Dr. George didn’t set out to write a book. It was his son Ajit who encouraged him to document his journey so future generations could learn from the experiences that shaped his life. In this interview, Dr. George shares the story behind his memoir—from discovering the title during a stay in Arunachal Pradesh to reflecting on forgotten memories that resurfaced while writing. He opens up about the values that guide him, the people who influenced his path, and the lighter moments that reveal his fun-loving nature.
Q. If your book were turned into a film or TV show, who would you choose to play the lead(s)? Why?
Because my story spans many stages of my life, the role would require different actors who can capture both depth and humour. For the later years, I would choose Mammootty, whose ability to portray dignity and emotional nuance aligns well with the tone of my story. I also believe that actor John Abraham would be a great fit!
Q. What is the core message you want to share with the world through your book?That every person has a moral responsibility to those in need, and that through service, each individual can discover their true purpose in life.
Q. What book has made you cry, and why?
The Elephant Chaser’s Daughter by Shilpa Raj. She grew up in Shanti Bhavan from the age of four. Over the years, I worked with her on her book, and she worked with me on mine. Her story is deeply personal and moving for me.
Q. How did you come up with your title?
While staying at a mountain resort in Arunachal Pradesh, I was admiring the majestic mountains around me. It suddenly struck me that mountains are metaphors for the challenges we face- difficult, towering, yet conquerable. That realization shaped the title of my book.
Q. When did you decide to write this story, and why?
I had not planned on writing a book. It was my son Ajit who insisted that I document my journey for future generations so they could learn from the experiences that shaped my life and find purpose in their own.
Q. What is something you learned while writing this book?
Memories that were hidden or forgotten came back to me. People I had not thought about in years appeared before me again. I was reminded of the fun times I shared with them, and those memories encouraged many of the stories I wrote.
Q. What got you into writing?
I did not begin by writing. I recorded my story on a tape, which was transcribed. The real challenge came with editing, piecing together all those fragments into a cohesive narrative.
Q. What’s one secret about you that you’re willing to share with the world?
That I’ve always been fun-loving and a little silly, and people tell me I still am.
Can you tell us three fun facts about you?
- At age 12, I broke through police security during the Defence Minister of India’s visit to my school. I walked straight up to him and complained that I had not been admitted to The Doon School despite being the state topper. He placed his hand on my shoulder and said he would look into it. Everyone watching assumed we knew each other, and I simply let them believe it.
- I never wore a wristwatch in my entire life. I enjoyed surprising people by always knowing the exact time, I seem to have a built-in mental clock.
- I was a troublemaker in school. Whenever the teacher tried to punish me with a cane, I would pull my hand away at the last second. Once, the teacher even sprained his wrist. At home, I made silly faces at my mother but became perfectly serious whenever she called my father to see how naughty I’d become.
Q. What would be your superpower?
To be known as a silly man.
Q. What pet would you love to have?
A nice puppy.
Q. Theme song for your life?
“The Impossible Dream” or “My Way.”
Q. What would you name your boat?
Unsinkable.
Q. Which fictional character would you love to meet?
The Godfather.
Q. Worst commercial you’ve seen recently?
I don’t watch any.
Q. Do you sing in the shower?
I can’t, even if I try.
Q. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Listening to music or watching soccer.
Q. Do you get used to being a celebrity?
I don’t want to. I am more comfortable staying out of the spotlight.
Q. If you weren’t famous, what would you be doing right now?
Probably being a comic figure.
Find more on Dr. George.
Check out another author interview here.