes come alive!
Yes, I loved reading ‘Made in India – Adventures of a lifetime’ written by Biddu and his quests that strolled between ambition and ability. The insights and the ‘going back in time’ is not limited to the way he interacted with the listening choices of an average Indian, but as any autobiography must, the journey takes us through stories of how he reached the shores of Britain and of all the varied struggles he had to face. It is these adventures that come across as a combination of hilarity and candor as his life hops from one experience to another.
The author, when he first left the shores of India, was in his own words, akin to ‘savages unused to the touch of silk or the bouquet of a fine Merlot’ and he obviously has his own dose of bumbling and stumbling before he is able to step out of his old skin, so to say.
It is rare to find people writing autobiographies and admitting to their silly hopelessness as candidly as Biddu does… and this is what made me smile as I read about his naïve misadventures:
In my naivety I did not grasp the romance or history of the place. The other big problem was the language. The natives did not speak English. How dare they not? And my idea of Gallic speech was to imitate the shrug of the shoulders when trying to employ a conversation. I found pronunciation of French words horrendously difficult; when I asked passers-by where the ‘Champ Elsie’ was, I got blank stares in return!
But life stories do not maintain their prime position because of misadventures alone and must have their fill of insights, however trivial they may sound to any ear. Biddu admits that he ‘saw some of the singers on television and even the average ones were better than I was. As for the good ones… Hare Ram!’ It is this realisation that that fills him with a nervous dread and he thinks: ‘Could I cut it here in the West? India was a rivulet of flair, while Britain was an ocean of deep talent, and I realised there is a vast difference between ambition and ability.’ The journey of a man with an ear for music is interesting… but gets more intriguingly fascinating when this man happens to be an Indian trying to make it on British soil. Biddu did not believe ‘this tiny island could have so much talent. The music scene was infinitely more crowded than a slum dweller’s hut in Bombay’s Dharavi, and here I was preparing to enter this crowded dungeon of musical genius.’
The language is quite unlike the way Indians write their English and the writing style reflects the number of years he has spent in Britain, where ‘when I came to London I found there were more accents in this little island than there were flies in India.’ He goes on to reveal that ‘it was a time of love, peace, sexual revolution, eastern philosophy and drugs. A joint was no longer a junction or a place to hang out in and dope was no longer an idiot.’ And this is precisely what I mean when I say that Biddu uses his metaphors, similes, and other expressions as if English were his native tongue.
For the hard-core music lovers, the writer delves deep into the times he had lived in and his text, therefore, flows like the lyrics of a song flow into a composition conceptualized by a master!
Yes, there are revelations into the good, not so palatable, and the murkier side of the music scene as well. After all there will always be people managing the music business like Ghenzis Khan would manage his empire. So we come across laments like: ‘Sitting in his ivory tower, he had forgotten how others lived; he was unaware of their needs, their desperation or their desolation. For all his height, he was a pygmy of a man with no heart.’ And not far is the cry emanating from a creative soul that sighs and talks about good music that relies on acceptance by the radio, for instance. Biddu explodes at a point when he writes: ‘If Radio One did not play your song you could kiss its chances of success goodbye.’ Or ‘I realised that without Airplay, the chances of having a big hit were, in the words of the boxing promoter Don King, slim to nil. And slim was out of town.’ These are manoeuvres that the not-so-musically-inclined like me would not even be aware of. So there are insights not just into creating music but also into how to go about selling or marketing it… and also on how Biddu learnt to understand these moves because he too had his quota of songs that had‘…lost amid a thousand songs that suffered a similar fate every year. At least Marc wasn’t out of money, having recouped his costs from the advance that I negotiated with the record company. It was the one other thing I had learnt from making the Tiger’s record.’...
...please read the complete review here:
http://passey.info/2015/10/between-am...
*
Arvind Passey
http://www.passey.info
*
January 9, 2024
Biddu is a one-of-a-kind figure in Indian music history, and his life story as presented here is utterly gripping and fascinating. The book is a breezy read, and Biddu’s memory for small details from key events in his life seems impressive. Docking one star because his Indipop phase (which I was very interested in learning more about) only gets a blink-and-you-miss-it mention in the very last chapter, and the style of prose is somewhat overwrought.
October 6, 2021
Biddu could have written more on his journey and work with Indian Pop artists. As in India year 1990 to year 2000, it was Biddu who created many pop artists.
