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DILMIL: Daughter-in-Law / Mother-in-Law
Shortlisted for Netflix's 2023 Top Ten storytelling contest!Dutiful but dramatic ROOPA believes that “family” is always the solution. She cooks for her family, shops for them, selflessly prioritizes them (and makes sure they know it).
Alas, her son has just married DIVI, a "career-minded ladki" who believes freedom is always the financial freedom, emotional freedom, and just letting people BE (whatever that means).
Now, the two women must share a home. Add to the mix Roopa's slyly vicious mother-in-law, her somewhat absent husband, her wryly comic son--
--and you have the ingredients of a Molotov coc—oops, you have the ingredients of family comedy DILMIL.
Because if failure is the root of all comedy, what can fail more reliably than a saas-bahu pair with the best of intentions?
Alas, her son has just married DIVI, a "career-minded ladki" who believes freedom is always the financial freedom, emotional freedom, and just letting people BE (whatever that means).
Now, the two women must share a home. Add to the mix Roopa's slyly vicious mother-in-law, her somewhat absent husband, her wryly comic son--
--and you have the ingredients of a Molotov coc—oops, you have the ingredients of family comedy DILMIL.
Because if failure is the root of all comedy, what can fail more reliably than a saas-bahu pair with the best of intentions?
133 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 26, 2026
An Indian household is no less than a comedy show.Every Indian knows this.
COnverting the age old traditional banter between a daughter in law and mother in law into a fun filled story takes courage.
I never expected this could be converted into such an amazing tale.
COnverting the age old traditional banter between a daughter in law and mother in law into a fun filled story takes courage.
I never expected this could be converted into such an amazing tale.
June 26, 2026
Indian marriages often come with a heavy manual of silent adjustments and compromises for the daughter-in-law, even in this day and age. DILMIL by Sukriti YJ tackles this exact reality with sharp, laugh-out-loud humor.
The story introduces us to Divi, a modern daughter-in-law who simply refuses to bow down to traditional patriarchal setups. Whether it is managing household chores, learning the ropes of running a home or handling finances, she firmly believes that roles should never be decided by gender.
On the other side is her mother-in-law, Roopa, who honestly tries to be modern and lenient. However, the real hypocrisy shows up when it is her own son’s turn to step into the kitchen or handle chores...she suddenly becomes reluctant and tries her best to shield him from it
Even though this is a very short book, the message comes through beautifully without feeling heavy or preachy. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Divi navigate her journey. It wasn’t just Divi fighting a lonely battle, her husband actually steps up to share the load. Seeing a husband actively share responsibility is unfortunately very rare in real-world arranged marriages and it was wonderful to read
I really hope more men read this and take a page out of this book. It is high time people stop labeling basic life skills like cooking as a "woman's job" or wealth management as a "man's domain"
I highly recommend this book to:
• Newlyweds and couples navigating the messy adjustments of a joint or semi-joint family setup
• Anyone who wants a funny, realistic perspective on modern Indian households
• Every young man entering an arranged marriage who needs to understand what true partnership looks like behind closed doors
The story introduces us to Divi, a modern daughter-in-law who simply refuses to bow down to traditional patriarchal setups. Whether it is managing household chores, learning the ropes of running a home or handling finances, she firmly believes that roles should never be decided by gender.
On the other side is her mother-in-law, Roopa, who honestly tries to be modern and lenient. However, the real hypocrisy shows up when it is her own son’s turn to step into the kitchen or handle chores...she suddenly becomes reluctant and tries her best to shield him from it
Even though this is a very short book, the message comes through beautifully without feeling heavy or preachy. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Divi navigate her journey. It wasn’t just Divi fighting a lonely battle, her husband actually steps up to share the load. Seeing a husband actively share responsibility is unfortunately very rare in real-world arranged marriages and it was wonderful to read
I really hope more men read this and take a page out of this book. It is high time people stop labeling basic life skills like cooking as a "woman's job" or wealth management as a "man's domain"
I highly recommend this book to:
• Newlyweds and couples navigating the messy adjustments of a joint or semi-joint family setup
• Anyone who wants a funny, realistic perspective on modern Indian households
• Every young man entering an arranged marriage who needs to understand what true partnership looks like behind closed doors
July 19, 2026
okay i genuinely didn't expect to enjoy this book this much.
