BY MAHADEV DESAI
The book just published by Dr. Bellamkonda K. Kishore, titled Naturalized US Citizen: Culture, Tradition, Integration, Loyalty, and Patriotism, with the subtitle Journey of an Immigrant Scientist, has many facets—just like its multi-faceted author. In this book, Dr. Kishore takes readers on a journey spanning about 70 years of the history and struggles of India, the United States, and the world, as seen through the lens of his own life across four continents pursuing scientific research. Along the way, he elaborates on four key aspects of life that are relevant to any naturalized US citizen—particularly to the Indian American community, which recently crossed the five million mark.
First, as the title suggests, the book explores the subject of naturalization—what it means to the individual seeking it, the significance of the pledge of allegiance, and how it transforms one’s life. Second, the author expounds on the American Dream: what it means, how it is woven into the fabric of the United States and its foundational ideals, and how to preserve it for future generations. Third, Dr. Kishore highlights the critical role of legal immigrants in upholding and passing on the American Dream. Fourth, throughout the book, he presents his personal journey as an immigrant medical scientist who lived and worked on four continents, pursuing his research goals with single-minded dedication. Finally, with deep interest in both scientific research and spiritual thought, the author moves seamlessly between these two realms, positioning himself as a role model for younger generations.
Reflection on the United States:
At its core, the book is a profound reflection on the founding principles and enduring spirit of the United States and their relevance today. Dr. Kishore observes that the establishment of the U.S. as a nation created by people seeking freedom and human advancement—guided by the Constitution rather than dictated by religious or dynastic authority—marked a transformational moment in human history. He goes on to say that the true strength of the United States does not stem from its mighty military power, unparalleled economic prowess, or technological innovation. Rather, it lies in the character and integrity of the American people and their enduring vision and purpose, especially when facing challenges that threaten the Constitutional Republic.
The American Dream:
Dr. Kishore writes that the United States is perhaps the only country in the world where an ordinary immigrant can achieve extraordinary things that might not have been possible in their country of origin. Many immigrants realize their full potential only after arriving in the United States. Yet, he notes, very few Americans—native or immigrant—truly understand what the American Dream means or how it benefits them. His book offers a detailed explanation of the American Dream, its components, and how it must be preserved. He argues that the fabric of the nation must be cared for like a precious “altar cloth” if America is to maintain its unique standing as a land of freedom, opportunity, and the rule of law—a refuge for the persecuted. He warns that while no power on earth can defeat the U.S. militarily or rob it of its freedom, the altar that upholds the nation’s fabric has not been tended to properly. It has been left exposed to the elements—like the Statue of Liberty—when it should be revered and protected.
Legal Immigrants as Torchbearers of the American Dream:
Dr. Kishore emphasizes that the future of America depends on how deeply legal immigrants are committed to their adopted land—without compromising its founding principles or core values. He calls legal immigrants the torchbearers of the American Dream. At no point in history, he asserts, has the U.S. required such a strong commitment from its legal immigrants to keep its social fabric intact and ensure the realization of the American Dream for all. After availing themselves of its opportunities, it becomes the responsibility of every legal immigrant to protect and preserve the Dream for future generations—including their own children and grandchildren. In this context, Dr. Kishore explores the concepts of culture, tradition, integration, loyalty, and patriotism, which every naturalized U.S. citizen should understand from a deeper perspective. For instance, while naturalized citizens may continue practicing their culture and traditions, they must remain loyal and patriotic to the United States. Otherwise, they violate the pledge of allegiance they took to the U.S. flag. Dr. Kishore also distinguishes between “true integration” and mere social integration, asserting that one cannot truly integrate without understanding the history and traditions of the land—without becoming, in essence, a son or daughter of the soil.
Scientific Career and Spiritual Pursuit: Two Sides of the Same Coin:
While the book’s overarching theme is to offer a comprehensive view of what it means to be a naturalized U.S. citizen and how one should live in their adopted homeland, it is also a rich source of historical insights about India, the U.S., and the world—beginning from India’s independence to the present day. To construct such a nuanced literary work, the author draws on his own life journey across four continents. He presents a deep dive into his medical research and spiritual quests, transitioning between the two with the ease of flipping a coin. As a medical researcher, Dr. Kishore worked with leading scientists—including Nobel Laureates—in India, Japan, Belgium, and the U.S. At the same time, he also interacted closely with spiritual figures such as Sri Sathya Sai Baba and ascetics in Banaras, including a descendant of Lahiri Mahasaya, the Himalayan yogi.
Dr. Kishore’s unwavering commitment to scientific research, inspired by an inner calling early in life, arose despite the uncertainties of such a career path. It stems from his firm belief that life is about creating oneself, and that the “3Ps”—Passion, Perseverance, and Patience—are the only qualities needed to achieve success. His lifelong dedication to research has led to patents for innovative therapies to treat obesity and diseases of the kidney, liver, and other organs. In support of his journey, Dr. Kishore quotes Dr. Govindappa Venkataswamy, founder of the Aravind Eye Care System:
“Intelligence and capability are not enough. There must also be the joy of doing something beautiful.”
Note: Bellamkonda K. Kishore, MD, PhD, MBA, is an academician and innovator turned entrepreneur. For more information, please visit his website: www.bkkishore.online. His books are available on Amazon under the Living with a Purpose series, and on Notion Press and Flipkart in India.
