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The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi
'If you've been wondering whether India will ever produce a world-class rock band, think no further. The Flow is here.'
Nirvana's life is a mess--he is a jilted lover, a bored addict and a disillusioned journalist. Nothing, it seems, can get him out of his funk.
Until one afternoon, when he discovers a pile of back issues of India's premier youth magazine from the 1970s, Junior Standard. An article on a famed rock contest of the time catches his eye. It mentions a band called The Flow and their frontman, Max Bulandi, hailed as India's answer to Jim Morrison. Nirvana is consumed by the article and when a chance meeting with an old Bombay rocker whets his appetite further, he embarks on a search for the mysterious Max Bulandi and the early pioneers of the Indian rock music scene. As he traces the lost history of The Flow across Bombay, Calcutta, Shillong and Benares, it opens up to him a world of riffs and beats that transforms his life quite completely.
Exhilarating and utterly original, The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi is at once a coming-of-age story with a twist and a much-awaited hat-tip to the legends of Indian rock music.
Nirvana's life is a mess--he is a jilted lover, a bored addict and a disillusioned journalist. Nothing, it seems, can get him out of his funk.
Until one afternoon, when he discovers a pile of back issues of India's premier youth magazine from the 1970s, Junior Standard. An article on a famed rock contest of the time catches his eye. It mentions a band called The Flow and their frontman, Max Bulandi, hailed as India's answer to Jim Morrison. Nirvana is consumed by the article and when a chance meeting with an old Bombay rocker whets his appetite further, he embarks on a search for the mysterious Max Bulandi and the early pioneers of the Indian rock music scene. As he traces the lost history of The Flow across Bombay, Calcutta, Shillong and Benares, it opens up to him a world of riffs and beats that transforms his life quite completely.
Exhilarating and utterly original, The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi is at once a coming-of-age story with a twist and a much-awaited hat-tip to the legends of Indian rock music.
- GenresFiction
217 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 4, 2024
A deep dive into India's burgeoning rock scene, The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi by Sidharth Singh is set against the background of the 70s and 80s—a time that is before mine but brings up personal nostalgia for the advent of Bengali rock bands I grew up with. It felt in some odd way connected, linking my passion for rock music to a history which I hadn't read before. The vibes were ones I found similar to Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid-not only in its documentary-but also in the unraveling of a musical legend and in the way it captures the raw, unfiltered energy of a passionate, if troubled, era.
.
Nirvana as the protagonist has a conflicted life very similar to the rock legend, he gets obsessed with. As a jaded journalist he gets addicted to finding the story of the elusive vibrant frontman of "The Flow" , Max Bulandi through shadows of addiction, fame, and rebellion in one complicated life. It's an opportunity for Nirvana to confront his struggle, a reminder of the healing power of art and often haunting. I was rooting for him; there were bitter nostalgia moments, for the way that era defined rebellion with authenticity.
.
Singh's prose has such a rich, sensuous detail, which at the same time immerses you into not just Indian rock culture but very specific landscapes of cities around which it formed. Obviously the Calcutta connect rung strong with me. There is a raw lyrical quality to the writing that pulls you into Nirvana's world. Just how Singh has interwoven the historical context with fiction in a journey without overpowering its effect, left me quite involved.
.
The classy heartbreakingly written ode on the musical past of India and one's dreams against the grain streams so well. This is indeed a book to read by any music and cultural history lover, and well-told stories of which it has enough store-indeed a very inspiring and engaging travel for me.
.
Nirvana as the protagonist has a conflicted life very similar to the rock legend, he gets obsessed with. As a jaded journalist he gets addicted to finding the story of the elusive vibrant frontman of "The Flow" , Max Bulandi through shadows of addiction, fame, and rebellion in one complicated life. It's an opportunity for Nirvana to confront his struggle, a reminder of the healing power of art and often haunting. I was rooting for him; there were bitter nostalgia moments, for the way that era defined rebellion with authenticity.
.
Singh's prose has such a rich, sensuous detail, which at the same time immerses you into not just Indian rock culture but very specific landscapes of cities around which it formed. Obviously the Calcutta connect rung strong with me. There is a raw lyrical quality to the writing that pulls you into Nirvana's world. Just how Singh has interwoven the historical context with fiction in a journey without overpowering its effect, left me quite involved.
.
The classy heartbreakingly written ode on the musical past of India and one's dreams against the grain streams so well. This is indeed a book to read by any music and cultural history lover, and well-told stories of which it has enough store-indeed a very inspiring and engaging travel for me.
November 24, 2024
• 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜. 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥. 𝐍𝐢𝐫𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐚. What can you say about this one? 🍺
𝐈𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜? - 𝐘𝐄𝐒.
𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐚 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠? - 𝐘𝐄𝐒.
• With "𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐄𝐗𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐑𝐘 𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐌𝐀𝐗 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈," written by 𝐒𝐢𝐝𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐡, I was entering the 1970s and 1980s. Although I enjoy the journey, I am not into this genre. It is a smooth journey, too. ☕
• The author merely presented music as a 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞 in his book. The readers will find it easier to embrace the power of music as a result. It seems that there are themes of 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧, 𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐫𝐮𝐠 𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 in addition to 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜. And I appear to be in 𝐏𝐮𝐧𝐣𝐚𝐛 somehow. You know, if you know. From Shillong to Varanasi, the author will take you on a tour of India, with the characters serving as your tour guides. 🎧
• This seems to be comparable to 𝐔𝐃𝐓𝐀 𝐏𝐔𝐍𝐉𝐀𝐁. However, I can not stop thinking about Shaheed Kapoor's hair. The main character, 𝐍𝐈𝐑𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐀, undoubtedly forced me to 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡. Throughout the book, 𝐍𝐈𝐑𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐀 and 𝐌𝐀𝐗 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈 continue to talk and add layers upon layers. 🎭
• Initially, MAX Bulandi became a 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐲 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐞. And in my opinion, he is one of those people who effortlessly combines charm and history. It is a delightful story that keeps you turning pages. The title of the cover indicates that it is a "𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲" 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 with a large cast of characters.🎯
• The writing style is 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 to read and 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐝. Although some of the pages are difficult for me to read, they are completely adjustable for the sake of the plot. The depths of emotion are appropriate and reachable. Above all, the 𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡.✨
𝐈𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜? - 𝐘𝐄𝐒.
𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐚 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠? - 𝐘𝐄𝐒.
