“Agenda: Read aloud and feel emotions. Chirag, our book evangelist, passionately tried to convince people (particularly Aneree) to donate books!”
POCKET DIARY BOOK CLUB
MINUTES OF THE MEETING
YEAR 2025
05/01/2025 03:00 PM
Edition No. : 46, First Sunday of the Year, First Edition
Venue: Akshat Drama Group Studio
Facilitator: Smit
Written by: Amisha
Edited by: Priya
Agenda: Read aloud and feel emotions
Time: Whenever we finally stopped chatting and actually started the meeting
Pre-Session Chronicles:
• Chirag, our book evangelist, passionately tried to convince people (particularly
Aneree) to donate books. This emotional plea struck a nerve because, let’s face it,
books are like our emotional horcruxes.
• Meanwhile, in the background, there was mysterious planning for Jaipur Literature
Fest. I, for one, had no clue what was happening but nodded along like I understood.
And it Begins:
• The session begins with Smit introducing the agenda and outlining the rules for the
discussion.
Rijuta reads Roman Stories by Jhumpa Lahiri
• The book is a collection of short stories exploring themes of identity, migration, and
belonging, all set against the evocative backdrop of Rome. Lahiri delves into the lives
of her characters with subtlety, capturing their inner conflicts and the interplay
between place and self.
• The story centers around a young girl, the daughter of a caretaker, who observes the
guests staying at her quarters. She notices not just the people but also their
belongings, habits, and behaviors.
• Rijuta expresses how deeply she connects with the character. The girl,
despite being ever-present, doesn’t truly belong among the transient
families she observes. This creates a poignant sense of longing and
displacement.
• The discussion naturally flows to the experiences of people who
migrate those who change places yet cannot shake off the persistent
feeling of longing. And a shared fear emerges in the conversation: the unsettling
thought of “everything being taken away in a moment.”
• The discussion ends on an emotional note as Rijuta’s glossy eyes reflect the depth of
her feelings about the story. The group resonates with the overarching theme of
longingness, a thread binding the narrative, the discussion, and their shared
reflections.
Asad reads Captain Obstinate by Gavin Douglas
• Asad ji read an excerpt from Captain Obstinate by Gavin Douglas, a classic story of duty,
resilience, and the complexities of leadership, often celebrated for its portrayal of
moral dilemmas in the face of adversity. The book, though lesser-known today, has left
a lasting impression on its readers over the years.
• Smit, intrigued by how Asad Ji came across the book, inquired about its origins. Asad
Ji shared that he had received the book from his sister, who had it as part of her school
curriculum 50 years ago—a testament to the timeless appeal of its narrative.
• Asad Ji narrated the tale of a soldier who displayed remarkable
loyalty by saving his captain during a perilous mission. Despite
freezing cold and his own injuries, the soldier carried the captain
on his back to safety.
• The captain, stubborn and fiercely independent, ordered the
soldier to leave him behi nd. The soldier, however, refused to
abandon him.
• After recovering from his injuries, the captain showed his gratitude in a peculiar way—
by placing the soldier under arrest for 15 days for disobeying orders. This paradoxical
conclusion sparked reflections on duty, obedience, and the intricate dynamics of
military discipline.
Aneree reads Happy place by Emily Henry
• Aneree introduced the book as a feel -good romantic read, emphasizing how
challenging yet rewarding it is to be someone’s source of happiness —their “happy
place.” Her words struck a chord, setting a cheerful and introspective tone for the
discussion.
• During the session, Asad ji was observed scribbling furiously in his notebook,
occasionally nodding like a proud teacher witnessing their student excel. (Ahem, as
the MOM writer, I couldn’t help but take note of this moment!)
• Aneree shared how the book made her feel a flurry of emotions—her excitement was
palpable as she described smiling uncontrollably when Parth praised Subrina. Her
expressions were priceless, especially when she scrunched her nose upon reading the
part where Parth admitted he mistook Subrina’s hair color for blue.
• The book’s vacation vibes seemed to envelop all as the happiness
radiated to the group, prompting a lively discussion about the
stereotypical portrayal of male protagonists in contemporary romance—
Greek god -like features, square jaws, and towering heights. It was
amusing to see everyone chime in on the “perfection epidemic” in
romantic fiction.
