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Only If...
We live in an age of intertwined contradictions. Nature is yearned for, but in the artificial space of infrastructure – the built environment – like buildings, gardens and landscaped features. The word ‘infrastructure’ rings through our consciousness as more natural than nature itself. We relate to infrastructure as the rightful owner and its absence is frowned upon.
The makers of this infrastructure are the labourers who live in the open – the natural infrastructure. They have no concrete roof over them, no brick walls with murals imitating natural themes nor do they have conditioned air to inhale one’s breath that is re-circulated through the acrylic filters. They drink water not from the ‘natural’ Himalayan spring bottled up, but from the well or the river or even the pond.
The stories in this volume have attempted to capture fleeting glimpses of the human experiences of these forgotten toilers – the real makers of infrastructure – whose sweat and, sometimes blood, create our habitat and provide identity to our cities.
Provisional is about the ironical fate of the people. The very cause of the catastrophe became the mitigating escape from the tragic consequences – compromises made even by the well-meaning people in compelling situations.
Retribution brings out the depth to which the caste tradition has permeated into the psyche of the people.
The makers of this infrastructure are the labourers who live in the open – the natural infrastructure. They have no concrete roof over them, no brick walls with murals imitating natural themes nor do they have conditioned air to inhale one’s breath that is re-circulated through the acrylic filters. They drink water not from the ‘natural’ Himalayan spring bottled up, but from the well or the river or even the pond.
The stories in this volume have attempted to capture fleeting glimpses of the human experiences of these forgotten toilers – the real makers of infrastructure – whose sweat and, sometimes blood, create our habitat and provide identity to our cities.
Provisional is about the ironical fate of the people. The very cause of the catastrophe became the mitigating escape from the tragic consequences – compromises made even by the well-meaning people in compelling situations.
Retribution brings out the depth to which the caste tradition has permeated into the psyche of the people.
184 pages, Hardcover
Published December 7, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 2, 2021
I have often wondered that how unfair life is. Such thoughts always hover around my mind that isn't it ironic that Priyanka Chopra earned more money just by playing the role of Mary Kom than Mary Kom earned in her entire career. Quite unjust.
The people who built our homes are themselves homeless . Again very unfair
And their sorry sight is what this book builds upon and entails.
The book is a collection of ten hard hitting tales which makes you ponder upon things happening around you and leaves you spell bound . The stories are really emotional and makes one to drop a tear or two while sailing through the heart wrenching tales of labourers.
The story telling is very impactful. It can make even a stone hearted person to feel empathy for the downtrodden class . Though there are things which I dint like in the book and completely disagree with . For instance ,kind of blaming everything on government and the rigid caste system instead of financial gap which is the root cause of most issues. So many people below the poverty line are general category public and also the reservation is the biggest curse we all are endowed with . Caste system exists no denying that but almost all the policies of any government regime is for appeasing the unfortunate beings and the irony is it isn't based on economic status due to which only one sect of people get all the benefits. Also one major shortcoming of the book is it doesn't offer any solutions and just present us a sorry view of society .
So all in all a really good work in terms of narration but could have been better had it given a more neutral ,logical and rationale view of things rather than basing them only on one's own experiences.
The people who built our homes are themselves homeless . Again very unfair
And their sorry sight is what this book builds upon and entails.
The book is a collection of ten hard hitting tales which makes you ponder upon things happening around you and leaves you spell bound . The stories are really emotional and makes one to drop a tear or two while sailing through the heart wrenching tales of labourers.
The story telling is very impactful. It can make even a stone hearted person to feel empathy for the downtrodden class . Though there are things which I dint like in the book and completely disagree with . For instance ,kind of blaming everything on government and the rigid caste system instead of financial gap which is the root cause of most issues. So many people below the poverty line are general category public and also the reservation is the biggest curse we all are endowed with . Caste system exists no denying that but almost all the policies of any government regime is for appeasing the unfortunate beings and the irony is it isn't based on economic status due to which only one sect of people get all the benefits. Also one major shortcoming of the book is it doesn't offer any solutions and just present us a sorry view of society .
So all in all a really good work in terms of narration but could have been better had it given a more neutral ,logical and rationale view of things rather than basing them only on one's own experiences.
August 30, 2021
It has always astonished me, how we can walk by buildings and bridges and metros and never once stop to think where it all came from and at what cost. Its a sad reality that today we have to look up places to go to when we want to explore nature because in metropolitan cities, structures made of concrete has become second nature, one that we have become so used to that we don't even question it's existence.