• With "𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐄𝐗𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐑𝐘 𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐌𝐀𝐗 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈," written by 𝐒𝐢𝐝𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐡, I was entering the 1970s and 1980s. Although I enjoy the journey, I am not into this genre. It is a smooth journey, too. ☕
• The author merely presented music as a 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞 in his book. The readers will find it easier to embrace the power of music as a result. It seems that there are themes of 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧, 𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐫𝐮𝐠 𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 in addition to 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜. And I appear to be in 𝐏𝐮𝐧𝐣𝐚𝐛 somehow. You know, if you know. From Shillong to Varanasi, the author will take you on a tour of India, with the characters serving as your tour guides. 🎧
• This seems to be comparable to 𝐔𝐃𝐓𝐀 𝐏𝐔𝐍𝐉𝐀𝐁. However, I can not stop thinking about Shaheed Kapoor's hair. The main character, 𝐍𝐈𝐑𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐀, undoubtedly forced me to 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡. Throughout the book, 𝐍𝐈𝐑𝐕𝐀𝐍𝐀 and 𝐌𝐀𝐗 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐈 continue to talk and add layers upon layers. 🎭
• Initially, MAX Bulandi became a 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐲 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐞. And in my opinion, he is one of those people who effortlessly combines charm and history. It is a delightful story that keeps you turning pages. The title of the cover indicates that it is a "𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲" 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 with a large cast of characters.🎯
• The writing style is 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 to read and 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐝. Although some of the pages are difficult for me to read, they are completely adjustable for the sake of the plot. The depths of emotion are appropriate and reachable. Above all, the 𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡.✨
May 22, 2025
honestly, it's a 0.5
I am very sorry to give it such a terrible rating cause it's hard to come by Indian coming of age books. Although, is it really a coming of age book? OMG I really didn't think it would have such a small number of reviews. I feel like maybe the author will see this. I don't hate him, I quite like that a man like him exists doing this kind of work, writing about music, front and center. like if I were to meet him in a bar in bandra, I'd like to buy him a drink and talk rock but wait, I can't say the same for the protagonist....
here comes my first and big big problem. Dear old Nirvana would not think me as capable of conversations.
even the girls he does like... he kinda hates. all the men he comes across he tells his mission to... the women?! they are meant to be fucked and missed. agh.
also did we never get why his parents name gin Nirvana? that's not normal and his parents are written as anything but....
max bulandi is a character we don't get to see... I will for the sake of comparison, talk about shikers, the documentary. very very very different media but really they are kinda the same. a group of people talk about a now dead man who came into their life and changed it but was ultimately destructive. when we never get to hear from the man, we need him to be romantize and build from ground up. like Gastby and even Catty (wuthering heights) from the perspective there narrators. you feel from them because there is an emotional depth and love in the narrative. none of this is here for max. not caring about him.... one of the worst thing the novel could get me to do. maybe trying to include the voice of so many and formulaiclly move the study forward we loose out on hearing any feelings from the character. of reach character you interview turns to say to you "I had forgotten about all this or tried to, until you came digging..." why do they have to say it, why don't we see that... why are they sharing so freely. nothing about their music nothing about their process. we see nothing. OMG I really did not like this book. we don't see. we don't feel. bad book. very bad. women are written poorly. so very poorly. I really really really wanted the narrative to smack the misogynist in his face. especially, maybe if the pop singer was not just a ditze, but someone who helped him, made him confront his stupid ways of thinking. him going spber and dipping in gagan made me feel less than what dipping vada in samber makes me feel so regularly. agahahdhhsjsjsks. maybe there was a woman rocker. ofc there were. they maybe mention usha... but only because there is no writiten evidence, there is the same easure we see in music inspired, created, written by women and other marginalized group.... rock and blues and the tale of Presley is about taking music from women, black women.... also this is the times of the Beatles mania and they still wrote a fucked up charecter who is just just just a sex symbol. who did she suddenly become a journalist??? she must have taken pictures and written.... maybe she worte maxes songs. maybe she wrote the music. maybe she took the only photo of them... what then, she was just there...?? the flow is also a bad name.
this makes me want to put daisy johnes on my head and dance for giving at least a second dimension.
this is bad.
there is so much more that's not very good about this book, like how history is a mention and backdrop until suddenly my man's a fucking commie gurrile worrior. please don't get me started on how politics is treated. we don't get to ever even get close to the man why did he care about the people up those hill where he didn't care about his people down here.... his father was poor and drunk and he was born into this world with truma and poverty. I understand running away and coming back... we were shown he cares about maternal health... makes sense.... about workers, cheaks out... why did he want to kill and go do warrrrr. I am not saying that he can't not three are strong motivations and reasons we never even get people contemplating about.
okay the last thing. the interview structure where my man Nirvana just stfu and sits. lazy. bitch is just a glorified trance scriber. my editor would have him out on his ass so quickly. the distance where he doesn't question didn't work at all.
think of interviews with the vampire. think of how much daneial adds to the narrative. the oddesy of recollection. introduce error. make him question shit. aghhhh. after ever interview he is just happy and before he is just happy to get that information. sucks sucks sucks. the other never gave anything musically. that sucks too. other than maybe that one guy in the start who gave the industrial band members adress... said that max, that dude was a decent writer and shit singer... at least there is difference of opinion.
in my very very very novice career, doing very very low stakes writing, I still know most leads don't go nowhere and to chase the story is the craft... that's hard and one had to think of where to get information and what to ask.
I hate this book.
this sounds have been YA, it's written YA. just write YA. there is no shame... a school project for a young nirvava. at least the holier than thou attitude will mean dumb stubborn youth (still misogynist) which could be well done. why is this disgusting man in his early 40s calling a woman of similar age a cougar? why is the narrative not pointing this out? he took btw sleeps with someone much younger in the start. very degradating. this man is stupid and infuriating.
I am very sorry to give it such a terrible rating cause it's hard to come by Indian coming of age books. Although, is it really a coming of age book? OMG I really didn't think it would have such a small number of reviews. I feel like maybe the author will see this. I don't hate him, I quite like that a man like him exists doing this kind of work, writing about music, front and center. like if I were to meet him in a bar in bandra, I'd like to buy him a drink and talk rock but wait, I can't say the same for the protagonist....
here comes my first and big big problem. Dear old Nirvana would not think me as capable of conversations.
even the girls he does like... he kinda hates. all the men he comes across he tells his mission to... the women?! they are meant to be fucked and missed. agh.
also did we never get why his parents name gin Nirvana? that's not normal and his parents are written as anything but....
max bulandi is a character we don't get to see... I will for the sake of comparison, talk about shikers, the documentary. very very very different media but really they are kinda the same. a group of people talk about a now dead man who came into their life and changed it but was ultimately destructive. when we never get to hear from the man, we need him to be romantize and build from ground up. like Gastby and even Catty (wuthering heights) from the perspective there narrators. you feel from them because there is an emotional depth and love in the narrative. none of this is here for max. not caring about him.... one of the worst thing the novel could get me to do. maybe trying to include the voice of so many and formulaiclly move the study forward we loose out on hearing any feelings from the character. of reach character you interview turns to say to you "I had forgotten about all this or tried to, until you came digging..." why do they have to say it, why don't we see that... why are they sharing so freely. nothing about their music nothing about their process. we see nothing. OMG I really did not like this book. we don't see. we don't feel. bad book. very bad. women are written poorly. so very poorly. I really really really wanted the narrative to smack the misogynist in his face. especially, maybe if the pop singer was not just a ditze, but someone who helped him, made him confront his stupid ways of thinking. him going spber and dipping in gagan made me feel less than what dipping vada in samber makes me feel so regularly. agahahdhhsjsjsks. maybe there was a woman rocker. ofc there were. they maybe mention usha... but only because there is no writiten evidence, there is the same easure we see in music inspired, created, written by women and other marginalized group.... rock and blues and the tale of Presley is about taking music from women, black women.... also this is the times of the Beatles mania and they still wrote a fucked up charecter who is just just just a sex symbol. who did she suddenly become a journalist??? she must have taken pictures and written.... maybe she worte maxes songs. maybe she wrote the music. maybe she took the only photo of them... what then, she was just there...?? the flow is also a bad name.
