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Lucknow, After the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns
When the lamps go out, Lucknow becomes another city.
In Lucknow, after the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns, Parveen Talha gathers stories that move through the old quarters, ruined buildings, graveyards, railway platforms and forgotten houses of the City of Nawabs—stories of spirits, apparitions, unexplained visitations and jinns whose presence lingers just beyond the visible world.
These are not conventional horror stories. They are tales steeped in Lucknow’s history, tehzeeb, memory and loss. The city’s past—especially the violence, grief and dislocation surrounding 1857—presses constantly against the present, giving rise to legends attached to places such as the Residency, Begum Kothi, La Martiniere, Firangi Mahal, Aminabad and Malhaur station.
Moving between folklore, faith and lived recollection, the book evokes a Lucknow where the dead are not always gone, where jinns may intervene in human lives, and where memory survives in eerie, intimate forms.
In Lucknow, after the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns, Parveen Talha gathers stories that move through the old quarters, ruined buildings, graveyards, railway platforms and forgotten houses of the City of Nawabs—stories of spirits, apparitions, unexplained visitations and jinns whose presence lingers just beyond the visible world.
These are not conventional horror stories. They are tales steeped in Lucknow’s history, tehzeeb, memory and loss. The city’s past—especially the violence, grief and dislocation surrounding 1857—presses constantly against the present, giving rise to legends attached to places such as the Residency, Begum Kothi, La Martiniere, Firangi Mahal, Aminabad and Malhaur station.
Moving between folklore, faith and lived recollection, the book evokes a Lucknow where the dead are not always gone, where jinns may intervene in human lives, and where memory survives in eerie, intimate forms.
168 pages, Paperback
Published April 10, 2026
About the author
Parveen Talha
5 books1 followerParveen Talha is an Indian civil servant, reported to be the first Muslim woman to serve in any Class I civil service in India, the first Indian Revenue Service officer to become a member of the Union Public Service Commission and the first woman to serve in Narcotics Department of India. She was honoured by the Government of India, in 2014, by bestowing on her the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, for her services to Indian Civil Service.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 6, 2026
As kids, the highlight of our whole year was our 50 days long summer vacation. We were so excited for playing with our cousins, eating groundnuts, watermelons, and mangoes straight from our own farms.
But what I waited for the most were the nights. 🌃 🌙
We have a HUGE mango tree right in the middle of our verandah. My uncle used to gather all us cousins after dinner on the terrace and he'd tell the stories of a family who lived on the tree and were present there as ghosts now 👀👻
(He literally said, he heard them crying many times 😭)
Little me always wanting to sound brave accused him of lying but I was dead scared of that tree after evening.
My great grandfather was famous in the entire village because during his young days, he disappeared from the village for two whole days and came back all battered and broken. He said he fought a gang of Ghosts and won over them all. Even though, the story seemed banal but people did believe in him because he never lied.
Some of the villagers also said that they have heard a wedding taking place during the middle of the night and when they came outside to join the celebration, nothing was visible to them, a ghost wedding celebration!! 😈
Those evenings with my uncle and those stories are etched in my heart forever and never really left me.
And this book felt just like that!🥹
A collection of eerie, haunting tales- some that gave me goosebumps, some that left me unexpectedly emotional.
A few years ago I visited Lucknow and have been to quite a few places mentioned in the stories and thus these stories felt even more real, more personal. Attaching a few pictures of that visit here :)
If you love stories that blur the line between memory and the supernatural, this one is for you. 🖤
But what I waited for the most were the nights. 🌃 🌙
We have a HUGE mango tree right in the middle of our verandah. My uncle used to gather all us cousins after dinner on the terrace and he'd tell the stories of a family who lived on the tree and were present there as ghosts now 👀👻
(He literally said, he heard them crying many times 😭)
Little me always wanting to sound brave accused him of lying but I was dead scared of that tree after evening.
My great grandfather was famous in the entire village because during his young days, he disappeared from the village for two whole days and came back all battered and broken. He said he fought a gang of Ghosts and won over them all. Even though, the story seemed banal but people did believe in him because he never lied.
Some of the villagers also said that they have heard a wedding taking place during the middle of the night and when they came outside to join the celebration, nothing was visible to them, a ghost wedding celebration!! 😈
Those evenings with my uncle and those stories are etched in my heart forever and never really left me.
And this book felt just like that!🥹
A collection of eerie, haunting tales- some that gave me goosebumps, some that left me unexpectedly emotional.
