Description
Book SynopsisTo commemorate Chitralekha Nepauney's Chaurasi - her landmark 84th birthday - three of Chitralekha's grandchildren are travelling to Gangtok, Sikkim, to pay their respects. Agastaya is flying in from New York. Although a successful oncologist, he is dreading his family's inquisition into why he is not married, and is terrified that the reason for his bachelordom will be discovered. Joining him are Manasa and Bhagwati, travelling from London and Colorado respectively. One the Oxford-educated achiever; the other the disgraced eloper - one moneyed but miserable; the other ostracized but optimistic. All three harbour the same dual objective: to emerge from the celebrations with their formidable grandmother's blessing and their nerves intact - a goal that will become increasingly impossible thanks to a mischievous maid and a fourth, uninvited guest.
Trade Review'An intelligent novel about identity in an ever-changing world, offering a glimpse into a fascinating culture'
The Lady. * Lady *
'Original and convincing ... Illuminating and compelling'
Spectator. * Spectator *
'The most intelligent and entertaining novel to come out of South Asia in the last decade'
Telegraph (India). * Telegraph (India) *
Parajuly's clever, caustic work savours the community's language and customs even as he joyfully pricks its taboos. * Independent on Sunday *
