A tribute to his lifelong passion for the Bard, the book has been acclaimed for its insightful scholarship and heartfelt narrative
Retired Indian Police Service officer and noted columnist V.S. Ravi formally launched his latest literary work Confessions of a Shakespeare Addict at a well-attended event in Hyderabad. The book reflects Mr. Ravi’s decades-long engagement with the works of William Shakespeare and was widely praised by scholars and readers alike for blending academic depth with personal reflection.
In a celebration of literary devotion and intellectual spirit, retired IPS officer and renowned columnist Mr. V.S. Ravi unveiled his latest book Confessions of a Shakespeare Addict in Hyderabad on Monday, July 7. The book launch, marked by thoughtful dialogue and warm admiration, drew a distinguished gathering of scholars, senior bureaucrats, and literature lovers. The event was moderated by fellow former IPS officer Mr. B. Krishna Rao, whose presence added depth and resonance to the evening.
Mr. Ravi’s book reflects his lifelong passion and deep engagement with the works of William Shakespeare. The release was hailed as both deeply scholarly and profoundly personal. Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary Mr. S. Chakravarthy paid a moving tribute, stating, “Ravi breathes, inhales, and exhales Shakespeare. He’s not merely a reader—he’s a true addict who captures Shakespeare’s essence.”
Recalling vivid memories during his address, Mr. Ravi spoke about his visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, and his unforgettable moment reciting lines at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. He shared how he once amazed tourists with passages from Hamlet, and even quoted the Bard during a drive with Nobel laureate C.F. Powell. “I’ve recited Shakespeare in places no one ever imagined. Every word he wrote glows with eternal brilliance,” he said.
He emphasized Shakespeare’s enduring relevance, noting his linguistic innovation—coining nearly 2,000 words—and his unmatched insight into the complexities of love, betrayal, ambition, and humanity. “His greatness lives on in every soul fortunate enough to have been touched by his work,” one message read aloud at the event expressed.
Among the prominent attendees were Mr. Ram Mohan Rao, former Governor of Tamil Nadu and retired IPS officer, and Mr. A.K. Khan, former Hyderabad Police Commissioner. They praised Ravi’s literary achievements, especially given his academic background in mathematics and statistics—a contrast that highlights the range of his intellectual pursuits.
The book launch served not only as a tribute to Mr. Ravi’s passion for literature but also as a testament to his aim of making Shakespeare accessible beyond traditional academic settings.
Mr. Ravi, a decorated former police officer, is known for his impactful service in law enforcement across India. His career has spanned vital roles in administration, policy reform, and crime prevention. Post-retirement, he remains active through security consulting, mentorship, and policy advocacy, continuing to inspire both the policing community and those beyond it.
