Becoming an author at 86

Kochi, Jun 20 (UNI) When most of his peers may try to be as inactive as possible in the dusk of their lives, 86-year-old Lazer Chiriyankandath chose to be active by turning an author with his autobiography.

After the first book from the grandpa writer' was released here today, he said promises to be an active writer till his death as he was finishing a fiction in English.

Titled Reflections', the book was also a true account of history and society from the early 20th century, P C Cyriac observed while releasing the book here today.

Usually, the authors are born around their 30s. It is strange to see a man turning an author at 86. He completed the book in one year,'' said Tony Chittettukalam of Lifeline Publications, which has brought out the book.

After spending four decades outside the country, he came back to the City to lead a life alone. Since the death of his wife 18 years ago, he has been staying alone looking after himself,'' Tony said.

Describing himself as a self-made' man, Mr Lazer said had only seven years of formal schooling. He completed the 10th at the age of 29, when he was a daily-rated labourer in Mumbai and later completed his engineering degree after 35.

After joining a British firm and taking a post in London, he moved places and jobs several times to retire as chief executive officer of a large engineering company in Sudan.

Though his only son is employed in London, Mr Lazer wanted to be back in his native land for an active retired life.

UNI JA SK1538