A few years ago I visited Lucknow and have been to quite a few places mentioned in the stories and thus these stories felt even more real, more personal. Attaching a few pictures of that visit here :)
If you love stories that blur the line between memory and the supernatural, this one is for you. 🖤
June 28, 2026
11th Book of 2026
Whenever we hear the words ghost stories, we usually expect haunted mansions, eerie forests, or terrifying supernatural encounters. However, Lucknow, After the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns by Parveen Talha offers something far more fascinating. It is less about frightening the reader and more about introducing them to the rich folklore, forgotten legends, and cultural beliefs that have quietly survived through generations in the City of Nawabs. The book is published by Rupa Publications in around 135 pages only which makes a perfect companion for you on a weekend or travel.
This is not a conventional horror novel. Instead, it is a beautifully woven collection of tales where history, mythology, superstition, faith, and human emotions coexist. As someone who enjoys stories rooted in local culture, I found this approach refreshing. The author doesn't merely narrate ghost stories; she preserves an entire oral tradition that might otherwise disappear with time.
What makes the book particularly engaging is its atmosphere. Lucknow itself becomes a character. Its old lanes, magnificent havelis, forgotten graveyards, ancient mosques, and silent corners provide the perfect backdrop for stories involving mysterious apparitions and elusive jinns. Even if you have never visited the city, the vivid descriptions transport you there, making you feel as though you are listening to these tales from an elderly storyteller on a quiet evening.
One aspect I appreciated throughout the book was the author's balanced narrative. She neither forces the reader to believe in the supernatural nor dismisses these stories as mere fiction. Instead, she presents them with respect, allowing readers to decide for themselves where folklore ends and reality begins. That neutrality adds authenticity to the storytelling.
The stories themselves vary in tone. Some are genuinely eerie, while others are melancholic, mysterious, or even philosophical. There are moments when you expect a shocking revelation, only to find yourself contemplating human fears, loneliness, faith, or destiny instead. This emotional depth prevents the collection from becoming repetitive and keeps the reader invested until the very end.
Parveen Talha's writing deserves special appreciation for its simplicity. Despite dealing with subjects that could easily become overly dramatic, her language remains elegant, measured, and accessible. She doesn't rely on exaggerated horror elements or unnecessary jump scares. Instead, she allows the setting, the characters, and the quiet mystery surrounding each incident to create a lingering sense of unease. That subtlety makes the stories far more effective than loud horror ever could.
The book also offers glimpses into Lucknow's cultural heritage, traditions, and social fabric. Readers unfamiliar with the city's history will appreciate how naturally these details are woven into the narratives without interrupting their flow. In many ways, this book serves as both a collection of supernatural tales and a tribute to the city's timeless charm.
What I particularly enjoyed was that the stories stay with you even after you finish reading. They don't necessarily make you afraid to switch off the lights, but they do make you wonder how many unexplained stories every old city quietly hides within its walls. The author successfully captures that thin line where imagination meets inherited belief.
Having said that, readers expecting fast-paced horror or edge-of-the-seat thrills may find the pace relatively gentle. This is a book best enjoyed slowly, almost like listening to bedtime stories narrated by someone who genuinely believes every word they are saying. The charm lies in its storytelling rather than its scares.
Overall, Lucknow, After the Lamps Go Out is an absorbing blend of folklore, history, mystery, and culture. It reminds us that every city has stories that never make it into history books but continue to live in whispers, legends, and memories passed from one generation to another. Parveen Talha has done a commendable job of preserving those whispers in written form.
If you appreciate regional folklore, atmospheric storytelling, and books that celebrate India's cultural heritage through unusual narratives, this collection deserves your attention. It is a gentle reminder that sometimes the most memorable ghost stories are not the ones that terrify us, but the ones that make us look at familiar places with completely new eyes. I really liked how few stories tells about these super natural elements providing justice to the human beings who didn’t get it otherwise. Overall, this was definitely a unique read. I would give this book 4 stars out of 5.
Thanks!
WRITING BUDDHA
Whenever we hear the words ghost stories, we usually expect haunted mansions, eerie forests, or terrifying supernatural encounters. However, Lucknow, After the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns by Parveen Talha offers something far more fascinating. It is less about frightening the reader and more about introducing them to the rich folklore, forgotten legends, and cultural beliefs that have quietly survived through generations in the City of Nawabs. The book is published by Rupa Publications in around 135 pages only which makes a perfect companion for you on a weekend or travel.
This is not a conventional horror novel. Instead, it is a beautifully woven collection of tales where history, mythology, superstition, faith, and human emotions coexist. As someone who enjoys stories rooted in local culture, I found this approach refreshing. The author doesn't merely narrate ghost stories; she preserves an entire oral tradition that might otherwise disappear with time.