this makes me want to put daisy johnes on my head and dance for giving at least a second dimension.
this is bad.
there is so much more that's not very good about this book, like how history is a mention and backdrop until suddenly my man's a fucking commie gurrile worrior. please don't get me started on how politics is treated. we don't get to ever even get close to the man why did he care about the people up those hill where he didn't care about his people down here.... his father was poor and drunk and he was born into this world with truma and poverty. I understand running away and coming back... we were shown he cares about maternal health... makes sense.... about workers, cheaks out... why did he want to kill and go do warrrrr. I am not saying that he can't not three are strong motivations and reasons we never even get people contemplating about.
okay the last thing. the interview structure where my man Nirvana just stfu and sits. lazy. bitch is just a glorified trance scriber. my editor would have him out on his ass so quickly. the distance where he doesn't question didn't work at all.
think of interviews with the vampire. think of how much daneial adds to the narrative. the oddesy of recollection. introduce error. make him question shit. aghhhh. after ever interview he is just happy and before he is just happy to get that information. sucks sucks sucks. the other never gave anything musically. that sucks too. other than maybe that one guy in the start who gave the industrial band members adress... said that max, that dude was a decent writer and shit singer... at least there is difference of opinion.
in my very very very novice career, doing very very low stakes writing, I still know most leads don't go nowhere and to chase the story is the craft... that's hard and one had to think of where to get information and what to ask.
I hate this book.
this sounds have been YA, it's written YA. just write YA. there is no shame... a school project for a young nirvava. at least the holier than thou attitude will mean dumb stubborn youth (still misogynist) which could be well done. why is this disgusting man in his early 40s calling a woman of similar age a cougar? why is the narrative not pointing this out? he took btw sleeps with someone much younger in the start. very degradating. this man is stupid and infuriating.
December 27, 2024
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2024/12/bo...
Nirvana feels lost after breakup with his long-term girlfriend Naz; his career as a journalist is not taking off and his addiction to drugs has resurfaced after Naz left. When his land lady brings down old magazines to be sold off, Nirvana picks an issue of Junior Standard magazine from the 1970s. An article about the contest India Beat’70 and one of the participating bands The Flow, the rock band that got sudden fame and the band’s singer-songwriter Max Bulandi intrigue Nirvana.
When Nirvana mentions about The Flow to a friend who is part of a rock band in current day Mumbai, he ends up meeting Harry Mulani, who was leading the rock band Atomic Bliss in the 70s but is now settled in advertising field. Harry shared info he had about rock bands from that era which inspires Nirvana to travel to Kolkata on his own expenses, to find more about Max’s life. From Mumbai to Kolkata to Shillong to Banaras, Nirvana goes on an incredible journey to know the enigma that is Max Bulandi.
The story has a backdrop that is often not explored in Indian fiction. The life story of a man narrated from the point of view of those who knew him from close quarters — his band mates Jimmy Stewart and Jo Nongrem, his ex-girlfriend Belinda Watson-Scott, journalist Timmy Mathur who interviewed The Flow, Guddu ji who was his childhood friend. Interestingly, each of them narrates a particular phase of Max’s life and with every phase the reader will be intrigued and invested in knowing more about Max.
As Jimmy Stewart says to Nirvana — it’s all about sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll. However, the story also captures in parallel the political and social circumstances of each of these decades in India — the 50s right after Independence filling people with hope, the 60s that saw the advent of rock music and drugs, the 70s when there was unrest and subsequent Emergency. The author also subtly hints how Nirvana’s life is similar to Max’s life though both lived in different times. Max’s life engrosses the reader so much that towards the end, Nirvana feels like a side character and no longer of interest to the reader.
The author also uses metaphors of the places that Max lived in/travelled to and how they relate to that particular phase of his life; Banaras is the city of creation and destruction, Kolkata the city of rebelling against the powers. Max’s journey in the late 60s through Amsterdam to Istanbul to Kathmandu to Kolkata via Goa is fascinating. Max is a hero and a non-hero at the sametime, his charisma is what pulled people to him from his childhood.
From Makrand to Maximus Boulandie to Max Bulandi to Buland Jaan to Bulu Da to Comrade Bu to Makrand, this is indeed story of the extraordinary life of one man.
Nirvana feels lost after breakup with his long-term girlfriend Naz; his career as a journalist is not taking off and his addiction to drugs has resurfaced after Naz left. When his land lady brings down old magazines to be sold off, Nirvana picks an issue of Junior Standard magazine from the 1970s. An article about the contest India Beat’70 and one of the participating bands The Flow, the rock band that got sudden fame and the band’s singer-songwriter Max Bulandi intrigue Nirvana.
When Nirvana mentions about The Flow to a friend who is part of a rock band in current day Mumbai, he ends up meeting Harry Mulani, who was leading the rock band Atomic Bliss in the 70s but is now settled in advertising field. Harry shared info he had about rock bands from that era which inspires Nirvana to travel to Kolkata on his own expenses, to find more about Max’s life. From Mumbai to Kolkata to Shillong to Banaras, Nirvana goes on an incredible journey to know the enigma that is Max Bulandi.
The story has a backdrop that is often not explored in Indian fiction. The life story of a man narrated from the point of view of those who knew him from close quarters — his band mates Jimmy Stewart and Jo Nongrem, his ex-girlfriend Belinda Watson-Scott, journalist Timmy Mathur who interviewed The Flow, Guddu ji who was his childhood friend. Interestingly, each of them narrates a particular phase of Max’s life and with every phase the reader will be intrigued and invested in knowing more about Max.
As Jimmy Stewart says to Nirvana — it’s all about sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll. However, the story also captures in parallel the political and social circumstances of each of these decades in India — the 50s right after Independence filling people with hope, the 60s that saw the advent of rock music and drugs, the 70s when there was unrest and subsequent Emergency. The author also subtly hints how Nirvana’s life is similar to Max’s life though both lived in different times. Max’s life engrosses the reader so much that towards the end, Nirvana feels like a side character and no longer of interest to the reader.
