“Unveiling the Soul of Bombay: A Passionate Review of The Only City: Bombay in Eighteen Stories, Edited by Anindita Ghose”
In her latest anthology, “The Only City: Bombay in Eighteen Stories,” editor Anindita Ghose explores the eclectic and multifaceted nature of Bombay, a city often viewed as the heart of India. Esteemed author Khushwant Singh aptly labeled Bombay as the “only city” in the country, contrasting it with “oversized villages” that characterize much of India. His depiction aligns with Bombay’s distinctive skyline, where Gothic spires meet modern glass skyscrapers, creating a unique urban landscape. Yet, the city is also a paradox, teeming with traffic congestion, pollution, and the stark divide between wealth and poverty.
This collection of stories captures the essence of Bombay through varied narratives that highlight its charm as well as its challenges. Ghose mentions, “What we have here, in these pages, is a collection of Bombay moments,” emphasizing the intimate and often complex experiences that resonate with those who call the city home.
For instance, in Amrita Mahale’s story “Aai-Tai,” the protagonist, Sayli, encounters her boss on the street where they both live. Ananya’s surprise at not having seen Sayli before reflects the anonymity that permeates the sprawling metropolis, where the underprivileged often struggle for recognition. Similarly, Diksha Basu’s “Bollywood, Baby” offers a glimpse into the dreams of aspiring actors, where one character wears a dress costing nearly half her rent, illuminating the financial sacrifices driven by ambition.
In “Normal Neighbours,” Ghose tackles the glittering yet deceptive veneer of wealth, portraying Aparna’s gradual discomfort as she realizes that the lifestyle embraced by her affluent neighbors encompasses practices far removed from her own values.
However, not all narratives celebrate the spectacle of city life. Prathyush Parasuraman’s “Two Bi Two” reveals the darker side of Bombay’s overcrowded trains, where the boundaries of intimacy blur in public spaces, often leading to voyeuristic experiences that reflect the city’s raw realities. Kersi Khambatta’s humorous “The Hon. Secy” highlights the absurdities of everyday life through domestic disputes turned dramatic.
Yogesh Maitreya reminds readers that Bombay is not solely a tapestry of dreams; it can also be the graveyard of aspirations. Jeet Thayil’s poignant “Your Meat in My Hands” delves into the city’s underbelly, shedding light on the brutal truths often masked by its allure. Jairaj Singh’s “Where The Lights Never Go Out” also ventures into darker themes, portraying characters navigating ruthless environments with a mix of curiosity and trepidation.
The anthology traverses key locales-from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research to Malabar Hill, Marine Drive, and beyond-capturing life’s spectrum in a city defined by its dreamers and schemers. Acclaimed photographer Chirodeep Chaudhuri’s images complement the narratives, offering moments of tranquility amid the chaos.
While not every story achieves equal resonance, “The Only City” successfully illuminates Bombay as a vibrant character within these tales. As the beating heart of the narrative, the city’s complexities and contradictions come alive through diverse voices, making this collection a compelling exploration of urban life. Scheduled for release on October 24, 2025, the anthology is set to captivate readers with its insights into a city that never sleeps, inviting them to experience its unique rhythm and pulse.
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Tags: Bombay, Mumbai, Anindita Ghose, Literature, Short Stories, Urban Life
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/books/book-review-the-only-city-bombay-in-eighteen-stories-editor-anindita-ghose/article70174666.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-10-24 08:40:00
