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Terminal 3: A Graphic Novel Set in Kashmir
It's August 2019 and Khwab Nazir is waiting to board the plane at Terminal 3 of New Delhi International Airport. Set to represent India at an international jiu-jitsu tournament, Khwab nervously looks towards her unknown future. She also reflects on her complicated past-of growing up against the insurmountable difficulties of life in Kashmir.
Between happiness and emptiness, desire and grief, penance and peace, Khwab has endured. She has a dream that life will be a paradise, one day. Breathing against the backdrop of conflict, Terminal 3, is the story of the everyday people striving to live their dreams in the Valley.
Between happiness and emptiness, desire and grief, penance and peace, Khwab has endured. She has a dream that life will be a paradise, one day. Breathing against the backdrop of conflict, Terminal 3, is the story of the everyday people striving to live their dreams in the Valley.
- GenresGraphic NovelsIndia
104 pages, Paperback
Published April 17, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 2, 2023
I thought I would enjoy this a little more than I did, but when I say enjoy for a book seeped in dreariness, darkness, but also in search of freedom and light, I mean it in the sense of what it has to offer, and where it stands on that scale. The idea of a graphic novel set in Kashmir is interesting - you know that the scars of trauma will have to come on the fore and will make you feel so much. But what if as a reader, the book doesn't make you feel?
I will be honest. I tried liking this book, and I liked it. However, I also tried loving it, and it just wouldn't happen. The story of Khwab living in the valley of fear and conflict, aspiring to be a sportsperson, aspiring to be so much more did strike a chord, but it did not manage to make me connect with any of the characters - her parents and their dilemma of letting their child go to a different land didn't hit any nerve, her friend Noor and their bond to some extent did manage to elicit some emotion from me but that was that, and nothing before or after.
Khwab’s story is there but not detailed. Debasmita’s illustrations and the typography used are stunning, linear, and depict a lot of the inner turmoil that Khwab goes through. The suspense element with reference to her friend Noor stays and even got me intrigued. The friendship between Khwab and Noor is one of the things about this graphic novel that is most earnestly and beautifully portrayed.
I understand this book was made for a younger audience, and it will serve the purpose of educating, making them aware of what’s going on in the Kashmir valley, and to empathize with a young person’s dreams amidst all of this quite well, however, objectively for me as a reader, this one didn’t work the way I thought it would.
I will be honest. I tried liking this book, and I liked it. However, I also tried loving it, and it just wouldn't happen. The story of Khwab living in the valley of fear and conflict, aspiring to be a sportsperson, aspiring to be so much more did strike a chord, but it did not manage to make me connect with any of the characters - her parents and their dilemma of letting their child go to a different land didn't hit any nerve, her friend Noor and their bond to some extent did manage to elicit some emotion from me but that was that, and nothing before or after.
Khwab’s story is there but not detailed. Debasmita’s illustrations and the typography used are stunning, linear, and depict a lot of the inner turmoil that Khwab goes through. The suspense element with reference to her friend Noor stays and even got me intrigued. The friendship between Khwab and Noor is one of the things about this graphic novel that is most earnestly and beautifully portrayed.
I understand this book was made for a younger audience, and it will serve the purpose of educating, making them aware of what’s going on in the Kashmir valley, and to empathize with a young person’s dreams amidst all of this quite well, however, objectively for me as a reader, this one didn’t work the way I thought it would.
April 10, 2023
absolutely stunning artwork and a cute hopeful story. more thoughts to come soon in written form, but you can hear my thoughts in a vlog i put up : https://youtu.be/Zmsb0b2uZ_g (28:25 onwards)
November 30, 2023
loved the story and the artwork style!
April 30, 2023
When I read about the graphic novel which traces the story of a young Kasmiri sportswoman, I immediately pre- ordered it because the subject both fascinate me.
Told in parallel timelines- August 2019 where the protagonist, Khwab, is waiting at Delhi airport to board a flight to participate in an international tornament, and 2 years earlier while she starts learning jujitsu in Kashmir, the story explores life in the Army occupied state, the dreams and aspirations of Khwab and her family, the friendship between Khwab and Noor, and the mental battles that we all face.
However, given the scope, the book could have done much more. There were musings on the dreams and the power of the mind, but neither was explored in depth. August 2019 marked a watershed in Kashmir, but while the date was repeatedly mentioned nothing more was said. Among the character, it was the relatively minor character of the nosey aunt who was only worried about keeping Khwab in line so she could be married, which was best depicted. The rest came out as unidimensional people with their motivating not well defined.
I am hoping some of these issues will be covered in the sequel.
I loved the pictures, particularly the muted palette which captured the atmosphere well. Khwab's koel lined eyes will continue to haunt.