But in his book he do not mention them at all.
This is very disappointing.
So much complicated words are used in this book so one needs to keep a dictionary while reading this book.
But in his book he do not mention them at all.
This is very disappointing.
So much complicated words are used in this book so one needs to keep a dictionary while reading this book.
August 21, 2018
Fun fluff. A few good stories, but I'm certain there are a good deal of inaccuracies.
January 4, 2016
There were not many adolescents in India who didn’t dance in the tune of “Made in India”. The 90s were a great time to grow up with wonderful music. That was a very palpable childhood; vibrant and colourful. In this song especially, girls like me were smitten not only by the enchanting rendition of Alisha Chinoy but also by the irresistible charm of Milind Soman. It was the first time that I heard of the name Biddu, the composer. And, to speak the truth, felt an awe towards the person who was the harbinger of the Indipop culture. The internet was not proliferative at that time, so I failed to garner much information about Biddu. Instead, I was stupendously impressed to know that he was the brain behind the songs, “Aap jaisa koi meri zindegi mein aaye“ and Nazia Hassan’s chartbuster non-film album, “Disco deewane“.
The three mentioned songs, ring several bells in my mind even after so many years. So, when I got a chance to lay my hands on Biddu Appaiah’s autobiography, “Made in India, Adventure of a Lifetime“, I didn’t think twice to go for it. Reading the book was like meeting a long-lost person after ages.
“Made in India” is the story of the Indian-born, England-based music composer who single-handedly changed the tune of Indian music by adding a fresh vibrancy to it. Biddu left the country in the quest of his musical destination in his early twenties. The enthralling story of his travel with only three pounds in his pocket, of visiting the Middle East, meeting a myriad of people, and knowing different cultures and colours, all these have been portrayed in a colourful manner.
The reader also gets a glimpse of the old Calcutta and Bombay back in the 60s as he depicts his experiences with these two cities. No, it’s not the tale of the two cities, but several ones chipped in with his personal likings and dislikings. The far-fetched dream of a small-town boy and his determination to make it a reality can become an inspiration to today’s youth who are given all sorts of assistance when they exhibit sufficient talent and skill.
I especially liked the language and his way of writing; a very lucid one and it’s like a whiff of fresh breeze when we are so much into the “simplicity” of Chetan Bhagat and his ilk. The self-deprecatory style with a subtle sense of humour would evidently paint a smile on your lips. Couldn’t help myself but to share this excerpt when he spells his name to some British receptionist having a peculiar accent,
“That’s B for Britain, I for India, D for Delhi, D for Delhi and U for,…” I struggled to find a word for “U” and at last I got one. U for euthanasia”– I mean “euthanasia”, seriously!
The book makes you turn the pages as if you’re reading a thriller though the pace slackens a little in the later chapters. The only thing I feel here to be missing is the much-expected openness of his mind as the reader feels the urge to know more about the genius, the person Biddu himself is. That urge remains even after finishing the book.
“I am a citizen of the world, but inside, truly deep inside, I am still made in India.“- says Biddu, and, truly I think, this book is a must read for not only music aficionados but for every Indian.
read more book reviews at https://maniparna5002.wordpress.com
The three mentioned songs, ring several bells in my mind even after so many years. So, when I got a chance to lay my hands on Biddu Appaiah’s autobiography, “Made in India, Adventure of a Lifetime“, I didn’t think twice to go for it. Reading the book was like meeting a long-lost person after ages.
“Made in India” is the story of the Indian-born, England-based music composer who single-handedly changed the tune of Indian music by adding a fresh vibrancy to it. Biddu left the country in the quest of his musical destination in his early twenties. The enthralling story of his travel with only three pounds in his pocket, of visiting the Middle East, meeting a myriad of people, and knowing different cultures and colours, all these have been portrayed in a colourful manner.
The reader also gets a glimpse of the old Calcutta and Bombay back in the 60s as he depicts his experiences with these two cities. No, it’s not the tale of the two cities, but several ones chipped in with his personal likings and dislikings. The far-fetched dream of a small-town boy and his determination to make it a reality can become an inspiration to today’s youth who are given all sorts of assistance when they exhibit sufficient talent and skill.
