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Just Kidding... Yours, Destiny

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Anirban Das is making his book debut with Just Kidding Yours, Destiny. The implied essence of the story is about making choices, their consequences and the role of destiny. The plot is a simple story, revolving around the complicated life of Kunal Roy. Ambitious Kunal is living the great Indian dream, having purchased a house in Mumbai, driving an expensive car and striving to earn pots of money. Having slogged for donkeys years in the same company, Kunal believes that he is a star employee in his company. He is determined to reach the top with a simple mantra - hard work and dedication. Kunals seemingly planned life and ambitions turn awry with the sudden acquisition of his company and an abrasive new boss who puts Kunal to the sword. Kunals life is further turned upside down with the entry of a company rookie, Shristi, compelling him to change his world view and his lifes priorities. Is Shristi for real or is she an illusion? And who is the real Kunal? Undergoing upheavals in both professional and personal life, Kunal looks to jettison his ambitions by embarking on a journey of self discovery in an attempt to regain his lost identity and a semblance of control. This book aspires to strike a chord with the readers, engage and entertain them. It has been written from the heart, in a manner, which is characteristic of the authors writing style. The story has been set in a typical Indian urban backdrop but the emotions enunciated, would transcend country barriers.

190 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

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665 people want to read

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Anirban Das

4 books40 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Lazybee.
512 reviews35 followers
January 12, 2016
Are you freaking kidding me?
We get it, life is tough. But the story doesn't make any sense.
And a realistic, but a terrible ending.
Profile Image for Nishtha.
318 reviews16 followers
December 2, 2015
I am a bad person, I procrastinate reading books written by Indian Authors ( I don't know about ) because I expect nothing.


But I liked this one.. !!
It was a great read, no doubt I would have read it if I had read the excerpt but as I wrote before, I AM A BAD PERSON WHO JUDGES Books before reading them.


So, when I started finishing the books 'to be reviewed', I was guilty and shocked but also very happy as both the books I finished this weekend were simply awesome.

The story is about Kunal, a very complacent guy with a good salary, car and house. He is happy or atleast thinks he is but Shreya is the spark in his life. A person who cares about him no matter what. They have these real cute and funny chats which will make you smile and laugh throughout the book.


I was just unhappy at one point which I am not going to write about coz that might be a spoiler.

All in all, it was a nice read for a cozy winter evening with a cup of hot chocolate and a warm blanket.


Three.five stars!



Also I LOVE THE COVER!!!!
P.S. it was a debut so high five to the author for the effort.
Profile Image for Abhilash Ruhela.
644 reviews64 followers
February 27, 2014


I always love those books that I complete in one-sitting without getting more than 50% bored. :-) And it's amazing when I read such books by bunking college. I have just completed a 190-pages book named "Just Kidding... YOURS, DESTINY". It's published by Notion Press which is doing quite well and remarkable these days. The kind of books that its publishing these days catches my eye often. I loved the cover page. It has the same essence as that of Anything for you ma'am by Tushar Raheja. The bluish effect and the protagonist running away from his boss is a nice take. Book is written by a debutante writer- Anirban Das, who I think have written very well in his first attempt itself. A perfect book for taking with you while you are journeying somewhere.

ABOUT THE BOOK:-

Anirban Das is making his book debut with Just Kidding Yours, Destiny. The implied essence of the story is about making choices, their consequences and the role of destiny. The plot is a simple story, revolving around the complicated life of Kunal Roy. Ambitious Kunal is living the great Indian dream, having purchased a house in Mumbai, driving an expensive car and striving to earn pots of money. Having slogged for donkeys years in the same company, Kunal believes that he is a star employee in his company. He is determined to reach the top with a simple mantra - hard work and dedication. Kunal's seemingly planned life and ambitions turn awry with the sudden acquisition of his company and an abrasive new boss who puts Kunal to the sword. Kunal's life is further turned upside down with the entry of a company rookie, Shristi, compelling him to change his world view and his life's priorities. Is Shristi for real or is she an illusion? And who is the real Kunal? Undergoing upheavals in both professional and personal life, Kunal looks to jettison his ambitions by embarking on a journey of self discovery in an attempt to regain his lost identity and a semblance of control. This book aspires to strike a chord with the readers, engage and entertain them. It has been written from the heart, in a manner, which is characteristic of the authors writing style. The story has been set in a typical Indian urban backdrop but the emotions enunciated, would transcend country barriers.

