Harinder Sikka’s ‘Gobind’ is a story of grit, righteousness & love
BOOK REVIEW: New book has all the elements to be made into a Bollywood film
The journey from poverty to prominence can be arduous but not impossible. All one needs is the push to gain momentum towards the right direction. For Gobind, his father’s anger stemming from his helplessness changed the course of the teenager’s life. Gobind, the new book by Harinder S Sikka, is the story of a boy determined to overcome all hurdles. His aim is not to gain fame or prosperity but to give his best in whatever he does and be righteous.
Born in a poor Sikh family in Patna, Gobind becomes the topper in the district and joins the NDA. He leaves his family, birthplace and his love, Meera, the daughter of the most influential man in the village, to train for the navy. He promises Meera that he will return after three years. Little does he know that power and ego will asphyxiate his love and change his life forever.
But Gobind, named after 10th Sikh Guru Gobind Singh who was born in Patna city, is a fighter. Even after losing his love, he remains undeterred in his duties. He joins the illustrious submarine team and travels to Russia for special training. Miles away from home, Gobind meets Taraa. This time too, he faces adversities in Russia and his homeland but he faces all challenges steadfastly.
The story of Gobind is inspiring and Harinder Singh Sikka, the author of Calling Sehmat and Vichhoda, tells his story lucidly. The struggle of a teenager from a poor family and the victory of money over love are common events. But what is unique in this story is Gobind’s spirit to fight back and his resolve to remain truthful and follow his parents’ values.
A love story and a thriller, the book has all the qualities to be adapted as a Bollywood film screenplay. Sikka had a trust with the silver screen earlier. Nanak Shah Fakir, a film produced by Sikka, won accolades at Cannes, Toronto and Los Angeles Film Festivals. It also won three national awards.
However, the several editing slips in the book published by Penguin India are disappointing and need to be addressed.
Book: Gobind; Author: Harinder S. Sikka; Publisher: Penguin India; Pages: 249; Price: Rs 250