I especially liked the language and his way of writing; a very lucid one and it’s like a whiff of fresh breeze when we are so much into the “simplicity” of Chetan Bhagat and his ilk. The self-deprecatory style with a subtle sense of humour would evidently paint a smile on your lips. Couldn’t help myself but to share this excerpt when he spells his name to some British receptionist having a peculiar accent,
“That’s B for Britain, I for India, D for Delhi, D for Delhi and U for,…” I struggled to find a word for “U” and at last I got one. U for euthanasia”– I mean “euthanasia”, seriously!
The book makes you turn the pages as if you’re reading a thriller though the pace slackens a little in the later chapters. The only thing I feel here to be missing is the much-expected openness of his mind as the reader feels the urge to know more about the genius, the person Biddu himself is. That urge remains even after finishing the book.
“I am a citizen of the world, but inside, truly deep inside, I am still made in India.“- says Biddu, and, truly I think, this book is a must read for not only music aficionados but for every Indian.
read more book reviews at https://maniparna5002.wordpress.com
October 1, 2015
Made in India is Autobiography of Biddu who made a name for himself in Music worldwide. In India he is famously known for "Aap Jaisa koi", "Made in India" and the one album which sold 100,000 copies on its launch day Disco Deewane. His contribution to Indian music scene is meager compared to what Biddu has done internationally. He has sung, written and composed many songs in his long career which he begun at an early age.
Biddu was born at the time when World War II had just ended, India was infant, and above all Bangalore was a VILLAGE. In those times India was ridden with socialism and kindness. Biddu's autobiography is alot about how people were kind to him. Be it a Jockey from Calcutta, an unknown man from Mumbai streets, or a Food vendor in Iran. Not to mention "Band -Aid" who met him at Najaf and many more during his pilgrimage in Middle East .
It doesn't mean the unkind didn't exist.The whole world wasn't really so hunky-dory to him. Biddu like any other musician only learned with time about the importance of safeguarding financial interest. He himself confesses be it the wedding at Hyderabad where he played first time outside Bangalore or Trinca in Calcutta, he could have played it for free. He was only glad to receive money.
Liquor or Marijuana is easy to come by in his field but he did not heed to any such addictions. As a reader he earned humongous respect. However, Biddu had one obsession apart from his music his long hair.
The book is an honest account of Biddu's aspiration with tongue in cheek humour. The flow is smooth and there are many delightful revelations about music and second half of 20th century .
The book is highly evocative and my favorite instance is Biddu contemplating to become a conductor in London bus service. A long haired, smart, good looking chap with guitar hung by neck, and wearing Afgan coat who collects tickets would have been quite a sight.
This is the Journey worth reading even in paperback.
Rating- 4.8 out of 5
Disclaimer: This Book was received in a Giveaway and I also know Ritesh Kala of Read Out Loud who are associated with the book. (How I nearly missed receiving this prize is another blog story)
Biddu was born at the time when World War II had just ended, India was infant, and above all Bangalore was a VILLAGE. In those times India was ridden with socialism and kindness. Biddu's autobiography is alot about how people were kind to him. Be it a Jockey from Calcutta, an unknown man from Mumbai streets, or a Food vendor in Iran. Not to mention "Band -Aid" who met him at Najaf and many more during his pilgrimage in Middle East .
It doesn't mean the unkind didn't exist.The whole world wasn't really so hunky-dory to him. Biddu like any other musician only learned with time about the importance of safeguarding financial interest. He himself confesses be it the wedding at Hyderabad where he played first time outside Bangalore or Trinca in Calcutta, he could have played it for free. He was only glad to receive money.
Liquor or Marijuana is easy to come by in his field but he did not heed to any such addictions. As a reader he earned humongous respect. However, Biddu had one obsession apart from his music his long hair.
The book is an honest account of Biddu's aspiration with tongue in cheek humour. The flow is smooth and there are many delightful revelations about music and second half of 20th century .
The book is highly evocative and my favorite instance is Biddu contemplating to become a conductor in London bus service. A long haired, smart, good looking chap with guitar hung by neck, and wearing Afgan coat who collects tickets would have been quite a sight.
This is the Journey worth reading even in paperback.
