‘In my stories I’ve put down everything with objectivity. Now, if some people find them obscene let them go to hell. It’s my belief that experiences can never be obscene if they are based on authentic realities of life’ – Ismat ke Shahkar Afsane This is how Ismat Chughtai, Urdu’s most courageous and controversial writer asserted the validity of her literary engagement in her characteristic, forthright manner.My first encounter with Ismat Chughtai a.k.a Ismat Aaapa was at Jaipur Literary Festival 2013. Don’t take me wrong, I was not fortunate enough to meet her but I was lucky to attend one session moderated by …

The beauty of my country is its colourful culture and diverse language which makes it so rich yet so different. I have always regretted not knowing to read all our languages and hence indulge in reading a lot of translations. This pick was one of them and I am glad I made a wise choice. This book is timeless and quintessential. You can finish it in one sitting and would not even realise, that you have completed a novel. The translation is brilliant and very lyrical. The wonderful facet of this book is its multiple layers of emotions, which adds …