What makes the book particularly engaging is its atmosphere. Lucknow itself becomes a character. Its old lanes, magnificent havelis, forgotten graveyards, ancient mosques, and silent corners provide the perfect backdrop for stories involving mysterious apparitions and elusive jinns. Even if you have never visited the city, the vivid descriptions transport you there, making you feel as though you are listening to these tales from an elderly storyteller on a quiet evening.
One aspect I appreciated throughout the book was the author's balanced narrative. She neither forces the reader to believe in the supernatural nor dismisses these stories as mere fiction. Instead, she presents them with respect, allowing readers to decide for themselves where folklore ends and reality begins. That neutrality adds authenticity to the storytelling.
The stories themselves vary in tone. Some are genuinely eerie, while others are melancholic, mysterious, or even philosophical. There are moments when you expect a shocking revelation, only to find yourself contemplating human fears, loneliness, faith, or destiny instead. This emotional depth prevents the collection from becoming repetitive and keeps the reader invested until the very end.
Parveen Talha's writing deserves special appreciation for its simplicity. Despite dealing with subjects that could easily become overly dramatic, her language remains elegant, measured, and accessible. She doesn't rely on exaggerated horror elements or unnecessary jump scares. Instead, she allows the setting, the characters, and the quiet mystery surrounding each incident to create a lingering sense of unease. That subtlety makes the stories far more effective than loud horror ever could.
The book also offers glimpses into Lucknow's cultural heritage, traditions, and social fabric. Readers unfamiliar with the city's history will appreciate how naturally these details are woven into the narratives without interrupting their flow. In many ways, this book serves as both a collection of supernatural tales and a tribute to the city's timeless charm.
What I particularly enjoyed was that the stories stay with you even after you finish reading. They don't necessarily make you afraid to switch off the lights, but they do make you wonder how many unexplained stories every old city quietly hides within its walls. The author successfully captures that thin line where imagination meets inherited belief.
Having said that, readers expecting fast-paced horror or edge-of-the-seat thrills may find the pace relatively gentle. This is a book best enjoyed slowly, almost like listening to bedtime stories narrated by someone who genuinely believes every word they are saying. The charm lies in its storytelling rather than its scares.
Overall, Lucknow, After the Lamps Go Out is an absorbing blend of folklore, history, mystery, and culture. It reminds us that every city has stories that never make it into history books but continue to live in whispers, legends, and memories passed from one generation to another. Parveen Talha has done a commendable job of preserving those whispers in written form.
If you appreciate regional folklore, atmospheric storytelling, and books that celebrate India's cultural heritage through unusual narratives, this collection deserves your attention. It is a gentle reminder that sometimes the most memorable ghost stories are not the ones that terrify us, but the ones that make us look at familiar places with completely new eyes. I really liked how few stories tells about these super natural elements providing justice to the human beings who didn’t get it otherwise. Overall, this was definitely a unique read. I would give this book 4 stars out of 5.
Thanks!
WRITING BUDDHA
May 17, 2026
Lucknow, After the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns is not a conventional horror collection, but more a love letter to a haunted past of the city. Parveen Talha uses ghosts, jinns, and old Lucknow legends not to scare the reader, but also to explore memory, grief, decay, and the lasting shadows of history. The result is atmospheric, intelligent, and firmly anchored in Lucknow's cultural makeup.
What makes the book stand out is its mood. These stories do not rely on exaggerated supernatural drama. Instead, Talha creates an unease, like someone is watching you from behind the curtains. Old kothis, cemeteries, railway stations, abandoned colonial buildings, and forgotten alleys become characters in their own right. The supernatural feels believable because it grows inherently from Lucknow’s history — especially the trauma of 1857, whose echoes seem to linger in every dilapidated wall and whispered rumour.
One of the strongest aspects of the collection is how beautifully it blends folklore with tehzeeb. Even the ghosts feel distinctly Lucknawi — refined, melancholic and tied to memory rather than pure terror. The stories involving jinns are especially compelling because Talha treats them with cultural seriousness instead of turning them into fantasy creatures. That gives the book a unique texture rarely found in Indian supernatural writing.
Her prose is elegant. If you have read her earlier work, Fida-e-Lucknow, you can smell the same affection for the city and its neglected people. She writes like someone preserving history before it disappears forever. At times, her pace is a little too gentle, and readers expecting fast horror or shocking twists may feel disappointed. But the book's slow pace is also its strength. It seems intimate rather than sensational.
