Lightning in a Shot Glass

Lightning in a Shot Glass by Deepanjana Pal is a sharp, witty, and emotionally charged tale of two Mumbai flatmates, Meera and Aalo, navigating the chaos of modern life. Meera, a forty-year-old journalist in the throes of a mid-life crisis, finds herself entangled with a much younger colleague, while twenty-nine-year-old Aalo, lost both professionally and emotionally, dives into a long-distance flirtation with a glamorous war photographer. As their romantic misadventures unfold, they must also contend with workplace politics and the complexities of dealing with well-meaning but xenophobic parents. Their survival in this urban labyrinth is anchored by a fiercely loyal circle of girlfriends and the city of Mumbai itself, which reveals unexpected facets of their identities. The novel is a vibrant ode to romance, a celebration of Mumbai’s magic and madness, and a heartfelt tribute to women everywhere. Deepanjana Pal, a seasoned journalist and storyteller, brings her rich experience to this narrative, having authored children’s books, a feminist thriller, a biography, and countless film reviews. Currently a columnist with Hindustan Times, she has previously worked with TimeOut Mumbai, Newslaundry, and Film Companion.