Anirban Das has a wonderful easy-going way of writing and telling a story to his audience that the readers get attached to his book until they do not complete it in one go. I ended up reading this book in just 4 hours. Not because it's just of 190 pages but because I was so interested in his writing style that I wanted to experience it without interruption and distraction. Not even a single word in the book for which you'll run for dictionary and still a story fully explained is what I loved the author's debut work for. There are some occasions when his book reaches on its high but there are few pages where the story starts going in a direction where there's no laughter, no emotions and no story at all. This is something I didn't appreciate. He should have re-edited his book by eliminating those boring parts and adding up another interesting sequence as there are many in his book.

I loved the first chapter of the book itself which is a Prologue-kind-of-thing. I liked the Flashback of protagonist's meet with first girl for his marriage. It is entertaining but ends up being a great story in itself. That's something which I liked the most in the book. Then his second story where he gets married and how it ends bitterly is also narrated very well in the book. I also loved the fact how author has described Mumbai, Panvel and Karjat specifically and truthfully without over-exaggerating or faking any details. Very rare is the case these days when an author struggles to keep the book as accurate as Wikipedia. :-) Also, I liked the second half of Kunal and Shrishti's tale when they got really closer. Towards anti-climax, when the protagonist and his college friend plays prank on his office's seniors, I find it quite amusing and funny. In the end, some twists and tales were good.

Coming to the drawbacks:- As I have already said, some parts does not match to other wonderful bits of the book hence you find quite highs and lows in the story. I didn't enjoy a bit of the long narration of the Flashback to college days as there was nothing interesting about the whole Goa thing. I didn't enjoy the extra detailing of some Hindi words and trying-hard-to-be-funny notes in small fonts at the end of few pages which author has already warned about in the Introduction. It could have been written in short within a bracket wherever it was needed or a Glossary at the end of the book is better preferred. I didn't like how even Abhilasha is shown getting closer to Kunal in the end. That was almost the 4th girl in the book that was been discussed with Kunal and it started getting boring by then. Well. In all, I must say an entertaining and fun book. Do read it if you are interested in reading something light. Author has closed the book with a chance of it having a sequel. Let's see. I give the book 3.5/5. :-)

Thanks a lot.

ABHILASH RUHELA - VEERU!!!
Profile Image for Jyoti Babel.
75 reviews23 followers
March 12, 2014
Meet Kunal Roy – a high flying corporate man, Head of Sales in the real estate company HomeMakers. He has a life every one dreams of – a lavish own flat in Mumbai, an eye-popping salary and a Mercedes Benz to flaunt. Just when Kunal thinks that life is moving smoothly, destiny plays its prank. Homemakers is taken over by a bigger firm and his new boss is hell bent on making his life miserable by throwing in new challenges. He meets Shristi and gradually falls for her. But, there are problems there are as well. Kunal is a divorce and is 10 years elder to Shristi. Will Shristi’s parent consent to such a match? How will Kunal manage the challenges in the office? How will life unfold for Kunal and how destiny will play a role? These are the things to discover in the novel.

The novel is a very quick read. It will hold your attention and will keep you glued till you have finished it. The writing style is very simple. There are many twists and turns in the story that makes it engaging. The first half of the book had a strong romantic angle. The middle part is focused on the work challenges of Kunal and last part is about the self-discovery of Kunal. The characters are well sketched. One can easily relate to them. The author takes the readers through the life of Kunal – his college days, his first marriage with Sarika, his work life and more. I just wish the author had ended the book in a different way. You have to read to book to know why I am saying so.

I would recommend this book if anyone is looking for a light read. However, if you are looking for a literary master-piece then it’s not the book you should pick.
Profile Image for Sid Sharma.
315 reviews7 followers
November 20, 2018
Before writing my review, let me say that there are rare books that offer you the simplicity with its beauty of storytelling. And this one is surely one of them. If I have to judge the novel by its story, it's a simple story. But I'm judging this one of its amazing storytelling.
The author wrote this novel with such freestyle writing, don't assume that's easy, which makes it more entertainingly interesting to read. I read and enjoyed it thoroughly.
I'm giving it 4 stars because this one deserves it. A light read, especially best to read when you're feeling low. Loved it.
Really wanna read more works by the author.
Profile Image for Locomente.
94 reviews55 followers
March 10, 2014
Kunal is a hardworking and an ambitious man. Life teaches him lessons in its own way and Kunal changes from a carefree college-boy to a serious senior employee. His transformation from the serious late 30’s man to that of a carefree man is captured nicely!