• Meanwhile, Smit appeared deeply intrigued by the storyline, especially
about what would happen to Parth. His curiosity matched the group’s growing
eagerness, as Aneree’s enthusiasm became contagious.
• As the discussion continued, Aneree nostalgically shared how this book resonated with
her, sparking a collective desire among us to dive back into its pages. Even after she
finished reading her part, everyone begged her to continue.
• This book clearly transported us to a world brimming with charm, wit, and heartfelt
moments—a perfect escape, leaving us yearning for more.
Vinod reads Stay Hungry Stay Foolish by Rashmi Bansal
• Vinod Ji chose to read an excerpt from Stay Hungry Stay Foolish by Rashmi Bansal,
focusing on the inspiring story of Deep Kalra and his entrepreneurial journey. The book
highlights Kalra’s early struggles and his visionary approach to creating MakeMyTrip,
a platform that transformed the Indian travel industry.
• The story delves into how Deep Kalra began by keenly analyzing market trends and
understanding customer needs, laying the foundation for a customer-centric business
model. His innovative marketing strategies gave MakeMyTrip an edge over
competitors, helping it establish a strong foothold in a competitive market.
• This sparked an engaging discussion among the group about the ongoing shift from
offline to online businesses and how companies like MakeMyTrip played a pivotal role
in driving this transition. The conversation then veered toward the topic of startup
valuations—how, initially, there were only a few investors willing to
bet on such disruptive business models. Today, however, these very
models are highly sought-after, with significant investor backing.
• The group also debated the ethics of modern startups, noting
how some companies seem to lure people in with lofty promises,
raising concerns about sustainability and consumer trust.
• The reading and discussion left us reflecting on the evolution of entrepreneurship, the
importance of adaptability, and the delicate balance between ambition and
accountability in the startup ecosystem.
Hemlatha reads Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
• The moment Shantaram was spotted in Hemlat ha’s hands, it seemed to spark
immediate curiosity. This iconic novel, written by Gregory David Roberts, tells the story
of an Australian fugitive who escapes prison and finds solace —and chaos —in the
bustling streets of Mumbai. The narrative is a vivid portrayal
of the writer’s journey, blending themes of redemption,
survival, and the search for meaning.
• As Hem alatha recounted, the protagonist finds a strange
peace in wandering the streets of Mumbai at night, even as
his mind wrestles with harrowing memories. One powerful
scene she shared was the contrast of his internal turmoil with
the external reality —watching the police harass street
dwellers, offering freedom in exchange for bribes or imprisoning those who couldn’t
pay. This raw depiction of injustice left the group reflective, with Hemlata’s voice
noticeably trembling as she described the emotions.
• The story deeply resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost or undeserving, a
sentiment Hemlata articulated beautifully. It’s like that feeling of being adrift, even
when life seems fine on the surface, she remarked, saying, “But this phase too shall
pass.” Her expressions revealed her profound connection to the book, admitting how
much she loves revisiting it, finding new layers with each read.
• The discussion took a lighter turn when Smit humorously shared how some foreigners
still hold stereotypes about India, imagining people traveling on elephants or
associating Mumbai solely with Dharavi. This led to a conversation about how we often
judge cities or places based on the few streets we’ve seen or heard about, missing the
nuanced reality.
• Hemalatha wrapped up by reading another passage that beautifully described
Mumbai’s unique character and even its smell —capturing the city’s essence in a way
that felt almost tangible.
• Shantaram is more than a novel; it’s an exploration of survival, redemption, and the
soul of a city. Hemlata’s reading reminded us how books can bring places and emotions
alive, making us reflect on the world and ourselves.
Gaurav reads Lady Chatterley’s Lover by D.H. Lawerence
• Gaurav reads a passage from Lady Chatterley’s Lover by D.H. Lawrence, highlighting
the theme of aristocracy as something that was once only about words and social
status.
• He contrasts this with D.H. Lawrence’s opposition to this notion, where the novel
emphasizes genuine human connections over societal constructs.
• He also delves into the controversial history of the publication, sharing how the book
was prosecuted for obscenity after its release. The publisher, however, fought
vigorously to protect its right to be printed, paving the way for its eventual success.
