I was familiar with Hussain's writing and his reflections on partition through his novel Basti (shortlisted for the Man Booker in 2013), which was part of my bachelor's syllabus. Through this book, Day And Dastan, which collects two novellas into one, I once again got an opportunity to peek into the fragmented and dilapidated world of Hussain, caused by partition
Tag: books
A Very Simple Story: A Russian Melodrama at NSD through Surtitling
Now coming to the play, A Very Simple Story is not that simple. Even the props on the stage appears to be simple but in real it's not, since it's should be crafted in such a way to handle the weight of 2-3 actors, since then and now, they would ascend on it to escape from family members. The whole set up appears a space in rural area. There is a large box from where characters will take out props now and then and sometimes, hide in them as well.
Premchand’s Legacy: A Visit to his Village ‘Lamhi’ in Varanasi
Simple living, high thinking– the statement is justified when you peep into the life of a writer! As I delve into my memory of school days, I remember delivering a speech on the birth anniversary of Munshi Premchand. Since I used to practice several times, some lines, though in fragments, had been etched in my … Continue reading Premchand’s Legacy: A Visit to his Village ‘Lamhi’ in Varanasi
The Significance of Maila Aanchal in Portrayal of India’s Concern during Independence
What is the single most remarkable aspect of the novel, Maila Aanchal? My immediate reply would be the usage of language. Like English, we Indians do speak Hindi differently, wrapped in dialects that vary across regions. There are more than 48 dialects of Hindi alone, practised across different parts of India. It is said that Language and culture change in India every 12 miles.
Coelho’s Insights on Good and Evil: The Devil and Miss Prym
Life can seem either very long or very short, according to how you live it. -Paulo Coelho Reading Coelho is like immersing yourself in mythology and morals. His novels appear like a spiritual journey where the protagonist is in search of a better future. His novel is characterised by the experiments he undertakes to understand … Continue reading Coelho’s Insights on Good and Evil: The Devil and Miss Prym
Atomic Habits: Tiny Habits that Matters
Atomic Habits is composed of eight sections, including an introduction and an appendix. The chapters extend to 8-10 pages with a summary at the end. There is a section consisting of an 'Appendix' that provides a useful conclusion at the end about how to apply the book.
Play Review: Ghalib in Delhi
'Any play is a dynamic entity'–aptly gets reflected in the play Ghalib in Delhi! I came across the play Ghalib in Delhi multiple times when I started my theatre-hopping journey back in 2022, until I finally watched it on October 4, 2025. It is interesting to note that I watched the first commercial play, Big … Continue reading Play Review: Ghalib in Delhi
Why Murakami’s Birthday Girl Amuses and Disappoints Simultaneously?
Today just happens to your twentieth birthday, and on top of that you have brought me this wornderful meal', the old man said as if reconfirming the situation! (Murakami 12) Before I begin this review, I want to share a disclaimer. My initial response after Murakami's Birthday Girl was delivered with two other books wasn't … Continue reading Why Murakami’s Birthday Girl Amuses and Disappoints Simultaneously?
Book Review: Aarambh hai Prachand
What could be the possible difference between poetry and music? Poetry originated from those bards who used to sing stories and verses while travelling. Poetry turns into music when it's accompanied with musical instrument. In contemporary times, reading poems has become mostly an academic endeavour. Can you recall the last time you picked up any … Continue reading Book Review: Aarambh hai Prachand
Banu Mushtaq’s Heart Lamp: A Collection of 12-short stories
It's true that each book is uniquely crafted but the books that win the 'Booker' are sculpted!