The author also uses metaphors of the places that Max lived in/travelled to and how they relate to that particular phase of his life; Banaras is the city of creation and destruction, Kolkata the city of rebelling against the powers. Max’s journey in the late 60s through Amsterdam to Istanbul to Kathmandu to Kolkata via Goa is fascinating. Max is a hero and a non-hero at the sametime, his charisma is what pulled people to him from his childhood.
From Makrand to Maximus Boulandie to Max Bulandi to Buland Jaan to Bulu Da to Comrade Bu to Makrand, this is indeed story of the extraordinary life of one man.
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January 19, 2025
The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi by Sidharth Singh is a masterful exploration of music, self-discovery, and the often-overlooked Indian rock scene of the 1970s and 80s. Combining fiction with cultural history, the novel pays homage to India’s contribution to the global rock narrative while exploring the complexities of passion, purpose, and redemption.
At its core is Nirvana, a disillusioned journalist whose mundane life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers an old magazine article about The Flow, a legendary Indian rock band that once rivalled the world’s greatest. This discovery ignites a burning obsession to uncover the life and legacy of Max Bulandi, the band’s enigmatic frontman.
What begins as a journalistic pursuit soon becomes a transformative journey, as Nirvana uncovers the riffs, beats, and legends of a bygone era that shaped a cultural movement and altered his perspective on life.
Max Bulandi is portrayed as a character of immense talent and profound contradictions. A genius on stage but deeply flawed off it, his journey is marked by soaring triumphs and devastating falls into addiction and obscurity.
The book is a sort of tribute to the legacy, casting light on a rich cultural history often relegated to the shadows.
The narrative transports readers across India, and skillfully intertwines the local with the global, creating a nostalgic yet uniquely Indian tapestry of music, identity, and cultural evolution.
The storytelling is both layered and immersive, with Nirvana’s quest interspersed with anecdotes and memories from those who knew Max. These accounts reveal not just Max’s extraordinary life but also the era’s social fabric, grappling with themes of travel, relationships, addiction, and redemption. The interplay between Nirvana’s personal growth and Max’s unraveling forms the emotional core of the story, making it deeply resonant.
The writing is simple yet evocative, drawing readers into a world where every chord and lyric holds meaning. The author infuses the narrative with wit, curiosity, and a sense of discovery that mirrors Nirvana’s journey, making it both a page-turner and a thought-provoking read. The engaging chapters ensure a steady pace, while the emotional depth compels readers to reflect on the cost of genius and the impact of forgotten legacies.
This novel is more than a novel about music; it’s a vivid portrait of an era, a celebration of resilience, and a poignant reminder of the human cost of artistic brilliance. Part history, part fiction, and wholly original, it’s a book that resonates with music lovers, fiction enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the enduring power of storytelling. This is a journey into the heart of India’s rock heritage that lingers in your mind long after the final page.
At its core is Nirvana, a disillusioned journalist whose mundane life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers an old magazine article about The Flow, a legendary Indian rock band that once rivalled the world’s greatest. This discovery ignites a burning obsession to uncover the life and legacy of Max Bulandi, the band’s enigmatic frontman.
What begins as a journalistic pursuit soon becomes a transformative journey, as Nirvana uncovers the riffs, beats, and legends of a bygone era that shaped a cultural movement and altered his perspective on life.
Max Bulandi is portrayed as a character of immense talent and profound contradictions. A genius on stage but deeply flawed off it, his journey is marked by soaring triumphs and devastating falls into addiction and obscurity.
The book is a sort of tribute to the legacy, casting light on a rich cultural history often relegated to the shadows.
The narrative transports readers across India, and skillfully intertwines the local with the global, creating a nostalgic yet uniquely Indian tapestry of music, identity, and cultural evolution.
The storytelling is both layered and immersive, with Nirvana’s quest interspersed with anecdotes and memories from those who knew Max. These accounts reveal not just Max’s extraordinary life but also the era’s social fabric, grappling with themes of travel, relationships, addiction, and redemption. The interplay between Nirvana’s personal growth and Max’s unraveling forms the emotional core of the story, making it deeply resonant.
The writing is simple yet evocative, drawing readers into a world where every chord and lyric holds meaning. The author infuses the narrative with wit, curiosity, and a sense of discovery that mirrors Nirvana’s journey, making it both a page-turner and a thought-provoking read. The engaging chapters ensure a steady pace, while the emotional depth compels readers to reflect on the cost of genius and the impact of forgotten legacies.
This novel is more than a novel about music; it’s a vivid portrait of an era, a celebration of resilience, and a poignant reminder of the human cost of artistic brilliance. Part history, part fiction, and wholly original, it’s a book that resonates with music lovers, fiction enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the enduring power of storytelling. This is a journey into the heart of India’s rock heritage that lingers in your mind long after the final page.
November 6, 2024
“The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi” is a thrilling journey exploring the incredible life of Max Bulandi. Though a fictional character, the book pays a rich tribute to the now forgotten rock music scene of the 1970s in India.
The story begins when Nirvana, a disenchanted journalist working for a small-time publication, stumbles upon an article about a famed rock band from the 1970s called The Flow and their frontman, Max Bulandi, hailed as a rising star in India's rock music world. Intrigued by the article, Nirvana decides to trace the origins of The Flow and Max Bulandi and embarks on a journey that takes him across multiple cities and encountering him with some fascinating characters. Will Nirvana able to find Max Bulandi?
The story begins as Nirvana’s search for a good story and unfolds Max Bulandi’s unbelievable story, often narrated by his friends and acquaintances encountered by Nirvana. Along the way, the book explores the mesmerizing world of Indian Rock music, taking you through a journey through forgotten lanes and rock haunts. The book will automatically interest anyone interested with the rock music scene from 1970s and 80s from Elvis, The Beatles to Pink Floyd & Led Zeppelin. The book’s numerous references to the music culture back then as well as the realistic portrayal of the music industry including the dark side especially the drug abuse; all transports you to another era. The story narrated in different voices, blends beautifully in a unique narrative.
The characters are well crafted; from the band members and Max’s associates like Jo, Jimmy and Allan Stewart and Belinda, everyone feels life-like. The story of Max is delivered in parts, like the pieces of a portrait, coming together like a jigsaw puzzle, keeping you hooked to the several twists and turns in Max’s story. Max is undoubtedly the protagonist, sketched to highlight all his strengths and flaws; celebrating his amazing talent but also narrating his downward spiral into addiction and worse. Max Bulandi is an acknowledgement of the countless music talents, who have been forgotten and lost over time.
Overall, “The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi” is an unforgettable read that will stay with you for a long time.
The story begins when Nirvana, a disenchanted journalist working for a small-time publication, stumbles upon an article about a famed rock band from the 1970s called The Flow and their frontman, Max Bulandi, hailed as a rising star in India's rock music world. Intrigued by the article, Nirvana decides to trace the origins of The Flow and Max Bulandi and embarks on a journey that takes him across multiple cities and encountering him with some fascinating characters. Will Nirvana able to find Max Bulandi?