Shrishti hails from a rich family; a beauty with brains. She is young and cheerful. At the same time she is practical. She is emotional, of course, but she also controls them for the greater good. She is selfish and at the same time very friendly. In short, complicated!

Then there is Sarika, Kunal’s Ex-wife…Harry, Kunal’s Boss and Jasmine, Kunal’s friend!

What I think
The cover-page is vibrant and attractive. It will surely catch the attention of readers. Having said that, I liked the book’s title per se. It is catchy!

The book is a short and sweet one with less than 200 pages. It is well edited and the story flows with ease. Except the second chapter where there were too many technical details. The chapters carry thoughtfully laid out titles and most of the chapters carries thought provoking quotes too.

The characters are real and the situations are no different. The book depicts the life of a common man with many pitfalls and where most of the dreams don’t come true. The story is about what we want/expect/need as against what really happen.

As the title rightly describes, it is about desires/dreams VS destiny!

What I loved the most about the book is that it is not yet another happy-go-lucky and happily-ever-after types. But, I would not call it as a cynic’s or pessimist take on life. Instead, I would say, it is a rather real take on life sans any make-up or decorations!


But...
The footnotes – They are so irritating. It hinders the flow and makes the reading tough!
The book blurb sounds preachy and recommendatory. It looks too long and boring L


Should you read it?
As I said, it’s a small book with a little less than 200 pages. You can complete in one go. And it is a complete timepass. I completed in a single sitting on weekend.

Having said that, this book might not be a feel-good one. But it will not fail to impress you!


Rating
3/5


Thank you
Anirban Das, the author for contacting me and sending me a personally signed copy. Congrats for the book and all the best for more to come!

Some quotes that stole my heart
© When you give someone the power to make you laugh, cry, sad, angry, you can say with certainty that you are in love. Of course, this holds true for you only, not necessarily your counterpart.

© Whatever happens in life, happens for a reason. But not everything in life that happens, happens for the best. We just choose to brainwash ourselves, thinking it is so.

© Life’s journey is am outcome of the choices made, and there is always a choice. A decision not taken is also a decision. And the role of luck should never be underestimated.
Profile Image for Ash.
1,097 reviews129 followers
February 16, 2015
3.5 stars
If you are looking for a quick read, then this would be a good book to pick. Like the blurb says, it is indeed a simple story and narrated in simple language. It is a fun story and I liked the writing style of the author. The story is about the life of a workaholic Kunal Roy. Kunal Roy had planned everything in his life, but destiny had different plans for him. I liked the story as lot of melodrama was not there and the story moved forward quickly, which made it interesting. I was eager to know what would happen to Kunal. Kunal meets a young girl Shristi at work after his company gets acquired and that is where the story starts.

The book had some twists and turns that I did not expect. I particularly liked the ending as something totally unexpected happens there.
Romance kind of fills half of the book almost. What I felt was that the romance part of the story could have been reduced and some more funny incidents from work could have been added. if you like love stories, then you will definitely like this part of the book too. But I usually don't read romance, so it was something that I did not enjoy very much.

I also liked the way the story went back and forth in time. There are enough details about Kunal's past and we are not left wondering why his life was or wasn't perfect. I liked some of the witty sentences and also liked the footnotes on some pages. They were humorous.
This really made me smile:
Green building - Usually a description of a realty project comprising multiple buildings, with a couple of saplings near the entrance. The saplings need to be watered by the residents.

There were some typos in the book, which probably will get fixed in the next edition. I also noticed that the author kind of got influenced with Bollywood a lot. There are many references to Bollywood movies throughout the book. I was able to relate to them as I watch a lot of Bollywood movies. But then not everyone watches Bollywood movies. Also the book begins with a Bollywood-ish scene. I did not really like the way it started but once the story picked up, it was good.