• The discussion then shifts to Saadat Hasan Manto, where the group reflects on his
raw, forceful writing style. Manto’s ability to hit the reader with blunt truths, without
any pretense or embellishment, is admired for its stark honesty.
• It’s in this context that Chirag Bhai quips: “Ab jaise popcorn ka rate hi dekh lo!”
Laughter follows as the group tries to make sense of the comment. Perhaps Chirag
Bhai was drawing a parallel between Manto’s knack for presenting everyday truths in
a way that jolts readers and how even something as seemingly trivial as the rising price
of popcorn can serve as a stark, undeniable reality —hitting you with the same
unvarnished force as Manto’s prose. (Or maybe that’s just one way to interpret it!)
Darshini reads Anxious people by Fredrik Backman
• Darshni shares a passage from Anxious People by Fredrik Backman, a heartwarming
and poignant tale about a failed bank robbery that turns into an accidental hostage
situation. The story intricately weaves together three parallel narratives, which
ultimately converge in a satisfying and meaningful way. Darshni compares this to how
our own cluttered thoughts feel overwhelming until they align, bringing a sense of
relief and clarity.
• She also reflects on the emotional depth of the book,
noting that it touches the heart —not perfectly, but in a way
that feels authentic and deeply human, much like its central
message.
• The discussion then veers into the topic of audiobooks
versus physical books, with participants sharing their
preferences. While audiobooks offer convenience, many agree
that physical books provide an unmatched sense of comfort.
• At this point, Smit recalls an old memory where Rajesh ji remarked with humor, “Jab
hum khud ki nai sunte, audiobook kahan se sunenge?” The group laughs and nods,
appreciating the relatable truth behind his words.
Amisha reads The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
• Amisha shares an excerpt from The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, a poignant novel set
in Nazi Germany during World War II. Narrated uniquely by Death, the story follows
Liesel Meminger, a young girl who discovers the power of words amidst the chaos and
horrors of war.
• Amisha reads a moving passage where a group of people huddles together in a
basement, seeking refuge from a bomb strike. In the tense, fear -filled atmosphere,
Liesel begins reading aloud, her voice providing a sense of comfort and
distraction to those around her. The simple act of storytelling becomes
a lifeline, momentarily lifting the weight of their fear and reminding
them of their shared humanity.
• Amisha’s reading captures the emotional depth of the scene,
highlighting the profound impact words can have, even in the darkest
times.
Ronak reads The Hidden Hindu by Akshat Gupta
• Ronak reads from The Hidden Hindu by Akshat Gupta, a captivating mythological
fiction that delves into the mysterious journey of an Aghori. The story revolves around
this enigmatic character, who appears to possess extraordinary powers and seems to
have lived across multiple eras. As the narrative unfolds, the Aghori embarks on a
quest to uncover the secrets of his existence and the reasons behind his unique
abilities.
• Set against the backdrop of Indian mythology, the book intriguingly connects the
protagonist to pivotal moments in epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, weaving
a tale that spans timelines and realms.
• Ronak highlights the book’s exploration of timeless themes through a rich blend of
mythology and fiction, making it a fascinating journey for readers who enjoy
unraveling ancient mysteries.
Nirja reads Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
• Nirja shares her cherished copy of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, a book she has
treasured since she was 15. She reads a memorable scene where Mr. Darcy proposes
to Elizabeth Bennet—a moment filled with tension and vulnerability. Her excitement
is palpable, reflected in her smile and the energy in her vo ice as she brings the
characters to life.
• She concludes her reading with a line she has memorized, her favorite, where Mr.
Darcy passionately declares his love for Elizabeth. Nirja also shares her evolving
perspective on the book, particularly how she once found Elizabeth’s mother irritating
but now sees her as a relatable figure with understandable concerns.
• The conversation takes a humorous turn as the group
starts discussing annoying aunties who incessantly ask,
“Tumhari shaadi kab hogi?” This sparks a lively discussion
about how our understanding of books changes with time. As
we grow older, our life experiences and state of mind
profoundly shape how we connect with the stories and characters we once read as
younger versions of ourselves.
Akanksha reads The Almond by Sohn Won-Pyung
• Akanksha reads a passage from The Almond by Sohn Won -pyung, a deeply
introspective novel that follows the journey of a young boy, Yunjae, who struggles
with an emotional and psychological condition that makes it difficult for him to feel or
express emotions.