The story begins as Nirvana’s search for a good story and unfolds Max Bulandi’s unbelievable story, often narrated by his friends and acquaintances encountered by Nirvana. Along the way, the book explores the mesmerizing world of Indian Rock music, taking you through a journey through forgotten lanes and rock haunts. The book will automatically interest anyone interested with the rock music scene from 1970s and 80s from Elvis, The Beatles to Pink Floyd & Led Zeppelin. The book’s numerous references to the music culture back then as well as the realistic portrayal of the music industry including the dark side especially the drug abuse; all transports you to another era. The story narrated in different voices, blends beautifully in a unique narrative.
The characters are well crafted; from the band members and Max’s associates like Jo, Jimmy and Allan Stewart and Belinda, everyone feels life-like. The story of Max is delivered in parts, like the pieces of a portrait, coming together like a jigsaw puzzle, keeping you hooked to the several twists and turns in Max’s story. Max is undoubtedly the protagonist, sketched to highlight all his strengths and flaws; celebrating his amazing talent but also narrating his downward spiral into addiction and worse. Max Bulandi is an acknowledgement of the countless music talents, who have been forgotten and lost over time.
Overall, “The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi” is an unforgettable read that will stay with you for a long time.
November 19, 2024
Sidharth Singh’s "The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi" is an examination of this history of Indian rock music from the 1970s and 80s. With a documentary-style narrative and a raw, unfiltered look into the rebellious spirit of India's underground music scene, this book stands out as both a poignant coming-of-age story and a rich cultural exploration.
The plot focuses on Nirvana, a burnt- out journalist who is served with a crisis of conscience and internalized sickness. His life takes a dramatic turn when he stumbles upon an old magazine article about "The Flow," an iconic rock band from India's past, led by the enigmatic Max Bulandi. Deranged with the fact that the band and its enigmatic lead singer Nirvana could be nothing more than a facade, the movie follows an expedition introspective and occupational throughout India in search of the threads of a lost music phase in the country. What starts as a simple research project evolves into a transformative experience, as Nirvana's pursuit of the past becomes a metaphor for his quest for purpose and self-discovery.
The characters are the book's lifeblood, with Nirvana and Max Bulandi standing out as contrasting yet complementary forces. Nirvana, despite his name, is far from spiritual enlightenment. Instead, he’s a jaded, aimless figure seeking meaning in a world that seems to have passed him by. His growth throughout the novel is subtle yet profound as he confronts his own failures and insecurities.
Max Bulandi, on the other hand, is a myth – a hedonistic cult artist in the manner of Jim Morrison, the charismatic and genius vocalist and at the same time a colourful personality whose rebellious excesses and creative impunities have created a cult around him in the Indian rock scene. It is the mystery of Max as a character that creates most of this narrative and compels the readership to continue: tragedy sandwiches the enigma. The author has very effectively painted the hero Max as at the one a legendary rock star, and at the other equally, an almost clinically flawed individual and hence rather layered and interesting a character.
The plot focuses on Nirvana, a burnt- out journalist who is served with a crisis of conscience and internalized sickness. His life takes a dramatic turn when he stumbles upon an old magazine article about "The Flow," an iconic rock band from India's past, led by the enigmatic Max Bulandi. Deranged with the fact that the band and its enigmatic lead singer Nirvana could be nothing more than a facade, the movie follows an expedition introspective and occupational throughout India in search of the threads of a lost music phase in the country. What starts as a simple research project evolves into a transformative experience, as Nirvana's pursuit of the past becomes a metaphor for his quest for purpose and self-discovery.
The characters are the book's lifeblood, with Nirvana and Max Bulandi standing out as contrasting yet complementary forces. Nirvana, despite his name, is far from spiritual enlightenment. Instead, he’s a jaded, aimless figure seeking meaning in a world that seems to have passed him by. His growth throughout the novel is subtle yet profound as he confronts his own failures and insecurities.
Max Bulandi, on the other hand, is a myth – a hedonistic cult artist in the manner of Jim Morrison, the charismatic and genius vocalist and at the same time a colourful personality whose rebellious excesses and creative impunities have created a cult around him in the Indian rock scene. It is the mystery of Max as a character that creates most of this narrative and compels the readership to continue: tragedy sandwiches the enigma. The author has very effectively painted the hero Max as at the one a legendary rock star, and at the other equally, an almost clinically flawed individual and hence rather layered and interesting a character.
January 31, 2025
Nirvana's life is a mess--he is a jilted lover, a bored addict and a disillusioned journalist. Nothing, it seems, can get him out of his funk.
Until one afternoon, when he discovers a pile of back issues of India's premier youth magazine from the 1970s, Junior Standard. An article on a famed rock contest of the time catches his eye. It mentions a band called The Flow and their frontman, Max Bulandi, hailed as India's answer to Jim Morrison. Nirvana is consumed by the article and when a chance meeting with an old Bombay rocker whets his appetite further, he embarks on a search for the mysterious Max Bulandi and the early pioneers of the Indian rock music scene. As he traces the lost history of The Flow across Bombay, Calcutta, Shillong and Benares, it opens up to him a world of riffs and beats that transforms his life quite completely.
Exhilarating and utterly original, The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi is at once a coming-of-age story with a twist and a much-awaited hat-tip to the legends of Indian rock music.
This book has an air of detective novel style. I was enjoying the beginning, crispy witty start of a novel that gives me a chilling vibe of 70-80's. The slide show of 70's era started infront of my eyes, the hippie style statement attire,, the Hare Rama Hare Krishna vibe was getting over my senses and then after few chapters I lost the sensation.
Not only 70-80's era but when author was talking about today's generation it also felt like shadow of 70's. TBH, if you are writing a coming of age novel and you have nothing to write about except booz and kissing and the "F" word in every sentence then please stop writing about coming of age style, write only the main plot don't add unnecessary characters. Except the main plot line of a journalist searching for a lost Rock Band, everything else, all the other characters felt like blabbering.
It's disappointing that author didn't find anything else to write about today's generation, author wrote like they are garbage, baggage of alcohol and abusive words and nothing else!
Without these characters, I enjoyed the book
Until one afternoon, when he discovers a pile of back issues of India's premier youth magazine from the 1970s, Junior Standard. An article on a famed rock contest of the time catches his eye. It mentions a band called The Flow and their frontman, Max Bulandi, hailed as India's answer to Jim Morrison. Nirvana is consumed by the article and when a chance meeting with an old Bombay rocker whets his appetite further, he embarks on a search for the mysterious Max Bulandi and the early pioneers of the Indian rock music scene. As he traces the lost history of The Flow across Bombay, Calcutta, Shillong and Benares, it opens up to him a world of riffs and beats that transforms his life quite completely.
Exhilarating and utterly original, The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi is at once a coming-of-age story with a twist and a much-awaited hat-tip to the legends of Indian rock music.