Overall I enjoyed reading the book and because of the small size, it was a very quick read. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a light read.
Profile Image for Dipali.
56 reviews20 followers
March 23, 2014
A very interesting story, which once again makes you believe that destiny, is the great master to make us learn...

This is the debut novel by Anirban Das’s debut novel ‘Just kidding…Yours, Destiny’ it portrays the urban lifestyle of where characters seem quite believable just like in our day to day lives. The story is about Kunal, who is in his late thirties, been divorced two years back, working in a real estate company has a great career ahead. Kunal’s boring life chances when Shristi walks in his life as whiff of fresh air. Being with her brings positive changes in Kunal’s life. However due to his professional commitments he has to deal with some nasty land dealers.

The initial gruesome equation between Kunal and his boss Harry is something which all lived or faced some or the other time in our life so it helps readers to connect well. Chapter where author has mentioned about his college trip, his hunt for ideal life partner, his conversation with his cell mate in jail are narrated really well.

Towards the end story gradually turns into heart-rending love story, but there again author has something else to offer. Kunal’s various suicidal episodes and then his hit back on life in full spirits by winning dance completion is something very well mentioned, the climax was quite interesting with twists and turns. To unfold the same you need to read this book.

Now my Positive viewpoints:

The concept of the story is really something new and absorbing. This is a great achievement by the author for writing such a beautiful work of fiction. Even the climax of the story has been scripted well and leaves the readers for looking forward towards the sequel.

Some suggestive points:

Overall the book is good and very well expressed. However at some places the narration becomes to descriptive like initial chapter has too much of description about marketing strategy and other corporate stuff, similarly the mention of baba ji and bollywood tactics, could have been cut short by few. (Just a suggestion)

Final words:

Overall if asked I would say...this is a fabulous job done by Author (Anirban Das) … I would give 4 stars to this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Shree.
Author 2 books10 followers
April 27, 2014
Note : This Review was originally published @ Readers' Muse

Whenever an Indian writer approaches us for reviews we never say no. It’s my country and I wish to encourage writing in my country! Though there are a lot of wannabies inspired by a particular writer who according to me isn’t worth to be a literary inspiration, yet writing off young writers and being judgemental is not fair. Thus I decided to go ahead and pick this book.

The summary talks of making choices and destiny. Destiny has increasingly become every other writer’s choice of theme. Anirban’s book is no different.

So what really made the book stand out? Narration. That’s it. Just the narration with footnotes.

The ending was predictable after a certain part of the story, till that particular turning point I was expecting the typical Bollywood kind “All is well” climax. Then again, like every other writer who centres his/ her plot on destiny invariably go in for a “different” (read sad) ending unlike the B-Wood ending! This book is no different.

The characterisations were realistic to some extent! I loved Shristi’s characterisation. I’ve always sort of wanted to be that bold girl who could roam around in a Bullet (Someday I will for sure! Working on it tirelessly).

Thankfully the writing was at least clean; else I wouldn’t have been able to complete the book. The narration was good sans the overdose of drama that one normally finds in a typical “destiny” book. The one thing that certainly deserves a mention are the foot notes. They really made my day. They were point blank hilarious!

The other thing that certainly needs to be lauded is the cover art. It quite justifies that title of the book. Loved the vibrant Blue & Yellow colors.

Though the writer began well, he sort of messed up midway. It was almost like he was thoroughly lost and confused as to how to end the book.

Overall, for a neat attempt by a rookie who obviously needs to work on plotline cohesiveness though he sure is witty and humorous.

VERDICT: Just another book. Could be skipped or could be read. Go for it if you want to just laugh!

RATING: 3 on 5
Profile Image for Paromita Bardoloi.
Author 3 books22 followers
March 11, 2014
Anirban Das’s debut novel ‘Just kidding…Yours, Destiny’ is set in the urban settings with characters who are quite believable. If you have hit your twenties and been into the work sphere, it is very likely that you must have met someone like the protagonist ‘Kunal Roy.’

Kunal, is living the Indian dream where he has a great going career in a housing company. In his late thirties, he drives his own Merc. But sadly, he had to sign his divorce papers two years back. Through Kunal, Das touches upon the story of every so called eligible Indian middle class man, who makes it through hard work and education. Very hilariously he adds the great Indian marriage pressure which Kunal goes through, through all bride-hunting and zeroing on one.