Told in parallel timelines- August 2019 where the protagonist, Khwab, is waiting at Delhi airport to board a flight to participate in an international tornament, and 2 years earlier while she starts learning jujitsu in Kashmir, the story explores life in the Army occupied state, the dreams and aspirations of Khwab and her family, the friendship between Khwab and Noor, and the mental battles that we all face.
However, given the scope, the book could have done much more. There were musings on the dreams and the power of the mind, but neither was explored in depth. August 2019 marked a watershed in Kashmir, but while the date was repeatedly mentioned nothing more was said. Among the character, it was the relatively minor character of the nosey aunt who was only worried about keeping Khwab in line so she could be married, which was best depicted. The rest came out as unidimensional people with their motivating not well defined.
I am hoping some of these issues will be covered in the sequel.
I loved the pictures, particularly the muted palette which captured the atmosphere well. Khwab's koel lined eyes will continue to haunt.
May 9, 2023
Terminal 3 - A Graphic Novel by Deasmita Dasgupta
.
Khwab is a growing young lady in Kashmir valley, leading a life of fighting stigmas and trying to find freedom - when her football playing stamina lands her in the eyes of Omar. Omar is the new trainer in her school, who introduces her to a rare but powerful form of martial arts jiu-jitsu.
.
Khwab' s Abba approves being a national player himself, but obviously not her amma, under the influence of Khadija Khala that is.
.
The friendship between Khwab and Noor I think is the top highlight in this book. The way they are each other's support, I should say more Noor to Khwab, being the brazen one, is a relationship to be remembered for a long time..
.
It is not easy for a girl to be a martial artist in our entire country itself, and to top it all, Kashmir, the exquisite state with natural beauty but shrouded by darkness of strife between humans makes it an insurmountable task. Support even if gathered, funds are tough to come by. Omar starts a crowd funding link to get Khwab sponsorship into the International Competition.
.
Noor introduces Khwab to Yusuf, they are in love but the fate of both Noor's love story and life story seems to be blown out in a flash due to the situation in Kashmir. Khwab breaks her arm too, making her practice difficult!
.
But she comes back and she thinks back on all of this and of the love letters exchanged between Noor and Yusuf sitting at Terminal 3, Delhi waiting to go to San Francisco, representing her country Internationally.
.
This is an extremely well illustrated tale of determination, friendship, love and loss from Kashmir that will be inspirational for young readers! The use of limited colors makes the graphics attractive too.
.
Khwab is a growing young lady in Kashmir valley, leading a life of fighting stigmas and trying to find freedom - when her football playing stamina lands her in the eyes of Omar. Omar is the new trainer in her school, who introduces her to a rare but powerful form of martial arts jiu-jitsu.
.
Khwab' s Abba approves being a national player himself, but obviously not her amma, under the influence of Khadija Khala that is.
.
The friendship between Khwab and Noor I think is the top highlight in this book. The way they are each other's support, I should say more Noor to Khwab, being the brazen one, is a relationship to be remembered for a long time..
.
It is not easy for a girl to be a martial artist in our entire country itself, and to top it all, Kashmir, the exquisite state with natural beauty but shrouded by darkness of strife between humans makes it an insurmountable task. Support even if gathered, funds are tough to come by. Omar starts a crowd funding link to get Khwab sponsorship into the International Competition.
.
Noor introduces Khwab to Yusuf, they are in love but the fate of both Noor's love story and life story seems to be blown out in a flash due to the situation in Kashmir. Khwab breaks her arm too, making her practice difficult!
.
But she comes back and she thinks back on all of this and of the love letters exchanged between Noor and Yusuf sitting at Terminal 3, Delhi waiting to go to San Francisco, representing her country Internationally.
.
This is an extremely well illustrated tale of determination, friendship, love and loss from Kashmir that will be inspirational for young readers! The use of limited colors makes the graphics attractive too.
June 24, 2023
Khwab, is a young Kashmiri teen who wants to make big in sports. A footballer from childhood tries her luck in ju-jitsu and Terminal 3 is sort of a memorabilia of her struggle. Her best friend is Noor who is hopelessly romantic and keeps supporting Khwab throughout. Khwab thinks and recalls her days in the valley while waiting at the terminal 3 of Delhi International Airport.
The Kashmir crisis is there and is glaring high and low in the book and gives a quick glance at the commoners' everyday struggle. But, there's no political colour, which is a relief.
Terminal 3 tried hard. Too much happened but nothing concrete accumulates finally. Although written in an easy language, the characters didn't get their due time to bloom well, I feel pity for Noor and Yusuf especially. They deserved a little more of pages filled with art to depict the individual character arcs. I really tried to feel akin with the characters but couldn't resonate well due to the rushed effect.