Rating- 4.8 out of 5
Disclaimer: This Book was received in a Giveaway and I also know Ritesh Kala of Read Out Loud who are associated with the book. (How I nearly missed receiving this prize is another blog story)
September 21, 2015
Very less are fortunate to convert their passion into their profession, Biddu is lucky he persuade his carrier in music. I liked the title Made in India Adventure of a lifetime; here adventure of lifetime is very symbolic we find how an ordinary guy with great passion converted his life into a celebrity. At the time of 70’s when parents doesn’t allow their child to make their carrier as a musician or singer, Biddu gone against all odd to make his dream come true.
The book is written from school days where Biddu and his friend bunked their school to reach UK for the music, after two failed attempt they succeeded in his third attempt to perform in Hyderabad and from their very interesting journey begins.
I felt this book is very inspiring, because an ordinary boy who starts a music band with his friend, they first performs in Hyderabad, from then to Kolkatta, came to Mumbai, in Mumbai played in Ambassador and Astoria Hotel. Then Biddu started as a solo in the name of Lone Trojan. Biddu wanted to go UK, but his money and passport were stolen by an unscrupulous travel agent, so he started another time with new identity. The new agent gives him a cargo ship ticket to Basra. Biddu got off the boat at Basra, and then he hitchhiked his way from Basra to England. For six months he travelled through Iraq, Bahrain, Dubai, Syria and Lebanon. This is one of the best part of the book where he survived with meager or no money. He sang for food and shelter, also he was very fortunate that wherever he went people supported thought his travelling.
In last chapter he mentioned why he has given the title of the book as Made in India, its given because of his best selling album in India where he composed for Alesha Chinai, also Biddu says that no matter wherever he is in the world he still loves his motherland India.
I always love to read biographies, autobiographies; these are the books where you find how the person survived at the time of adversity. I highly recommend this book, it’s an excellent read.
The book is written from school days where Biddu and his friend bunked their school to reach UK for the music, after two failed attempt they succeeded in his third attempt to perform in Hyderabad and from their very interesting journey begins.
I felt this book is very inspiring, because an ordinary boy who starts a music band with his friend, they first performs in Hyderabad, from then to Kolkatta, came to Mumbai, in Mumbai played in Ambassador and Astoria Hotel. Then Biddu started as a solo in the name of Lone Trojan. Biddu wanted to go UK, but his money and passport were stolen by an unscrupulous travel agent, so he started another time with new identity. The new agent gives him a cargo ship ticket to Basra. Biddu got off the boat at Basra, and then he hitchhiked his way from Basra to England. For six months he travelled through Iraq, Bahrain, Dubai, Syria and Lebanon. This is one of the best part of the book where he survived with meager or no money. He sang for food and shelter, also he was very fortunate that wherever he went people supported thought his travelling.
In last chapter he mentioned why he has given the title of the book as Made in India, its given because of his best selling album in India where he composed for Alesha Chinai, also Biddu says that no matter wherever he is in the world he still loves his motherland India.
I always love to read biographies, autobiographies; these are the books where you find how the person survived at the time of adversity. I highly recommend this book, it’s an excellent read.
October 19, 2015
‘Made in India’ is the journey of a musical icon Biddu. It is an insight into his dreams, his aspirations and the path he follows to live his dreams, achieve his aspirations. Told in first person, the book takes us on virtual tour of Biddu’s life right from his school days till the point he decided to pen this book. Spanning over a period of over five decades ‘Made in India’ gives the reader an insight into not only the making of Biddu the singer, lyricist, composer and producer but also into the changes that have taken place over the years, in the lifestyle, culture, nature and tastes of people both in India and abroad.
The Calcutta and Bombay (now Mumbai) of the 60s are put across well in just a few pages so too the spirit of brotherhood of the people of the Middle East of those times. Neither jobs, nor money were easy to come by then. If ever someone made it to the top, it was only through sheer hard-work. Biddu’s indomitable spirit is very much evident throughout the book. Laced with anecdotes here and there, ‘Made in India’ is not only an interesting read but an inspiring one too. And yes, there is also this little thing that impressed me- the naming of Biddu’s children. While the son was named ‘Zak’, the daughter went by the name ‘Zaza’. Wondering what’s so special about that? Well it’s not the names but the thought that went into it that impressed me. Biddu tells us that “the reason for giving the kids names beginning with ‘Z’ was to teach them patience. In school they would have to learn tolerance as the teacher called out the pupils’ names during morning roll call, usually in alphabetical order beginning with the letter A.” Now isn’t this truly ‘zen of an idea’ as Biddu puts it?
