• Saakshi’s courageous journey to assert her independence in a conservative society.
• The dynamics of familial relationships and societal expectations.
• The enigmatic role of the Muttawas and their influence on daily life in Saudi Arabia.
• The resilience of the human spirit and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Readers can expect a richly crafted narrative that immerses them in the vivid setting of 1990s Saudi Arabia, where Saakshi’s determination and strength of character shine through.
“Shifting Sands of Saudi” is a must-read for those who appreciate gripping short stories of personal triumph, set against the backdrop of a unique and culturally rich environment. Sandhya Prakash’s storytelling prowess brings Saakshi’s world to life with authenticity and ease.
The official book launch event for “Shifting Sands of Saudi” took place on 26th October 2023 by the publisher Beeja House. Attendees had the opportunity to meet the author, Sandhya Prakash, as she shared her inspirations and insights into the book’s creation.
Raju Reddy, Founding Partner of Silicon Valley Quad, Founder and Ex-CEO of Sierra Atlantic described the book as, “A fascinating peek into the modern history of Saudi Arabia through the lens of a young Indian woman. ‘Shifting Sands of Saudi’ paints a vivid picture of a constantly stereotyped, yet unfamiliar world to most of us.”
Vasanthi Hariprakash, Radio TV journalist and podcaster said, “The Shifting Sands of Saudi could not have begun on a more accurate note. For those who have never travelled to Saudi Arabia, the imagination of the country is indeed between caravan and camels, or flogging and fear. For most Indians, it is a country that you go to make pots of money in, but don’t exactly think of it as a holiday destination or one that can have a social life. Sandhya Prakash née Raghavan brings to us that picture of what it is for a young couple beginning their life together in that tough terrain. In real life too, Sandhya, like the protagonist Sakshi, was brilliant in academics, the eternal school topper, curious, enthusiastic senior that one remembers and always knew, would go places. Didn’t know she would go to a desert and create an oasis!”
Speaking at the launch event, Geetika Saigal, Founder & CEO of Beeja House spoke about why they picked this book for publishing. She said, “Unveiling the veiled kingdom, ‘Shifting Sands of Saudi’ is a narrative tour de force by Sandhya Prakash. Captivated by Sandhya Prakash’s potent mix of personal narrative and vivid cultural exploration, we knew this was a story that had to be shared. Her book cuts through stereotypes, offering a deeply personal yet universally resonant journey of resilience amid rapid societal changes. Prakash’s vivid storytelling, through the eyes of ‘Saakshi’ – the young ambitious expat, takes you along the dunes of change and tradition, revealing resilience and adaptability in a transformative era. ‘Shifting Sands of Saudi’ is not just a book; it’s a revelation that challenges and charms, page by unforgettable page.”
For more information about the book, collaborations and launch events, please tweet @twilightsandhya or contact Sandhya at Iyengar.sandhya@gmail.com.
About the Author:
Sandhya is an accomplished thought leader, TEDx speaker, Entrepreneur, and Singer, known for her storytelling prowess and her ability to transport readers to diverse and engaging worlds. “Shifting Sands of Saudi” is her first work of fiction, promising to captivate and inspire readers as they journey alongside Saakshi through the challenges and triumphs of 1990s Saudi Arabia.
Contact: Sandhya Prakash Email: Iyengar.sandhya@gmail.com
Social Media Handles:
Hashtag #jointhedotswithsandhya
FB: www.facebook.com/sandhya.prakash1
LI: www.linkedin.com/in/sandhyaprakash
IG: www.instagram/sandhya.prakash
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