City Of Djinns
(William Dalrymple)
It is indeed fascinating to read how a foreigner can perceive so much about a city, where he has lived for only a few years. While reading the book, I don?t know how many times I have exclaimed-Yeah! That?s how the place looks like (I may not be able to put it in such fine appropriate words, even though I have been to these places so many times); Yeah, that?s the way the things really are in this city or Yes!
Major source of information at the beginning of the novel is the now infamous ? taxiwala (taxi driver). They are otherwise also, no doubt, a source of invaluable information- be it the weather, the way the politics of the country is moving or likely to move, the forthcoming budget session and of course, most of them specialise in the Gandhi family!
As you go through the book, you can feel Delhi, live it and if you are a native of Delhi, then you learn to appreciate this great, forever encompassing city more. With him comes alive, the old ruins of Delhi, the snake charmers, the narrow streets of old Delhi and very vividly, comes alive the pain and the anguish of the 1947 partition.
An element of humour is provided by Mr. Puri, Dalrymple?s landlord, who has one foot on the grave but has a heart which still flutters when he sees pretty young damsels- Mrs. Olivia Dalrymple- who we are told is not a damsel but a madam because she is married! She does break Mr. Puri?s heart though, when she turns down the poor old man?s sincere marriage proposal!
A must read for all those who want to visit my city. I?m sure having read this great guide; you?ll understand and appreciate this vital city better. And of course, will be armed with the knowledge of the potency of the taxiwalas. But then who knows, with Ambassador launching India cabs in London, you might meet one in the U.K, too!
Resumos Relacionados
- Sports In Delhi
- Media In Delhi
- Taxi!a Social History Of The New York City Cabdriver
- America (the Book)
- The Great Gatsby
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