Ram Gidoomal's autobiography, "My Silk Road," is a deeply moving and inspiring account of a life filled with triumphs, challenges, and an unwavering quest for self-discovery. In this captivating narrative, readers are invited to explore the author's most intimate memories, his struggles, and his ultimate successes.
The book is divided into twenty chapters, collectively recounting the extraordinary journey of the author from Kenya to London. Within these chapters, Gidoomal shares his reflections on his life, beginning as a minority student at a Muslim community school and culminating in the prestigious honour of a CBE (Commander of the British Empire) awarded by Queen Elizabeth in 1998.
Gidoomal's family experienced the harsh transition from being citizens to refugees not once but twice. On both occasions, they were uprooted due to political decisions, leading to a painful separation from their community, culture, social status, and educational opportunities.
As a teenager waiting in immigration queues, Gidoomal discovered that he was an "alien," and despite his academic brilliance and significant contributions in his early workplaces, he remained acutely aware of his differences.
In this book about his life, Gidoomal begins by fondly describing his joyful childhood in Kenya. He then delves into the challenges of adapting to Britain in the late 1960s.
The book provides intimate glimpses into the complexity of his family, punctuating them with poignant tragedies, including the loss of his birth father and the uncle who raised him as a father figure. Additionally, readers gain fascinating insights into business practices and secret codes within community networks. Later, during his contented days with a young family in Switzerland, Gidoomal was the role-model father who adjusted his work hours to spend time with his children, returning to the office after they had gone to bed.
One of the most prominent themes in the book is Gidoomal's extensive network of relationships across various aspects of life. In the 1970s, his superiors failed to recognise the tremendous asset these connections represented, an asset that could have taken their organisation into new markets with valuable new customers.
The book boasts an elegant storytelling style, featuring humour and a suspenseful plot as the narrative unfolds. It is a compelling and evocative memoir that takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the enduring power of human connections. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring impact of one's cultural heritage and personal relationships.
Ram Gidoomal's life story is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for those seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human experience.