Book with a difference

It is not often that we come across a book that has original handwritten text, but when you do, you know it is sure to contain something extraordinary.

The debut book ‘Notes of Mushin’ by artist Kanth’risa is an easy read that gives you the joy of reading a personal diary that has nuggets of inspirational content. What’s important, is to understand what ‘Mushin’ stands for

Whether an avid reader or not, everyone appreciates a good book that’s easy to read and manages to form a connection with the reader. While a book worm will easily devour a book of any kind, it is most difficult for someone who doesn’t relish books as much, to enjoy one. Artist Kanth’risa released his book titled ‘Notes of Mushin’ on Friday and it is a book anyone will like.

The book is adapted from the personal diary of the author, and it contains hand-paintings and handwritten text. “I never thought of writing a book. I always carry a book and pen in my satchel, and when I get the urge to write, I write. So this is my diary, which we have now published as a book,” says Kanth’risa.

Each page is a chapter in itself that can be easily understood, capturing simple truths of life and things to ponder about. Although the title of the book gives the impression that ‘Mushin’ is the name of a person, the author explains that it is a Japanese word, which means “no mind” where the mind is not fixed with preconceived notions but is open to accepting everything as it is. Kanth’risa further explains that he always accepts things the way they are, whether it is traffic or anger.

The city-based artist previously had done his Post-Graduation in journalism after which he moved onto the world of fine arts. Having studied and voluntarily dropped out from JNTU College of Fine Arts, for want to discover his own expression of art, he worked as a sand artist for many companies. His inspiration that led to his personal scribbling all started 3 years ago while on a trip to San Diego. However, he simply states, “If you are inspired by someone, you have to become it. So I wouldn’t use the word ‘inspiration’.”

Presented in a unique format, the book is considered as possibly the first of its kind, and a refreshing one at that. It has been directly scanned along with the mistakes the author made when he penned down his thoughts directly – this has been done so as not to lose the personalised feel that can be achieved.

The book will be made available at local stores as well as online. Publishers of the book Manoj CS and Ramakrishna AV of KPMA Pvt Ltd said, “We want to bring back the habit of reading a book, and what better way than to bring the handwritten text, which makes the reader more aware.”

By:Elita Enoch