I thought it was gonna be another typical saas bahu story with unnecessary drama, but it turned out to be way more fun than i expected. The first chapter itself had me laughing. Divi misunderstanding "dhok" and blessing Dadi instead of taking her blessings was so embarrassing and hilarious at the same time 😭
"Dhok means blessings. You take blessings from Dadi."
What i really liked is that the book doesn't make anyone the villain. Roopa isn't the evil mother-in-law and Divi isn't the perfect bahu. They're both trying, messing up, getting annoyed, and slowly figuring each other out. It honestly felt like watching two generations constantly misunderstanding each other but still caring deep down.
"Sab ki suno, apni karo. Best strategy!"
The wedding rituals were probably my favourite part because the cultural differences between the Marathi and Marwari families made everything so chaotic. Some scenes felt so real that i could literally imagine them happening at a relative's wedding.
"Both of us could do with being less noisy!"
Also, shoutout to Vicky because seeing a husband actually help around the house instead of just standing there was surprisingly refreshing.
Since it's a collection of short stories, it's such an easy read. Every chapter gives you a new situation, new laughs, and sometimes even something to think about without making it feel preachy.
"Thank god. He's not an ogre. In fact, he's kinda cute."
If you're tired of those toxic saas bahu serials and just want something funny, wholesome, and very desi, this one's definitely worth picking up. i finished it with the biggest smile on my face.
I thought it was gonna be another typical saas bahu story with unnecessary drama, but it turned out to be way more fun than i expected. The first chapter itself had me laughing. Divi misunderstanding "dhok" and blessing Dadi instead of taking her blessings was so embarrassing and hilarious at the same time 😭
"Dhok means blessings. You take blessings from Dadi."
What i really liked is that the book doesn't make anyone the villain. Roopa isn't the evil mother-in-law and Divi isn't the perfect bahu. They're both trying, messing up, getting annoyed, and slowly figuring each other out. It honestly felt like watching two generations constantly misunderstanding each other but still caring deep down.
"Sab ki suno, apni karo. Best strategy!"
The wedding rituals were probably my favourite part because the cultural differences between the Marathi and Marwari families made everything so chaotic. Some scenes felt so real that i could literally imagine them happening at a relative's wedding.
"Both of us could do with being less noisy!"
Also, shoutout to Vicky because seeing a husband actually help around the house instead of just standing there was surprisingly refreshing.
Since it's a collection of short stories, it's such an easy read. Every chapter gives you a new situation, new laughs, and sometimes even something to think about without making it feel preachy.
"Thank god. He's not an ogre. In fact, he's kinda cute."
If you're tired of those toxic saas bahu serials and just want something funny, wholesome, and very desi, this one's definitely worth picking up. i finished it with the biggest smile on my face.
July 9, 2026
I read mostly serious books but at times some light reads bring in fresh air! This one is one of those books that makes you smile from the very first story. It takes a simple saas bahu relationship and gives it a fresh modern twist.
Like say, Roopa is a traditional Marwari mother in law while Divi is an independent Maharashtrian news editor. Dono ki personalities bilkul alag hain, but that is exactly what makes every situation so entertaining. Their intentions are always good, yet things somehow become total chaos.
The book is a collection of ten short stories and each one talks about everyday family life. From wedding rituals and household work to gifting, UPI, public image and work life, every topic feels familiar. Bahut baar laga, arre yeh toh almost sare gharo ki hi baat hai. The humour comes naturally because the situations are so relatable.
I liked the fact that neither ends are painted as bad or villains. Neither Roopa nor Divi is perfect. Both make mistakes, both try to adjust and both care for each other in their own way. They both are humans. This gave a feel good entertainment and a good nod of happiness inside my heart. The thing is their can be belief and lifestyle differences between people but goodwill should exist with respect, that changes everything. Everyother thing can be managed.
If you enjoy light family comedies with an Indian flavour, Dilmil is a lovely pick. It is funny, warm and easy to finish
I giggled at many moments and quietly appreciated how beautifully the author captured the little joys and misunderstandings of Indian families. Yeh book sach mein full paisa vasool entertainment hai. Padh ke dekho.
