ABOUT THE BOOK
Unshackled – Reminiscences of a Wandering Soul is a deeply personal and evocative memoir by Dr. Lakshman V., a seasoned media and public relations professional who has spent his life at the crossroads of journalism, public service, and human experience.
From the narrow lanes of Bengaluru in the 1980s to the bustling power corridors of Mangalore in the 2000s, Lakshman’s journey unfolds through poignant, humorous, and thought-provoking stories. Whether confronting crises in a public sector utility, navigating the unpredictability of journalism, or witnessing the quiet heroism of ordinary people, his narrative reflects resilience, trust, and the courage to choose integrity over convenience.
Woven with nostalgia, wit, and authenticity, these vignettes offer a rare ringside view of the human drama behind bureaucracy, public life, and cultural traditions of coastal Karnataka. At its heart, however, this book is a tribute, to a mother’s unwavering faith, to friendships forged in adversity, and to the small, defining choices that shape a life.
Unshackled is not just a memoir. It is an invitation to reflect on your own crossroads moments, to find humour in hardship, and to rediscover the timeless values of empathy, perseverance, and hope.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Lakshman V, M S Communication (Gold Medallist), PhD is a distinguished media and public relations professional with over three decades of experience in journalism, corporate communication, and strategic public engagement. Beginning his career as a journalist with The Indian Express, he gained a sharp understanding of India’s media ecosystem and developed strong editorial and news management skills that continue to shape his professional journey.
He went on to become the first and youngest Public Relations Officer of MESCOM, a Government of Karnataka undertaking, where he pioneered innovative communication practices. By directly engaging with lakhs of consumers across nine districts, he bridged the gap between the public, the media, and the power utility, earning recognition for effective crisis communication, media relations, and stakeholder trust-building.
Currently, Dr. Lakshman V serves as Senior Liaison Officer and Head of Public Relations at the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), Bengaluru. For nearly two decades, he has led the institution’s media outreach and PR strategy, handling national and international events, enhancing organisational visibility, and positioning NAAC as a credible voice in higher education quality assurance.
Widely acknowledged for his expertise in media handling and public communication, Dr. Lakshman V has been a member of several committees and a board member of the prestigious AJK Mass Communication Research Centre, New Delhi.