‘Made in India’ is in every way an account of the ‘roller-coaster journey of a young man in his quest to become a success.’
The language is simple and easy to digest. The pace is perfect. Nowhere during the entire book did I feel my interest wane.
The Calcutta and Bombay (now Mumbai) of the 60s are put across well in just a few pages so too the spirit of brotherhood of the people of the Middle East of those times. Neither jobs, nor money were easy to come by then. If ever someone made it to the top, it was only through sheer hard-work. Biddu’s indomitable spirit is very much evident throughout the book. Laced with anecdotes here and there, ‘Made in India’ is not only an interesting read but an inspiring one too. And yes, there is also this little thing that impressed me- the naming of Biddu’s children. While the son was named ‘Zak’, the daughter went by the name ‘Zaza’. Wondering what’s so special about that? Well it’s not the names but the thought that went into it that impressed me. Biddu tells us that “the reason for giving the kids names beginning with ‘Z’ was to teach them patience. In school they would have to learn tolerance as the teacher called out the pupils’ names during morning roll call, usually in alphabetical order beginning with the letter A.” Now isn’t this truly ‘zen of an idea’ as Biddu puts it?
‘Made in India’ is in every way an account of the ‘roller-coaster journey of a young man in his quest to become a success.’
The language is simple and easy to digest. The pace is perfect. Nowhere during the entire book did I feel my interest wane.
November 20, 2017
I rarely read autobiographies and even more rarely read those of people whose name is not familiar to me but when Debdatta at B00kr3vi3ws offered me the opportunity to read and review this book I thought I might as well give it a chance and I am so glad I did. it is a thoroughly enjoyable read. Not too long, it can be finished in a day or a couple of evenings but it is well worth the time.
The author's dry wit and self-deprecating style means that as Biddu tells us of his journey from a middle-class Indian childhood through the challenges of trying to make a living as a musician and onto great success I never felt he was being boastful or guilty of self-aggrandisement.
The author manages to cultivate a style where it feels as though he is sitting next to you and simply sharing stories about his life in a way we all might do with a group of new friends. He doesn't preach and he doesn't show off he just tells stories from his life in a breezy, understated style.
His story does make you realize how much the world has changed and not always for the better. No longer is it possible to wander through the Middle-East, from one country to another and be greeted by friendly, hospitable locals. That world has gone and we are all the worse of for the loss.
Biddu makes it clear that the road to success is not an easy one and that when the destination is arrived at it may not actually look like what you imagined it to be, but it is worth the effort of the journey. The lessons learned by trying, failing, trying again and eventually succeeding make success taste so much sweeter than having it all handed to you on a platter.
If you, like me, wonder who Biddu is and cannot name a single piece of music associated with him you might be surprised by the end of this book at just how much of his music is well known and how influential he is.
This is a very interesting read and I highly recommend it to everyone
The author's dry wit and self-deprecating style means that as Biddu tells us of his journey from a middle-class Indian childhood through the challenges of trying to make a living as a musician and onto great success I never felt he was being boastful or guilty of self-aggrandisement.
The author manages to cultivate a style where it feels as though he is sitting next to you and simply sharing stories about his life in a way we all might do with a group of new friends. He doesn't preach and he doesn't show off he just tells stories from his life in a breezy, understated style.
His story does make you realize how much the world has changed and not always for the better. No longer is it possible to wander through the Middle-East, from one country to another and be greeted by friendly, hospitable locals. That world has gone and we are all the worse of for the loss.
Biddu makes it clear that the road to success is not an easy one and that when the destination is arrived at it may not actually look like what you imagined it to be, but it is worth the effort of the journey. The lessons learned by trying, failing, trying again and eventually succeeding make success taste so much sweeter than having it all handed to you on a platter.
If you, like me, wonder who Biddu is and cannot name a single piece of music associated with him you might be surprised by the end of this book at just how much of his music is well known and how influential he is.
This is a very interesting read and I highly recommend it to everyone
February 4, 2016
I reluctantly picked up the book because nothing could be more boring than a man talking about himself. But the book was basically shoved down my throat, but there was a silver lining: I could keep the book down if I got bored. Guess what? The book just gets better and better. Funnier and even more funnier, and not without a few gems and life lessons to take to the grave, all the while rolling on the floor laughing.
