Penguin India is delighted to announce Before I Forget: A Memoir by M.K. Raina. Harrowing and joyous, laced with humour and the spirit of coexistence, Before I Forget is a searing, heart-wrenching memoir of a Kashmiri forced to leave his home, who goes on to become a cultural figure and one of the greatest theatre actors of modern India.
M.K. Raina, one of the most celebrated and respected directors in Indian theatre and film fraternities, pens down the highs and lows of his life and career in this extraordinary memoir.
Raina’s life story spans the length and breadth of India, with its beginning in Kashmir. Before he documents his life as an actor, he recounts his childhood in Kashmir and looks back at the changes this erstwhile state underwent as he grew up.
In the 1990s, lakhs of Pandits were uprooted from their homes and reduced to the status of refugees in their own country as bloodshed, militancy and religious fundamentalism tore through the Valley. Violent ethnic cleansing ravaged an entire community, leaving behind unforgettable horrors.
Raina delicately portrays the life of this community as he introspects upon his own identity as a Kashmiri-that has overshadowed by the place they lived in. He writes about what he himself witnessed and about his family, for whom the nightmares carried on.
He never blamed anyone for the circumstances and instead focused on building a more inclusive culture. Once forced to leave his home, he returned wanting to give back to the people. He conducted numerous theatre workshops for the youth, not just in Kashmir but across the country, to position theatre as a means of education, and to encourage community building, healthy forms of expression and rehabilitation.
Unfiltered, evocative and anecdotal, Before I Forget is a candid account of the exceptional life of a person whose charisma shines among these pages. It gives us a rare glimpse into the mind and experiences of a creative genius, as well as a lucid interpretation of a region’s tortured history, nationalism, and sense of community.
For those seeking to embark on an immersive exploration of life, art, and history, ‘Before I Forget’ is an essential addition to their literary repertoire. Prepare to be captivated by M.K. Raina’s luminous narrative, as he invites readers to traverse the landscapes of his soul with grace, wisdom, and profound insight.
About the author
M.K. Raina is an acclaimed Indian theatre and film actor known for his versatile performances. With a career spanning over four decades, Raina has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and theatre. He has portrayed diverse characters with depth and conviction, earning him widespread recognition and respect in the industry. Raina’s talent transcends genres, as he effortlessly transitions between dramatic, comedic, and character roles, captivating audiences with his impeccable acting skills. His contribution to the Indian entertainment industry has solidified his status as a seasoned and revered actor.