Only if by Basant Kumar is a collection of short stories that tell us what we already know, but have forgotten in the humdrum of our daily lives. Perhaps it's our ambitions or the clock we have set in our mind that urges us to do one thing or the other at a given time that keeps us oblivious to the change that keeps happening around us. Whatever the case maybe, it's strange how even though we as a species are aware of our surroundings, we still turn a blind eye to things because our focal points keep shifting.
The author with his stories questions the morality of a society that pushes labourers and workers to their limits, a society that whines about the lack of preservation only to never question the new age infrastructure and how it comes to life. We are aware of the many ways that the capitalist society exploits workers, human resources every day but we don't really try to make any difference because as much as we hate to admit, we are the consumers that profit from the same exploitation we wish to denounce.
The core of all the stories are the same, they focus on the capitalist industry and how it thrives on exploitation of human and human resources, how it does more harm than good, not just to our environment but to people whose lives depend on it and they do it whole claiming to give employment when most of the people who work get minimum wages and are below poverty line.
It's an extremely important book that pushes you to ask questions and look beyond the stone structures that surround us. To make you witness the horrors that lurk beneath marble floors and how the foundation of these structures are made from literal blood, sweat and tears of people who are always forgotten and never given credit for their hard work.
The writing style is simple but doesn't shy away from a realistic portrayal of life that will make many people uncomfortable because it calls us out on our ignorance. The whole book is supposed to make you feel that way to scratch at your psyche, to make you hyper aware of things that we push under the rug because they don't concern us.
I highly recommend it simply because of its simplistic yet honest approach towards the evils that are among us. Simply because how it forces us to turn our head and see how the society that claims to develop us, ruins us too.
Only if by Basant Kumar is a collection of short stories that tell us what we already know, but have forgotten in the humdrum of our daily lives. Perhaps it's our ambitions or the clock we have set in our mind that urges us to do one thing or the other at a given time that keeps us oblivious to the change that keeps happening around us. Whatever the case maybe, it's strange how even though we as a species are aware of our surroundings, we still turn a blind eye to things because our focal points keep shifting.
The author with his stories questions the morality of a society that pushes labourers and workers to their limits, a society that whines about the lack of preservation only to never question the new age infrastructure and how it comes to life. We are aware of the many ways that the capitalist society exploits workers, human resources every day but we don't really try to make any difference because as much as we hate to admit, we are the consumers that profit from the same exploitation we wish to denounce.
The core of all the stories are the same, they focus on the capitalist industry and how it thrives on exploitation of human and human resources, how it does more harm than good, not just to our environment but to people whose lives depend on it and they do it whole claiming to give employment when most of the people who work get minimum wages and are below poverty line.
It's an extremely important book that pushes you to ask questions and look beyond the stone structures that surround us. To make you witness the horrors that lurk beneath marble floors and how the foundation of these structures are made from literal blood, sweat and tears of people who are always forgotten and never given credit for their hard work.
The writing style is simple but doesn't shy away from a realistic portrayal of life that will make many people uncomfortable because it calls us out on our ignorance. The whole book is supposed to make you feel that way to scratch at your psyche, to make you hyper aware of things that we push under the rug because they don't concern us.
I highly recommend it simply because of its simplistic yet honest approach towards the evils that are among us. Simply because how it forces us to turn our head and see how the society that claims to develop us, ruins us too.
Read
October 28, 2021Religion must mainly be a matter of principles only. It cannot be a matter of rules. The moment it
degenerates into rules, it ceases to be a religion, as it kills responsibility which is an essence of the true
religious act.
Dr BR Ambedkar
Indeed, it is true that religion, if used as a tool to simply create a rift in the society, has time and again
created barriers and a large divide in the different stratas of the society, compelling us humans to
possibly become the worst version of ourselves.
Only If.. a collection of short stories by Basant Kumar tries to highlight the struggles as well as life
conditions of those lower sections of the society namely the workers/toilers as he calls them, whose
lives are actually a symbol of sacrifice in lieu of all the luxuries and comforts we enjoy today, thanks to endless toiling done by them.
The author Basant Kumar, a Science Graduate from Allahabad University had served 28 years in the
central PWD before moving to the Central Ministry. Currently, a freelance consultant in the field of Civil Engineering, he uses his free time to write.
These 10 short stories not only highlight the struggle of the weaker sections of the society but also tend to bring to the forefront the atrocities they face owing to their social as well as their monetary status. The entire stigma related to casteism, social inequalities as well as the bifurcation of the classes on account of monetary power, the political implications arising from the same as well as the impending rigmaroles have been highlighted quite clearly. It presents a very realistic picture of what exactly happens in the lives of such poor workers and highlights not only their struggles but their emotional turmoil as well.