Biddu states the third reason to write an autobiography in the preface, the most altruistic in his opinion, is "Because you have a story to tell, which could be curiously interesting or mildly entertaining, or perhaps even inspirational, with a modicum of human interest. In exceptional cases it may be a life worthy of merit and distinction that demands to be told to the world at large". By that parameter, the book exceeds its requirements. Biddu's story isn't just interesting, it has a lifetime of despair and determination that makes it worth of human interest, and lessons to teach, not only for artists, but every person that holds a dream.
Biddu's journey from Kolkata to Mumbai, Mumbai to Beirut to London, all feels like a story of a fictional character in a novel, which would have been equally moving, but what hits hard is the fact that this is a true story. That a person starved in unknown cities of unknown countries just to realise a dream. If this wouldn't be inspirational, what would?
Biddu is a charmer, as his stories will tell you. His writing is honest and his he is humble in his success and unabashed in accepting his follies, a quality that makes him more endearing.
As I was reading the book it felt like Biddu was sitting beside me, drinking a cup of coffee (he doesn't consume alcohol) and personally retelling each and every incident. That is the beauty of his writing.
I give this book a 5 star on all accounts!
Biddu states the third reason to write an autobiography in the preface, the most altruistic in his opinion, is "Because you have a story to tell, which could be curiously interesting or mildly entertaining, or perhaps even inspirational, with a modicum of human interest. In exceptional cases it may be a life worthy of merit and distinction that demands to be told to the world at large". By that parameter, the book exceeds its requirements. Biddu's story isn't just interesting, it has a lifetime of despair and determination that makes it worth of human interest, and lessons to teach, not only for artists, but every person that holds a dream.
Biddu's journey from Kolkata to Mumbai, Mumbai to Beirut to London, all feels like a story of a fictional character in a novel, which would have been equally moving, but what hits hard is the fact that this is a true story. That a person starved in unknown cities of unknown countries just to realise a dream. If this wouldn't be inspirational, what would?
Biddu is a charmer, as his stories will tell you. His writing is honest and his he is humble in his success and unabashed in accepting his follies, a quality that makes him more endearing.
As I was reading the book it felt like Biddu was sitting beside me, drinking a cup of coffee (he doesn't consume alcohol) and personally retelling each and every incident. That is the beauty of his writing.
I give this book a 5 star on all accounts!
November 12, 2015
Biddu started his career in his late teens with his best-friends and named the band ‘Trojans’. Like every struggling artists, he soon had to continue his journey on his own as ‘Lone Trojan’ and chase his dreams in London. London dreams for an Indian boy in those days was not a joke yet Biddu struggled towards his success and achieved it.
There are very few people who get what they desire and not hold any grudges against the obstacles one has to face. That was the best thing about this book. Like every struggling artist, Biddu had his share of ups and downs yet he never lost hope and worked with optimism in his heart and passion in his soul.
He shares his experiences while working with various artists and agencies, some who ripped him apart and some who gave the right push in the right direction. Biddu appreciates what he received and never forgot to himself be at the giving end.
This book gives a wonderful in-sight for the struggling artists in the industry, who at every failure feel their world has tossed upside-down, must read this book as an inspiration and understand the depths of problems even an amazing artist like Biddu has to face to reach to the top.
Other than sharing his experience with the music industry, the author has lightly shared some fun facts about himself in a humorous and matter-of-fact way as if he’s directly talking to the readers. His love for his long hair, his beautiful wife Sue and his mother’s affection was very sweet and brought smile while reading.
To view complete review, click here
There are very few people who get what they desire and not hold any grudges against the obstacles one has to face. That was the best thing about this book. Like every struggling artist, Biddu had his share of ups and downs yet he never lost hope and worked with optimism in his heart and passion in his soul.
He shares his experiences while working with various artists and agencies, some who ripped him apart and some who gave the right push in the right direction. Biddu appreciates what he received and never forgot to himself be at the giving end.
This book gives a wonderful in-sight for the struggling artists in the industry, who at every failure feel their world has tossed upside-down, must read this book as an inspiration and understand the depths of problems even an amazing artist like Biddu has to face to reach to the top.
Other than sharing his experience with the music industry, the author has lightly shared some fun facts about himself in a humorous and matter-of-fact way as if he’s directly talking to the readers. His love for his long hair, his beautiful wife Sue and his mother’s affection was very sweet and brought smile while reading.