This book has an air of detective novel style. I was enjoying the beginning, crispy witty start of a novel that gives me a chilling vibe of 70-80's. The slide show of 70's era started infront of my eyes, the hippie style statement attire,, the Hare Rama Hare Krishna vibe was getting over my senses and then after few chapters I lost the sensation.
Not only 70-80's era but when author was talking about today's generation it also felt like shadow of 70's. TBH, if you are writing a coming of age novel and you have nothing to write about except booz and kissing and the "F" word in every sentence then please stop writing about coming of age style, write only the main plot don't add unnecessary characters. Except the main plot line of a journalist searching for a lost Rock Band, everything else, all the other characters felt like blabbering.
It's disappointing that author didn't find anything else to write about today's generation, author wrote like they are garbage, baggage of alcohol and abusive words and nothing else!
Without these characters, I enjoyed the book
December 10, 2025
The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi had been on my TBR ever since the book released last year. I got myself a copy and started reading it a few days ago. The story follows the life of Nirvana, a journalist covering music for a local daily. Bored with his work, one fine day he comes across an old article from 1970 about a band from Calcutta and their front man, the titular character, Max Bulandi. Intrigued by that article, Nirvana sets of on a journey that takes him from Mumbai to Kolkata to Shillong and finally Benares, chasing the life of this larger than life character who is called "India's answer to Jim Morrison."
Through the story you meet different people who have known Max Bulandi. You see how he touched each of their lives and the memories they have of him. Along with following Max's journey, you also get to follow Nirvana's journey of connecting with himself, enjoying his work and finding a purpose for himself. Chasing the story, he travels across the country to different cities, where he meets the former bandmates of Max and pieces together the puzzle of who really was Max Bulandi.
As an avid reader and music enthusiast, I enjoyed reading about the music scene in India from the 70s. The whole book is peppered with references to popular rock songs from the time and artists like Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel etc. I liked how the story travels through time and switches between past and present. You not only get to see Max's life, but also see how Nirvana grows as an individual on this journey.
A well-told tale, but there were still spots where I found there was too much information to digest. Some parts of the story felt cumbersome to read while others were a breeze to read through.
Overall, it's an enjoyable read if you want to embark on an adventure. Music enthusiasts should definitely pick this up. The originality of the story doesn't disappoint.
Through the story you meet different people who have known Max Bulandi. You see how he touched each of their lives and the memories they have of him. Along with following Max's journey, you also get to follow Nirvana's journey of connecting with himself, enjoying his work and finding a purpose for himself. Chasing the story, he travels across the country to different cities, where he meets the former bandmates of Max and pieces together the puzzle of who really was Max Bulandi.
As an avid reader and music enthusiast, I enjoyed reading about the music scene in India from the 70s. The whole book is peppered with references to popular rock songs from the time and artists like Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel etc. I liked how the story travels through time and switches between past and present. You not only get to see Max's life, but also see how Nirvana grows as an individual on this journey.
A well-told tale, but there were still spots where I found there was too much information to digest. Some parts of the story felt cumbersome to read while others were a breeze to read through.
Overall, it's an enjoyable read if you want to embark on an adventure. Music enthusiasts should definitely pick this up. The originality of the story doesn't disappoint.
November 25, 2024
Imagine stumbling upon a hidden treasure that changes your life forever. For Nirvana, a disillusioned journalist, that treasure is an old magazine article about The Flow, India's answer to the world's greatest rock bands. Sidharth Singh's "The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi" is a captivating journey that combines music, self-discovery, and India's rich rock history.
Nirvana's life is a mess, but his quest for Max Bulandi and The Flow's story becomes an obsession. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a world of riffs, beats, and legends that transform his life. This book is not just about music; it's about finding purpose and passion.
The author's writing is a love letter to Indian rock music. He masterfully weaves together facts and fiction, paying homage to the pioneers of the genre. From Bombay to Calcutta, Shillong to Benares, the narrative takes you on a sonic journey through India's vibrant music scene.
Nirvana's transformation from a jilted lover to a driven journalist is inspiring. Max Bulandi, the enigmatic frontman, is a fascinating character whose story is slowly revealed. The supporting cast, including old Bombay rockers and music enthusiasts, adds depth and authenticity.
📚 Why You'll Love This Book:-
1. Unique blend of music, history, and self-discovery
2. Engaging narrative that's hard to put down
3. Relatable characters and their struggles
4. A refreshing tribute to Indian rock music
"The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi" is an exhilarating read that will resonate with music lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration. Sidharth Singh's debut novel is a testament to the power of music to transform lives.
📚 Recommendation:- For fans of music, coming-of-age stories, and Indian culture.
📚 Question to Readers:- Have you ever discovered something that changed your life's rhythm? Share your story!
Nirvana's life is a mess, but his quest for Max Bulandi and The Flow's story becomes an obsession. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a world of riffs, beats, and legends that transform his life. This book is not just about music; it's about finding purpose and passion.
The author's writing is a love letter to Indian rock music. He masterfully weaves together facts and fiction, paying homage to the pioneers of the genre. From Bombay to Calcutta, Shillong to Benares, the narrative takes you on a sonic journey through India's vibrant music scene.
Nirvana's transformation from a jilted lover to a driven journalist is inspiring. Max Bulandi, the enigmatic frontman, is a fascinating character whose story is slowly revealed. The supporting cast, including old Bombay rockers and music enthusiasts, adds depth and authenticity.
📚 Why You'll Love This Book:-
1. Unique blend of music, history, and self-discovery
2. Engaging narrative that's hard to put down
3. Relatable characters and their struggles
4. A refreshing tribute to Indian rock music
"The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi" is an exhilarating read that will resonate with music lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration. Sidharth Singh's debut novel is a testament to the power of music to transform lives.
📚 Recommendation:- For fans of music, coming-of-age stories, and Indian culture.
📚 Question to Readers:- Have you ever discovered something that changed your life's rhythm? Share your story!
February 8, 2025
This book follows Nirvana, a journalist caught in a personal and professional slump. Disillusioned by his life as a jilted lover and struggling addict, he stumbles upon an article from the 1970s about a legendary Indian rock band, The Flow, and their enigmatic frontman, Max Bulandi. Intrigued by the story, Nirvana embarks on a quest to uncover the lost history of the band, traveling through Bombay, Calcutta, Shillong, and Benares. Along the way, the music and the mystique of Max Bulandi open a door to a life-changing transformation.
With Max Bulandi hailed as India's answer to Jim Morrison, this book must be hailed as India's answer to Daisy Jones and the Six. I was hooked with Nirvana’s journey from the moment he dived into the past of The Flow. The author did an exceptional job of blending Nirvana’s personal struggles with the discovery of India’s rock history. What makes the story stand out is how it immerses the readers in the music and culture of the time, making us feel like we're right there with Nirvana, uncovering each piece of the puzzle.