There is also Shristi who adds to the love angle to the story, but there is more to her than a prize trophy. Kunal’s boss is quite believable with his dislike of Kunal (we have all met that one boss we just do not like). However all is not a walk in paradise, Kunal has to deal with some clients who are land-dealers who definitely make him sweat harder. However though Das, writes in a believable flow, it seems that when he tries to hit the Bollywood factor in his book, it takes the flow a little astray. He could have definitely done without the antics of Babaji and Jasmine.

But he still again manages to hold the flow as Kunal hits the rock bottom and finds a way through it all. It should be mentioned that the editing is crisp without any unnecessary descriptions to the sequences.

The language is simple and in no place Das has overdone with the flow of language and chapters. There is nothing heroic about Kunal or Shristi. They are people who walk in our daily life.
Pick this book, if you are travelling or have a weekend. It does not demand much time. I completed it in a day. An easy and interesting read something that you will enjoy reading. And yes! Read the closure to the book, definitely not a usual punch that you are used to. Das, definitely seems to have the knack of writing, his next work is something we need to wait and watch out for.
Profile Image for Daki.
8 reviews
April 24, 2019
I enjoyed the footnotes and the protagonist's embarrassing moments.This novel was a quick read and those fleeting moments of joy and adventure in the plot were exhilarating. Though I have mixed feelings about the ending,I recommend this book for the ones prefer light reading. Kudos to the author for capturing some realities of the Indian society.
Profile Image for Dhiraj Bharude.
60 reviews9 followers
July 15, 2016
Just Kidding... Yours, Destiny
by Anirban Das
paperback-238rs
The implied essence of the story is about making choices, their consequences and the role of destiny. The plot is a simple story, revolving around the complicated life of Kunal Roy. Ambitious Kunal is living the great Indian dream, having purchased a house in Mumbai, driving an expensive car and striving to earn pots of money. Having slogged for donkeys years in the same company, Kunal believes that he is a star employee in his company. He is determined to reach the top with a simple mantra - hard work and dedication. Kunals seemingly planned life and ambitions turn awry with the sudden acquisition of his company and an abrasive new boss who puts Kunal to the sword. Kunals life is further turned upside down with the entry of a company rookie, Shristi, compelling him to change his world view and his lifes priorities. Is Shristi for real or is she an illusion? And who is the real Kunal? Undergoing upheavals in both professional and personal life, Kunal looks to jettison his ambitions by embarking on a journey of self discovery in an attempt to regain his lost identity and a semblance of control. This book aspires to strike a chord with the readers, engage and entertain them. It has been written from the heart, in a manner, which is characteristic of the authors writing style. The story has been set in a typical Indian urban backdrop but the emotions enunciated, would transcend country barriers.
Profile Image for Bhavya.
Author 2 books8 followers
Read
July 22, 2016
The story, as the blurb says is engaging and unique and it flows through easily. Das writes about the life of a workaholic Kunal Roy. How destiny fools around with Kunal forms the essence of this story. Romance and office fun also finds a place in the book and the story goes back and forth in time but without confusing the reader. The story seems heavily influenced by Bollywood movies and there are many references to Hindi movies throughout the book. Leaving apart the opening incidents that might make it slightly filmy, there is nothing heroic about Kunal Roy. He could very well be the person working in your office.
The unique thing I found is the presence of footnotes in almost all the pages. They make for an interesting read. The writing style is engaging and the language is simple and easy to understand.
The next edition could do well by eliminating a few typos that have crept in here and there in the book.
On the whole, 'Just Kidding... Yours Destiny' by Anirban Das is a light breezy read that would keep you good company through a long journey.
Profile Image for Biswanath Banerjee.
152 reviews24 followers
October 5, 2015
All the thirty pairs of eyes are spotlighted around him. Even in the uncontrolled chill of the heavily air conditioned conference room inside-he just discovered that he is sweating profusely.
All is for a presentation what he thought is an absolute gem a few minutes back-now he just discovered it is worthless.
All is at stake-his decade old (more than that) to the company-his pride of being a genius of the industry-all!
A king of yesterday is now a mere beggar……what a reversal of fate!
Just kidding….Yours Destiny by Anirban Das is a hilarious account of complex but yet not so complex life of Kunal-the real estate genius. We have termed the fiction as hilarious –but that is mostly due to author’s natural talent of extracting laughter. There are funny moments in our protagonist’s life-no doubt, but his life has followed a sine curve-well, almost it- where a crest has almost immediately followed by a trough!