The collection succeeds because the fear never comes only from ghosts. It comes from abandoned histories, fading cultures and the idea that cities remember more than people do. After finishing the book, Lucknow itself begins to feel spectral — beautiful in daylight, but carrying another life after dark.
Overall, this is an excellent read for people who enjoy literary horror, Indian folklore and city-based storytelling. It is atmospheric, culturally rich, and emotionally insightful — the kind of book that leaves you in a lingering silence.
What makes the book stand out is its mood. These stories do not rely on exaggerated supernatural drama. Instead, Talha creates an unease, like someone is watching you from behind the curtains. Old kothis, cemeteries, railway stations, abandoned colonial buildings, and forgotten alleys become characters in their own right. The supernatural feels believable because it grows inherently from Lucknow’s history — especially the trauma of 1857, whose echoes seem to linger in every dilapidated wall and whispered rumour.
One of the strongest aspects of the collection is how beautifully it blends folklore with tehzeeb. Even the ghosts feel distinctly Lucknawi — refined, melancholic and tied to memory rather than pure terror. The stories involving jinns are especially compelling because Talha treats them with cultural seriousness instead of turning them into fantasy creatures. That gives the book a unique texture rarely found in Indian supernatural writing.
Her prose is elegant. If you have read her earlier work, Fida-e-Lucknow, you can smell the same affection for the city and its neglected people. She writes like someone preserving history before it disappears forever. At times, her pace is a little too gentle, and readers expecting fast horror or shocking twists may feel disappointed. But the book's slow pace is also its strength. It seems intimate rather than sensational.
The collection succeeds because the fear never comes only from ghosts. It comes from abandoned histories, fading cultures and the idea that cities remember more than people do. After finishing the book, Lucknow itself begins to feel spectral — beautiful in daylight, but carrying another life after dark.
Overall, this is an excellent read for people who enjoy literary horror, Indian folklore and city-based storytelling. It is atmospheric, culturally rich, and emotionally insightful — the kind of book that leaves you in a lingering silence.
June 11, 2026
Prior to reading Lucknow, After the Lamps Go Out, I recognized the names of a great many of Lucknow's landmarks. After reading the book, I understood the stories behind these places.
The ghosts or jinns from this book did not leave much of a lasting impression on me, although what impressed me the most about the book was the feeling of wandering around another archive of Lucknow. The book tells us about many places such as Residency, Begum Kothi, La Martiniere, Firangi Mahal, Aminabad, Malhaur Station and so forth. History and folklore of Lucknow come alive through these landmarks for many centuries already.
The introduction to the book by Parveen Talha is probably the best thing in this collection of short stories about ghosts in Lucknow. Not only did it prepare the reader, but it provided a perspective on how to read the rest of the book.
I must confess that I found the format of the book itself quite impressive as well. The mix of stories, the context, and photos creates an absorbing and carefully selected reading process. In this case, the photographs are particularly useful since they help the reader constantly remember that these places exist in reality, which makes you pause for a moment to observe a picture before moving on to its story.
The thing that I liked the most about the book is how well each of the parts fits together. The story about the haunted house seamlessly moves into an excerpt from the history of the area; legends of one landmark reflect onto another landmark. Slowly but surely, you find yourself assembling the general picture of Lucknow, where documented history is complemented by folklore.
In any case, whether or not ghosts actually exist is not so important. The actual fun comes from understanding how folklore saves the memory of the city and its history, fears, curiosities, and even identity.
The book's greatest achievement is that it makes readers curious not just about its stories but about the city that produced them. Long after the ghosts fade, the names of the places remain.
.
#Qotd: If you could spend an evening exploring one historic place after hearing all its legends and ghost stories, which place would you choose?
The ghosts or jinns from this book did not leave much of a lasting impression on me, although what impressed me the most about the book was the feeling of wandering around another archive of Lucknow. The book tells us about many places such as Residency, Begum Kothi, La Martiniere, Firangi Mahal, Aminabad, Malhaur Station and so forth. History and folklore of Lucknow come alive through these landmarks for many centuries already.
The introduction to the book by Parveen Talha is probably the best thing in this collection of short stories about ghosts in Lucknow. Not only did it prepare the reader, but it provided a perspective on how to read the rest of the book.
I must confess that I found the format of the book itself quite impressive as well. The mix of stories, the context, and photos creates an absorbing and carefully selected reading process. In this case, the photographs are particularly useful since they help the reader constantly remember that these places exist in reality, which makes you pause for a moment to observe a picture before moving on to its story.
