TAMIL
Cambodia reminiscences
C. G. RISHIKESH
CAMBODIA NINAIVUGAL:
K.R.A. Narasiah; Palaniappa Brothers, 25, Peters Road, Chennai-600014. Rs. 60.
IN THIS book, Narasiah, a marine engineer, chronicler and a writer, reminisces about the couple of years he spent in Cambodia as a U.N. consultant. A modified and augmented version of what was published as a serial in a Tamil magazine, it gives an engaging account of the land and the people of the country, formerly known as Kampuchea.
The opening chapters are devoted to Cambodia's early history, notably its links with India. Then the changing political scenario from French Indochina through Independence and Vietnam War, the Khmer Rouge rule, and the transition thereafter are all discussed in detail, with helpful charts and maps.
The chapters on the United Nations project, for which he was drafted, provide a frank appraisal of the people and their work in the dredging operations of Tonle Sap. In one chapter, Narasiah speaks appreciatively of how his New Zealand colleague readily adapted himself to the decisions that he made. While describing a banquet, the author expresses his discomfiture in non-availability of vegetarian food and his concern over waste of food that happens in such feasts in the poor country. The magnificent temple complex at Angkor Wat and other tourist spots are covered lovingly.
The book is well-illustrated with black-and-white photographs. The title on the cover is different from what is given inside — a discrepancy that should have been avoided.
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