Full review at
https://jayasreesown.wordpress.com/20...
Profile Image for Sheel Singh.
1 review
April 14, 2015
Not so much of a fiction reader as I am, picked this book because Anirban Das Is a good friend and classmate. So here's an attempt to be as objective as possible - AD uses the circular style of telling the story and has copious doses of humor thrown in esp the wacky footnotes. who thinks of jazzing up footnotes?? - ah! I guess after poring over a zillion business cases and turning into a seasoned case writer himself the free spirit found its escape. I am definitely waiting for the sequel, trilogy, quadrology, syncology...
About the characters & story - does feel like a ride that alternates between a character that seems so damn real that you can completely relate to but in the next moment the dramatization (re:masala) reminds you its an imaginative narration.
One those books you will not lay down until completed !
Profile Image for Ravi Jain.
159 reviews21 followers
February 26, 2014
Full review -> http://www.bookgeeks.in/entries/humou...

The greatest prankster in the world is destiny or fate or karma. It always teases us, and never lets anything go according to plan; it is the greatest devotee of Murphy’s Law. When things seem to be going smooth and comfortably, destiny gets bored and takes its fun on us. It has a strange way of behaving – courteous at times, sadist at other times, and altogether indifferent sometimes. But the sure thing is that it never leaves us, it is our constant companion like a shadow under the sun, like the ‘hutch dog’; we cannot just wish it away. Anirban Das’s ‘Just Kidding… Yours, Destiny’ is a humorous take on the strange ways and behaviour of destiny.
3 reviews
September 20, 2015
Just Kidding,.. Yours, Destiny was a book I enjoyed thoroughly. I could relate to a lot in the book be it the girl-seeing ceremony or dealing with office politics- read insecure bosses. A light read, the book holds the promise of being made into a Bollywood flick.The witty footnotes were an added unique feature.. I woke up at 6 am on a Sunday morning to finish what I started on a Saturday afternoon (happily sacrificed my weekly siesta) Needless to say it was a fun read..I'm hoping there'll be a part 2.

I received the book as Goodreads giveaway.
1 review
September 6, 2015
Entertaining,humorous and relates to the average and not so average man of today!! After all we are all putty in the hands of destiny!! Love and work...two nouns that dominate most of our adult life.You can run, you can hide, but you cannot avoid destiny's hand in your life. This book is humorous and tragic yet not serious in its attempt to put on paper the trials and tribulations of Kunal Roy, the quintessential working class Indian man of today. Great insights into the real(pun intended!!) estate business and a quirky narration make this book a real page turner.
Profile Image for Indu.
9 reviews
September 21, 2015
**I got this book for free from the author as part of goodreads giveaway**
Well written debut novel.
The story is filled with the essence of love, friendship, humor, office culture, bollywood, flashbacks, Mumbai traffic, and of course destiny.
The extras and the hind-english translations are really good.
Profile Image for Parul Khare.
14 reviews1 follower
September 30, 2015
Now here is an author who has his own style and is not afraid to follow it. And this makes it a really enjoyable and interesting read. The character portrayal is fascinating and the situations sometimes are beautifully cruel.

