The Naani Diaries By Riva Razdan: Book Review

The author does an excellent job of depicting family dynamics, with each character developing and overcoming past traumas while embracing the present and love.

on Mar 07, 2023

Written by Riva Razdan, "The Naani Diaries" is a contemporary women's fiction novel that explores Indian marriage and culture through the eyes of Radhika Anand, a successful consultant who turns to her grandmother, Naani, for comfort after a breakup.

With loneliness looming over her, Radhika decides to relocate to Mumbai to find a suitable match through an arranged marriage, all while navigating the challenges of love and family.

The plot and concept of the book are well-crafted and engaging, drawing readers into Radhika's world and her journey to find love and happiness. The writing is refreshing and gripping, with a feminist perspective on arranged Indian marriage that aligns with modern views on love and relationships.

The book also explores complex issues like alcohol abuse, marital abuse, emotional manipulation, abandonment, and unhealthy lifestyles, allowing readers to mull over such matters.

The author does an excellent job of depicting family dynamics, with each character developing and overcoming past traumas while embracing the present and love. Gayatri Khurana, aka Mrs Anand, is a standout character, with her story revealing how her marriage to Jairaj Anand was in pieces and the horrors she endured. However, her self-respect and freedom were restored through Grace Boutique.

Mangala, Radhika's mother, is also a complex character who raises her daughter to be successful and independent, despite their differing views on love and marriage.

The book starts slowly but picks up in the second half, making for a satisfying read. However, Radhika's character could have been better developed, as her behaviour can sometimes be frustrating, and her revelations come too late in the story to be surprising. Nonetheless, the story has many interesting topics to discuss, including Indian weddings, Indian culture, and the challenges women face in a patriarchal society.

Overall, "The Naani Diaries" is an enjoyable and thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of love and family in Indian culture. The book's feminist perspective and exploration of issues make it a compelling read for anyone interested in contemporary women's fiction.