Armed only with a pomegranate, Sarita ventures into the empty streets of Mumbai, on the eve of its threatened nuclear annihilation. She is looking for her physicist husband Karun, who has been missing for over a fortnight. She is soon joined on her quest by Jaz – cocky, handsome, Muslim, gay, and in search of his own lover. Together they traverse the surreal landscape of a dystopia rife with absurdity, and are inexorably drawn to the patron goddess Devi ma, the supposed saviour of the city. Groundbreaking and multilayered, The City of Devi is a fearlessly provocative tale of three individuals balancing on the sharp edge of fate.
Dive into a mesmerizing and thought-provoking journey through a Mumbai on the brink of annihilation with Manil Suri's acclaimed novel, "The City of Devi." This gripping literary work, published by Bloomsbury Paperbacks, transcends genre conventions, offering a unique blend of dystopian fiction, social commentary, and a profound exploration of human connection amidst chaos. On the eve of a threatened nuclear attack, Sarita embarks on a desperate search for her missing physicist husband, Karun. Her only companion is a single pomegranate, a symbol of hope and resilience in a city teetering on the edge. As she navigates the eerily deserted streets, she encounters Jaz, a charismatic and openly gay Muslim man, who is also searching for his lost love. Their paths intertwine, forging an unlikely alliance as they venture into a surreal landscape where the familiar rules of society have dissolved. Suri masterfully paints a picture of a Mumbai transformed, a city grappling with fear, uncertainty, and the desperate search for meaning. The novel's strength lies in its richly drawn characters, each grappling with their own personal demons and desires against the backdrop of impending doom. Sarita's unwavering determination, Karun's mysterious disappearance, and Jaz's vibrant spirit create a compelling narrative tapestry that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. As Sarita and Jaz traverse this dystopian landscape, they are inexorably drawn to the patron goddess Devi ma, the supposed savior of the city. The presence of Devi ma raises questions about faith, hope, and the power of belief in the face of unimaginable adversity. Suri explores these themes with sensitivity and nuance, inviting readers to contemplate the role of spirituality in times of crisis. "The City of Devi" is not merely a dystopian thriller; it is a poignant meditation on love, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Suri's lyrical prose and sharp wit create a reading experience that is both immersive and intellectually stimulating. This paperback edition, spanning 400 pages, offers a substantial and rewarding journey into a world both familiar and disturbingly alien. Weighing in at 280 grams, this book is a perfect companion for reflective reading, whether you're at home or on the go. Manil Suri, an accomplished mathematician and author, brings a unique perspective to his storytelling. His ability to seamlessly blend scientific concepts with human emotions elevates "The City of Devi" beyond the typical dystopian narrative. Suri's writing has been praised for its originality, its social commentary, and its ability to capture the complexities of modern India. "The City of Devi" is a must-read for anyone interested in literary fiction, dystopian novels, or stories that explore the human condition in the face of adversity. Prepare to be captivated by Suri's evocative prose, his compelling characters, and his thought-provoking exploration of a city on the brink. Secure your copy today and embark on an unforgettable literary adventure. This edition was published in 2014, offering a contemporary look at timeless themes. Experience the fearlessly provocative tale that critics and readers alike have celebrated.