To view complete review, click here
October 9, 2015
I am not a big fan of autobiographies and avoid them unless I am really intrigued or impressed by the celebrity/person. But when B00kR3vi3ws, presented this chance of reviewing the book about someone, whose songs I love to listen time and again, I couldn’t resist the chance.
‘Made In India’, though an autobiography, reads like a work of fiction. In most of the memoirs or such kind of works the main events, influencing the life of the author, are described randomly. In this saga, I enjoyed the chronological order of events presented. Author knew what he wanted even when he was just a child and his entire life is driven by his one and only love and that is ‘music’. It was a revelation to read that passion and tenacity, along with talent, really pays in the long run.
Author in the preface mentioned something about ‘I’, ‘me’ and ‘my’, but nowhere I could find the ego of a great artist influencing the narration of events. In fact the author’s humility and simplicity is felt throughout his life’s journey.
‘I am a citizen of the world, but inside, truly deep inside, I am still made in India.’
The above line adequately sums up the artist we know as Biddu. There are not many people who have been able to scale the heights which he has achieved. He had left India, armed with a guitar and three pounds in his pocket. What guts! It was really an adventure to read the journey from Bangalore to Basra to Beirut to Paris and finally London.
More on: http://www.iluvfiction.com/2015/10/bo...
‘Made In India’, though an autobiography, reads like a work of fiction. In most of the memoirs or such kind of works the main events, influencing the life of the author, are described randomly. In this saga, I enjoyed the chronological order of events presented. Author knew what he wanted even when he was just a child and his entire life is driven by his one and only love and that is ‘music’. It was a revelation to read that passion and tenacity, along with talent, really pays in the long run.
Author in the preface mentioned something about ‘I’, ‘me’ and ‘my’, but nowhere I could find the ego of a great artist influencing the narration of events. In fact the author’s humility and simplicity is felt throughout his life’s journey.
‘I am a citizen of the world, but inside, truly deep inside, I am still made in India.’
The above line adequately sums up the artist we know as Biddu. There are not many people who have been able to scale the heights which he has achieved. He had left India, armed with a guitar and three pounds in his pocket. What guts! It was really an adventure to read the journey from Bangalore to Basra to Beirut to Paris and finally London.
More on: http://www.iluvfiction.com/2015/10/bo...
October 18, 2015
The book is nearly a detailed account of Biddu's life till the release of the album Made in India. Biddu starts with his very early days and his attraction towards London, the several attempts made to elope Bangalore and India and how they failed, the transition of The Trojans to The Lone Trojan, the life in the then Calcutta and Bombay, the friends and the love for music, the farewell shows, the betrayals (not in love), the plan to reach London. The journey to reach London and surviving wasn't easy, but we must appreciate the efforts and dedication that Biddu showed towards his passion. Biddu also writes about finding love, friends and their stupid plans to make quick money which could have changed their lives, but luck or whatever you want to call it saved him from being a part of a major drug involvement case. Biddu does write about his first encounter with Feroz Khan to work for the song Aap Jaisa Koi. Please visit http://guptakaushal.blogspot.in/2015/... to read the complete review of the book.
February 24, 2012
An easy, fun read! I recently read the author's first work of Fiction, Curse of the Godman and this was so much better. An unconventional, exciting life which leads to celebrity doesn't necessarily make for a good read, but the flowing prose, self-deprecating humor and easy anecdotal style of the narrative makes for interesting reading while retaining an honest and heartfelt vibe. My favorite parts to read were his journeys through the Middle-East at a time when the region was not run over by rage and fear. He describes it with candor and warmth. I recently met Biddu at the Goan book launch of Curse of the Godman and I wish now I had read Made in India then! He's got that attractive mix of charisma and humility that's very endearing :) This is just the book I needed to get me out of my 'Finkler' fugue ;-)
November 7, 2015
I usually resist reading autobiographies or memoirs, not so much because I'm a fan of fiction as because I fear the person might not be able to express his words right. This one is the best exception to this case I've ever had. I've no issues using the superlative because Biddu's thoughts have been so organized, his precision of information so endearing that one wonders if they remember things this well.
So it is by and by the usual storyline with many points of heart-warming melodies, and the book is just as much a treat to eyes and brain as is his music to the ears.
The language though succinct and on-point, also leaves scope for descriptions and explanations.