Like say, Roopa is a traditional Marwari mother in law while Divi is an independent Maharashtrian news editor. Dono ki personalities bilkul alag hain, but that is exactly what makes every situation so entertaining. Their intentions are always good, yet things somehow become total chaos.
The book is a collection of ten short stories and each one talks about everyday family life. From wedding rituals and household work to gifting, UPI, public image and work life, every topic feels familiar. Bahut baar laga, arre yeh toh almost sare gharo ki hi baat hai. The humour comes naturally because the situations are so relatable.
I liked the fact that neither ends are painted as bad or villains. Neither Roopa nor Divi is perfect. Both make mistakes, both try to adjust and both care for each other in their own way. They both are humans. This gave a feel good entertainment and a good nod of happiness inside my heart. The thing is their can be belief and lifestyle differences between people but goodwill should exist with respect, that changes everything. Everyother thing can be managed.
If you enjoy light family comedies with an Indian flavour, Dilmil is a lovely pick. It is funny, warm and easy to finish
I giggled at many moments and quietly appreciated how beautifully the author captured the little joys and misunderstandings of Indian families. Yeh book sach mein full paisa vasool entertainment hai. Padh ke dekho.
June 13, 2026
Daughter-in-Law / Mother-in-Law is an engaging collection of short stories that examines the intricate relationship between two women often portrayed as natural rivals in popular culture. Rather than relying solely on stereotypes, Sukriti YJ presents a range of situations that reveal the emotional depth, misunderstandings, humor, affection, and resilience that exist within these family dynamics.
What makes this collection enjoyable is its relatability. The stories reflect everyday experiences, cultural expectations, generational differences, and evolving family structures. Some narratives are humorous and light-hearted, while others encourage reflection on communication, empathy, and mutual understanding.
The author's storytelling style is accessible and conversational, making the book easy to read in short sittings. Each story offers a unique perspective, reminding readers that relationships are rarely black and white. The characters feel authentic, with strengths, flaws, and emotions that many readers will recognize from their own families.
At its heart, DILMIL is not just about daughters-in-law and mothers-in-law; it is about human relationships, acceptance, and finding common ground despite differences. Readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories, family dramas, and culturally rooted narratives will find this collection both entertaining and meaningful.
What makes this collection enjoyable is its relatability. The stories reflect everyday experiences, cultural expectations, generational differences, and evolving family structures. Some narratives are humorous and light-hearted, while others encourage reflection on communication, empathy, and mutual understanding.
The author's storytelling style is accessible and conversational, making the book easy to read in short sittings. Each story offers a unique perspective, reminding readers that relationships are rarely black and white. The characters feel authentic, with strengths, flaws, and emotions that many readers will recognize from their own families.
At its heart, DILMIL is not just about daughters-in-law and mothers-in-law; it is about human relationships, acceptance, and finding common ground despite differences. Readers who enjoy slice-of-life stories, family dramas, and culturally rooted narratives will find this collection both entertaining and meaningful.
June 21, 2026
DILMIL takes a familiar setup a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law trying to live together—and turns it into a genuinely entertaining collection of stories. What I enjoyed most was that neither Roopa nor Divi is portrayed as completely right or wrong. Both have good intentions, but their different outlooks on family, independence, traditions, and everyday life create the kind of misunderstandings that drive the comedy.
The stories are rooted in situations many readers will recognize, from family expectations and household responsibilities to changing social norms and generational differences. The humour comes naturally from the characters and their interactions rather than exaggerated drama, which makes the book feel both funny and relatable.
Roopa's strong belief in family and Divi's desire for personal freedom constantly put them at odds, yet their relationship remains the heart of the book. The supporting family members add to the chaos and comedy, making each story feel lively and engaging.
If you enjoy family comedies, character-driven humour, and stories about the messy realities of relationships within Indian households, DILMIL is an enjoyable and easy read that delivers plenty of laughs.
The stories are rooted in situations many readers will recognize, from family expectations and household responsibilities to changing social norms and generational differences. The humour comes naturally from the characters and their interactions rather than exaggerated drama, which makes the book feel both funny and relatable.