The thing that I liked the most about the book is how well each of the parts fits together. The story about the haunted house seamlessly moves into an excerpt from the history of the area; legends of one landmark reflect onto another landmark. Slowly but surely, you find yourself assembling the general picture of Lucknow, where documented history is complemented by folklore.
In any case, whether or not ghosts actually exist is not so important. The actual fun comes from understanding how folklore saves the memory of the city and its history, fears, curiosities, and even identity.
The book's greatest achievement is that it makes readers curious not just about its stories but about the city that produced them. Long after the ghosts fade, the names of the places remain.
.
#Qotd: If you could spend an evening exploring one historic place after hearing all its legends and ghost stories, which place would you choose?
June 5, 2026
~Book Review
🍁Book:- Lucknow : After The Lamps Go Out
🍁Author:- Parveen Talha
🍁Publication:- Rupa Publications
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 295/-
Not all stories about ghosts and jins help in adrenaline rush, some of them stays with the readers long after they finish it and compel them to think and look back the time table. They are not traditional horror sagas; rather they resonate with the dark chapters of history and the rich culture of a particular place. Such stories are remembered in the long run as they create a vibe and a lasting impression in the literary world.
"Lucknow after the Lamps go out" by Parveen Talha deals with some hidden history which is engraved in the rich culture oriented state of Lucknow. While justifying its subtitle 'tales of ghosts and jinns', the book talks about some incidents of British era and its devastating consequences which touch the hearts at once. Through 15 chapters, the author has shared some untold and buried memories which people don't bother to care about. Each story whispers some secret and hidden elements into readers' ears about Nawabs, Begums, Kothis, Residency, palaces, forgotten graves and other significant topics about the place. Readers feel the emotions related to the stories and its history that compel them to stare at the wall in midnight and think the depth of the situations which is unavoidable.
The cover of the book along with its black and white illustrations is so appealing that one can't ignore it at all. Besides this, the presentation of the book and easy to read narrative have won my heart and soul. Readers, who love to read about history and ghosts in a moderate pace, should try this book at least once.
🍁Book:- Lucknow : After The Lamps Go Out
🍁Author:- Parveen Talha
🍁Publication:- Rupa Publications
🍁Printed Price:- Rs. 295/-
Not all stories about ghosts and jins help in adrenaline rush, some of them stays with the readers long after they finish it and compel them to think and look back the time table. They are not traditional horror sagas; rather they resonate with the dark chapters of history and the rich culture of a particular place. Such stories are remembered in the long run as they create a vibe and a lasting impression in the literary world.
"Lucknow after the Lamps go out" by Parveen Talha deals with some hidden history which is engraved in the rich culture oriented state of Lucknow. While justifying its subtitle 'tales of ghosts and jinns', the book talks about some incidents of British era and its devastating consequences which touch the hearts at once. Through 15 chapters, the author has shared some untold and buried memories which people don't bother to care about. Each story whispers some secret and hidden elements into readers' ears about Nawabs, Begums, Kothis, Residency, palaces, forgotten graves and other significant topics about the place. Readers feel the emotions related to the stories and its history that compel them to stare at the wall in midnight and think the depth of the situations which is unavoidable.
The cover of the book along with its black and white illustrations is so appealing that one can't ignore it at all. Besides this, the presentation of the book and easy to read narrative have won my heart and soul. Readers, who love to read about history and ghosts in a moderate pace, should try this book at least once.
April 15, 2026
Set in the culturally rich city of Lucknow, this collection of spine-chilling ghost stories offers far more than conventional horror. It delves into the layered memory of a city known for its tehzeeb and adab, revealing a quieter, darker undercurrent that lingers beneath its refined surface.
What makes this book particularly compelling is how it ties supernatural elements with the city’s living heritage—be it through revived traditions like dastangoi storytelling or ghost walks that keep these eerie tales alive. The stories don’t rely on shock alone; instead, they build an atmosphere of unease, where the past seeps into the present in subtle yet haunting ways.
The opening story, Rest in Peace, Denise, sets the tone beautifully. Through Peter Alvares’ return to a city he never truly left behind, the narrative blurs the line between memory and the supernatural. His encounter with Denise—only to later discover she had died years ago—creates a quiet, lingering horror rather than an overt scare. The detail of her “address” being a maqbara (tomb) is especially striking, reinforcing the book’s recurring theme: in Lucknow, the past is never entirely gone.
Overall, Lucknow: After the Lamps Go Out is not just a collection of ghost stories—it is a reflection on memory, loss, and the unseen presence of history in everyday life. Atmospheric and thoughtfully written, it will appeal to readers who enjoy slow-burning, culturally rooted horror rather than conventional jump scares.
