About The Author

Dr. P.V Rao

Before he wrote about the human mind, he spent years saving lives in the middle of a war.

Sanandaj, Kurdistan. 2 A.M.
The windows of the operating theatre had been taped so the glass wouldn’t shatter inward. Outside, the shelling had started again.

Inside, a surgeon from a small town in Andhra Pradesh looked down at the open body of a man he’d never met, in a country that wasn’t his, in a war he hadn’t chosen.

His hands did not shake.

That was the strange part. That was the thing he could never explain to anyone afterward.

15 years serving as a Senior Consultant Surgeon in wartime Iran
Witnessed humanity at its most fragile, where life and death met every day
17 books inspired by decades of observation and the teachings of Jiddu Krishnamurti
Reflections born from lived experience—not borrowed philosophy
Explore His Writings

What Readers Say

Don't just take our word for it

This book brings you face to face with decisions we often discuss theoretically but rarely experience. The simplicity with which life-and-death moments are described makes it deeply impactful. It quietly redefines what responsibility means.

Dr. Anish Surapaneni

Paediatrician

Operating Under Fire is a rare account
of medicine practiced in its most uncompromising form. What stayed with me was not just the clinical challenges, but the clarity of thought under chaos. It reminds us that true medical practice goes far beyond systems and protocols.

Dr. James Carter

Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic

I’m not from a medical background, but this book moved me deeply. It’s not just about surgery or war, it’s about commitment, clarity, and doing what is right even when it’s difficult. A powerful read for anyone.

Rajendra Kumar

Founder, Lendly Consultants & Open Loans Australia

Reading this felt both humbling and grounding. It makes you reflect on your own practice and the emotional distance we sometimes develop. A deeply human account of medicine in its purest form.

Dr. Archana Jasti

Paediatrician

What struck me most was the discipline of mind described in these situations. The ability to act without panic, to stay steady, it goes beyond medicine. There’s a lot to learn here about life itself. I highly recommend everyone to read this one.

Sivarama Krishna

Structural Engineer

This book stayed with me long after I finished it. The writing is simple, but the emotions are profound. It makes you pause and think about your fears, responsibilities, and what it means to truly show up.

Emma Collins

Architect

As a medical student, this book gave me a perspective I haven’t found in textbooks. It’s not about knowledge, but about presence and decision-making in critical moments. Truly eye-opening.

Prakash Upadhyayula

Medical Student

In business, we talk about high-pressure decisions, but this is on a completely different level. The clarity and calmness described in the book are remarkable. It’s a lesson in leadership and responsibility.

Hari Mantena

Industrialist

This book reminded me why I chose medicine in the first place. It cuts through all the noise and brings you back to the essence of care, courage, and accountability. A must-read for anyone entering this field.

Olivia Harris

Medical Student, USA

Frequently Asked Questions

What is operating under fire about?

Operating Under Fire is a real-life story of Dr. Venkata Rao Potluru’s experience as a surgeon during the Iran revolution and the Iran-Iraq war. It captures moments from the operating room under extreme conditions, blending medical reality with reflections on courage, duty, and awareness.

Are these books based on real experiences?

Yes, all of the books are drawn from real-life experiences. My books include reflective and philosophical works inspired by decades of medical practice and deep inquiry into human consciousness.

Who should read these books?

These books are ideal for:

  • Medical professionals and students
  • Readers interested in real-life war stories
  • Those exploring philosophy, awareness, and self-inquiry
  • Anyone seeking meaningful, experience-driven insights on life

Where can I download or read these books?

After placing the order, you can download the books directly or login to access your puchases. In addition, you will receive your downloadables on the registered mail ID provided at the time of checkout. For any help or queries reachout at authorpvrao@gmail.com