“You Are Here” is an insightful journey into the world of maps, navigation, and the stories they tell. Combining personal experiences with practical knowledge, this guide unravels the mysteries of orientation in an increasingly complex world. From the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk to the travel destination - like terminals of airports, the author shares moments of finding direction in the chaos. Using examples like childhood treasure hunts, slum mapping in Mumbai, and lessons learned from GPS training in Norway, this book provides readers with both the basics and the nuances of reading maps.
The author’s unique blend of professional expertise and personal anecdotes, such as navigating through the crowd at Pragati Maidan and the profound connection between spirituality and maps during a visit to Pandharpur, adds depth and dimension to the narrative. With chapters that delve into the intricacies of mapping, landmark-based navigation, and even the symbolic power of the ‘Kutashtha,’ this book is a comprehensive guide for anyone seeking to understand not just how to find their way, but why navigation is an essential life skill.
“You Are Here” reminds us that maps are more than just tools—they are stories of place, identity, and discovery.
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Ajay Madhukar Joshi
Ajay Madhukar Joshi is seasoned mapping professional with over three decades of experience in cartography, GIS, and navigation. His passion for maps began in his childhood, where he would spend summer nights on the rooftop of his home in Nagpur, gazing up at the night sky and tracing the shifting positions of the stars. This early fascination with celestial navigation became a foundation for his lifelong interest in mapping the world around him.
A pivotal moment in his journey came during a spiritual visit to Pandharpur, where he experienced a profound connection between ancient symbols and modern navigation techniques. The ‘Kutashtha’ symbol, which he encountered during his visit, left an indelible mark on his consciousness, symbolizing both the literal and metaphorical guideposts of life. This intersection of spirituality and mapping has deeply influenced his perspective, and it is a recurring theme in his work.
As an expert in modern navigation technologies, he has applied his skills to various real-world projects, including slum mapping in Mumbai using GPS and LiDAR technology. His unique blend of professional experience and personal insights into the symbolic and practical aspects of navigation culminates in his book, “You Are Here: A Citizen’s Guide to Mapping and Navigation.” Through this book, he seeks to share the beauty, utility, and deeper meaning behind the maps we use to find our way in the world.