Take the first story in the collection for instance, Retribution. Highlighting the plethora of pain and the entire thought process related to the so-called caste factors has been highlighted compelling one to stop and think, “Where do we land up from here on the humane level?”
The next Provisional, is another one which minutely explores all facets of politics when a deadly infection E Coli hits a small village, compelling a war footing investigation where all concerned solve it via their individual collective expertise at work.
My personal favorite was The Visiting card, which explores delicate as well as major emotions a person
who is from a lower caste, one with a sparse knowledge of English faces and how he goes through and
overcomes them.
The main core idea behind almost all of these 10 stories is the same – how the upper capital caste
thrives and survives on the exploitation of humans, doing no good but only causing them detrimental
harm pushing them even further down the poverty line.
The language used by him is lucid and his narrative shows his seniority as well as expertise, thanks to his
long years of tryst with working in close contact with all stratas of the society. Basant writing is
subtle, yet powerful, compelling the reader to get a sense of soul stirring , thanks to his coy yet strong depictions of all problems related to those faced in reality by what we call the ‘struggling class’ of our
society
You and I maybe living a supremely posh and comfortable life, thanks to the relentless, constant efforts
put in by the labour class. Imagine giving us uber chic interiors like where we stay in and not having a
roof too, to live over their heads. Paradoxical hypocrisy at its ruthless best, peeps!
The true raw portrayal of the ground breaking reality of our society which gnaws at the root constitutes the real essence of this book. Go for it If you want to experience a bitter, yet stark, real slice of life, as
brutal and harsh as innocuously simple that it appears to be.
Fine writing by the Author Basant Kumar.
degenerates into rules, it ceases to be a religion, as it kills responsibility which is an essence of the true
religious act.
Dr BR Ambedkar
Indeed, it is true that religion, if used as a tool to simply create a rift in the society, has time and again
created barriers and a large divide in the different stratas of the society, compelling us humans to
possibly become the worst version of ourselves.
Only If.. a collection of short stories by Basant Kumar tries to highlight the struggles as well as life
conditions of those lower sections of the society namely the workers/toilers as he calls them, whose
lives are actually a symbol of sacrifice in lieu of all the luxuries and comforts we enjoy today, thanks to endless toiling done by them.
The author Basant Kumar, a Science Graduate from Allahabad University had served 28 years in the
central PWD before moving to the Central Ministry. Currently, a freelance consultant in the field of Civil Engineering, he uses his free time to write.
These 10 short stories not only highlight the struggle of the weaker sections of the society but also tend to bring to the forefront the atrocities they face owing to their social as well as their monetary status. The entire stigma related to casteism, social inequalities as well as the bifurcation of the classes on account of monetary power, the political implications arising from the same as well as the impending rigmaroles have been highlighted quite clearly. It presents a very realistic picture of what exactly happens in the lives of such poor workers and highlights not only their struggles but their emotional turmoil as well.
Take the first story in the collection for instance, Retribution. Highlighting the plethora of pain and the entire thought process related to the so-called caste factors has been highlighted compelling one to stop and think, “Where do we land up from here on the humane level?”
The next Provisional, is another one which minutely explores all facets of politics when a deadly infection E Coli hits a small village, compelling a war footing investigation where all concerned solve it via their individual collective expertise at work.
My personal favorite was The Visiting card, which explores delicate as well as major emotions a person
who is from a lower caste, one with a sparse knowledge of English faces and how he goes through and
overcomes them.
The main core idea behind almost all of these 10 stories is the same – how the upper capital caste
thrives and survives on the exploitation of humans, doing no good but only causing them detrimental
harm pushing them even further down the poverty line.
The language used by him is lucid and his narrative shows his seniority as well as expertise, thanks to his
long years of tryst with working in close contact with all stratas of the society. Basant writing is
subtle, yet powerful, compelling the reader to get a sense of soul stirring , thanks to his coy yet strong depictions of all problems related to those faced in reality by what we call the ‘struggling class’ of our
society
You and I maybe living a supremely posh and comfortable life, thanks to the relentless, constant efforts
put in by the labour class. Imagine giving us uber chic interiors like where we stay in and not having a
roof too, to live over their heads. Paradoxical hypocrisy at its ruthless best, peeps!
The true raw portrayal of the ground breaking reality of our society which gnaws at the root constitutes the real essence of this book. Go for it If you want to experience a bitter, yet stark, real slice of life, as
brutal and harsh as innocuously simple that it appears to be.