Roopa's strong belief in family and Divi's desire for personal freedom constantly put them at odds, yet their relationship remains the heart of the book. The supporting family members add to the chaos and comedy, making each story feel lively and engaging.
If you enjoy family comedies, character-driven humour, and stories about the messy realities of relationships within Indian households, DILMIL is an enjoyable and easy read that delivers plenty of laughs.
July 21, 2026
Modern Saas Bahu Comedy 🤭
DILMIL is proof that the most memorable stories don't always need grand adventures,they can simply be about everyday life, family, and the relationships we navigate every day.
The story follows Roopa Lohia, a traditional Marwari homemaker, and Divi Rao, her free-spirited Maharashtrian daughter-in-law. Both genuinely want to build a beautiful bond, but as in every Indian family, love often comes with misunderstandings, cultural differences, unsolicited advice, and plenty of hilarious moments.
From Marathi wedding rituals and household chores to debates over domestic help, gifting, public image, and even cash vs. UPI, every chapter feels relatable and refreshingly real. The humor is subtle, the conversations feel authentic, and the family dynamics are something many readers will instantly recognize.
What I enjoyed most is that DILMIL doesn't rely on the stereotypical saas-bahu drama. Instead, it celebrates the small moments of growth, compromise, and understanding that slowly bring two very different women closer together. It's funny, wholesome, and full of warmth.
DILMIL is proof that the most memorable stories don't always need grand adventures,they can simply be about everyday life, family, and the relationships we navigate every day.
The story follows Roopa Lohia, a traditional Marwari homemaker, and Divi Rao, her free-spirited Maharashtrian daughter-in-law. Both genuinely want to build a beautiful bond, but as in every Indian family, love often comes with misunderstandings, cultural differences, unsolicited advice, and plenty of hilarious moments.
From Marathi wedding rituals and household chores to debates over domestic help, gifting, public image, and even cash vs. UPI, every chapter feels relatable and refreshingly real. The humor is subtle, the conversations feel authentic, and the family dynamics are something many readers will instantly recognize.
What I enjoyed most is that DILMIL doesn't rely on the stereotypical saas-bahu drama. Instead, it celebrates the small moments of growth, compromise, and understanding that slowly bring two very different women closer together. It's funny, wholesome, and full of warmth.
July 28, 2026
Reading DILMIL reminded me of the warmth and humor found in the 90s Television series Tu Tu Main Main that starred Sachin Pilgaonkar, Supriya Pilgaonkar and Reema Lagoo.
Sukriti crafts a story that is tasteful, wholesome for sure, but it is equally empathetic. It's a sharp indictment of outdated rituals that's shown with brevity.
Sukriti is one prolific Indian Indie author who has proven her mettle across different genres. Be it an action - adventure set in Bihar (Gold Digger) or a bridal quest, unearthing the history of Indian bridal fashion (The Lehenga Games) or a sci-fi architecture novel (Beta Builder) she has reinvented herself with every book. With DILMIL she brings in something more flavourful and that which hits closer home - the khatimeethi nokjhok of saas-bahu that's a delightful surprise.
These are basically short stories - episodic - of Divi and her MIL, Roopa. And every person from a dysfunctional upper middle class household might resonate with these dramatic tales.©
Read more about the book here 👇🏻
https://ofbookbabiesandmore.wordpress...
Sukriti crafts a story that is tasteful, wholesome for sure, but it is equally empathetic. It's a sharp indictment of outdated rituals that's shown with brevity.
Sukriti is one prolific Indian Indie author who has proven her mettle across different genres. Be it an action - adventure set in Bihar (Gold Digger) or a bridal quest, unearthing the history of Indian bridal fashion (The Lehenga Games) or a sci-fi architecture novel (Beta Builder) she has reinvented herself with every book. With DILMIL she brings in something more flavourful and that which hits closer home - the khatimeethi nokjhok of saas-bahu that's a delightful surprise.
These are basically short stories - episodic - of Divi and her MIL, Roopa. And every person from a dysfunctional upper middle class household might resonate with these dramatic tales.©
Read more about the book here 👇🏻
https://ofbookbabiesandmore.wordpress...
June 17, 2026
if there's one relationship Indian households will never stop dissecting, it's this one. DILMIL leans right into it.