What makes this book particularly compelling is how it ties supernatural elements with the city’s living heritage—be it through revived traditions like dastangoi storytelling or ghost walks that keep these eerie tales alive. The stories don’t rely on shock alone; instead, they build an atmosphere of unease, where the past seeps into the present in subtle yet haunting ways.
The opening story, Rest in Peace, Denise, sets the tone beautifully. Through Peter Alvares’ return to a city he never truly left behind, the narrative blurs the line between memory and the supernatural. His encounter with Denise—only to later discover she had died years ago—creates a quiet, lingering horror rather than an overt scare. The detail of her “address” being a maqbara (tomb) is especially striking, reinforcing the book’s recurring theme: in Lucknow, the past is never entirely gone.
Overall, Lucknow: After the Lamps Go Out is not just a collection of ghost stories—it is a reflection on memory, loss, and the unseen presence of history in everyday life. Atmospheric and thoughtfully written, it will appeal to readers who enjoy slow-burning, culturally rooted horror rather than conventional jump scares.
June 20, 2026
Parveen explores the stories of Ghosts and Jinns in Lucknow through these 15 stories that span across the city-from La Martiniere to the Residency, and tell us how a different city lives within the boundaries once night arrives. What stands out in the book is that each of the stories is unique and while the theme remains common, the concept and idea is not the same, each story has its own essence that shows that not all apparitions are necessarily malevolent. The story titled “The Good Old Doctor” was one such story which I loved reading. Similarly, “Who Did the Surgery on Her” was another story that shows that all the stories about ghosts and jinns need not have unfavourable consequences. “Where Did the Delicacies Come From” and “Coronavirus and the Funeral” were stories that show that if your intentions are pure, then the jinns do help a person in the time of need.
The overall experience of reading the book is good and the stories are written with a good pace which prevents the reader from getting bored. The writing is engaging and keeps you turning the pages and move forward with the book. The sourcing of the stories is commendable, and I loved that it is not just the commonly known places, but places such as Malhaur that the author has covered in her book. Having lived in the city for quite some time and heard a few stories myself, this was a read that took me back to the lanes and the roads of Lucknow once again.
The overall experience of reading the book is good and the stories are written with a good pace which prevents the reader from getting bored. The writing is engaging and keeps you turning the pages and move forward with the book. The sourcing of the stories is commendable, and I loved that it is not just the commonly known places, but places such as Malhaur that the author has covered in her book. Having lived in the city for quite some time and heard a few stories myself, this was a read that took me back to the lanes and the roads of Lucknow once again.
May 27, 2026
There was a phase in my life when I used to watch horror movies way too much. And then one fine(?) day, during my summer vacation, i binge-watched The Grudge and then...hahahahahahah😭😭😭😭 till date, I can't sleep with my lights off! (And mind you it's been 9 yrs since then)
IT TOOK A TOLL ON ME!
Well,
We all have this core memory from our childhood where we are sitting in a group with our friends during a subsi period in school and talking about haunted stories (mostly cooked ones, but they were indeed interesting)... We used to do this with our cousins as well, right?
Honestly I don't know what prompted me to ask for this review copy BUT I AM SOOOOO THRILLED THAT I DID!!!!!! BECAUSE I LOVED EVERY BIT OF IT!!!!!!
.
These paranormal/ghost stories are real!
.
For people who are from around Ghaziabad, you must have heard about KC-19, The Haunted House.. it still gives me goosebumps😭
.
Anyway..
It's perfect for when you are going through a reading slump! Because the stories are short and they'll hook you instantly!
.
As someone who has lived in Lucknow, the fact that these stories are from the places I have heard of and passed through...made it all the more scary! But fun!
.
I loved sharing it with my friends, and they enjoyed it tooooo!!! 💌
.
So if this sounds like something you'd like, you should give it a try! 🫂
IT TOOK A TOLL ON ME!
Well,
We all have this core memory from our childhood where we are sitting in a group with our friends during a subsi period in school and talking about haunted stories (mostly cooked ones, but they were indeed interesting)... We used to do this with our cousins as well, right?
Honestly I don't know what prompted me to ask for this review copy BUT I AM SOOOOO THRILLED THAT I DID!!!!!! BECAUSE I LOVED EVERY BIT OF IT!!!!!!
.
These paranormal/ghost stories are real!
.
For people who are from around Ghaziabad, you must have heard about KC-19, The Haunted House.. it still gives me goosebumps😭
.
Anyway..
It's perfect for when you are going through a reading slump! Because the stories are short and they'll hook you instantly!