This book might even prove a turning point for someone on the journey to find themselves.
(won in goodreads giveaway, and glad i did)
Profile Image for Rutuja Ramteke.
2,002 reviews100 followers
October 26, 2019
🌼Just Kidding...Your destiny! 🌼
Ambitious Kunal is living the great Indian dream, having purchased a house in Mumbai, driving an expensive car and striving to earn pots of money. Having slogged for donkey’s years in the same company, Kunal believes that he is a star employee in his company. He is determined to reach the top with a simple mantra - hard work and dedication.
Kunal’s seemingly planned life and ambitions turn awry with the sudden acquisition of his company and an abrasive new boss who puts Kunal to the sword. Kunal’s life is further turned upside down with the entry of a company rookie, Shristi. Undergoing upheavals in both professional and personal life, Kunal looks to jettison his ambitions by embarking on a journey of self discovery, in an attempt to regain his lost identity and a semblance of control.
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🌼Okay so, if you are tired of reading books which are too heavy to go with and are looking for something interesting, light, easy and funny then here it is. I am so glad that I completed this book in a single sitting, I definitely admire Anirban's wittiness towards the protagonist and plus the book was topped with a lot of moments which are sure to make you laugh and if not laugh then definitely smile, it was so easy breezy. The book is a unique story of this guy Kunal who is stru with his life at the moment and he is so screwed up and his destiny, fate making his fun in all possible ways. This book though is a fictional story but definitely it's so relatable!
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We too face this kind of unfavorable conditions in our life and it's quite common, the writing was very easy and nutritive, the cover could be better. But yeah, this is kind of a stress buster so I will definitely recommend it to everyone! Go for it.
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Rating: 4🌟
Profile Image for The Bookish Elf.
2,894 reviews452 followers
November 11, 2019
I am often optimistic when a description includes the words humorous, funny or in this case witty novel. The good, broad humor is exactly what struck my funny bone. Cinematically, there are some scenes which might even translate well as slapstick.

'Just Kidding... Yours, Destiny' is Anirban's debut book. The introduction suggests that it's a story of an ambitious guy named Kunal Roy whose peaceful professional and personal life drowns when a new boss arrives in his company and a new girl in his life.

Kunal doesn't seem to be very lucky. He has a job as an executive at HomeMakers. He's satisfied with his work until the day when a new boss, Harry Kapoor, arrives. He gets involved with a young girl, Srishti, who just joined the company. The situations became funnier and funnier to me as the plot went on. Kunal Roy lurches from one comic disaster to the next, and yet somehow it all comes right for him at the end - which of course is what we want for him.

'Just Kidding... Yours, Destiny' has a lot of the humor in the nastiness of the people and their interactions. People who are trying to be mean to others ending up looking like fools.

The book sustains a deftly calibrated mixture of Author Anirban's signature self-effacing humor and his knack for intelligent storytelling that buoys an otherwise tiresome and self-important account of Kunal Roy's rise and fall and rise. Author Anirban Das is apt to infuse his writing with adorable wit and a strong sense of understanding.

Very consistently amusing and highly enjoyable.
Profile Image for Solitude and  books.
1,176 reviews53 followers
October 25, 2019
The way of narration is really quirky and funny. If you are feeling down and need a light read that helps you uplight your mood check this book out. Author Anirban Das has mixed his story telling to put forward his thoughts in a tale that tells about the ordinary life of most of us but in a sarcastic way . Protagonists are ambitious , but again somehow getting rocked by the heavy waves of life by the boss ,or society and sometimes due to their own mind and heart . Day to day events at job  along with managing the up downs of emotions while understanding the other gender and your own feelings become sometimes too much  then comes the family and society while boating the sea of life when it always seems we can achieve more and more and time seems lesser than ever. What we portray and what we basically are sometimes come with a gap but finally understanding our own self is the key . The incidents are put forward in a giggle worthy manner having nice fast pace

. Character development was done nicely . There personalities are vividly described along with the side characters that add to the complexities and funny drama filled situations. I have read author's  short story collection book - Just kidding . Just like that this book is a good read when you feel like giving your mind a break after reading a lot of serious toned books that make you go into a cave of melancholy. It will motivate you but also it's like a Rom com , chic lit genre for beginners as well . 
Profile Image for Neha Bhatt.
70 reviews5 followers
June 7, 2020
Title - Just Kidding...Yours, Destiny
Author - Anirban Das
Pages - 200
Genre - Fiction
Price - ₹205 (MRP)
Publisher - Notion Press
Date Published - 18th January 2014
Format - Paperback

QOTD - Life Mein Thodisi Humour Ho Jaye - Anirban Das ❤ 

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If someone ask me which book I would recommend to the bookish fam during this Lockdown / Unlock period I would highly recommend Just Kidding...Yours, Destiny. 

Meet Kunal Roy aka Bhisma Pitamah of Home Makers. He has been working as the Head of Sales & Marketing for the last 14 years. He was living his dream life and satisfied with how everything was going. But one day Homemakers gets acquired by MPD (Mahadik Pannalal Dhariwal) group. With that enters Kunal's new boss Harry Singh who makes his life miserable everyday and Srishti, the new intern of the company with whom he falls in love with. 