Fine writing by the Author Basant Kumar.
June 25, 2021
Only if by Basant Kumar is a collection of heart wrenching stories in India that happen in the field of construction and particularly of those who sweat and sometimes blood - labourers, the real makers of infrastructure. It isn't about just a bunch of stories but some scornful human experiences, a reality.
The first part of the book, Retribution. It brings out how caste discrimination makes people go at any extent and beyond the scope of a normal human behaviour. It is full of disdain and this mentality is unfortunately permeated into the psyche of the people.
The second, Provisional. It depicts a tragic consequence that came into being due to the compromises done during the work. Many people died due to the pollutant E-colli found its way through the drinking water.
I liked the way, author Basant Kumar highlighted the life of the real makers of infrastructure - the labourers. They live in huts, don't have proper food to eat. The story of Shyamu so very touched my heart, the way he had respect towards the work of his mother and the way he dreamt to make her work easy by finding a solution to clay bricks and making eco-friendly bricks, eventually to protect mother nature and relieve the workers.
All the stories are equally filled up with truth that needs to be focused on and make humanity a home.
Do give it a read if you want to know about the harsh realities in the corners of our country and also how little compromises turn out to bizzare consequences.
The first part of the book, Retribution. It brings out how caste discrimination makes people go at any extent and beyond the scope of a normal human behaviour. It is full of disdain and this mentality is unfortunately permeated into the psyche of the people.
The second, Provisional. It depicts a tragic consequence that came into being due to the compromises done during the work. Many people died due to the pollutant E-colli found its way through the drinking water.
I liked the way, author Basant Kumar highlighted the life of the real makers of infrastructure - the labourers. They live in huts, don't have proper food to eat. The story of Shyamu so very touched my heart, the way he had respect towards the work of his mother and the way he dreamt to make her work easy by finding a solution to clay bricks and making eco-friendly bricks, eventually to protect mother nature and relieve the workers.
All the stories are equally filled up with truth that needs to be focused on and make humanity a home.
Do give it a read if you want to know about the harsh realities in the corners of our country and also how little compromises turn out to bizzare consequences.
July 22, 2021
FAB - BOOK REVIEW OF "Only If..." by Basant Kumar.
Genre: Fiction(Contemporary and Culture)
Rating - 4/5
QOTD: What are you currently reading?
AOTD: I am currently reading "One Arranged Murder" by Chetan Bhagat.
"Only If..." by Basant Kumar is a beautiful book covering about 10 short stories of the people in the construction field "Labourers" only with their help any constructions will take place. In this book, all of their struggles, work, managing their family with the everyday wages, and many difficulties they face in the profession have been addressed. Laborers are the central pillar of any construction. They contrive a lot for the infrastructure to bring it out properly so that the owners can live happily, but what about them? Living in huts with no proper sanitation in food facilities?
.
This book has brought the real essence of society, and the best part is that it has showcased the real issues in a thought-provoking way. This book has been talked about caste discrimination, poverty, and corruption. It has shown the darker side of the society by these short stories, and the thing is that this book starts slow, but later on, it picks up with its pace, and more than that, we connect with the stories and look at the issues from a different perspective.
.
As a reader, I connected to all the stories because of the writing and narration, but "The Rejection" has a special place in my heart.
Genre: Fiction(Contemporary and Culture)
Rating - 4/5
QOTD: What are you currently reading?
AOTD: I am currently reading "One Arranged Murder" by Chetan Bhagat.
"Only If..." by Basant Kumar is a beautiful book covering about 10 short stories of the people in the construction field "Labourers" only with their help any constructions will take place. In this book, all of their struggles, work, managing their family with the everyday wages, and many difficulties they face in the profession have been addressed. Laborers are the central pillar of any construction. They contrive a lot for the infrastructure to bring it out properly so that the owners can live happily, but what about them? Living in huts with no proper sanitation in food facilities?
.
This book has brought the real essence of society, and the best part is that it has showcased the real issues in a thought-provoking way. This book has been talked about caste discrimination, poverty, and corruption. It has shown the darker side of the society by these short stories, and the thing is that this book starts slow, but later on, it picks up with its pace, and more than that, we connect with the stories and look at the issues from a different perspective.
.
As a reader, I connected to all the stories because of the writing and narration, but "The Rejection" has a special place in my heart.
