The volume contains 48 articles that are a tribute to the eighth president of India, R. Venkataraman (1910-2009). It highlights his contributions as a grassroots politician, parliamentarian, statesman, globalist and humanist, a patron of art and his role in shaping India into what the country is today. It incorporates reflections on the various issues that concerned, energised and fulfilled his engagements with his times. The articles throw light on his multifaceted personality and give glimpses of his private persona. They discuss his upholding of the true spirit of democracy, his emphasis on entrepreneurship development though small scale industries, his patronage of the arts and his contributions towards ensuring sustainable development.