“It is a fallacy to think that the raison d'être of genre novels is restricted to cheap thrills. When you think about people like Raymond Chandler, Agatha Christie or Stephen King, you’re dealing with plot-driven fiction that – over and above its obvious strengths like pace and the ability to hold your attention – tells you something about the human condition, asks difficult questions and initiates a conversation about vital issues. Unfortunately, genre fiction of this calibre is a rarity in India, no thanks to Monsieur Bhagat and Herr Ravinder Singh. Into this void steps Aditya Kripalani with his third book, Tikli and Laxmi Bomb, a remarkably sensitive novel about two Mumbai prostitutes who start a cooperative of sorts to protect the interests of their fellow sex workers. Tikli and Laxmi Bomb is neither wish fulfilment, feel-good literature nor a violence-fuelled revenge story, although it flirts briefly with the notion of being both, at various points in the book. Thankfully, it sticks to what it is at its heart: a gripping, no-holds-barred realist novel. As I mentioned earlier in this review, it is rare to see genre fiction of this calibre coming out of India. And although this book only has a tangential connection to his earlier novels (Nikita, the protagonist of Front Seat and Back Seat, is name-checked in a scene towards the end of the book), it is what is often referred to as a “spiritual sequel”. Tikli and Laxmi Bomb, then, completes a formidable, intensely cinematic troika for Kripalani. Read it to experience the agony and the ecstasy of Mumbai.”
Avid reader. Film student from FTII, Pune. Novelist. Screenwriter. Copywriter. Musican. Lyricist. Writing is the answer to my life. After being enthralled since childhood by the written word at the age of 22 I ended up deciding to write for life. It's been 12 years since and I still feel as strongly for the process and journey of writing long fiction.
Quote for this Book :- The Only Thing that the society has done for them(sex workers) is to label them as "prohibited".
My Views :-
In our Country, where every news is made a breaking news, where law & orders are pure myth and scamp are for channel TRP's than why the dark side of our so called "modern" society has not been exposed yet ??
In this male-chauvinist society where women are forced to become salves of this insane patriarchy, in these ongoing situations this book is a sarcastic slap to all those narrow-minds who think that women aren't important part of this society.
This book keeps revolving around Tikli & Laxmi and their gang who are sex workers by profession...From Tikli's sparking & bold trait to Laxmi's flare-up trait,From Mhatre's evil aspect to Shinde's greediness, From Those peanut farts to those non-bearable snores,From Sharanya's - Tsamchoe's supportiveness to Mangatram & Manda's creepiness , From the Revolution to the sacrifices...this is a thought-provoking read.
I love reading fiction and fantasy books, some of my favorite authors in today's time are Nalini Singh and Nora Roberts. For me reading is about the visual journey that the author can take you on, describing the scents and sounds of what's happening to their characters. Aditya's book, Tikli & Laxmi Bomb is brilliant at precisely that. First off, this is his first book that I've read so i can't comment on how it's written in comparison to the first two, except to say that it's not a sequel and hence can be picked up as a standalone (though I am going to read the first two now so you might be better off grabbing all three at once!).
The story is set in Bombay, he provides a very valid reason in the book to why one can accept the name Mumbai, while I conceptually agree, I'm still having a hard time saying Mumbai. Anyway, the story is set in the city that's home to me. It's real, real because he references things and places that are there today, like a comment about the metro train compartment getting soaked in the rains last year (it actually happened last year!), the restaurants, the by-lanes, the landmarks... if you've lived in Bombay you are going to see the visual map in your head and smile about the references, if you haven't this book will make the city real for you in a way that very few books can. Shantaram, by Gregory David Roberts, is the only other one where this is possible.
The city is one of the three protagonists in the book, along with Putul (Tikli) and Laxmi. Putul and Laxmi are two sex-workers in a country where their profession is very well known but not recognized legally. This is a story about how they fight back to bring some dignity and control in their own lives. Their lives where they make their earnings selling their bodies, but have to shell it out to a retinue of men for the semblance of safety which can be withdrawn at any time according to their whims and fancies.
Having lived in Bombay, I know that these women exist, I've probably wondered a few times about their lives, but I have no real idea of how their lives are led. In a world where we talk about equality of rights in the workplace, this is one workplace where it is never going to be equal because of the people who are running the show, and this book shows a path which seem believable if only the women could come together and stand for it. This is a fast-paced story that you won't want to keep down. Literally speaking, it released two days ago, and once I started reading it, I couldn't keep it down!