The thing that stands out is the graphic illustrations. The minute details haven't been missed by the author. The colour scheme is brilliant especially the detailing of the hijabs are genuinely good.
It can be a quick and breezy read for the beginners and young readers.
Thank you @penguinindia for sending me this #reviewcopy
The Kashmir crisis is there and is glaring high and low in the book and gives a quick glance at the commoners' everyday struggle. But, there's no political colour, which is a relief.
Terminal 3 tried hard. Too much happened but nothing concrete accumulates finally. Although written in an easy language, the characters didn't get their due time to bloom well, I feel pity for Noor and Yusuf especially. They deserved a little more of pages filled with art to depict the individual character arcs. I really tried to feel akin with the characters but couldn't resonate well due to the rushed effect.
The thing that stands out is the graphic illustrations. The minute details haven't been missed by the author. The colour scheme is brilliant especially the detailing of the hijabs are genuinely good.
It can be a quick and breezy read for the beginners and young readers.
Thank you @penguinindia for sending me this #reviewcopy
April 27, 2023
bookhoarderreviews
This graphic novel has so many beautiful little stories woven together to form the bigger story of Khwab, a Sportswoman from the Kashmir valley. There is definitely the story of Khwab's courage and determination despite all odds and difficult circumstances but there's also a beautiful love story between her best friend Noor and a boy she meets. There is also the story of friendship between Khwab and Noor whose bond is so strong that nothing can break it. It is commendable how these different stories come together to form Khwab's story of success.
The story runs in two parallel timelines, one where Khwab is waiting at Terminal 3 to board her flight and the other about the incidents of the past which have shaped her present and will have an effect on her future.
The story is so wholesome with elements of friendship, love, parenting and the life of sportspersons. There's also a little element of suspense in the story.
The language is simple and easy to understand for young adult readers. The illustrations complement the story very well. The story is extremely inspiring and I highly recommend this one for all YA readers.
This graphic novel has so many beautiful little stories woven together to form the bigger story of Khwab, a Sportswoman from the Kashmir valley. There is definitely the story of Khwab's courage and determination despite all odds and difficult circumstances but there's also a beautiful love story between her best friend Noor and a boy she meets. There is also the story of friendship between Khwab and Noor whose bond is so strong that nothing can break it. It is commendable how these different stories come together to form Khwab's story of success.
The story runs in two parallel timelines, one where Khwab is waiting at Terminal 3 to board her flight and the other about the incidents of the past which have shaped her present and will have an effect on her future.
The story is so wholesome with elements of friendship, love, parenting and the life of sportspersons. There's also a little element of suspense in the story.
The language is simple and easy to understand for young adult readers. The illustrations complement the story very well. The story is extremely inspiring and I highly recommend this one for all YA readers.
April 15, 2023
The prospect of reading a graphic novel based in Kashmir exhilarated me . The starting was kinda good but not extraordinary! It was a decent story with beautiful illustrations , about Khawab who aspired to be a sportsperson despite the hardship that comes from living in the valley . I tried to feel something or get connected to the characters but it felt flat and lacks to connect to readers emotionally. And as for the bit of suspense we got to see was the only highlight of the book that kept me going. It is a story with good message specially for young readers , i don't think it was for me tho safe to say below 18😂.
May 3, 2024
The art is unlike anything else on the shelves, but that cannot compensate for the detachment and a story with no engagement.
July 3, 2023
~ ख़्वाब का ख़्वाब ~
Khwab is a young girl in the valley of Kashmir brewing dreams of becoming an Jiu Jitsu athlete when the city is simmering with violence and upheaval. Terminal 3 is a gaze at the life Khwab has in the valley. What people endure, their complicated past and the cost they pay living there.
There is a beautiful bond of friendship that Khwab and Noor share. She is the one that gives fuel to Khwab's wings. It was heart-warming to see their relationship and the little twist that comes towards the end broke my heart to pieces. With her father's support, her mother's hesitation, coach Omar's encouragement and blind belief of her friend Noor, we see Khwab carrying all of that and bloom with each turning page. All of that comes with stunning artwork that @debasmitadasgupta has managed to create.
Terminal 3 makes me think of all the dreams that are crushed, stepped on or get lost in Kashmir. There are many Khwab in Kashmir, I hope this book makes people in the valley see a glimmer of hope and for those of us not there, it is a reminder to not give up on chasing dreams. We must take inspiration from not just Khwab but Noor, young lover Yusuf, coach Omar too.
I do feel that the book had potential for something more detailed and that is the reason it might not connect with some of the adult readers. Meanwhile, as it is intended for the younger audience, I appreciate its simple telling and linear narrative.
