CHETAN BHAGAT

In our education system, we are taught to munch figures and remember them for lifetime. But does it help? We are not taught how to make decisions.

Let's be honest: the trappings of investment banking are quite tempting. I do miss it sometimes. And to be honest, there was a time I'd read the 'WSJ' in the morning, and for years I have done that.

I think original voices get noticed. But most importantly, I think you should have a story to tell.

Even now I try to make each page compelling for the readers to get absorbed in the book.

Panic does not help, even if you are unable to answer. Try to ask questions to the interviewers as well and it should be impressive enough.

I myself don't know what makes my books work. I enter a bookstore and I'm frankly overwhelmed by the number of books in most of them, and I know people are buying mine.

The real middle class India that has always been looking for a voice that is its very own. I write about it because I belong to it.

The younger generation is surrounded by the Internet, apps, and video games. But somehow, my books make them read.

While I am a capitalist at heart and I have no problems with commercialization as such, I believe that while it's okay if education becomes a profitable business, it's not okay if it becomes corrupt.

Jealousy is a rather enjoyable emotion to watch.

We know we are all tarnished, so we doubt everyone else too. It is sad situation, where we need a leader but cannot really trust anyone.

From biscuit to brides, if there is anything their children really want, parents have a problem.

Nothing soothes an upset Punjabi like dairy products.

Because knowledge is not for showing off. If I do good work, people should notice me.

Why should any guy want to be only friends with a girl? It’s like agreeing to be near a chocolate cake and never eat it. It’s like sitting in a racing car but not driving it.

Marble flooring is to a Punjabi what a foreign degree is to a Tamilian

The word “future” and females is a dangerous combination.

Sometimes, life isn't about what you want to do but what you ought to do.

When you fly high people will throw stones at you. Don't look down. Just fly higher so the stones won't reach you

A wise man can be a fool in love.

Sometimes in your life you just meet someone or hear something that nudges you on the right path. And that becomes the best advice. It could just be a bit of commonsense said in a way that resonates with something in you. It's nothing new, but because it connects with you it holds meaning for you.

When we choose a mobile network, do we check whether Airtel or Vodafone belong to a particular caste? No, we simply choose the provider based on the best value or service. Then why do we vote for somebody simply because he belongs to the same caste as us?

Nature designed with a random set of genes and circumstances in which we were born. To be happy, we have to accept it and make the most of nature’s design. Are you? Goals will help you do that. I must add, don’t just have career or academic goals. Set goals to give you a balanced, successful life. I use the word balanced before successful. Balanced means ensuring your health, relationships, mental peace are all in good order.

When a woman comes into your life, things organize themselves.

Love? I need a lot of love." Of course you do. Everyone does. It's funny that we never say it. It's OK to scream, 'I'm starving' in public if you are hungry; it's OK to make a fuss and say, 'I'm so sleepy', if you are tired; but somehow we cannot say, 'I need some more love.' Why can't we say it? It's just as basic a need." - ONE NIGHT @ THE CALL CENTER Chapter 36 pages 293-4