Sukriti YJ takes the daughter-in-law / mother-in-law dynamic - the one we've seen flattened into a thousand TV serials - and breaks it open across 10 short stories. instead of the tired saas-vs-bahu script, you get something with more texture: the friction, the silent power struggles, the unexpected tenderness, and all the contradictions that live inside two women learning to share a home and a man they both love differently.
what makes the short-story format work here is range. ten stories means ten angles on the same bond - some that'll make you laugh in recognition, some that'll quietly sting. it's modern, it's distinctly Indian, and it doesn't pick an easy villain, which is honestly the most realistic thing about it.
if you grew up around this equation - or you're living it now - there's a lot here that'll feel a little too familiar (in the best way).
for the desi-fiction readers and anyone who's ever navigated family politics over chai
Sukriti YJ takes the daughter-in-law / mother-in-law dynamic - the one we've seen flattened into a thousand TV serials - and breaks it open across 10 short stories. instead of the tired saas-vs-bahu script, you get something with more texture: the friction, the silent power struggles, the unexpected tenderness, and all the contradictions that live inside two women learning to share a home and a man they both love differently.
what makes the short-story format work here is range. ten stories means ten angles on the same bond - some that'll make you laugh in recognition, some that'll quietly sting. it's modern, it's distinctly Indian, and it doesn't pick an easy villain, which is honestly the most realistic thing about it.
if you grew up around this equation - or you're living it now - there's a lot here that'll feel a little too familiar (in the best way).
for the desi-fiction readers and anyone who's ever navigated family politics over chai
June 24, 2026
I picked up DILMIL expecting a lighthearted family read, and it completely delivered. Through ten entertaining stories, Sukriti YJ explores the ever evolving relationship between a mother in law and daughter in law with humour, warmth, and plenty of relatable moments. The characters feel natural, making it easy to get invested in their everyday experiences.
What I enjoyed most was how the book captures the little things that often become big issues in families. From traditions and household habits to differences in upbringing and personality, every situation feels familiar and believable. The storytelling is playful and engaging, but it also reflects the emotions and expectations that quietly shape family relationships.
Rather than turning anyone into a villain, the author shows how misunderstandings, love, pride, and care can exist side by side. That balance makes the stories feel authentic and heartfelt. DILMIL is a charming, easy read that made me smile, laugh, and appreciate the complexities of family life a little more.
What I enjoyed most was how the book captures the little things that often become big issues in families. From traditions and household habits to differences in upbringing and personality, every situation feels familiar and believable. The storytelling is playful and engaging, but it also reflects the emotions and expectations that quietly shape family relationships.
Rather than turning anyone into a villain, the author shows how misunderstandings, love, pride, and care can exist side by side. That balance makes the stories feel authentic and heartfelt. DILMIL is a charming, easy read that made me smile, laugh, and appreciate the complexities of family life a little more.
June 24, 2026
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction / Family Drama
DILMIL is a refreshing, heartwarming take on one of the most talked-about relationships in Indian households between a daughter-in-law & her mother-in-law. Instead of relying on stereotypes & endless conflict, the novel explores how two women from different generations, backgrounds & life experiences learn to coexist, communicate & eventually become each other’s strongest support system. The relationships feel authentic, the emotions are relatable & the family dynamics are portrayed with warmth & nuance.
What I loved most was how the book celebrates everyday relationships. There are no larger-than-life heroes here, just ordinary people trying to love & understand each other better. The conversations feel natural, the emotional moments hit home & the story leaves you with a smile.
DILMIL is a comforting, uplifting read that reminds us that some of the most beautiful relationships are built not by blood, but by choice, patience & kindness.
A read which is wholesome, relatable & full of heart.
DILMIL is a refreshing, heartwarming take on one of the most talked-about relationships in Indian households between a daughter-in-law & her mother-in-law. Instead of relying on stereotypes & endless conflict, the novel explores how two women from different generations, backgrounds & life experiences learn to coexist, communicate & eventually become each other’s strongest support system. The relationships feel authentic, the emotions are relatable & the family dynamics are portrayed with warmth & nuance.
What I loved most was how the book celebrates everyday relationships. There are no larger-than-life heroes here, just ordinary people trying to love & understand each other better. The conversations feel natural, the emotional moments hit home & the story leaves you with a smile.