June 23, 2021
'Only if' by Basant kumar is a glorious collection of ten short stories that aims to showcast the realistic problems and difficulties in day tk day life of people under common man that varies person to person. The stories confronts the reader that how caste, relegion, colour and economic factors are just words to critise discriminations but the real problems starts after critisization. For instance the forst story leaves you with a deliberate question that even if you want to integrated effort for making a change it won't be a simplistic equation. There are stories we often read and listen for which we develope a feeling of gratitude but that does not lasts long but the stories of Only If remains resides in your viens that will make you feel a part of it. How can we contribute and many more questions are disscussed wrapping them in a sail of smooth narration. Woven with an attractive cover and decent tittle adorns the stars of the book. These are not merely a collection of stories, they are bunch of experiences and behive of reality that we daily observe. I loved the sense of writing and would definately recommend to everyone wether you are a reader or not but being the part of this society you have to take responsibilities of it.
July 1, 2021
"It is not uncommon that the employers keep the workers without any records. This saves them from a number of responsibilities and problems with some extra expense managing the 'system's is very profitable"
This book has different stories on life of the people who are poor but come from different backgrounds. It mainly speaks about construction labourers and how their innocence is used for one's own greed. Their suffering and hardships will melt our hearts. It talks about the ill effects of caste system and the avarice of the government and it's officials. It shows how the common man is denied of his own rights and all his wealth is snatched by the cunning officials.
I had so many thoughts when I completed this book that I can't even start.
I loved how the author wrote on a topic which many people wouldn't even consider. The book shows an indepth knowledge including civil engineering skills which was excellent. The vocabulary is very good and well used. This book helps us understand behind the scenes of political strategy and the thought process of the labourers. I completely loved it as it was a very new concept and an informative read.
The best part was each character was so different and had a story to tell even though they are looked at as construction workers. There are certain pencil sketches in the book as well. A must read.
Recommended to beginners as well.
This book has different stories on life of the people who are poor but come from different backgrounds. It mainly speaks about construction labourers and how their innocence is used for one's own greed. Their suffering and hardships will melt our hearts. It talks about the ill effects of caste system and the avarice of the government and it's officials. It shows how the common man is denied of his own rights and all his wealth is snatched by the cunning officials.
I had so many thoughts when I completed this book that I can't even start.
I loved how the author wrote on a topic which many people wouldn't even consider. The book shows an indepth knowledge including civil engineering skills which was excellent. The vocabulary is very good and well used. This book helps us understand behind the scenes of political strategy and the thought process of the labourers. I completely loved it as it was a very new concept and an informative read.
The best part was each character was so different and had a story to tell even though they are looked at as construction workers. There are certain pencil sketches in the book as well. A must read.
Recommended to beginners as well.
October 24, 2021
"The belief of continuity of the 'kul' was so powerful that any atrocity on the women was rationalized on that logic."
Basant Kumar in his short story collection 'Only If' trailed tales related to architecture and construction, each connected by this profession with its collection of vices and virtues.
I absolutely adore short stories and there are rarely any short story book that disappoints me. Thankfully this book was one such book. I loved the way the author attached his central idea to every story - the plight of the workers, the greed, corruption and moral conscience came alive with his words. It showed such a naked picture of the reality of the glamorous world of building. I loved that the author didn't shy away from showing the ugly truth and didn't sweeten the dire and pathetic conditions. However, stay beware as some scenes were gory.
One thing that struck my eyes were the beautiful drawings that accompanied the stories - they were amazing. Some sections of the stories seemed rather redundant and could have been done away with.
Overall, you have to read this book. Only if you realised what it holds, you wouldn't let it go!
For more such detailed reviews, check out my bookstagram: www.instagram.com/mystic_tales_tintin
Basant Kumar in his short story collection 'Only If' trailed tales related to architecture and construction, each connected by this profession with its collection of vices and virtues.
I absolutely adore short stories and there are rarely any short story book that disappoints me. Thankfully this book was one such book. I loved the way the author attached his central idea to every story - the plight of the workers, the greed, corruption and moral conscience came alive with his words. It showed such a naked picture of the reality of the glamorous world of building. I loved that the author didn't shy away from showing the ugly truth and didn't sweeten the dire and pathetic conditions. However, stay beware as some scenes were gory.
One thing that struck my eyes were the beautiful drawings that accompanied the stories - they were amazing. Some sections of the stories seemed rather redundant and could have been done away with.
Overall, you have to read this book. Only if you realised what it holds, you wouldn't let it go!
For more such detailed reviews, check out my bookstagram: www.instagram.com/mystic_tales_tintin
June 27, 2021
✨Only if...is a collection of 10 very sensible short and effective stories.
°
°
✨Each and every story has been nailed with practical difficulties faced by an individual or a set of people from the other humans.