Thanks for the ride Aditya! This was brilliant! :)
Having read Aditya Kripalani's first two books (Front Seat and Back Seat), this is definitely his best work to date. The book starts off with Laxmi, a 40 year old experienced sex worker faced with the daunting task of educating Tikli, a wilful 22 year old from Bangladesh on the ropes of the Mumbai sex trade. Despite their conflicting personalities, a series of unfortunate circumstances sees them casting aside their differences to work towards a common goal. A true page turner from the start to end, I was plunged into the lives of Laxmi and Tikli as they navigate through the centuries old patriarchy system to create a new world - where patriarchy is non-existent.
If you haven't read an Aditya Kripalani book, you need to start with this one. An absolutely brilliant story of two young women paving their own path in a world dominated by men, Tikli & Laxmi Bomb is an amazing ride. By the end of this book, you'll feel like you know these two women personally. Bravo to the author on yet another brilliant book.
I've always felt this but it's important to say it ... Aditya Kripalani is an artiste with words; one of the best storytellers I have ever come across. His uncanny ability to put into language the deepest thoughts, urges and instincts of female protagonists is a quality that never fails to surprise and amaze me. Characterisation, plot, story, all are brought out so beautifully in his wonderfully realistic reflection of Mumbai as we love it, hate it, and know it. Can't help but come back to his books again and again. This one too is definitely a must not miss!
Bitter sweet in its own way, the book is a journey of how main protagonists fight the odds and come out victorious. Haven't read Aditya's earlier work, but this is a fine book in the current Indian fiction scene.
"To Hell With Patriarchy" - love this !! I read Tikli & Laxmi Bomb in one go and loved it thoroughly . The characters stayed with me for quite sometime even after I finished reading as this subject is very close to my heart. It is such a gripping story and has such a good pace that I was not able to keep in down . The concept is so unique that one really wants to know what’s going to happen next and how the story is going to unfold . This has been the unique style of Aditya Kripalani’s writing . All his novels have this ability to keep the reader glued to their seats as there is a turn of events and surprises as one reads through the pages . The description of each character as well as the surroundings is so amazing that while your reading you totally get transported into that world . What I personally loved about ‘Tikli & Laxmi Bomb’ is the way the relationship between Putul & Laxmi has been shown to grow and has such a lovely flavor of liking, hatred, bonding, jealously, irritation, affection all together. The way the bond develops between all the women is so intriguing and that is clearly the only way women can stand up against patriarchy and bring about some change , however small it may be and Aditya has been able to do complete justice to this . The subject Aditya has chosen for this book is an extremely sensitive one and its commendable how he has been able to bring about an unthinkable twist to the trade and still keep the sensitivity intact. Not only the two key protagonist but all of his characters in the story have a very important role to play to make this story what it is and he has carved them out so well. All of Aditya’s books have had extremely strong women protagonists and he is able to get the readers so involved in the story that one really is able to relate to them and feel like we are a part of their journey, feel their pain , understand their struggles, smile in their happiness. Aditya Kripalani has clearly developed a niche of his own with his style of writing and the subjects he chooses . He also has an extremely clear vision of how he plans the cover of each book and seems to exactly know what message he wants to give from the book cover . All his books covers are hence so unique and interesting. All in all this is a very different story and a must read for all who like stories with some meaning and feeling . Am sure this story will stay on with you for a long time even after you finish reading it . KUDOS ADITYA KRIPALANI for yet another BEST SELLER in the making . All the best !!