Slowly they get close but Kunal has a past which he hasn't revel to Srishti. What was his past secret which changed his life? Will Srishti and Kunal get married? Will Harry and Kunal ever be in the same boat? Will Kunal be able to achieve his goals? Fasten your seat-belts and get ready to unfold the journey of Kunal which is filled with humor, love, self discovery and most important a destiny which will completely change his thinking, personality and his life forever.

The plot of this story is very engaging. There are many things I liked about this book. First of all the way Kunal and Srishti's character unfolded. It was delighting the way they met, the way they came close to each other and then the ending which I wasn't expecting. 

Secondly the foot notes, those were the highlight of the story. It helped a lot in understanding situations and they were hilarious. I really enjoyed reading them. Last but not the least the way Mumbai and Kolkata were described. It has been said through books we travel and yes I enjoyed the journey. I felt as if I was traveling along and experiencing everything. I felt happy after reading those chapters especially Mumbai because I too wish to visit Mumbai ones and yes the Vada Pao (do read the foot notes of this, it was epic) want to try them.

The ending especially the last 3 paragraphs of this book, I don't know should I laugh or be sad or be confused? Well the good news is a sequel will be coming soon so I am excited and eagerly waiting to know how Kunal's character will unfold and how his journey will continue.

I really liked the cover of this book. Very soothing and creative, describes Kunal's life perfectly. The language is very simple, it will keep you hooked till the end. The good part about the story is it motivates you and encourages you to follow your heart. Life can be complicated and it can bring your life to a cretin extend that you might want to give up but giving up is not an option we have to face our fears, our problems and go with flow. That’s how life goes. With a positive attitude and keeping your head up......LIVE ❤️ Recommended to everyone, a light read which everyone will enjoy reading till the end (I did) 😊❤️ 

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2 reviews
March 2, 2018
Dear Anirban,

I am a frequent traveler and also an avid reader. I typically do not go about posting a review about every book I read, but felt the urge to do so for yours.

I came across your book in a Club Mahindra resort. I mostly read books on religion, faith and biographies. The title of your book "Just Kidding - Yours Destiny" made me think its going to be a philosophical book so I took it for reading to my room. However I was surprised (and must admit quite pleasantly so) that it was a light, fun read. The wits of your writing held on to me and the anecdotal account kept it a fast read. I was astounded by the way you have entwined the philosophy of life in your story in a down to earth yet eloquent manner. Your subtle humor was also very enchanting.
This one I read from the resort's collection, but I plan to buy a copy for my son - I think he would also enjoy it :)

Warm regards,
Mrinal B
Profile Image for Arti Manekar.
89 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2019
I kinda liked that sky blue color of the book. And yes, that cartoonistic cover perfectly matches with the title. In a world full of depression, this book gives a chance to laugh. Ups and downs are part of life. We make plan, it fails, because destiny has its plans for us. Plot is interesting and it holds readers attraction. A page Turner book. Narration of the story is actually good and this is what makes the book different. The story was unpredictable till a point but later I found the end as predictable. It could be more interesting. Character development is realistic one. I loved the girl Shristi. A bold girl who drives bullet. Yay, I wish to drive bullet too.
The book motivates us to try to achieve our dreams.
It made me laugh and it will definitely made everyone laugh.

Lastly, I expect a better book from the author with a better plotline.
2 reviews
March 31, 2019
I must say this book is damn nice. It truly is... After a long time I'm reading something and I never expected it'll be this good! I read alot but there are very few writers in who Keeps me engaged in their books, and he is one of them. This book has a roller coaster ride of emotions as well as humour. Overall experience was great!
Profile Image for Nayana Dumbre.
169 reviews4 followers
October 3, 2020
This will go down as the worst book I’ve read in 2020. It’s been an absolutely disappointing experience reading this book...
(The book requires some serious proof reading & that’s not only English - even the few lines in Hindi need editing.)
2 reviews
March 7, 2020
A book which u can read over a cup of coffee or on a long wait for train or a flight or while travelling . Its a fun book to read. Just the book will make u kill the time...!! I loved it..
11 reviews
February 2, 2021
This book is everything but Humourous which I was looking for.
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