Six Days in Bombay: A Journey of Self and World
I’ve always found something profoundly compelling about the intersection of personal growth and historical context, and Alka Joshi’s forthcoming novel, Six Days in Bombay, captures this blend beautifully. It’s a fitting read for today, Valentine’s Day—what better day to celebrate a story about falling in love with life? Joshi, who made such an impression with her Jaipur trilogy, has woven a rich narrative that introduces us to Sona, a young woman navigating the complexities of 1930s Bombay amidst personal and societal constraints.
At the heart of this 352-page novel is Sona, who works as a nurse while living a sheltered life with her seamstress mother. The charm of this story lies primarily in Sona’s evolving friendship with Mira, a captivating artist whom she cares for during a six-day hospital stay. Through their connection, Sona is pushed beyond her comfort zone and begins to embrace experiences that challenge her former beliefs and aspirations. This relationship is beautifully developed, and it’s refreshing to witness how Sona blossoms under Mira’s influence.
Joshi does an exquisite job of crafting a strong sense of time and place. I could almost feel the bustling streets of Bombay, hear the soft glimpses of a world unfiltered by modernity. The narrative is straightforward, unfolding without jarring timelines or flashbacks, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Sona’s journey. This clarity is refreshing, especially in a genre where the past often collides with the present.
Among the key themes of Six Days in Bombay is the persistent undercurrent of gender dynamics and class distinctions. Joshi does not shy away from exposing the harsh realities of being a woman in early 20th century India, highlighting Sona’s struggles as a “half/half”—a woman of mixed heritage caught between two worlds, making her feel all the more isolated. The novel’s supporting characters range from the endearing to the dubious, reinforcing the complexity of human nature. This depth in character development challenges binary notions of good and bad, making Sona’s maturation all the more impactful.
However, there were moments that felt a bit uneven, particularly a graphic scene that seemed somewhat out of place in the context of the era and the cultural setting. I would have preferred a more subtle approach, one that complemented the overarching themes of growth without diverging into overt sensuality. Additionally, the cover design, with its overtly romantic vibe, seemed at odds with the multi-faceted portrayal of Sona as a serious, independent woman. A depiction of her in her nurse uniform would signify her strength and ambition beyond her beauty.
Joshi’s writing is engaging, and her candid portrayal of Bombay during British rule felt both immersive and enlightening. The subtle historical critiques serve to prompt reflection, making the narrative not just an engaging read but also a source of education and awareness.
In conclusion, Six Days in Bombay is a captivating blend of historical fiction and a coming-of-age tale. It’s a story that will resonate with those who appreciate character-driven narratives and the intricate dance of self-discovery within societal frameworks. If you’re looking for a heartfelt exploration of love—be it for life, friendship, or one’s own identity—this book is guaranteed to strike a chord. I found it to be a delightful and reflective reading experience, earning a solid 4.5 stars from me, rounded up generously. So mark your calendars for April 15, 2025; this is one journey you won’t want to miss! Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Publishing, for the opportunity to read this enchanting novel.