The book highlights the rich, often overlooked history of Indian rock. It’s not just about the character discovering the past of a band, it’s about him finding meaning, creativity, and passion again in his own life. The journey through the cities of India is not just physical, it’s a deep, internal exploration, and the way Nirvana is shaped by his experiences feels both personal and relatable.
The writing itself is vivid, with enough detail to transport the readers to the various locations. The author’s ability to weave in music, nostalgia, and personal growth made this much more than just a book about rock and roll. It’s a heartfelt tribute to both the music and the transformative power of rediscovering something that speaks to the soul.
With Max Bulandi hailed as India's answer to Jim Morrison, this book must be hailed as India's answer to Daisy Jones and the Six. I was hooked with Nirvana’s journey from the moment he dived into the past of The Flow. The author did an exceptional job of blending Nirvana’s personal struggles with the discovery of India’s rock history. What makes the story stand out is how it immerses the readers in the music and culture of the time, making us feel like we're right there with Nirvana, uncovering each piece of the puzzle.
The book highlights the rich, often overlooked history of Indian rock. It’s not just about the character discovering the past of a band, it’s about him finding meaning, creativity, and passion again in his own life. The journey through the cities of India is not just physical, it’s a deep, internal exploration, and the way Nirvana is shaped by his experiences feels both personal and relatable.
The writing itself is vivid, with enough detail to transport the readers to the various locations. The author’s ability to weave in music, nostalgia, and personal growth made this much more than just a book about rock and roll. It’s a heartfelt tribute to both the music and the transformative power of rediscovering something that speaks to the soul.
November 10, 2024
The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi by Sidharth Singh is a story of exploration of India's rock scene in the 70s and 80s narrated through the eyes of a disillusioned journalist - "Nirvana".
Nirvana has an counter opposite personality than his name and is struggling to find his path in life. One day, Nirvana stumbles upon a mention of "The Flow" and their enigmatic frontman - "Max Bulandi". On a quest to find a lost story, Nirvana embarks on a journey across India that uncovers the forgotten legends of Indian Rock Music.
The writing style is documentary style narration and story captures an essence of a rebellion musical era with layered themes of fame, addition & redemption. Since the title is Max Bulandi, it is the most important character of our story. Character development is on point with a mix of mystique & relatability. Nirvana's journey to find Bulandi's story changes his personality and also adds life and depth to each character.
Music is the main essence here and as a reader you will feel like witnessing the nostalgic vibes of Calcutta to busy streets of Bombay and the like.
Few things I particularly liked:
1. Power of Music in Healing
2. Resilience against the society
3. Embracing past Musical Legends
4. Importance of Guidance & mentorship
5. Confronting Personal demons and overcoming fears
In case you are a fan of India culture and music history, then this debut novel might interest you as it pays a tribute to India's rock pioneers.
Nirvana has an counter opposite personality than his name and is struggling to find his path in life. One day, Nirvana stumbles upon a mention of "The Flow" and their enigmatic frontman - "Max Bulandi". On a quest to find a lost story, Nirvana embarks on a journey across India that uncovers the forgotten legends of Indian Rock Music.
The writing style is documentary style narration and story captures an essence of a rebellion musical era with layered themes of fame, addition & redemption. Since the title is Max Bulandi, it is the most important character of our story. Character development is on point with a mix of mystique & relatability. Nirvana's journey to find Bulandi's story changes his personality and also adds life and depth to each character.
Music is the main essence here and as a reader you will feel like witnessing the nostalgic vibes of Calcutta to busy streets of Bombay and the like.
Few things I particularly liked:
1. Power of Music in Healing
2. Resilience against the society
3. Embracing past Musical Legends
4. Importance of Guidance & mentorship
5. Confronting Personal demons and overcoming fears
In case you are a fan of India culture and music history, then this debut novel might interest you as it pays a tribute to India's rock pioneers.
November 14, 2024
Reading without distractions has been a rare for me. Having very little time to unwind with a book or reading too little because the book isn't gripping enough have been the two main problems due to which I've not read as much as I wished to.
Sidharth Singh's spectacular novel has broken that spell. The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi has made it to my 5 ⭐ reads list this year!
Nirvana, our not so young protagonist, is a talented journalist who comes across a random article about a band called The Flow and begins a self funded research to discover more about it for a worthy piece.
This immature seeming decision takes him places where he meets the band members who were enthralled by their lead singer Max Bulandi, a crazy force of energy and magnetism. This exploration talks about the good old times, the band's antiques with drugs, rock-n-roll and sex and primarily the consequences of mindless decisions and actions. I'm not sure if the nostalgia or the straightforward narrative made me love the plot, it's probably both. The plot perfectly balances the recklessness of the youth and impact of politics as the story progresses.
Without giving away much of the plot, I'd say you read this book for it's refreshing plot and comforting nostalgia, which help one find themselves. ✨
Sidharth Singh's spectacular novel has broken that spell. The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi has made it to my 5 ⭐ reads list this year!
Nirvana, our not so young protagonist, is a talented journalist who comes across a random article about a band called The Flow and begins a self funded research to discover more about it for a worthy piece.
This immature seeming decision takes him places where he meets the band members who were enthralled by their lead singer Max Bulandi, a crazy force of energy and magnetism. This exploration talks about the good old times, the band's antiques with drugs, rock-n-roll and sex and primarily the consequences of mindless decisions and actions. I'm not sure if the nostalgia or the straightforward narrative made me love the plot, it's probably both. The plot perfectly balances the recklessness of the youth and impact of politics as the story progresses.
Without giving away much of the plot, I'd say you read this book for it's refreshing plot and comforting nostalgia, which help one find themselves. ✨
December 21, 2024
The Extra Ordinary Life of Max Bulandi by Sidharth Singh is a captivating story set against the backdrop of the rock music scene in India during the 1970s and 1980s. When Nirvana was grappling with personal struggles and searching for meaning in his existence, he discovers an article about Max Bulandi, the charismatic frontman of the iconic band The Flow. This encounter with Max's story becomes a pivotal moment in Nirvana's life, propelling him on an incredible journey of self-discovery and inspiration.
As he delves deeper into the world of Max Bulandi, Nirvana travels across India, exploring the rich musical landscapes of Bombay, Shillong, and Calcutta. Each city offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant rock music scene of the time, filled with unforgettable characters and sounds. Through these experiences, Nirvana uncovers the tales of forgotten rock music that once resonated deeply with the youth of India, illuminating a richly layered cultural history.
The novel beautifully explores themes of transformation and healing through music, showcasing how melodies can mend broken spirits and spark creativity.
This book is an excellent choice for music enthusiasts and cultural history buffs.
As he delves deeper into the world of Max Bulandi, Nirvana travels across India, exploring the rich musical landscapes of Bombay, Shillong, and Calcutta. Each city offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant rock music scene of the time, filled with unforgettable characters and sounds. Through these experiences, Nirvana uncovers the tales of forgotten rock music that once resonated deeply with the youth of India, illuminating a richly layered cultural history.