This book is a good read as far as recommending it is concerned. A welcome change for me, from all the sci-fi I had been reading off late.
So it is by and by the usual storyline with many points of heart-warming melodies, and the book is just as much a treat to eyes and brain as is his music to the ears.
The language though succinct and on-point, also leaves scope for descriptions and explanations.
This book is a good read as far as recommending it is concerned. A welcome change for me, from all the sci-fi I had been reading off late.
September 22, 2015
Displaying Author_Biddu.jpg
Stri’s Take On The Story:
The reason I don’t read much of auto-biographies and the likes is because after a point in the story either the person self-victimizes or becomes narcissistic. I don’t state about all auto-bios, but some are really like that. However, this book completely shattered such prejudices that were formed in my mind due to other books.
This is exactly what people would want to read. The author neither preaches nor blames. He talks in a breezy narration. He shares the story with you like how you talk to your best friend about it. That’s what makes the book a worthy one.
Read more: https://iamstri.wordpress.com/2015/09...
There is a giveaway too. Enter!
Stri’s Take On The Story:
The reason I don’t read much of auto-biographies and the likes is because after a point in the story either the person self-victimizes or becomes narcissistic. I don’t state about all auto-bios, but some are really like that. However, this book completely shattered such prejudices that were formed in my mind due to other books.
This is exactly what people would want to read. The author neither preaches nor blames. He talks in a breezy narration. He shares the story with you like how you talk to your best friend about it. That’s what makes the book a worthy one.
Read more: https://iamstri.wordpress.com/2015/09...
There is a giveaway too. Enter!
October 31, 2015
http://mydatewithbooks.blogspot.in/20...
Failure to flee from home more than once, travelling in unknown country with just a guitar and small backpack, questioning from police in drug smuggling and many more - these are no doubt experiences of a lifetime.
Honestly, I had not heard of the name before I got the opportunity to read this biography. I have never been very much interested in music and music to me has always been just a form of entertainment once in a while or while driving. But that does not mean I have not heard of numbers like "aap jaisa koi meri jindagi me in aaye" and the anthem of every teenage girl - "Made in India". I have grown up singing these songs by all my heart.
Failure to flee from home more than once, travelling in unknown country with just a guitar and small backpack, questioning from police in drug smuggling and many more - these are no doubt experiences of a lifetime.
Honestly, I had not heard of the name before I got the opportunity to read this biography. I have never been very much interested in music and music to me has always been just a form of entertainment once in a while or while driving. But that does not mean I have not heard of numbers like "aap jaisa koi meri jindagi me in aaye" and the anthem of every teenage girl - "Made in India". I have grown up singing these songs by all my heart.
November 7, 2015
Review @ A Bookworm's Musing
I do not strongly connect with the genre of non-fiction and autobiographies, but I liked reading this book, especially the parts about Bangalore as it once was. I liked the style of the author, humble and witty.
Even without the strong connect, the book Made in India managed to inspire me. So I feel it would do that more strongly to those who like reading autobiographies. I hope that this line becomes true for me some day as well.
“I am a citizen of the world, but inside, truly deep inside, I am still made in India.”
I do not strongly connect with the genre of non-fiction and autobiographies, but I liked reading this book, especially the parts about Bangalore as it once was. I liked the style of the author, humble and witty.
Even without the strong connect, the book Made in India managed to inspire me. So I feel it would do that more strongly to those who like reading autobiographies. I hope that this line becomes true for me some day as well.
“I am a citizen of the world, but inside, truly deep inside, I am still made in India.”
November 3, 2015
I liked Biddu’s recount of Calcutta, his stint at Trinca’s, his friends, the music and his brief stint at my city. Trinca’s was the most happening place then and I loved to read his account of that time and age. Biddu moved to Bombay and tried to make it to his dream city, London. His accounts of travel are very interesting and awe inspiring.
Recommended for everyone – dare yourself to dream and motivate to fulfill your dreams.
Read the full review here:
http://oneandahalfminutes.com/2015/10...
Recommended for everyone – dare yourself to dream and motivate to fulfill your dreams.
Read the full review here:
http://oneandahalfminutes.com/2015/10...
October 1, 2015
Overall Impression: An inspiring story that I think should be read by anyone who has a dream of success.
To read full review please click here
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
To read full review please click here
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews