Story of self discovery

I have had the pleasure of knowing Humayun Qaisar through his remarkable work in Radio Kashmir Srinagar, particularly his iconic program Dhadkan. My association with Dhadkan dates back to 2004 when I was a student in the eighth standard. At that time, I was studying in a remote rural area with limited access to the world beyond my village. However, Radio Kashmir Srinagar and Dhadkan became my window to the world, opening up new avenues of knowledge, and inspiration.

Through Dhadkan, I learned about various competitive exams, success stories of achievers, and gained valuable insights that motivated me to excel in my studies. The program played a significant role in instilling a passion in me to pursue higher education and ultimately get admitted to medical college. Humayun Qaisar's engaging and informative style of presentation made learning fun and accessible.

Recently, I had the opportunity to read his book "Different Strokes: Chronicles of Self-Discovery" which I purchased from Amazon. I was impressed by the way the book has been written, and it is a testament to Humayun Qaisar's storytelling ability and his journey of self-discovery. The book offers a glimpse into his life, struggles, and successes, making it a relatable and inspiring read.

The book  is a captivating memoir that delves into the author's life journey, divided into six parts. Each part explores a distinct aspect of Humayun Qaisar's life, providing a comprehensive and intimate look at his experiences.

The book begins with Humayun Qaisar's early life, setting the stage for the reader to understand his formative years and the events that shaped him.

Throughout the book, Humayun Qaisar shares his struggles and successes, offering a relatable and inspiring narrative that resonates with readers. His storytelling is engaging, and his willingness to share his life's journey makes the book a compelling read.

Humayun Qaisar's journey is truly inspiring! From his early days in school to his time at Amar Singh College, where he nurtured his leadership skills, he has come a long way. It is interesting that he managed cricket and studies simultaneously, but he advises against last-minute studying, emphasizing the importance of consistent effort. After completing his MPhil from the prestigious Delhi School of Economics, he faced rejections in interviews for assistant professor roles, but these setbacks led him to pursue other opportunities. He is now grateful for those rejections, as they paved the way for his selection in the UPSC and his eventual role as Program Executive at Radio Kashmir Srinagar which began on May 31, 1991.

Humayun Qaisar's passion for innovation has been a driving force throughout his career. He has consistently sought to revamp and refresh existing concepts, making them more appealing and relevant to younger audiences. One of his most significant contributions was the introduction of the phone-in program on December 31, 1996, which marked a milestone in the history of state broadcasting. This groundbreaking initiative enabled listeners to engage directly with the radio program, creating a more interactive and immersive experience.

Building on this success, Humayun Qaisar went on to launch Dhadkan, the first-ever live radio game show, in 2002. This pioneering program has had a profound impact on thousands of students, including myself, serving as a valuable guide and source of inspiration. Dhadkan's innovative format and engaging content have made it a beloved and enduring part of many people's lives, a testament to Humayun Qaisar's creative vision and dedication to empowering young minds.

Humayun Qaisar's tributes to his family members are truly heartwarming and emotional. He holds his mother in high esteem, praising her as a guiding light who managed to balance her studies and raise four children simultaneously. Her dedication, affection, and manners have had a profound impact on Qaisar's life.

He also writes about his legendary father, Qaiser Qalander, who allowed his children to explore their passions and interests without forcing them into specific career paths. This freedom to choose and explore has clearly influenced Humayun Qaisar's own journey.

Humayun Qaisar's love and appreciation for his siblings, children, and wife Aliya are equally evident. He cherishes the support and inspiration he receives from Aliya, acknowledging her as his life partner and constant source of strength.

Through these personal anecdotes, Qaisar highlights the significance of family in shaping our lives and values. His stories serve as a testament to the power of love, support, and guidance in helping us grow into the individuals we are meant to be.

Humayun Qaisar's cricketing journey is indeed fascinating, and the lessons he shares are valuable and relatable. The chapter on parenthood is particularly poignant, as he reflects on his own experiences as a young person and how he perceived his parents' concerns as an infringement on his freedom.

However, as he grew older and became a parent himself, he gained a deeper understanding of the selfless love and concern that parents have for their children. He beautifully captures the essence of parenthood, highlighting the sleepless nights and unwavering dedication that parents devote to their kids.

Humayun Qaisar's personal anecdotes and insights make this book a masterpiece. The book offers a treasure trove of wisdom, emotions, and experiences that will resonate with readers from all walks of life.

Through his writing, Humayun Qaisar has successfully conveyed the importance of family, love, and personal growth, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Dr Mohammad Younis, Medical Officer, Shopian Block, J&K.