.
As someone who has lived in Lucknow, the fact that these stories are from the places I have heard of and passed through...made it all the more scary! But fun!
.
I loved sharing it with my friends, and they enjoyed it tooooo!!! 💌
.
So if this sounds like something you'd like, you should give it a try! 🫂
September 3, 2026
There's something deeply unsettling about this book, but not in the way modern horror usually tries to be. No cheap jump scares, no dramatic monsters hiding in shadows.
Lucknow After the Lamps Go Out feels quieter than that. Older.
Like a story your grandparents would whisper after midnight when the lights went out and suddenly every empty corridor in the house felt alive.
Parveen Talha writes Lucknow like someone mourning it and loving it at the same time. The city itself becomes the ghost in these stories. Every abandoned kothi, graveyard, railway platform and forgotten lane carries memory like perfume trapped in old fabric. And somehow that's what made this book work so well for me — it's less about "being scared" and more about feeling haunted. By history. By loss. By the feeling that some places never really let the past leave.
What I loved most is how rooted the stories are in Lucknow's culture, tehzeeb and folklore. The jinns and spirits never feel forced or fictionalized for entertainment. They feel lived in.
Passed down. Like oral stories surviving through generations.
And because of that, the atmosphere feels incredibly intimate and believable.
This isn't a horror book you race through. It's one you sit with. Preferably late at night when the house is too quiet and every sound suddenly feels suspicious.
And honestly? That's the best kind of haunting.
Lucknow After the Lamps Go Out feels quieter than that. Older.
Like a story your grandparents would whisper after midnight when the lights went out and suddenly every empty corridor in the house felt alive.
Parveen Talha writes Lucknow like someone mourning it and loving it at the same time. The city itself becomes the ghost in these stories. Every abandoned kothi, graveyard, railway platform and forgotten lane carries memory like perfume trapped in old fabric. And somehow that's what made this book work so well for me — it's less about "being scared" and more about feeling haunted. By history. By loss. By the feeling that some places never really let the past leave.
What I loved most is how rooted the stories are in Lucknow's culture, tehzeeb and folklore. The jinns and spirits never feel forced or fictionalized for entertainment. They feel lived in.
Passed down. Like oral stories surviving through generations.
And because of that, the atmosphere feels incredibly intimate and believable.
This isn't a horror book you race through. It's one you sit with. Preferably late at night when the house is too quiet and every sound suddenly feels suspicious.
And honestly? That's the best kind of haunting.
July 1, 2026
Some cities are known for their monuments, while others are remembered for the stories they whisper after dark. Lucknow After the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns by Parveen Talha promises to be a fascinating blend of history, folklore, and the supernatural, inviting readers into the hidden corners of one of India's most culturally rich cities.
Drawing inspiration from Lucknow's old neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and local legends, the book explores tales where ghosts and jinns become more than just supernatural beings—they are echoes of the city's forgotten past. Rather than relying on conventional horror, the collection appears to focus on atmosphere, mystery, and the enduring power of storytelling.
For readers who enjoy folklore, historical settings, and stories that blur the line between myth and reality, this anthology seems like a compelling choice. The idea of discovering Lucknow through its haunted legends is intriguing in itself, making this a book that promises both cultural richness and an immersive reading experience.
If you're someone who loves atmospheric fiction and believes that every old city has secrets waiting to be uncovered, this collection is certainly one to add to your reading list.
Drawing inspiration from Lucknow's old neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and local legends, the book explores tales where ghosts and jinns become more than just supernatural beings—they are echoes of the city's forgotten past. Rather than relying on conventional horror, the collection appears to focus on atmosphere, mystery, and the enduring power of storytelling.
For readers who enjoy folklore, historical settings, and stories that blur the line between myth and reality, this anthology seems like a compelling choice. The idea of discovering Lucknow through its haunted legends is intriguing in itself, making this a book that promises both cultural richness and an immersive reading experience.
If you're someone who loves atmospheric fiction and believes that every old city has secrets waiting to be uncovered, this collection is certainly one to add to your reading list.
July 13, 2026
I picked up this book expecting eerie tales rooted in the rich folklore of Lucknow. While the stories are engaging enough to keep you turning the pages, they never quite deliver the chills or suspense one expects from a collection of ghost stories.
Most of the narratives feel more like urban legends or nostalgic recollections than genuinely haunting tales. The supernatural elements are present, but they rarely create the sense of fear, mystery, or tension that defines memorable horror.
