INVENTIVE INDIANS was a long while in the making. The stories were collected over six of the eight years that Civil Society, the monthly magazine, has been in circulation. The stories are about stories issues and complex situation. The leaders who are portrayed are invariably an intricate blend of passion and pragmatism. But the style of writing is simple and engaging because we want everyone to tune in. It can be said that we aren't critical enough and perhaps at time too effusive. The reason is that these stories are so fascinating that reporters and editors get sucked in. It is a willing surrender. Inventive Indians is a tribute to the kind of change individuals can bring against difficult odds. It presents a side of India that doesn't get reported because of the jumble of priorities that propel big media. Civil Society has shown that it is possible to change the rules.