DILMIL is a comforting, uplifting read that reminds us that some of the most beautiful relationships are built not by blood, but by choice, patience & kindness.
A read which is wholesome, relatable & full of heart.
July 17, 2026
DIL MIL examines one of the most familiar yet underexplored relationships in Indian households through the lens of a Marathi-Marwari joint family.
At its heart are Roopa, a mother-in-law rooted in tradition, and Divi, a daughter-in-law who believes marriage should be built on equality and shared responsibilities. Their contrasting worldviews create both conflict and humour, allowing the novel to explore how generational expectations continue to shape family dynamics.
While the narrative remains light and entertaining, it also raises thoughtful questions about evolving roles within the modern Indian home. A warm, relatable read that balances wit with social observation, making it especially engaging for readers who enjoy contemporary family fiction.
At its heart are Roopa, a mother-in-law rooted in tradition, and Divi, a daughter-in-law who believes marriage should be built on equality and shared responsibilities. Their contrasting worldviews create both conflict and humour, allowing the novel to explore how generational expectations continue to shape family dynamics.
While the narrative remains light and entertaining, it also raises thoughtful questions about evolving roles within the modern Indian home. A warm, relatable read that balances wit with social observation, making it especially engaging for readers who enjoy contemporary family fiction.
July 11, 2026
DILMIL surprised me in the best way. I expected a fun family drama, but I ended up getting a story that felt genuine, thoughtful, and easy to connect with. The relationship between Divi and Roopa develops naturally, and I appreciated that neither character was made to look perfect. Their differences, misunderstandings, and gradual acceptance made the story feel authentic.
The writing is simple, making it a quick and enjoyable read without losing its emotional impact. I laughed at the witty moments, smiled at the growing bond between the characters, and finished the book with a sense of warmth. If you enjoy stories that celebrate family, everyday moments, and meaningful character growth, DILMIL is definitely worth adding to your reading list. 💛
The writing is simple, making it a quick and enjoyable read without losing its emotional impact. I laughed at the witty moments, smiled at the growing bond between the characters, and finished the book with a sense of warmth. If you enjoy stories that celebrate family, everyday moments, and meaningful character growth, DILMIL is definitely worth adding to your reading list. 💛
June 22, 2026
My immediate reaction after reading the first few pages was - I hope I don’t get a work call because this book got me flipping the pages like my life depended on it 🤣🤣🤣
The comic timing, the quirky comebacks, the sense of humour and the family drama is bang on. What I enjoyed more was Divi and Roopa’s rapport, it’s worth reading every bit of it.
This book turned out to be way better than my expectations. I plunged into it expecting a typical saas - bahu drama, but what I got was the perfect blend of sass and drama.
The comic timing, the quirky comebacks, the sense of humour and the family drama is bang on. What I enjoyed more was Divi and Roopa’s rapport, it’s worth reading every bit of it.
This book turned out to be way better than my expectations. I plunged into it expecting a typical saas - bahu drama, but what I got was the perfect blend of sass and drama.
July 8, 2026
Some stories remind us that the most beautiful relationships are often the messiest, and DILMIL does exactly that. What begins with the classic mother-in-law vs. daughter-in-law clashes slowly turns into a heartwarming story about understanding, acceptance, and the bonds that grow in the most unexpected ways.
The sassy banter and family drama kept the story entertaining, while the emotional moments added depth. It made the characters feel incredibly real. I loved how the humor never overshadowed the emotions. It made them shine brighter.
The sassy banter and family drama kept the story entertaining, while the emotional moments added depth. It made the characters feel incredibly real. I loved how the humor never overshadowed the emotions. It made them shine brighter.
June 14, 2026
Short stories about Divi a Modern Marathi bride marrying into Marwari house . And her mother in law Roopa who is mostly opposite to her with her own set of beliefs. The stories are funny some even hilarious. This is the book you read when you want to sit and not think too much and read something fun .
May 31, 2026
I laughed aloud more than once while reading.... Glad I chanced across this book when I did.
July 15, 2026
This is the one of the funniest book i have read in 2026 so far. I mean the writing is so effortless it feels so relatable. You will end up loving this dil mil duo..
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews