Ever wondered what books inspire those who inspire us? In this new feature, we peek into the reading lives of our Lions leaders. From current page-turners to life-changing classics, we explore how the written word shapes their thoughts, actions, and visions for service. This month we speak to PID N. S. Sankar on his favourite books. How many of these have you read?
What are your most cherished books and why do they inspire you?
‘Thirukkural Nectar of Life’ is my favourite book. Although it was written in Tamil 2,000 years ago, it was translated into English 400 years ago. Since then, it has been translated into 47 other languages. In Queen Elizabeth’s library, this book was kept next to the Bible.
Next on my list of favourites are Bharathi’s poems, written almost 100 years ago. These still have the power to inspire and ignite our blood to do something worthwhile while alive.
Do you have a favourite genre or author? What appeals to you about them?
Not specifically – but I deeply appreciate Shakespeare’s plays, W. Somerset Maugham’s novels, and Jane Austen’s novels.
I’m drawn to Shakespeare for his poetic beauty, while Maugham and Austen captivate me with their keen observations of social life in their respective eras.
Is there any book that you keep going back to and what draws you to it?
‘We the Nation: The Lost Decades’ by eminent jurist Nani A. Palkhivala is a book I frequently revisit. The upright man’s fight for restoration of constitutional rights for the common man should remain etched in our memory forever.
How do you make time for reading in your busy schedule as a Lions leader?
I make time for reading primarily during my flights and train journeys. Sometimes I even read during office hours when I need a mental refresh. I also utilize my time effectively by reading during car commutes between our office and client locations around the city.
Which book has had the most significant impact on your leadership style?
The book ‘It Happened in India’ by Kishore Biyani, which tells the story of Pantaloons and Big Bazaar, has had the most significant impact on my leadership style. Its core message of “Rewrite Rules, Retain Values” has transformed both my leadership approach and business practices.
Is there a book you believe every Lion should read? And why?
I would recommend three essential books: ‘Wings of Fire’ by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (originally written in Tamil as ‘Agni Chiragugal’). It tells the inspiring story of how a Muslim boy who was distributing newspapers in his tiny town rose to become India’s President, supported by mentors across different faiths – a Brahmin teacher and educators at a Christian missionary college. Even today, his story inspires lakhs of young people across India.
‘The Accidental Prime Minister’ by Sanjay Baru chronicles Dr. Manmohan Singh’s remarkable journey and leadership.
For those who prefer lighter reading, I suggest ‘Truth, Love and a Little Malice’ by Khushwant Singh.
What’s one book on your “to-read” list that you’re excited about?
I am looking forward to reading ‘When Bad Things Happen to Good People’ by Harold S. Kushner.
Has a book changed or challenged your perspective on an important issue? If so, which one and how?
Yes! The book ‘We the Nation’ by N. A. Palkhivala has profoundly changed my perspective. Since reading it, I have been inspired to consistently stand against tyranny and unjust and dishonest practices.
Do you have any reading rituals or habits you’d like to share?
I don’t follow any specific reading rituals – it comes to me naturally. My reading habit must have started at the age of five – it’s a lifelong passion and I continue to embrace it every day.
If you were to write a book about your life, what would its title be? And why would you choose that title?
The title of my book would be ‘Neengatha Ninaivugal – ThoongathaIravugal’ which translates into ‘Memories that Never Go Away and Sleepless Nights.’
I lost my father when I was just 30 days old. I am often reminded of my mother’s extraordinary courage in raising six children – two sons separated by four daughters – all on her own. The challenges she faced, her determination and her resilience during many tough situations…. these are all part of my memories.
My professional journey began at age 20 when, as a fresh graduate, I joined a transport company. What started as an entry-level position became my passion. Through understanding the industry’s intricacies, I rose from Branch Manager to MD & CEO over three decades with the same company.
The struggles and sleepless nights persisted even after I established my own organization. Personal tragedies and professional challenges often surface in my memories.
At 40, I embarked on a new chapter by becoming a Lion. Over the next 35 years, this journey has been marked by dedicated service, leadership challenges, both triumphs and setbacks – all weaving together to create ‘Memories that Never Go Away and Sleepless Nights.’