• The passage she shares describes Yunjae’s preference for books over movies. While
movies provide everything visually, books leave blank spaces for the reader to fill in—
allowing them to sit with the story, walk through it, and make it their own. This reflects
Yunjae’s inner world, where he feels nothing but an empty void. The comfort he finds
in books, particularly in the smell of them, becomes one of the few ways he
experiences a sense of peace.
• As the story unfolds, Yunjae faces the loss of his mother and grandmother. While these
deaths create an undeniable void in his life, he cannot process or react to the grief.
The passage captures the complexity of his emotional state, making the reader reflect
on the nature of emotional numbness and the struggle to connect with deep loss.
• This left us reflecting on the novel’s tender exploration of what it means to be human,
even when emotions feel out of reach.
Rushabh reads The Normal People by Sally Rooney
• Rushabh shares his thoughts on Normal People by Sally Rooney, a beautifully written
novel that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and emotional intimacy. He
highlights how the book’s adaptation into a television series has been seamlessly
executed, expressing his satisfaction with how well the show captures the nuances of
the story. Rushabh mentions how watching the series first allowed him to vividly
imagine the characters as he read, and how the visual representation of the book
enhances his experience of the story.
• He then describes the core of the narrative, which revolves around Connell and
Marianne—two people who have known each other since childhood. The story traces
their evolving relationship as they grow from teenagers into young adults, spanning
their college years and beyond. Rushabh emphasizes how their bond, complicated by
social class differences and personal insecurities, remains an anchor in their lives
through various stages of adulthood.
• The group’s discussion reflects on the way Rooney masterfully portrays the inner lives
of her characters, making Normal People both relatable and deeply affecting.
Dhwani reads The Blue Sisters by Coco Mallers
• Dhwani shares a passage from The Blue Sisters by Coco Mallers, a
poignant exploration of sisterhood, grief, and personal growth. The book
delves into the evolving dynamics between two sisters, highlighting how
friendship and familial bonds, especially those between sisters, are never
static—they shift over time. Dh wani reflects on the story’s portrayal of
how even parents change as time passes, revealing the fluid nature of
family relationships.
• She reads a passage about one of the sisters, a boxer, who is deeply affected by a
significant loss in the ring. After losing a major match, she leaves the sport, unable to
reconcile her grief and disappointment. The emotional depth of the character is
explored through her inability to let go of her grief over her sister’s untimely death,
showing how unresolved emotions can linger and shape our lives.
• The discussion then turns to a broader reflection on how people, including ourselves,
change over time and contemplate how meeting family and friends after a long
separation often brings a sense of dissonance. While we may feel we’ve grown and
moved on, th ey may not have witnessed the transformations we’ve undergone,
leaving them seemingly “still” while we have experienced the world differently.
Smit reads Sim Sim by Gita Chaturvedi
• Smit reads from Sim Sim by Git a Chaturvedi, a thought -provoking contemporary
fiction that delves into the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and the
search for self -meaning in a rapidly changing world. The novel is known for its
introspective narrative, exploring the psychol ogical depths of its characters and how
they navigate the turbulence of modern life. Chaturvedi’s writing captures the
subtleties of personal growth, self -identity, and the emotional intricacies of daily
existence.
• Smit shares a passage about a character, a young man who wants to read and read
more. He imagines a whimsical scenario in which the books in the library, left alone
without the librarian, might come to life. He wonders if, in the absence of their
caretaker, the books might step off the shelves, dust themselves off, or even dance.
This moment is reflective of the book’s broader theme of exploring what happens
beneath the surface of ordinary life —questioning the hidden potential and lives of
objects or spaces we often overlook.
Conclusion:
• During the session, Priya and Chirag honoured Smit with a memento in recognition
of his one -year association with the book club and his consistent support in
facilitating whenever possible.
• And with this, the session draws to a close, leaving everyone with thoughts to ponder
and reflections sparked by the readings. Each book shared brought its own unique
perspective, whether it was the depth of emotional connection, the exploration of
human growth, or the whimsical musings on life’s mysteries.
• With a final round of smiles and nods, the discussion comes to an end, and everyone
leaves with a little more to think about, eager to dive into their next literary journey.