The novel beautifully explores themes of transformation and healing through music, showcasing how melodies can mend broken spirits and spark creativity.
This book is an excellent choice for music enthusiasts and cultural history buffs.
November 2, 2024
Everyone in the creative world has experienced being in a funk. Here, Nirvana is in a funk and to get out he goes into a quest to find Max Bulandi, rock music extraordinaire. The book takes you through what India had to offer to rock music in the 70s and 80s. Max Bulandi is an enigma and the story progresses we get to know more about his "extraordinary" life. The book is part informative part emotional and is successful in making you want to keep turning the pages.
The narrative is original and unlike anything I've ever seen before. The book tips its hat for Indian Rock Legends and walks us through many cities like Shillong, Varanasi with Nirvana. The book is such a unique take on something not quite discussed. Siddharth Singh has done quite a great job with this one, quality-wise. The language is simple and ornate, and the flow is constant. I never felt the need to revisit the pages. There's obvious wit between the lines and there's a definite curiosity built around Max Bulandi, the engima. Nirvana as a character was interesting as well.
Read this book in a week and I recommend it to anyone looking for a unique read.
The narrative is original and unlike anything I've ever seen before. The book tips its hat for Indian Rock Legends and walks us through many cities like Shillong, Varanasi with Nirvana. The book is such a unique take on something not quite discussed. Siddharth Singh has done quite a great job with this one, quality-wise. The language is simple and ornate, and the flow is constant. I never felt the need to revisit the pages. There's obvious wit between the lines and there's a definite curiosity built around Max Bulandi, the engima. Nirvana as a character was interesting as well.
Read this book in a week and I recommend it to anyone looking for a unique read.
January 26, 2025
The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi offers readers a unique reading experience. The story follows Nirvana, who stumbles upon an old magazine article and becomes intrigued by Max Bulandi, a man who seemed to have it all before mysteriously disappearing.
The start of the book is slow, but it picks up pace as Nirvana’s quest to learn more about Max unfolds. I found myself more drawn to Nirvana’s journey than Max’s. While Max’s story is full of unpredictability, Nirvana stays focused on his goal of uncovering the truth about Max.
The book is around 230 pages and thus is a quick read. The characters are well-developed, and although not all are particularly likable, their experiences offer valuable life lessons to the readers. I was hoping for a more climactic ending but was somewhat disappointed (spoiler ahead) when I discovered Max’s fate and how he chose to live the rest of his life. Despite this, The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi remains an enjoyable read. It may not have had the dramatic conclusion I expected, but the journey itself, along with its lessons, made it a worthwhile experience.
The start of the book is slow, but it picks up pace as Nirvana’s quest to learn more about Max unfolds. I found myself more drawn to Nirvana’s journey than Max’s. While Max’s story is full of unpredictability, Nirvana stays focused on his goal of uncovering the truth about Max.
The book is around 230 pages and thus is a quick read. The characters are well-developed, and although not all are particularly likable, their experiences offer valuable life lessons to the readers. I was hoping for a more climactic ending but was somewhat disappointed (spoiler ahead) when I discovered Max’s fate and how he chose to live the rest of his life. Despite this, The Extraordinary Life of Max Bulandi remains an enjoyable read. It may not have had the dramatic conclusion I expected, but the journey itself, along with its lessons, made it a worthwhile experience.
March 22, 2025
The story about an enigma named Max Bulandi told from different vantage points (read: through different people).
The plot starts with the protagonist trying to find out about the rock band “The Flow” and its lead singer / performer, Max Bulandi.
The story is written in a documentary style where the protagonist meets different people who were a part of Max Bulandi’s story / journey and tries to slowly peel Max’s layers to understand about the character and what exactly happened to him. Despite the documentary style writing, at no point does one feel bored. Rather, the style increases the one’s curiosity about Max.
The author draws parallel between the protagonist’s life / situation and Max’s story - trying to answer the most critical question plaguing the current generation - “How does one find one’s purpose in life?”
A perfect read for a Sunday afternoon.
The plot starts with the protagonist trying to find out about the rock band “The Flow” and its lead singer / performer, Max Bulandi.
The story is written in a documentary style where the protagonist meets different people who were a part of Max Bulandi’s story / journey and tries to slowly peel Max’s layers to understand about the character and what exactly happened to him. Despite the documentary style writing, at no point does one feel bored. Rather, the style increases the one’s curiosity about Max.
The author draws parallel between the protagonist’s life / situation and Max’s story - trying to answer the most critical question plaguing the current generation - “How does one find one’s purpose in life?”
A perfect read for a Sunday afternoon.
January 16, 2026
3.5. i don't know how much of it is true, the way the book have portrayed india, i mean the drug scenes was a little surprising for me, i didn't know india had a tremendous flow of drugs back then. it is a well written book and the only problem i had was with the narrator getting everything seamlessly and effortlessly, it kind of gives a 'staged' vibe but its negligible i guess.
January 11, 2025
An extraordinarily good book.
A very skilfully written book that seemed new and old at the same time, appealing to the modern in me as well as rekindling the memories of the 80s which was my peak reading time.
The book never palled as the author jumps from style to style and different points in time, telling a different part of the story from each protagonist with a differing point of view.
Very well written in inimical Indian style. The only part where it seems out of place is Belinda's narrative - perhaps an Anglo Indian would have been a better character in this role because Belinda doesn't sound at all English but very Indian indeed.
The author has compressed multiple generations, thoughts, feelings and every decade is highlighted. So it appealed to every phase of my life, having lived through it all especially the music which reflects exactly what I myself heard from my childhood on.
The narrator and Max are both counterpoints that help to highlight an entire life time of experience - that the author has clearly experienced and so have I. But the book is bound to appeal to the next couple of generations as well because of the way it is written - making the ancient seem modern and the modern seem ancient at the same time.
Perfect interweaving of the past and well worth the read for anybody but most of all for those who are into the music of those times.
A very skilfully written book that seemed new and old at the same time, appealing to the modern in me as well as rekindling the memories of the 80s which was my peak reading time.
The book never palled as the author jumps from style to style and different points in time, telling a different part of the story from each protagonist with a differing point of view.
Very well written in inimical Indian style. The only part where it seems out of place is Belinda's narrative - perhaps an Anglo Indian would have been a better character in this role because Belinda doesn't sound at all English but very Indian indeed.
The author has compressed multiple generations, thoughts, feelings and every decade is highlighted. So it appealed to every phase of my life, having lived through it all especially the music which reflects exactly what I myself heard from my childhood on.
The narrator and Max are both counterpoints that help to highlight an entire life time of experience - that the author has clearly experienced and so have I. But the book is bound to appeal to the next couple of generations as well because of the way it is written - making the ancient seem modern and the modern seem ancient at the same time.
Perfect interweaving of the past and well worth the read for anybody but most of all for those who are into the music of those times.
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