Kushwant Singh (1915-2014) was a renowned Indian author and journalist celebrated for his sharp wit, secular views and bold commentary on society and politics. His most acclaimed works are, 'Train to Pakistan (1956) 'I shall not hear the nightingale' and 'The Company of women'. He was awarded Padma Vibhushan in 2007. 'Karma' is one of his best short stories published in 1989 in 'The Collected Stories'. It is a satirical tale that examines themes of identity, colonial mentality and irony.