Khwab is a young girl in the valley of Kashmir brewing dreams of becoming an Jiu Jitsu athlete when the city is simmering with violence and upheaval. Terminal 3 is a gaze at the life Khwab has in the valley. What people endure, their complicated past and the cost they pay living there.
There is a beautiful bond of friendship that Khwab and Noor share. She is the one that gives fuel to Khwab's wings. It was heart-warming to see their relationship and the little twist that comes towards the end broke my heart to pieces. With her father's support, her mother's hesitation, coach Omar's encouragement and blind belief of her friend Noor, we see Khwab carrying all of that and bloom with each turning page. All of that comes with stunning artwork that @debasmitadasgupta has managed to create.
Terminal 3 makes me think of all the dreams that are crushed, stepped on or get lost in Kashmir. There are many Khwab in Kashmir, I hope this book makes people in the valley see a glimmer of hope and for those of us not there, it is a reminder to not give up on chasing dreams. We must take inspiration from not just Khwab but Noor, young lover Yusuf, coach Omar too.
I do feel that the book had potential for something more detailed and that is the reason it might not connect with some of the adult readers. Meanwhile, as it is intended for the younger audience, I appreciate its simple telling and linear narrative.
April 21, 2023
Khwab Nazir's little dreams as she grows up in the land of conflict.
Terminal 3 by Debasmita Dasgupta, a graphic novel based in Kashmir depicts the story of a Muslim girl Khwab who has grown up in Kashmir, in the midst of the storm that has been brewing for decades. She has a little dream of getting into sports and honestly, the people of Kashmir anyway do not dream much. It gets difficult to dream when you breathe the air that changes radically. There's a range of Muslim characters here like Noor who is Khwab's friend, Yusuf the young lover who is into shayaris, Omar who is Khwab's trainer, and a relative of Khwab's whom she finds poking her nose (the relative is a conservative woman) in every step she takes in her life. The story goes back and forth between 2017-19 which means, yes, the rising tension in the years prior to the abrogation of Article 370 and 2019 August itself has been used as a backdrop.
What I like about Terminal 3 is that it brings out the humane side of the stories revolving around the people of Kashmir. It does use the politics of Kashmir as a backdrop and does not really get into the reds or the greens or the saffron or the usual nationalist tones that movies or books based on Kashmir take. When we talk about Kashmir - it's a land of conflict & chaos and at her center lie the people of Kashmir, who have been bruised by the ever changing wind & the weather of Kashmir, and yet, they remain resilient, almost like a Oak tree in a storm that bends but does not break. These are the stories of Kashmir and her common people that need to be told, I believe.
Absolutely loved the illustrations and the color contrasts used through this graphic novel, Khwab and Noor's look in the Hijab was so pleasant,
"I’ve based my character on visuals of school-going Kashmiri girls. They are in hijab—it’s their choice." says the author in an interview. As I said initially, Khwab's story has been wholesomely depicted.
Terminal 3 by Debasmita Dasgupta, a graphic novel based in Kashmir depicts the story of a Muslim girl Khwab who has grown up in Kashmir, in the midst of the storm that has been brewing for decades. She has a little dream of getting into sports and honestly, the people of Kashmir anyway do not dream much. It gets difficult to dream when you breathe the air that changes radically. There's a range of Muslim characters here like Noor who is Khwab's friend, Yusuf the young lover who is into shayaris, Omar who is Khwab's trainer, and a relative of Khwab's whom she finds poking her nose (the relative is a conservative woman) in every step she takes in her life. The story goes back and forth between 2017-19 which means, yes, the rising tension in the years prior to the abrogation of Article 370 and 2019 August itself has been used as a backdrop.
What I like about Terminal 3 is that it brings out the humane side of the stories revolving around the people of Kashmir. It does use the politics of Kashmir as a backdrop and does not really get into the reds or the greens or the saffron or the usual nationalist tones that movies or books based on Kashmir take. When we talk about Kashmir - it's a land of conflict & chaos and at her center lie the people of Kashmir, who have been bruised by the ever changing wind & the weather of Kashmir, and yet, they remain resilient, almost like a Oak tree in a storm that bends but does not break. These are the stories of Kashmir and her common people that need to be told, I believe.
Absolutely loved the illustrations and the color contrasts used through this graphic novel, Khwab and Noor's look in the Hijab was so pleasant,
"I’ve based my character on visuals of school-going Kashmiri girls. They are in hijab—it’s their choice." says the author in an interview. As I said initially, Khwab's story has been wholesomely depicted.
March 2, 2025
Terminal 3- a story of dreaming and hoping to cross the stigma of patriarchy.
Khwab is a young girl hailing from a Kashmir valley. She is a simple girl who aims to become a football player and perhaps gets trained by Omar, who teaches her rare martial arts of both mind and body- jui-jitsu ahead of championships in San Francisco.
