The most recent book published by Niyogi Books, Guilt Trip and Other Stories by Lakshmi Kannan, is a collection of perceptive tales that illustrate how Indian women balance social and professional expectations while navigating life’s obstacles and those of women in the workforce.

India International Centre, New Delhi organized a book discussion at their Conference Room II. Gracing the occasion were eminent author Mridula Garg, academic, critic & translator Anisur Rahman, academic Payal Nagapal, author and Convenor, Sahitya Akademi, Malashri Lal, and the author of the book, Lakshmi Kannan.

The stories in Guilt Trip and Other Stories exhibit an unrestrained zeal for food that reflects women’s yearning for possibilities missed, the hurt of having one’s dreams ignored, and the rejection of one’s identity. Reaffirming friendships and fortuitous meetings, which often lead to different paths, make up for all of that.

A few samples from this collection—which unites the textures, colors, and scents of everyday life to support the cause of enduring courage—include the melodic whiff of cologne blending with the sputter of cumin and childlike counting tunes giving way to jingling bangles. Through the deft handling of Kannan, the characters attempt to bridge the gap between restrictive social conventions and the longing for freedom to carve out a place of their own, whether it is a researcher refusing to cook for her male colleagues or a newlywed wife running away from her cunning in-laws.

“How does a very old, frail, nearly blind woman become a game-changer in a crowded joint family? How can women who are ensnared in the stifling job of cooks exercise agency? They share a sensitivity that makes them aware of outdated characteristics hiding beneath the surface of normalcy with educated, skilled women in their desired professions. I was able to accompany these women on their journey towards self-actualization through Guilt Trip. Additionally, it allowed me to combine a variety of tales that conjure specific magical moments that eluded comprehension and catch brilliant, fleeting views of joy and beauty, as well as play and have fun with a newborn elephant – all in the spirit of inclusivity” said the author Lakshmi Kannan.

This paperback book is priced at Rs 395.

Priyanka Dutta