MUSCAT : The recently published book “Locked in but not down’ by Samita Chakraborty was launched in Muscat on 1^st February 2023 at the Hilton Hotel Hotel, Al KHuwair. HE Shri Amit Narang, the Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman graced the occasion and officially launched the much-awaited book. In an inspiring speech, HE Shri Amit Narang lauded the efforts of Samita Chakraborty and the 40 young creative minds spread across the globe (Canada, USA, Europe, Middle East, India and Oceania) who shared their lockdown experiences of COVID -19 in this book. Samita expressed the hope that this anthology of disparate experiences will inspire all for years to come to reflect upon the resilience, courage, despair and aspiration that we as humankind had shown during those trying times. Mrs Papri Ghosh, Principal of Indian School Al Ghubrah was effusive in her praise of the book and the dedication of all participants to document in their own words what was a defining moment in the history of mankind.

The book is a treasure trove of unheard stories but at the same time, it will serve as a document for future generations to feel first-hand the trials, tribulations and victories that we as a species experienced during the unprecedented lockdown. The launch event was attended by senior officials of the Indian Embassy. Mrs. Pyarija Cidar, the Vice Principal of Indian School Al Ghubra International, Mr Sunil K Senior Board member of Indian School Al Ghubra as well as luminaries from the literary world attended the program. Anisha Bansal, founder of OBLC and Matt Jardin, the author also graced the event.

The book is available on leading digital platforms like Amazon and Flipkart, Barnes and Nobel Book link, Kobo book link, Booktopia, and Blackwells Book Link. The book, ‘Locked in But Not Down’ is displayed in the prestigious International Book Fair, Kolkata.