The narration, though, underlines a sequence at Delhi International Airport Terminal 3, but it's essentially about Khwab and many girls like her who dream in caged houses.
The story drifts across years, showcasing Khwab's progressive family upbringing. Khwab's Abbu, being a sports person himself, encourages her to pursue his dreams through her. Her Ammi, though, gets a little skeptical at times, being a mother's natural fear and protectiveness still encourages her. But on the other hand, her aunt, Khadija Khala, is a stereotypical woman always persuading Khwab to be more 'woman' and aim to be a perfect 'wife-material'.
Terminal 3 is not only about breaking stereotypes for living and breathing a dream, but it's also about unwavering friendship between Khwab and her best friend Noor. The bond between the two girls is unmatched and rare to find these days.
A fatal incident changes the course of both girls' lives forever. Noor's support for Khwab's championship dream is exceptional. Where most of the storyteller’s draws to telling stories of women struggling for a position in the male dominated society, Terminal 3 felt reading a modern take under the tough political backdrop.
Terminal 3 is not just a graphic novel but it seeks an emotionally involvement. Dasgupta's writing is detailed yet easy. She twitches her storytelling that fills the story with depth. Being an artist, Dasgupta's illustrations are powrexcellence that uplifts this woman centric story.
Khwab is a young girl hailing from a Kashmir valley. She is a simple girl who aims to become a football player and perhaps gets trained by Omar, who teaches her rare martial arts of both mind and body- jui-jitsu ahead of championships in San Francisco.
The narration, though, underlines a sequence at Delhi International Airport Terminal 3, but it's essentially about Khwab and many girls like her who dream in caged houses.
The story drifts across years, showcasing Khwab's progressive family upbringing. Khwab's Abbu, being a sports person himself, encourages her to pursue his dreams through her. Her Ammi, though, gets a little skeptical at times, being a mother's natural fear and protectiveness still encourages her. But on the other hand, her aunt, Khadija Khala, is a stereotypical woman always persuading Khwab to be more 'woman' and aim to be a perfect 'wife-material'.
Terminal 3 is not only about breaking stereotypes for living and breathing a dream, but it's also about unwavering friendship between Khwab and her best friend Noor. The bond between the two girls is unmatched and rare to find these days.
A fatal incident changes the course of both girls' lives forever. Noor's support for Khwab's championship dream is exceptional. Where most of the storyteller’s draws to telling stories of women struggling for a position in the male dominated society, Terminal 3 felt reading a modern take under the tough political backdrop.
Terminal 3 is not just a graphic novel but it seeks an emotionally involvement. Dasgupta's writing is detailed yet easy. She twitches her storytelling that fills the story with depth. Being an artist, Dasgupta's illustrations are powrexcellence that uplifts this woman centric story.
December 10, 2024
This was a pleasant discovery as I haven't found many good Indian graphic novels, as compared to their Western peers.
Jumping between 2017 and 2019, this is the story of a Kashmiri girl, Khwab, who has an unprecedented dream for any youngster from the valley: to train in Jiu Jitsu and compete at an international level.
This story had the makings of being an "Indian Persepolis" (re: the graphic novel). But it fell short, literally. The plot felt rushed. While it gave a glimpse of life as an ordinary student from the Kashmir valley, living under the constant tension of violence, bombings, armed security and very limited opportunities, more so for a girl; the book could've covered these aspects a bit more.
2017 and 2019 were significant years for Kashmir from a political viewpoint. Yet, it's surprising how those events were never covered or even hinted at in this book. We don't really know if the violence Khwab faced in 2017 was a regular one or one of the several violent incidents related to 2017.
Despite these points, the plot was engaging, portraying the hope and resilience of the youth to dream and aspire in the face of violence, shortages and loss. Khwab and her friends are an inspiration.
Now for the artwork. The sketches are beautifully done in a distinct style. The author has brought to life, the characters & their expressions, the outfits, the architecture, even their food! BUT....the color scheme overshadowed the beautiful sketches, making it difficult to fully appreciate their details. For some weird reason, the author washed entire illustrations with deep, dark colors. If she meant to give the pages a sombre tone, it didn't work. It only made it annoying, especially because even the lettering got affected at places.
Overall, it was a good read. But we still have a long way to produce graphic novels with great stories and equally pleasing artwork, including the nuances of pencilwork, coloring and lettering.
Jumping between 2017 and 2019, this is the story of a Kashmiri girl, Khwab, who has an unprecedented dream for any youngster from the valley: to train in Jiu Jitsu and compete at an international level.
This story had the makings of being an "Indian Persepolis" (re: the graphic novel). But it fell short, literally. The plot felt rushed. While it gave a glimpse of life as an ordinary student from the Kashmir valley, living under the constant tension of violence, bombings, armed security and very limited opportunities, more so for a girl; the book could've covered these aspects a bit more.
