Review:

“If you seek the right response, you must post the right question.”

“Only those with unwavering faith in reaching another boat should dive into the waters. Let life unfold naturally. What joy is there in a fruit forced to ripen?”

Some books leave us with questions that linger long after the last page is turned. They make us pause and reflect. What will happen to the wealth we have built once we’re gone? Will the next generation protect it, squander it, or reshape it? How do we bridge the ever-widening gap between generations, when understanding must flow from both sides, not just one?

I have always enjoyed business dramas and family sagas, and What’s Your Price, Mr Shivaswamy? by M.R. Dattathri (translated from Kannada) delivers both in abundance. It’s a deep, thought-provoking read that makes us look closely at our present actions while quietly nudging us to think about the future. The story follows Shivaswamy, a retired man enjoying the peace of his later years, until his attempt to buy a home, thwarted by unscrupulous builders, pushes him back into the workforce. His comeback takes an unexpected turn when he is personally approached by the Managing Director of a company, Dhaval Thakkar, offering him a role. This seemingly simple decision pulls him into a whirlpool of office politics, power games, and corporate drama. In the midst of it all, Shivaswamy finds solace in spiritual teachings, never suspecting that this job would entangle him in battles he never wanted to fight.

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Dhaval Thakkar, a man of means yet searching for peace, finds comfort and trust in Shivaswamy’s friendship, a bond that puzzles his family and colleagues. Their relationship becomes the heart of the story, set against the bustling, business-driven backdrop of Bengaluru. Dattathri’s crisp, descriptive narrative captures not only the business dynamics but also the unspoken emotions and silent struggles of both men, one striving to make ends meet with dignity, the other searching for peace despite abundance. He skillfully weaves these threads into a rich narrative about determination, trust, legacy, wisdom, and the fragile balance between professional and personal life.

Dattathri’s writing style is both engaging and approachable. He blends humour, warmth, and insight into his storytelling, keeping the tone light even amidst serious events. His crisp yet descriptive prose makes complex corporate and family dynamics feel relatable, while subtle philosophical reflections add depth without slowing the narrative. The pacing is smooth, the drama well-balanced, and the story flows naturally, making it a pleasure to read from start to finish.

Shivaswamy’s world is not without its storms: family pressure, a simmering feud with the builder, and the demands of his new role. Yet he navigates these waters with remarkable poise, embodying the resilience of the common man who shoulders responsibilities while chasing long-held dreams. Every chapter introduces fresh challenges for Shivaswamy, at work, at home, and within himself. His ability to balance corporate chaos, family responsibilities, and personal battles is commendable, and his steady, grounded way of handling them is both inspiring and relatable.

The characters are well-crafted, each adding depth and flavour to the unfolding drama. I particularly enjoyed the candid, wisdom-filled conversations between Dhaval and Shivaswamy, and the way Shivaswamy seamlessly blended with those around him. His bond with his children, the ongoing case against the builder, and the way he connects with the people in his circle are a bliss to read. The story carries layers of love and relationships, and the way he navigates them is truly admirable. Meanwhile, Dattathri also gives us a glimpse into office culture, showing how, at times, all a person really needs is patience and space. His empathy, paired with the quiet authority of lived experience, shines through in every interaction.

The climax is both satisfying and true to the spirit of the story, tying the threads together beautifully and leaving a sense of satisfaction and quiet reflection. In all, What’s Your Price, Mr. Shivaswamy? is a warm, engaging, and insightful read. A story of determination, trust, legacy, wisdom, and friendship. It’s as much about navigating corporate and family politics as it is about navigating the human heart. This beautifully written, character-driven novel stays with you, urging reflection on friendship, integrity, and the legacies we leave behind. A must-read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt narratives woven with business intrigue and life’s quiet wisdom.

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