✨Nothing which we don't already know, but when read in the form of words, the fact that we are helpless, tends to prick our heart. It did for me!!
°
°
✨Starting with caste discrimination, first story in the book titled as 'Retribution', talks about how strong caste plays its role in once mind. The end of the story indirectly reveals that, even if we take a step towards making a change, it's not gonna be easy to eradicate the practice completely.
✨The other stories also conveys various social challenges like, the after effects of dirty politics, what poverty does to a person.
°
°
✨My fav stories are Retribution (about caste), Shyamu (about a responsible son), The rejection (a woman being independent and does something right)
******
✨The author expects the readers of his book would make a change in the society.
✨And I hope the same!!
✨I got a knowledgeable and sensible reading experience out of this book!!
°
°
✨Each and every story has been nailed with practical difficulties faced by an individual or a set of people from the other humans.
✨Nothing which we don't already know, but when read in the form of words, the fact that we are helpless, tends to prick our heart. It did for me!!
°
°
✨Starting with caste discrimination, first story in the book titled as 'Retribution', talks about how strong caste plays its role in once mind. The end of the story indirectly reveals that, even if we take a step towards making a change, it's not gonna be easy to eradicate the practice completely.
✨The other stories also conveys various social challenges like, the after effects of dirty politics, what poverty does to a person.
°
°
✨My fav stories are Retribution (about caste), Shyamu (about a responsible son), The rejection (a woman being independent and does something right)
******
✨The author expects the readers of his book would make a change in the society.
✨And I hope the same!!
✨I got a knowledgeable and sensible reading experience out of this book!!
July 25, 2021
Only If is a collection of short stories penned down by Basant Kumar. The book is published by Notion Press Publishers.
The stories revolve around the lives of labourers and their struggles. The daily life of labourers, their worries, their ways to meet ends, the relations with the fellow workers, the boss-employee relations everything is explained beautifully through short stories.
The thing I liked about the book is that it’s extremely realistic. We are lucky to live a life full of comforts. We see them working and many of us get curious about them too, but no one ever thinks how tough it can get for the daily wage workers. Some of the stories are so brutal, and sadly show the truth. Discrimination, castesim, ego issues everything is penned down to showcase the reality of a laborer’s life. One will feel a rollercoaster of emotions while reading the book for sure. I loved how the author left some of the ending to the reader to decide what might have happened. Some of the stories are best when left incomplete. Due to this, I could feel the emotions in the book stronger than it could have been with the complete ending. I will definitely recommend reading this book.
The stories revolve around the lives of labourers and their struggles. The daily life of labourers, their worries, their ways to meet ends, the relations with the fellow workers, the boss-employee relations everything is explained beautifully through short stories.
The thing I liked about the book is that it’s extremely realistic. We are lucky to live a life full of comforts. We see them working and many of us get curious about them too, but no one ever thinks how tough it can get for the daily wage workers. Some of the stories are so brutal, and sadly show the truth. Discrimination, castesim, ego issues everything is penned down to showcase the reality of a laborer’s life. One will feel a rollercoaster of emotions while reading the book for sure. I loved how the author left some of the ending to the reader to decide what might have happened. Some of the stories are best when left incomplete. Due to this, I could feel the emotions in the book stronger than it could have been with the complete ending. I will definitely recommend reading this book.
June 30, 2021
The book "Only If " is an fascinating book written by the author Basant Kumar.
Only if...is a collection of 10 very realistic short and meaningful tales.
The tales engages the reader that how caste, religion, colour and financial elements are barely phrases to critise discriminations but the actual difficulties begins after critisation.
The story which affected me the most is retribution.
The story is of the Shyamu who appreciate her mother working and making her labor easier by making eco friendly clay and bricks ultimately conserving the mother nature and relieve the laborers.
lt tells us about the extent of caste discrimination that makes people go beyond on the next level of brutality.
The narration of the book is kept simple and easy making it a good read for all. The language used is lucid. I finished it in one sitting only.
The plot construction of the story is basically good and has an engrossing storyline. The style of narration and language is straightforward and lucid. It is fast pace and good read.
Only if...is a collection of 10 very realistic short and meaningful tales.
The tales engages the reader that how caste, religion, colour and financial elements are barely phrases to critise discriminations but the actual difficulties begins after critisation.
The story which affected me the most is retribution.
The story is of the Shyamu who appreciate her mother working and making her labor easier by making eco friendly clay and bricks ultimately conserving the mother nature and relieve the laborers.
lt tells us about the extent of caste discrimination that makes people go beyond on the next level of brutality.
