Ever wondered what books inspire those who inspire us? In this new feature, we peek into the reading lives of our Lions leaders. From current page-turners to life-changing classics, we explore how the written word shapes their thoughts, actions, and visions for service.
This month, we speak to PID Dr. V. K. Ladia on his favourite books, how his taste in books has evolved over the years and his go-to book for leadership advice. Which of these books is your favourite? Let us know in the comments section below.
What book have you recently finished that left a lasting impression on you? What about it resonated with you?
‘India 2020 – A Vision for the New Millennium’ by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam with Y.S. Rajan. This book filled me with immense pride about India’s potential and trajectory. What resonated most deeply was Kalam’s vision of transforming India into an economic powerhouse through technology and innovation. The book’s detailed roadmap for achieving developed nation status by 2020 showed me how strategic thinking and collective effort can shape a nation’s destiny. As Lions, we work toward similar transformations in our communities – creating visions and then working systematically to achieve them.
Is there any publication from your childhood or youth that still influences you today? How has its impact changed over time?
Reader’s Digest was my constant companion during my formative years. What started as simple entertainment evolved into a masterclass in human nature and life wisdom. The magazine’s diverse stories taught me to see life from multiple perspectives, shaping my worldview and teaching me empathy. It has had a great impact in changing my personality.
How has your taste in books evolved over the years, especially since taking on leadership roles?
As an engineer and management student, books have always been my foundation. However, my reading focus has shifted significantly since assuming leadership roles within Lions. Earlier, I concentrated on technical and management texts that built my professional capabilities. Now, I gravitate toward books that explore human psychology, motivation, and social transformation. Leadership roles taught me that technical expertise alone isn’t enough – you need to understand people, inspire them, and create lasting change. This evolution reflects my journey from managing processes to leading people and communities.
Is there a particular author or genre that has significantly influenced your thinking or leadership style?
The former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam stands out as the author who most profoundly shaped my leadership philosophy. His writings combine scientific thinking with deep spirituality and genuine concern for humanity’s welfare. Kalam’s approach to leadership – humble yet visionary, practical yet inspiring – mirrors what we strive for in Lions. His books taught me that true leaders don’t just achieve goals; they elevate everyone around them and leave lasting legacies of positive change.
How do you balance reading for personal growth versus reading for pleasure?
I’ve developed a practical system over the years. For personal growth, I rely on airport bookshops during my travels – they offer focused, condensed wisdom perfect for busy schedules. These books directly contribute to my leadership development and service effectiveness. For pleasure reading, I maintain subscriptions to various magazines that provide lighter content and diverse perspectives. This balance ensures I’m constantly learning while also giving my mind the relaxation it needs to process and integrate new ideas.
If you were to start a book club for Lions members, what would be your first book selection and why?
‘Turning Points’ by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam would be my first choice. This autobiographical account is the 21st book written by Dr. Kalam and is a sequel to ‘Wings of Fire’ which covered the Missile Man’s odyssey till the year 1992.
This book perfectly captures the essence of what we do as Lions – identifying pivotal moments where individual action can create community-wide impact. Kalam’s journey from humble beginnings to national leadership resonates with many Lions’ stories. The book would spark meaningful discussions about how each member can become a catalyst for positive change in their community.
Do you have a go-to book for leadership advice or motivation? What makes it special to you?
‘What Can I Give: Life Lessons from My Teacher A.P.J. Abdul Kalam,’ is my go-to source for leadership guidance. In this book Dr. Kalam’s student Srijan Pal Singh recollects the numerous lessons that his mentor taught him, beyond the classroom. What makes it special is its focus on selfless service which resonates deeply with me.
Can you share a powerful quote from a book that you often find yourself reflecting on or sharing with others?
This quote from The Buddha profoundly guides my approach to leadership and life: “Believe nothing, merely because you have been told it, or because it is traditional or because you yourselves have imagined it. Do not believe what your teacher tells you merely out of respect for your teacher. But whatever after due consideration and analysis you find to be conducive to the good, the benefit, the welfare of all beings, that doctrine, believe and cling to and take it as your guide.”
This wisdom reminds me to question assumptions, think critically, and always evaluate everything through the lens of community benefit and genuine service impact.
Can you share a powerful quote from a book that you often find yourself reflecting on or sharing with others?
This quote from The Buddha profoundly guides my approach to leadership and life: “Believe nothing, merely because you have been told it, or because it is traditional or because you yourselves have imagined it. Do not believe what your teacher tells you merely out of respect for your teacher. But whatever after due consideration and analysis you find to be conducive to the good, the benefit, the welfare of all beings, that doctrine, believe and cling to and take it as your guide.”
This wisdom reminds me to question assumptions, think critically, and always evaluate everything through the lens of community benefit and genuine service impact.
What role do you think reading plays in developing empathy and understanding for the communities we serve?
Reading plays a crucial role in developing empathy and understanding for our communities. Books expose us to diverse experiences, struggles, and perspectives that we might never encounter in our daily lives. They help us understand the challenges faced by different segments of society. This understanding directly translates into more effective service projects because we approach them with genuine empathy rather than assumptions. Good books and articles don’t just inform us; they transform our hearts and make us better servants of humanity.
If your life as a Lions leader was a book, what genre would it be and what would be its central theme?
My life as a Lions leader would be an inspirational biography centered around the powerful quote Dr. Vikram Sarabhai shared with his students at IIM Ahmedabad in 1968: “Believe in what you do, Do what you believe in.” This simple yet profound philosophy has guided every aspect of my Lions journey. The central theme of my book would be the alignment between personal values and public service.