2017 and 2019 were significant years for Kashmir from a political viewpoint. Yet, it's surprising how those events were never covered or even hinted at in this book. We don't really know if the violence Khwab faced in 2017 was a regular one or one of the several violent incidents related to 2017.
Despite these points, the plot was engaging, portraying the hope and resilience of the youth to dream and aspire in the face of violence, shortages and loss. Khwab and her friends are an inspiration.
Now for the artwork. The sketches are beautifully done in a distinct style. The author has brought to life, the characters & their expressions, the outfits, the architecture, even their food! BUT....the color scheme overshadowed the beautiful sketches, making it difficult to fully appreciate their details. For some weird reason, the author washed entire illustrations with deep, dark colors. If she meant to give the pages a sombre tone, it didn't work. It only made it annoying, especially because even the lettering got affected at places.
Overall, it was a good read. But we still have a long way to produce graphic novels with great stories and equally pleasing artwork, including the nuances of pencilwork, coloring and lettering.
May 26, 2023
Terminal 3 by Debasmita Dasgupta
.
Having delved into numerous young adult books lately, I have consistently found myself astounded by the profound depths of love and emotional intricacy that these stories encapsulate. In certain instances, they surpass the ability of adult novels to convey such sentiments effectively. Today, I wish to discuss a remarkable novel—a graphic novel, to be precise—that exemplifies this captivating phenomenon.
Terminal 3 is a gripping graphic novel that seamlessly weaves together a tale of hope, resilience, and the complexities of life. Set against the backdrop of the Kashmir conflict, the story follows Khwab Nazir, a young woman on the brink of a life-changing journey. Representing India in an international jiu-jitsu tournament, Khwab reflects on her challenging past while nervously awaiting her flight at New Delhi International Airport.
With skillful storytelling and stunning artwork, Terminal 3 delves into Khwab's inner struggles and the harsh realities of growing up in Kashmir.
The graphic novel beautifully captures the dichotomy between happiness and emptiness, desire and grief, and the constant quest for peace amidst the chaos. Khwab's determination to live her dreams resonates deeply, highlighting the resilience of everyday people in the face of adversity.
Through its evocative narrative and emotional depth, Terminal 3 offers readers a poignant exploration of the human spirit. It immerses us in Khwab's journey, drawing us into a world of dreams, aspirations, and the yearning for a brighter future.
This graphic novel is a compelling tribute to the indomitable nature of the human soul, leaving a lasting impact on its readers.
.
.
Having delved into numerous young adult books lately, I have consistently found myself astounded by the profound depths of love and emotional intricacy that these stories encapsulate. In certain instances, they surpass the ability of adult novels to convey such sentiments effectively. Today, I wish to discuss a remarkable novel—a graphic novel, to be precise—that exemplifies this captivating phenomenon.
Terminal 3 is a gripping graphic novel that seamlessly weaves together a tale of hope, resilience, and the complexities of life. Set against the backdrop of the Kashmir conflict, the story follows Khwab Nazir, a young woman on the brink of a life-changing journey. Representing India in an international jiu-jitsu tournament, Khwab reflects on her challenging past while nervously awaiting her flight at New Delhi International Airport.
With skillful storytelling and stunning artwork, Terminal 3 delves into Khwab's inner struggles and the harsh realities of growing up in Kashmir.
The graphic novel beautifully captures the dichotomy between happiness and emptiness, desire and grief, and the constant quest for peace amidst the chaos. Khwab's determination to live her dreams resonates deeply, highlighting the resilience of everyday people in the face of adversity.
Through its evocative narrative and emotional depth, Terminal 3 offers readers a poignant exploration of the human spirit. It immerses us in Khwab's journey, drawing us into a world of dreams, aspirations, and the yearning for a brighter future.
This graphic novel is a compelling tribute to the indomitable nature of the human soul, leaving a lasting impact on its readers.
.
April 21, 2023
"The game teaches you that no matter how small or physically weak you are and no matter how harsh your opponent strikes you, you can always strike back"
Seventeen-year-old Khwab Nazir wants to pursue a career in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a land where women are discouraged to play. She takes a break from school for a year to prepare for the international tournament. With the help of Yusuf, she and her friends start a crowd funding campaign
The book is divided into 3 parts i.e Arrival, Transit, and Departure. The first part narrates how the arrival of certain memories interrupted her thoughts. Khwab sees a young mother trying to console her bawling child at Terminal 3 of Delhi International Airport and her mind wanders to the story of her birth as told to her by her mother. As she gears up for the sports tournament, she mulls over her decisions and their impact on her loved ones. The second one depicts how the destinies of two people first hanged in balance and then came to a standstill after a gruesome tragedy. Amidst the thundering of bullets, erratic internet connection, and prevailing patriarchy, Khwab envisions a future bereft of all these. The Departure describes how Khwab strived to give flight to her dreams ably supported by her mentor Omar and father.
