C V Rappai's autobiography 'A Tale of Two Journeys' released

Prominent entrepreneur and Jumbo Electronics’ director and chief executive CV Rappai launched his autobiography, A Tale of Two Journeys in Doha Friday, offering readers an inspiring account of his life and success, marking a literary milestone for Qatar’s expatriate community.The event, graced by Indian ambassador Shri Vipul and key community leaders, as well as Rappai’s family and friends, celebrated the first comprehensive autobiography of an Asian expatriate published by Katara Publishing House.Jumbo Electronics vice-chairman and managing director Sajed Jassim Sulaiman, Birla Public School founder chairman and philanthropist Dr Mohan Thomas, and Al Jazeera English programme editor Joseph John were among the dignitaries present."When you read A Tale of Two Journeys, you will realise that it is not only my story, it is the story of the many people mentioned above, directly or indirectly ... most of you are part of it," said Rappai, who is also a director of Norka-Roots, a non-resident Keralite expat body under the Kerala state government."I would also call this book a celebration of hard work; every individual ... carries with them many proud moments and unique experience which I think they have to share with others in the form of a book and this can inspire others in these tough times,” he said.The book offers readers a thorough exploration of Rappai’s journey of struggle and success, his life experiences, personal insights and management philosophy, while also shedding light on Qatar’s early stages of development.Covering 253 pages and 23 chapters, A Tale of Two Journeys offers a compelling narrative of Rappai's early life, from his childhood and struggles to his arrival in Doha.The book traces the origins of Video Home, set against a rapidly evolving Doha, and captures the city – and the country’s – extraordinary rise from budding city to global powerhouse."The book, I think, shows in various parts both the courage and conviction of Mr Rappai," ambassador Vipul stated. "The book flows so seamlessly, it shows the calmness, that we all associate with Mr Rappai, who is always very calm.”"It covers many of the important facets of an expat’s life in Qatar and also many of the important political and other happenings in Qatar,” he added.The book is edited by Hussain Ahmad, managing editor of News Trail, with a foreword by C P Ravindran, former senior editor of Gulf Times.According to Ahmad, A Tale of Two Journeys delivers key insights into business management and leadership philosophy, offering valuable guidance for emerging entrepreneurs and professionals.In a press statement, Khalid al-Sayed, author, columnist and director of events and culture affairs at Katara – the Cultural Village, said: "Mr Rappai's story is a shining example of how expatriates work hard in Qatar and reach the pinnacle of success in every field, making use of the ample opportunities our country provides under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and His Highness the Father Amir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani.”"I found the book interesting because his experiences, perspectives, and achievements are unique and inspiring and will motivate others,” he said.