Every civilisation. Every continent. Every century. Humans independently discovered alcohol and refused to give it up. Coincidence? Hardly. From pyramid workers paid in beer, to democracy debated over wine, to writing invented to count drink rations — alcohol didn't just survive civilisation. It may have built it. A fascinating, uncomfortable, and surprisingly scientific story. With a disclaimer. Obviously.

Why did PM Modiji ask India to skip Dubai, defer gold, and pedal to work? It wasn't a sermon. It was a Prime Minister reading the country's balance sheet aloud — under Hormuz pressure, with the rupee at ₹95.6 and Brent above $100. Inside the $775 billion import bill, the 60-year tradition from Shastriji to Vajpayeeji, and an honest look at who actually pays the patriotic price.

Twenty-two books shaped my thinking in 2025, from artificial intelligence and Indian history to longevity and mental resilience. Some challenged my worldview, others tested my patience, but each demanded time we can’t afford to waste. This pragmatic reading list helps busy professionals decide what’s worth a full read and what’s better left summarized, covering AI, health, politics, and the ideas shaping our future.