The open ending doesn't give a pause to the main character's dreams, but a ray of hope to several girls who are relentlessly chasing dreams in the conflict-ridden valley.
Seventeen-year-old Khwab Nazir wants to pursue a career in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a land where women are discouraged to play. She takes a break from school for a year to prepare for the international tournament. With the help of Yusuf, she and her friends start a crowd funding campaign
The book is divided into 3 parts i.e Arrival, Transit, and Departure. The first part narrates how the arrival of certain memories interrupted her thoughts. Khwab sees a young mother trying to console her bawling child at Terminal 3 of Delhi International Airport and her mind wanders to the story of her birth as told to her by her mother. As she gears up for the sports tournament, she mulls over her decisions and their impact on her loved ones. The second one depicts how the destinies of two people first hanged in balance and then came to a standstill after a gruesome tragedy. Amidst the thundering of bullets, erratic internet connection, and prevailing patriarchy, Khwab envisions a future bereft of all these. The Departure describes how Khwab strived to give flight to her dreams ably supported by her mentor Omar and father.
The open ending doesn't give a pause to the main character's dreams, but a ray of hope to several girls who are relentlessly chasing dreams in the conflict-ridden valley.
May 5, 2023
Terminal 3 is a gripping graphic novel by Debasmita Dasgupta that tells the story of Khwab Nazir, a young girl from Kashmir who aspires to represent India in an international jiu-jitsu tournament. The novel takes place in August 2019, where Khwab is waiting to board her flight at Terminal 3 of New Delhi International Airport.
The book provides a brief glimpse into the complex and tumultuous world of Kashmir, which has been plagued by conflict for decades. Through Khwab's experiences, the reader gets a glimpse of the everyday struggles faced by the people of the valley, who are often caught in the crossfire of political turmoil and military aggression.
The artwork in Terminal 3 is captivating, with vivid and detailed illustrations that capture the raw emotions of the characters. The use of color is particularly impressive, with warm and vibrant tones used to depict moments of hope, and darker shades used to convey the despair and anguish of the characters.
The story posseses a poetic and lyrical quality that draws the reader in. Khwab's journey is one of resilience and determination, as she navigates the challenges of growing up in a conflicted region, while holding on to her dreams and aspirations. It is a noticeable fact the protagonist herself is named Khwab which means "dream" in Urdu.
Terminal 3 is a powerful and moving graphic novel that sheds light on the human cost of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Thank you penguinsters for this lovely book.
The book provides a brief glimpse into the complex and tumultuous world of Kashmir, which has been plagued by conflict for decades. Through Khwab's experiences, the reader gets a glimpse of the everyday struggles faced by the people of the valley, who are often caught in the crossfire of political turmoil and military aggression.
The artwork in Terminal 3 is captivating, with vivid and detailed illustrations that capture the raw emotions of the characters. The use of color is particularly impressive, with warm and vibrant tones used to depict moments of hope, and darker shades used to convey the despair and anguish of the characters.
The story posseses a poetic and lyrical quality that draws the reader in. Khwab's journey is one of resilience and determination, as she navigates the challenges of growing up in a conflicted region, while holding on to her dreams and aspirations. It is a noticeable fact the protagonist herself is named Khwab which means "dream" in Urdu.
Terminal 3 is a powerful and moving graphic novel that sheds light on the human cost of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Thank you penguinsters for this lovely book.
June 6, 2023
Khwab Nazir from Kashmir is waiting to board the plane at Terminal 3 of the New Delhi International Airport. It's August 2019 and she is set to represent India at an international jiu-jitsu tournament. The book is based on the backdrop of conflict in Kashmir, and the day to day life of people from there.
The book is a graphic novel, with interesting and great illustrations that add beauty to the story and multiple timelines, that add depth to it. It's a short read that can be completed in one sitting. However I believe that the themes this book deals with are a bit complicated for readers of young age, although it will be enjoyed by those who can comprehend the situations and the storyline. It's a well-written story with a portrayal of reality and depiction of how people's lives are so different even after being a part of the same country.
The book is a graphic novel, with interesting and great illustrations that add beauty to the story and multiple timelines, that add depth to it. It's a short read that can be completed in one sitting. However I believe that the themes this book deals with are a bit complicated for readers of young age, although it will be enjoyed by those who can comprehend the situations and the storyline. It's a well-written story with a portrayal of reality and depiction of how people's lives are so different even after being a part of the same country.
