Ashokamitran, born in 1931 in Secunderabad, is one of the most distinguished contemporary Indian writers. In a prolific career that began in 1955, he has written over 250 short stories along with two dozen novels and novellas, in addition to a steady output of columns, essays and book reviews, earning for him a central place in post-Independence Tamil literature. His work has been translated into many Indian and European languages. Five major novels as well as four collections of short fiction from his oeuvre are available in English translation. His years of rich and diverse contribution to Tamil literature have brought him many honours, including the Sahitya Akademi award (1996). Ashokamitran lives and works in Chennai.
Reminiscing of a time long lost, Fourteen Years with Boss gives a delightful insight into the workings of the Gemini Studios of Madras-one of the most influential film-producing organizations in India-and its founder, the brilliant and multifaceted S. S. Vasan.
Filled with vivid sketches of actors, extras, directors and the 'boss', Ashokamitran recreates life at the studio so that it materializes in the reader's mind with the perfect balance of humour and nostalgia.
