It is not often a book begins with a bittersweet piece of poetry that could melt even the stoniest of hearts. Yet, this is how “My Odyssey: Revolutionary & Evolutionary” begins, with a poem dedicated to the author’s late wife.
As Jeyaraj C Rajarao writes in an early chapter of his work, his wife Kamala may no longer be present physically, but she is still very much with him in other ways. Her passing, he said, inspired him to write a book as a way of memorialising her.
During the launch of “My Odyssey” on Saturday, Jeyaraj shared that he was also encouraged by his two granddaughters to publish the book, despite initially wondering: “Who would want to read my life story?”
As it turns out, he has an eventful life story indeed. His name might not be very well known among everyday members of the public, but to those in the corridors of power, Jeyaraj is a familiar face.
The nonagenarian has rubbed shoulders with many of the old guard of Malaysian politics, and has been doing so for the longest time. Given that he was born in 1932, to say he has seen and experienced much of Malaysian history would be an understatement.
As such, it only makes sense that the man who served the Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia for decades – writing extensively on socioeconomics – would put his thoughts and memories on paper.
“My Odyssey” is a lengthy work, spanning nearly 600 pages with 16 chapters, telling the author’s life story in a chronological manner.
This might seem daunting to casual readers, but for bookworms – especially history or biography buffs, and those of the older generation – “My Odyssey” will likely be a fascinating read, offering insights into events that would shape Malaysia into what it is today.
In the early chapters, for example, Jeyaraj shares his personal experience of the most tumultuous period in national history, the Japanese occupation. He expresses his opinion that the Japanese were no worse than the British, who had committed their fair share of atrocities in India.
In fact, under the Japanese administration, Jeyaraj joined the Balak Sena, a youth force associated with the Indian National Army created to free India from British rule.
While acknowledging that the Japanese could be brutal masters, he argues that their occupation helped spark the spirit of patriotism and nationalism that would lead to Malaya’s independence over a decade later.
With Jeyaraj being a familiar face among the Malaysian elite, you will surely recognise some of the figures who show up in the pages of his book.
Among them is former deputy prime minister Musa Hitam, a personal friend, who officiated Saturday’s launch and shared anecdotes about his friendship with the author.
Politics and persecution
If you are someone who is outspoken about your beliefs and does not shy away from sharing controversial ideas, you might find a kindred spirit in Jeyaraj.
Throughout the book, he sprinkles personal thoughts on sociopolitical issues gripping Malaysia today. His criticism of modern-day politics is eyebrow-raising: as an older Malaysian, he makes it clear he finds the country’s direction questionable.
“Many individuals at present times, unreasonably, and worse, fanatically, hold on to views that are obsolete or regressive in a rapidly changing society and progressive era,” he writes.
Meanwhile, another chapter goes into detail about how he was hauled up by the authorities who thought him a communist owing to his socialist beliefs.
One might assume Jeyaraj would be worried about his outspoken views and scathing criticisms ruffling feathers. He admits he has, thus far, escaped punishment because the powerful see him as “not a belligerent individual, but a plain-speaking person who care[s] for the country”.
That said, do not mistake “My Odyssey” as an analysis of Malaysian politics – it is still, at its core, an autobiography.
The first chapter, for example, is dedicated to his beloved wife, and goes into detail of what she was like. It is clear from the vivid descriptions of her backstory and their relationship that he absolutely adored her, and vice-versa.
Jeyaraj is quite the storyteller and reading this book will teleport you to the Malaya of yesteryear, where things were simpler and better in some ways.
Speaking with FMT, he said “My Odyssey” is meant to be read by people of all ages: the young, who “must learn to be strong, committed to ideals, and work hard towards loving and embracing everybody”; and the old, who “must learn to be honest and true to themselves, to respect women, and to help the country and its people whenever they can”.
‘My Odyssey: Revolutionary & Evolutionary’ can be ordered online from GerakBudaya. Alternatively, visit its outlet to pick up a copy.
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