The narration of the book is kept simple and easy making it a good read for all. The language used is lucid. I finished it in one sitting only.
The plot construction of the story is basically good and has an engrossing storyline. The style of narration and language is straightforward and lucid. It is fast pace and good read.
Read
July 4, 2021Only if a wonderfully written book by Basant Kumar covering the dark sides of a different world, i.e. the construction sites. The author has used his knowledge of architecture and has penned the book so beautifully. The way he has described every single thing is just commendable. The description of characters and events is also upto mark. The Book consists of 10 short stories yet so meaningful that will affect your thought process for sure. Behind big buildings everyone ignores the efforts done by those who work on the construction sites. The author has tried to show their world through his writing. Every story has a perfect storyline depicting numerous problems still prevailing in the society. The book is a must read if you want to read something different. The stories has the capacity to make you think about everything that will come in the stories. Have a happy read.
July 27, 2021
Only if by basant kumar.....is one of the book which shows the true fact of life ....how the upper class people made feel lower caste that they are not being to be placed in the same manner as the upper one....which gives the knowledge about life to see it in different ways and make changes in the society ...so that everyone should treat each other in the same manner....and give respect each other rather than judging lower caste people....book depicts the 10 short stories which also shows the political power which is taken so grantly by those who ruled this power on lower caste people just to escape from the fault and transfer it to lower caste people .....this book gives power to know the true knowledge to see things in different manner or in right way to change the society and environment by giving equal rights, respect to all...
August 3, 2021
Only If..." by Basant Kumar is a beautiful and amazing book. I have been gifted this wonderful book by one of my friends. And it turned out to be a wonderful present to me.
The book has 10 short stories which speak about
the life of Labourers (construction workers).
Without them any construction is not possible.
Their hard work, struggle, dedication, determination, everything matters. The author also talks about poverty, caste- discrimination and corruption. Each and every story is unique and keeps the attention of the reader till the end.
Good points about the book
- It captures human nature and its complexity with the simplest of word usage. I think that is why they are considered classics
- The best part about the short stories are you me always keeps you if you don't like it - The best companion for your travel for vacation.
The book has 10 short stories which speak about
the life of Labourers (construction workers).
Without them any construction is not possible.
Their hard work, struggle, dedication, determination, everything matters. The author also talks about poverty, caste- discrimination and corruption. Each and every story is unique and keeps the attention of the reader till the end.
Good points about the book
- It captures human nature and its complexity with the simplest of word usage. I think that is why they are considered classics
- The best part about the short stories are you me always keeps you if you don't like it - The best companion for your travel for vacation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2021
Caste, creed, money, religion, our society has been discriminating people on these forever.
Only If portrays these problems of our society in a very realistic way.
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Basant Kumar very beautifully wrote about the things that we in our daily lives often overlook or not care about much. This book suddenly made me feel so privileged. This book is definitely emotionally packed. The stories though are different, still give out the same message of how labourers and daily wage workers are often forgotten.
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Oh god this book emotionally wrecked me and made me question and think about so many things. I loved how some of the stories had open- ending, it gave a different touch to the stories. The book is fast paced with really simple language. I loved reading it.
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I definitely would recommend this book.
Only If portrays these problems of our society in a very realistic way.
.
Basant Kumar very beautifully wrote about the things that we in our daily lives often overlook or not care about much. This book suddenly made me feel so privileged. This book is definitely emotionally packed. The stories though are different, still give out the same message of how labourers and daily wage workers are often forgotten.
.
Oh god this book emotionally wrecked me and made me question and think about so many things. I loved how some of the stories had open- ending, it gave a different touch to the stories. The book is fast paced with really simple language. I loved reading it.
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I definitely would recommend this book.
July 4, 2021
This book has 10 short stories that bring out the deeply rooted social issues of India. The stories focus on the struggling class and their exploitations by the privilged class. The author has addressed major dark sides of the society such as caste discrimination, poverty, patriarchy and corruption. This book can be considered an attempt to give voice to the unheards and spread awareness among the privilged class about the subordinates. I really liked the fact that author talked about class, caste and gender based discrimination in the society.
Only if by Basant Kumar is a fictional write up based on the reality of the society. The language used by the author is vey lucid and simply understandable. Must read!
July 27, 2021
Only if - A collection of 10 short yet extremely meaningful stories which will make you introspect and hopefully also a little hurt about things we see a lot of times, but never give a conscious thought to.
The stories mostly touch the lives of labourers - who are described as the soul of infrastructure building in india. Although they're the soul that goes into making an infrastructure, the unfortunate fact that their own lives are quite miserable tends to irk the readers.