The book's strongest aspect is undoubtedly its depiction of Lucknow. Parveen Talha vividly captures the city's old neighborhoods, forgotten buildings, customs, and cultural heritage. The historical and architectural details add authenticity and often become more interesting than the ghost stories themselves. In many ways, the book works better as a tribute to old Lucknow than as a horror anthology.
If you're looking for spine-chilling stories, this book is likely to leave you underwhelmed. However, if you enjoy local folklore, history, and the atmosphere of old Lucknow, it is still worth a read.
Overall: 5/10 – Decent storytelling and fascinating glimpses into Lucknow's heritage, but lacking the gripping, unsettling horror promised by its premise.*
Most of the narratives feel more like urban legends or nostalgic recollections than genuinely haunting tales. The supernatural elements are present, but they rarely create the sense of fear, mystery, or tension that defines memorable horror.
The book's strongest aspect is undoubtedly its depiction of Lucknow. Parveen Talha vividly captures the city's old neighborhoods, forgotten buildings, customs, and cultural heritage. The historical and architectural details add authenticity and often become more interesting than the ghost stories themselves. In many ways, the book works better as a tribute to old Lucknow than as a horror anthology.
If you're looking for spine-chilling stories, this book is likely to leave you underwhelmed. However, if you enjoy local folklore, history, and the atmosphere of old Lucknow, it is still worth a read.
Overall: 5/10 – Decent storytelling and fascinating glimpses into Lucknow's heritage, but lacking the gripping, unsettling horror promised by its premise.*
April 30, 2026
I went into Lucknow After the Lamps Go Out: Tales of Ghosts and Jinns by Parveen Talha expecting a typical collection of ghost stories, but it turned out to be something much quieter and more subtle.
This isn’t a book that tries to scare you. Most of the stories are very short, and a lot of them don’t have clear endings. At times, it can feel a bit incomplete or even confusing, especially if you’re someone who prefers well-structured plots.
But I think that’s also the point of the book.
It focuses more on atmosphere than storytelling. The way Lucknow is described—its old buildings, empty spaces, and the kind of local beliefs people grow up hearing—feels very real and grounded. It almost reads like things that have been passed down over time rather than fully “written” stories.
Some stories stayed with me more than others, while a few didn’t really land. So for me, it was a mixed experience.
I wouldn’t call it a page-turner, but it’s definitely something you can sit with and read slowly.
If you’re looking for fast-paced horror or strong plot twists, this might not work for you. But if you enjoy quiet, atmospheric reads that leave a lingering feeling, you might appreciate it
This isn’t a book that tries to scare you. Most of the stories are very short, and a lot of them don’t have clear endings. At times, it can feel a bit incomplete or even confusing, especially if you’re someone who prefers well-structured plots.
But I think that’s also the point of the book.
It focuses more on atmosphere than storytelling. The way Lucknow is described—its old buildings, empty spaces, and the kind of local beliefs people grow up hearing—feels very real and grounded. It almost reads like things that have been passed down over time rather than fully “written” stories.
Some stories stayed with me more than others, while a few didn’t really land. So for me, it was a mixed experience.
I wouldn’t call it a page-turner, but it’s definitely something you can sit with and read slowly.
If you’re looking for fast-paced horror or strong plot twists, this might not work for you. But if you enjoy quiet, atmospheric reads that leave a lingering feeling, you might appreciate it
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April 21, 2026I need to visit Lucknow after reading this book 😨
The rich culture and heritage of the city, blended with the history and the wars that happened in the pre-independence era, make the perfect setting for stories of ghosts and jinns! You don't have to be a believer to read such unique stories of ghostly encounters.
🪔The bonus? All these stories actually aren't just meant to frighten, they all are stories of hope, of justice and of desire to complete one last remaining task!
🪔It is a well-researched journey through the heritage of the City of Nawabs, perfect for every history geek and Indian book lover who prefers a supernatural mystery! For anyone who is a history geek and also loves well narrated short stories, this collection is for you!
The rich culture and heritage of the city, blended with the history and the wars that happened in the pre-independence era, make the perfect setting for stories of ghosts and jinns! You don't have to be a believer to read such unique stories of ghostly encounters.
🪔The bonus? All these stories actually aren't just meant to frighten, they all are stories of hope, of justice and of desire to complete one last remaining task!
🪔It is a well-researched journey through the heritage of the City of Nawabs, perfect for every history geek and Indian book lover who prefers a supernatural mystery! For anyone who is a history geek and also loves well narrated short stories, this collection is for you!
July 20, 2026
Worth the read!!
Absolutely thankful for the recommendation 😍
Absolutely thankful for the recommendation 😍
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