The Digital Universe Unveiled: Meet Its Cartographer

By
Suvir Saran

New Delhi [India], April 13 (ANI): “I am on my own search; I have no guide. They will show me paths which even they do not know where lead.”

These phrases float through my mind, now barely audible whispers, now powerful melodies. I find myself singing them frequently—whether I’m trapped in traffic, lying awake looking at the ceiling, or during moments when life seems to be moving too quickly yet remaining stationary simultaneously. They capture a sense of disconnection—a quest for direction without a map, an expedition forward without a compass.
map
, of being uncertain about your location but understanding that you must continue moving forward.

The feeling of progression—navigating through various systems, across different spaces, even traversing identity itself—is central to “GeoTechnoGraphy: Mapping Power and Identity in the Digital Age,” the latest work by my older sibling.
Samir Saran
and his co-
author
,
Anirban Sarma
And although it might seem unusual to pen a piece about one’s brother, it also seems genuine. This isn’t merely announcing a new book; rather, it marks the result of years spent watching his efforts, commitment, and an unassuming passion that has been evident in Samir ever since our childhood days.

Allow me to begin by stating: This makes me uneasy. It’s not due to my lack of admiration for him; quite the contrary, I hold him in very high regard. However, putting into words what you feel deeply about can be akin to attempting to photograph an ocean—it falls short of conveying the magnitude, depth, and turbulence. To the broader public, Samir embodies various roles such as a visionary thinker, a policy analyst, and a strategist known for his exceptional insight. Yet, to me, he is also the person who responds immediately to texts, ensuring they always reach their destination—whether it’s slicing a birthday cake at midnight despite being three time zones apart from home. Rather than sending bouquets, he stays connected through check-ins, recollections, and genuine concern.

In our home, every birthday is celebrated. Both the dogs and the humans receive equal amounts of love. This always comes in his distinctive manner—gentle, bold, overwhelming, yet undeniably sincere. There’s nothing showy about it; it isn’t staged. It’s simply who he is.

I’ve watched him since we were young–stepping in when someone needed protection, speaking up for those who weren’t seen. He’s always been a champion for the overlooked. I see that same instinct now in his work, in his team. Women, youth, minorities–not just working with him, but thriving, finding agency and voice and access. And just as he mentors, he listens. He learns. There’s no hierarchy in his head when it comes to good ideas–only respect for them.

That, I believe, is what sets GeoTechnoGraphy apart from being just a book; it serves as a tool.
map
. A portrayal of a mindset that views individuals—real human beings—in systems frequently oversimplified into technical lingo. This provides us with an approach to grasp the convergence of geography, identity, and technology without resorting to abstract concepts, but rather via empathy. By paying close attention. With the belief that each person matters within these structures.
digital world
isn’t just code–it’s consequence.

Now, let me paint a more domestic scene. Samir’s not the one serving you food. He’s too busy eyeing your plate and saying, “Eat that before I do.” He’s not greedy–he’s goading. Pushing you to keep up, because if you don’t, you’ll blink and he’ll have polished off what could feed twenty. That’s how we eat together. Over rajma chawal, sambhar chawal, gol gappas, and aloo tikki crisped to golden perfection. And of course, ChinJabi–our glorious, greasy blend of Indian Chinese noodles, Manchurian balls drowning in spicy sauce, and mom yelling from the kitchen not to spill soy on the tablecloth.

As they eat, the conversation turns to global affairs. It’s then that Samir begins discussing how boundaries are fading away, how information can be used as a weapon, and how power now resides not in diplomatic missions but within digital networks. Without any formal introduction or lengthy explanation, he offers just one or two statements that make you pause with your food halfway to your mouth—thinking: He’s right. This is really occurring.

These fragmented ideas have evolved into a comprehensive work within GeoTechnoGraphy. However, do not confuse it with a typical policy paper from a research institute. Instead, this is an engagingly written, thoroughly reasoned, and frequently astonishing read. The author articulates sentiments shared by numerous individuals—that the internet no longer seems as open, democratic processes appear skewed due to digital influences, and influence has shifted towards creators of code over lawmakers.

Samir and Anirban present “geotechnography” as a means to grasp how identities and controls are reshaped by unseen mechanisms—such as platforms that elevate certain voices while silencing others, and networks that operate beyond national boundaries without facing genuine oversight. They do not portray this scenario as a distant nightmare; rather, they depict it as our current reality. The book does not instill fear but encourages readers to observe and comprehend these dynamics. It invites us to recognize the structure of power today so that we can choose what kind of future we wish to create.

It poses challenging queries: Is it possible for digital democracy to thrive without achieving digital sovereignty? Can inclusivity move beyond being just a slogan? Or are the conflicts within our digital communities too profound, leading them to potentially crumble under their own weight?

Could this result in a more robust and inclusive global community—or might the paradoxes within our digitized societies trigger their collapse?

This question, prominently featured on the book’s rear flap, seems like the critical inquiry we should all be addressing—regardless of whether we are browsing, programming, leading, or simply attempting to comprehend the current state of affairs.

This book goes beyond mere diagnosis; it actively engages with its subjects. It incorporates perspectives from around the world—such as Nandan Nilekani, Mukesh Ambani, Marietje Schaake, Carl Bildt, Suzanne Vares-Lum, and Alexander Stubb. The work aims for a worldwide scope yet remains firmly rooted in the practical experiences of individuals who rely solely on their smartphones amidst an ocean of conflicting information. Fatalistic views have no place within these pages. Instead, the author offers clear insights. Sometimes, this straightforwardness can be truly revolutionary.

I am well aware of the considerable effort poured into each phrase of this work. I have witnessed the early versions, the sleepless evenings, and the countless revisions. Samir does not pen from arrogance; rather, he writes out of necessity. It’s through articulating the world that he connects with it, and posing inquiries serves as his expression of concern.

This is not just a book review; it’s also a tribute—a dedication to a sibling, to an outlook on life, to an ongoing discussion around the dining table that has been captured in print.

GeoTechnoGraphy encompasses numerous roles. It serves as an alert. It acts like a detailed plan. It sparks discussions. It functions as a guide in a world rotating on a altered plane.

However, for me, this serves as a reminder that those who assist us in finding our path often do not come accompanied by a spotlight or a grand title.

Occasionally, they arrive with a side of sambhar, a cheerful grin, and an extra serving of noodles.

And if you’re not quick enough with eating, they might finish off your portion as well.
Suvir Saran
)

Disclaimer:
Suvir Saran
is a MasterChef, author, hospitality consultant, and educator. The opinions stated here are solely his. (ANI)