The clear message that the author wants to convey is for humankind to be more mindful of where humanity is headed to, and beware of the consequences.
It's a great read, something that would want us to bring a societal change.
The stories mostly touch the lives of labourers - who are described as the soul of infrastructure building in india. Although they're the soul that goes into making an infrastructure, the unfortunate fact that their own lives are quite miserable tends to irk the readers.
The clear message that the author wants to convey is for humankind to be more mindful of where humanity is headed to, and beware of the consequences.
It's a great read, something that would want us to bring a societal change.
June 29, 2021
" Only if..." is the collection of 10 stories.
Each story is very touching that depicts the problems of the people, especially workers.
They put all the effort to give their best, but they are the ones that suffer most even to get proper food.
Every story depicts one different problem like caste, religion, color, etc.
I loved the narration and, it is in lucid language.
These are the stories that show real-life problems and truth. We need to identify them and be responsible that they would not repeat.
I feel that everyone has to go through this book. It will be helpful for our society if everyone understands the problems that some people are facing.
Overall, this is a great read.
Each story is very touching that depicts the problems of the people, especially workers.
They put all the effort to give their best, but they are the ones that suffer most even to get proper food.
Every story depicts one different problem like caste, religion, color, etc.
I loved the narration and, it is in lucid language.
These are the stories that show real-life problems and truth. We need to identify them and be responsible that they would not repeat.
I feel that everyone has to go through this book. It will be helpful for our society if everyone understands the problems that some people are facing.
Overall, this is a great read.
July 23, 2021
book with ordinary stories with somthing extra in it. Every tale in this ,is the story that we have come through in real life. The real story of strength and struggle, discrimination and determination.
Be it the story of Dayawati's cruelty or the one where a man is killed due to negligence of mankind ,made me realise how irresponsible we are/were as humans.
Not only the author highlights problems of the society but also renders us the solution which really was the thought provoking part.Especially the one where the people getting sick due to adulteration was written perfect. The book will undoubtedly leave you thoughtful.
Be it the story of Dayawati's cruelty or the one where a man is killed due to negligence of mankind ,made me realise how irresponsible we are/were as humans.
Not only the author highlights problems of the society but also renders us the solution which really was the thought provoking part.Especially the one where the people getting sick due to adulteration was written perfect. The book will undoubtedly leave you thoughtful.
July 27, 2021
Only if by Basant Kumar is a fiction book which is based on the reality of the society.
This book contains 10 short stories which are based on some really deeply rooted issues of the country. The stories revolve around discrimination, poverty, struggles, corruption, exploitation, patriarchy, etc.
This book is a must read book in my opinion. The author has pin pointed everything with such clarity and courage and has talked frankly about everything. The language is bold and yet understandable. The narration and writing style is commendable. At times, i was disagreeing with the author’s opinion as well but i totally loved the book and the views of author.
Highly recommended.
This book contains 10 short stories which are based on some really deeply rooted issues of the country. The stories revolve around discrimination, poverty, struggles, corruption, exploitation, patriarchy, etc.
This book is a must read book in my opinion. The author has pin pointed everything with such clarity and courage and has talked frankly about everything. The language is bold and yet understandable. The narration and writing style is commendable. At times, i was disagreeing with the author’s opinion as well but i totally loved the book and the views of author.
Highly recommended.
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July 2, 2021The book speaks about the Indian contradictions in the field of infrastructure. The hardworking labors plight and the discrimination they face. The book has different stories in which author has talked about social inequalities and their tragic consequence people have to face and live a terrible life.
All the stories are so engrossing.
The language is simple and lucid. The title book of is very apt. Author has wonderfully shown the light to these social differences through his writings that were so heart touching.
All the stories are so engrossing.
The language is simple and lucid. The title book of is very apt. Author has wonderfully shown the light to these social differences through his writings that were so heart touching.
July 23, 2021
The Tales in this volume have endeavored to catch transient looks at the human encounters of these failed to remember workers – the genuine producers of foundation – whose sweat and, some of the time blood, make our territory and give personality to our urban areas.
Temporary is about the unexpected destiny of individuals. The actual reason for the calamity turned into the alleviating escape from the lamentable results – bargains made even by the good natured individuals in convincing circumstances.
Reprisal draws out the profundity to which the position custom has pervaded into the mind of individuals.
Temporary is about the unexpected destiny of individuals. The actual reason for the calamity turned into the alleviating escape from the lamentable results – bargains made even by the good natured individuals in convincing circumstances.
Reprisal draws out the profundity to which the position custom has pervaded into the mind of individuals.
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