Truth be told , I received this book as a review copy and wrapped it up in a single sitting . Tikli & Laxmi Bomb is the third book by author Aditya Kriplani begins with the Laxmi , who's in her 40s , as the lead sexworker in S.V.Road , Mumbai who's considered as a veteran in her profession . She wear loose shirt and skirt , drink Old Monk , write hindi songs and is a victim of Patriarchy However one day Mhatre , Laxmi's boss , hop in with Putul . Putul is portrayed as a young Bangladeshi prostitute , rebellious in nature and daring enough to do act as her heart say , wears high heels and maintain long polished nails .After Putul's entry in the dark world , events turned into a manner that Putul and Laxmi ended up forming an independent system of sexworkers which comes out as a competition with the one they're associated with . Name of the Book ' Tikli & Laxmi Bomb ' is adopted from its protagonists . Putul , 'cause of his rebillious nature got the name ' Tikli ' ~ a firecracker that constantly goes boon , boon , boon and 'Laxmi Bomb ' is named after Laxmi ,'cause she's like a big bomb which in case blast could envelope astronomical damage . Beside Main Protagonist , Author has also added side characters which makes the read more crispy . A.T. ~ Local Security of Mathre's Girls Squad , is a dark-skinned Maharashtrian boy who could have easily passed of Maharashtrian version of Enrique Iglesias and owns an autorickshaw with a disco ball hanging from the ceiling of the vehicle . Mangatram , owner of chai-coffee-cigrettewala who used to sell all of the items as mentioned in his shop's name and later turned out to be a free-publicity-fellow of Tikli & Laxmi Gang .Tsamchoe & Sharanya are also prostitutes who devote their loyalty to Tikli & Laxmi .Mathre , Morey and Shindey are portrayed as the evil throughout the reading , through which author consistently try to amplify the message that there exist men who try to control the lives of women .
Fav. Moment :
# Tikli's Ideology is the backbone of the plot . # Tikli's gelling with Laxmi . # When Laxmi runs out of Police Station and stumble into A.C.P . # Tikli's masterplan to establish their own kingdom .
Negative : # Characters aren't defined in depth . # How could Laxmi who felt the weight of her body run so long ?
The revolution this book starts, will definitely go a long way. It is so nicely described that at every incident I got a feeling as if I am one of the girls, a woman who also is a member of the Tikli and Lakshmi Bomb Gang, i had tears in my eyes when I read Sharanya's incident. I was literally feeling the pain.
The 2 main characters are so strong that I gained strength from their strength. It is not only about this set of people that suffer with overpowering of men, society in general has been like this for so long. This story puts efforts to bring the change in thinking of men and women too, you have nicely put that there are so many women in trade. And Yes, the chaos this story brings in the smooth business of existing players, is the fact that, we, as human beings are so settled in our comfort zones, that anything different or new challenges, bring a lot of disturbance. On this point, 'Lakshmi', reacts differently at the beginning but in long term view, she accepts the change and in fact later drives the revolution.
Really, I felt an urge to see something like this happening in real. The world would definitely be a better place to Live !!
Thanks for working for the cause in form of spreading awareness by writing.
Aditya Kripalani thank you for having us as part of "Tikli & Laxmi Bomb" film launch last night. Was Super excited to finally get my copy of all three of your books last night. Just finished reading 'Tikli & Laxmi Bomb'. Firstly thank you for being a #HeForShe. Raising awareness for women's empowerment against men, systems and other women. I am not easily engaged by fiction but your writing is full of facts, real raw feelings, knowledge, meaning and value of non fiction. I was stirred with emotions of sadness, angst, anger, pain, helplessness, belonging, hope and urgency as the characters and story unfolded. Your analogy of Mumbai not as a city but as a woman; a Mother, stirred my soul. I fell in love with a city I have visited rarely. I was left feeling not just a connection with the women, who Society often shuns, but also a city I often avoided. I absolutely love love love the song Mumbai Devi. May you win many accolades not just for the movie, but I can see you receiving a Padmashree award for this song. Thank you for this amazing work and congratulations. Kudos to your amazing talent, bravery, time efficiency, hard work and heart. Kudos to your Wife for all her support, belief and encouragement. And kudos to your family for your values and strength.
Kudos to Aditya Kripalani for having penned down his spirit into his newest book -Tikli & Laxmi Bomb. I started the book more out of curiosity about the author and his craft, but was pleasantly surprised to be led into the deep and dark secrets of manic Mumbai! Aditya your passion for magical Mumbai, and it's mysteries is reflected in your writing! I particularly enjoyed: the colourful language; the strength of character portrayed by your female protagonist and their business sense (it would put many a clever business men to shame). Here's wishing you all the success
-- ♀️Hola bookstagrammers! How about a book that talks about the daily lives of prostitutes, how the sex trade works, and what happens when the women rebel? -- ♀️In the male chauvinistic society, where women are mistreated and outweighed, this book is a tight slap to those pea-brained people who think they rule this world! Now coming to the story, it revolves around Tikli, Laxmi, and their gang of sex workers. Laxmi is a 40-year-old experienced worker, while Tikli is a wilful 22-year-old, assigned to Lakxmi to teach her the ropes of the sex trade. The story is set in Mumbai, in the narrow slums where the sex trade flourishes. Prostitution is a well-known profession, yet not considered legal in our country. Despite knowing they do not even legally exist, they decide to take matters into their own hands, form their own work system, and earn more without paying too much money to the cops and their district collector. -- ♀️ The story is about how Laxmi, Tikli and her gang fight back skilfully to bring some dignity and control into their lives and profession. They live their life selling their bodies, but have to shell out most of their earnings to men who promise their safety, which is often withdrawn as per their whims and fancies! -- ♀️I haven't read the author's previous two works, but I'm definitely going to read them after reading this one. His writing made me sympathize with Laxmi and Tikli, cry at Sharanya's fate, felt my anger rising up when Mhatre beat them up! -- ♀️ "To hell with patriarchy!" An absolutely brilliant tale of two women paving their own path in a world dominated by men! Hooked from start to finish, I was pulled headlong into their lives as they navigate through the centuries-old patriarchal system to create a new world — where patriarchy is almost non-existent!