August 26, 2025
Terminal 3 presents the story of 17-year-old Khwab Nazir, a Kashmiri girl waiting at Delhi airport to fly for an international jiu-jitsu tournament. As she waits, memories of her life in Kashmir unfold. The novel traces her friendship, family, conflict, and determination. It hints at a moving tale of resilience, dreams, and hope set against a turbulent backdrop.
It is a moving graphic novel. The vivid artwork, rich in cultural detail, contrasts beautifully with the harsh realities of life in Kashmir, creating a story that is both tender and powerful. Though the book is brief, it leaves a lasting impression of hope against adversity. It was an absolute pleasure to read this book.
It is a moving graphic novel. The vivid artwork, rich in cultural detail, contrasts beautifully with the harsh realities of life in Kashmir, creating a story that is both tender and powerful. Though the book is brief, it leaves a lasting impression of hope against adversity. It was an absolute pleasure to read this book.
August 2, 2025
Terminal 3 is a story of a young and tenacious spirit who fights several odds in a politically turbulent landscape. I had a lot of hope resting on this book, and I would say it was a slight disappointment because the story felt fragmented and hurried. Would give it 3 stars, but the one extra point goes to the graphics, which are very well done!
August 12, 2023
The story of a Kashmiri Girl as she waits for a flight in Terminal 3. The whole story is in the form of a flashback as she prepares to go to sporting event and the hardships she faced as she reached there. The artwork is good though the story felt really short with a somewhat abrupt end.
May 13, 2025
It's a small book, a graphic novella rather than a novel, I really liked the graphics style. It created a sort of effect like paintings on brownpaper - with which older generations used to cover books & notebooks - a bit rustic, a bit sombre but very comforting to the eye.
It felt a little stilted, the back-&-forth between present day (at Terminal 3) & the past raised a crescendo of mystery which did not climax. It left me feeling restless & incomplete. But then, possibly, the concept of Hope in the context of a society torn apart on regular basis, & unbearable pain, is probably a concept seeped in incompleteness, perhaps incompleteness is hope, a bridge to the unknown future.
This book is meant for kids, & is a very good introduction to the terrors & horrors of life in the valley for the common, ordinary persons who live there.
It felt a little stilted, the back-&-forth between present day (at Terminal 3) & the past raised a crescendo of mystery which did not climax. It left me feeling restless & incomplete. But then, possibly, the concept of Hope in the context of a society torn apart on regular basis, & unbearable pain, is probably a concept seeped in incompleteness, perhaps incompleteness is hope, a bridge to the unknown future.
This book is meant for kids, & is a very good introduction to the terrors & horrors of life in the valley for the common, ordinary persons who live there.
June 16, 2025
It’s story about Kashmiri girl khwab and her friend noor & Yusuf.
It’s a quick ready but lacks depth and storyline. Gets you thinking but could have been better if the story was lengthy and made deeper impact. It portrays impact of terror and societal pressures and hypocrisies.
It’s a quick ready but lacks depth and storyline. Gets you thinking but could have been better if the story was lengthy and made deeper impact. It portrays impact of terror and societal pressures and hypocrisies.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2024
"How all of a sudden the known becomes unknown."
December 4, 2024
A good short graphic novel based in Kashmir. Decent artwork
March 11, 2025
Set in Jammu and Kashmir
November 6, 2025
The artwork was beautiful, but the narrative was a bit flat.
May 3, 2023
Khwab Nazir, who grew up in Kashmir amidst the chaos is traveling for an international jiu-jitsu tournament and she thinks about her past as she waits for her flight at the New Delhi International Airport, terminal 3.
📝The graphics and colors were beyond perfection and pulled me into the story. This was a refreshing read that was quite impressive and motivating. The character development was so good.
This book has beautifully portrayed the tragic situation in Kashmir and how different their day-to-day life is.. The story is so deep and it would be a meaningful read for young adults.
This is a one-of-a-kind story that is a must-read for everyone. The strong dose of woman power was a cherry on the top! This is a very short read yet empowering read you can check out in a single sitting.
📝The graphics and colors were beyond perfection and pulled me into the story. This was a refreshing read that was quite impressive and motivating. The character development was so good.
This book has beautifully portrayed the tragic situation in Kashmir and how different their day-to-day life is.. The story is so deep and it would be a meaningful read for young adults.
This is a one-of-a-kind story that is a must-read for everyone. The strong dose of woman power was a cherry on the top! This is a very short read yet empowering read you can check out in a single sitting.
January 20, 2025
I'd expected this to follow Khwab's life for much longer than it did though looking back, the glimpse we get is a deeper introspection of what life is like in the valley and how much of a role it plays in everyone's lives, especially young women. And the art is stunning.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2023
Heart wrenching story told in a beautiful way. This is more than a graphic novel!
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