In the backwaters of Calcutta, the young woman with the American accent, Priya, stood out among her peers. It was here, at IIM Calcutta, where a bond was formed with a fellow student over their shared love for books. Though Priya’s accent was acquired during her father’s deputation to Singapore, it was their mutual affection for literature that transcended cultural disparities and formed the basis of a lifelong friendship. Together, they frequented the Jaipur Literature Festival and attended book clubs. As their friendship deepened, it was revealed that Priya herself was an author, having penned ‘Two Chalet School Girls in India’ and ‘You Never Know When You’ll Get Lucky’.
Yet, it was her latest book, ‘She Storms the Norms’, co-authored with former colleague Anisha Motwani, that intrigued her friend. The collection of stories of women achievers, including prominent figures like Ameera Shah and Suparna Mitra, intrigued her peer, not only for its quality of writing but for the depth with which it delved into the challenges faced by working women. Eager to gain insights on the candid portrayal of the interviewees, the two friends engaged in an exchange over email and WhatsApp. Their conversation, laced with reflections on books and the undeniable joy of reading, brings to light the enduring bond over shared passions.
Amidst the backdrop of the distant Bangalore and Mangalore summers, memories of a grandfather’s literary trove, which included classics such as ‘Oliver Twist’, resonate deeply. Forging an unbreakable bond through this shared literary journey, their friendship illustrates the enduring power of books to transcend boundaries and shape lifelong connections.