The story is of Tikli and Laxmi Bomb who are sex workers in the city of Mumbai, who are under the pimp Mahtre. They are getting paid very little after giving to all middlemen and still, there is no protection or safety for any of the girls. The newcomer Putul(Tkli) is so rebellious as everyone who is a middleman is getting money and still, they are trying to abuse them. So Tikli and Laxmi started a gang and started their own group to work and ensure their safety and they faced a lot and a lot of troubles.
Everyone has self-respect values, don't disrespect and abuse them based on their profession. I really felt sad for Sharanya, Tikli, and Laxmi and all their girls for their fate. Everything went after their cooperation but things change when the situation and words used to abuse and provoke a person.
The struggles of the people who are never considered as part of the society who somehow are sacrificing their body and soul and living a life of guiltiness that saves many other women's lives and many relationships indirectly. You can feel their struggles by reading the story.
To Hell with Patriarchy..... started in historical India with the concept of Devdasis and still a dark side of the nation, where The Blind Lady :our legal system is BLIND for so many decades and thats what the story line portrays.
Crisp and beautifully written. The relationship between two women and how it matures even though the characters are way different than each other. The parasitic men who engulfs the income by power and so called Manly Strength. The devastating handshake between the legal bodies and the criminals which leads to the end of the Women lead movement. The entire journey though a roller coaster ride glues you to the end of the book.
Though there were too many characters for a single seat read but each characters were not redundant and each one had a reason which gave the story a new meaning.
One time read ... may feature into a movie with Social Cause. Kudos to the Author!!
A look into sex trade, the helplessness the women in it feel and the struggles they face as they live each day, how patriarchy employs every tactic to keep its head high. The book follows Tikli and Laxmi Bomb, the rebel in Tikli and reluctant yet later full participant Laxmi and their gang on their decision to live their life on their terms. An otherwise great book, giving 4 stars for the slight bollywoody filmi cliche creeping up here and there, but guess thats unavoidable.
What happens when women realise their power and make their vulnerability their strength? What happens when they rise above ego, fear, insecurities, patriarchy, male chauvinism, narrow mindedness of the world? This book is the answer to see these amazingly courageous women take on their journey for a better world and a dignified life not for others but themselves. Read the book to understand how these women give a fuck and hit the path of success.
Tikli & Lakshmi Bomb is an explosive and fast-paced story about rebellion, revolution and redemption! The dazzle and glitz of Mumbai- ‘The City of Dreams’ and also ‘The City of Stories’ that acts as a façade for the lives lived in its gritty underbelly.
Tikli and Lakshhmi Bomb is a tour de force of dramatic reality, powered by two remarkable characters- Lakshmi; the Old Monk loving, veteran sex worker, who has become a victim of patriarchy and Putul A.K.A Tikli; the newbie, with a fiery and rebellious personality, who’s daring enough to do as her heart desires- something that’s looked down upon in Indian society.
But Tikli is exactly what this male-dominated society needs, a hard slap of reality, a rebellion, not just for the heck of it, but to bring about a change for good. Together this dynamic duo start their own much-needed revolution, to change the system and not become victims of it, like the hundreds of girls shoved into the sex trade each year in India. Eventually, leading to redemption.
Aditya has managed to write a story so gripping, so realistic and so poignant, that there’s just one way to describe it- Phenomenal!
Go grab your copy now!
P.S: I really do hope they make a movie on this book. It’ll be a Blockbuster for sure!