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After years of writing about the lives and news of others as a journalist, Raji Unnikrishnan is now sharing her colourful life experiences in book form, writes Mai Al-Khatib Camille.
The 53-year-old former GDN reporter put together ‘a collection of thoughts painted in words’, and unveiled the cover of her literary creation Alwani – Life is Colourful on March 8, which is International Women’s Day, at Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa in Seef, to an intimate group of invitees that are near and dear to her heart.
“This 60-page book Alwani, which means ‘my colours’ in English, is a collection of micro verses to mark my 25 years in Bahrain,” said Raji, who lives in Seef with her husband Binu Samuel, GDN’s senior sub editor, 25-year-old daughter Anupama who works in the private sector, and adorable pup Oreo.
“It’s also a return gift to the country and its people.
“It’s a limited edition to be distributed to selected people who helped me be what I am and where I am today. It’s not for sale.”
Raji had been collecting these ‘micro verses’ during her days in the kingdom and compiled them over the past two years with efforts to complete the collection to mark her silver anniversary.
It doesn’t look like Raji will be slowing down any time soon on the writing front as she is already sorting out short stories and more to be released in the future.
“This is definitely one of many for me,” she explained.
“I hope to bring out a short story collection and though I have compiled a few, which are ready to be published, my dream project is a special ‘autobiography’ of my pet Oreo.
“In the meantime, I am thankful to God who I believe is in control, to my parents, my teachers, my mentors, my friends, my family and this beautiful island nation for making my life colourful like alwani.”
The cover was unveiled by senior journalist Soman Baby in the presence of Nepalese Ambassador Tirth Raj Wagle.
Raji’s book is set to be released in May. The cover picture was taken by Premjith Narayanan and the design was carried out by Sajith Raj and Two Cats Media.
For details, follow @raji111 on Instagram, Raji Unnikrishnan on Facebook and @rajiukrishnan on Twitter.
