Cultural expectations surrounding the elderly are being challenged today, and with good reason!
While it was the norm to slow down and retreat into a quieter life post-retirement, more men and women are finding purpose and joy in doing the opposite.
WisdomCircle honours such men and women by shining light on their journey through an inspiring series called “Wisdom Stories”. These people have successfully smashed stereotypes, and their stories remind us that life should be lived to the fullest, no matter what age or stage.
I graduated in Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics from Bombay University in 1959, and in Civil Engineering from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala. I have about 60 years of experience in the design and construction of buildings and structures both in the Industrial, and Real Estate sectors. Since 1999, I have been the Technical Director (Design and Engineering), with Total Environment Group of companies, in Bangalore.
I have a deep interest in Science, Philosophy, and Nuclear Geopolitics including the philosophical impacts of Quantum Physics and Cosmology. In 2003, I attended a weeklong symposium on `Science and Beyond` held at the Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, where I connected with Scientists and philosophers of the World.
I have authored several books including “Six Words” published in 2014, and “Intelligent Field” published in 2017. In April 2014, I delivered an institute lecture at the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee on the subject `Standard Model of Philosophy`. In May 2016, I spoke on the `Travelling Cosmic Mind` at the prestigious National Institute of Advanced Studies Bangalore, and in November 2017 I shared my views at I.I.T. Roorkee again, this time on “Intelligent Field”. Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, the architect of India`s Green Revolution, and ex-President of the `International Pugwash Conferences`, wrote the Foreword for “Intelligent Field”. In my books, I have endeavoured to add new dimensions to the quest for knowledge on philosophy, religion, spirituality, humanism, and other similar paths towards formulating an integrative view of life and the universe.
With two major wars going on, and a possibility of a nuclear war in the future, it is important for people who are 50 years and above to develop a good understanding of the big picture and be engaged with ideas and suggestions on what should be done towards a course correction. Earlier, I was motivated and inspired by the great scientists and philosophers. Today I am motivated by my desire to end conflicts. Given the current nature of geopolitics, I feel compelled to share my thoughts and learnings in another book titled “Conference In A Parallel Universe” (about to be published). It is my humble attempt to provoke thought leaders and politicians and turn their focus back on world peace.
I consider myself lucky, to have the partnership of my wife Bharati Sagar – a well-known artist – in Bangalore, India, and the love of two sons and three grandchildren.
– Surendra Kumar Sagar
Interview & Photograph credits: Saonli Bedi of WisdomCircle
