The Big Small Town: How life looks from Chandigarh

by Aarish Chhabra

First things first. This is a book about Chandigarh, but this is not a book about architecture. This is a collection of articles published as part of a column branded 'By The Way' in the Hindustan Times between 2013 and 2017. The writer, Aarish Chhabra, is a journalist since 2008, and has worked for The Indian Express too. His column deals with an array of topics, from politics to people to the general trivialities of life, all connected somehow to life in Chandigarh or how life looks from here. But life in this city can seem so beautiful, at times, that it becomes perfectly drab. This book aims not to be like that. Because it does not take itself too seriously. You are free to do that, though -- take yourself and this book seriously, that is!

Paperback

Reviews

[Deeptha Vivekanand]

To the rest of India, Chandigarh is a neatly planned city. It ends there. And that is the point where 'The Big Small Town' begins. Moving in and out of its perfectly right-angled roads, Aarish Chhabra takes the reader into places where life's beautiful imperfections lie. These places may be up in the hills, or in the neighbouring country, or in the reader's living room, and yet he manages to somehow steer the reader's attention back to the city through his keen ability to connect the dots.

The essays - that appeared in the author's fortnightly columns titled 'By The Way' in the Hindustan Times - reveal with equal measure the city's marvels and its blemishes in a style that's original, quick-witted and lively. That, of course, is not to say that they are not thought-provoking or compelling mood pieces. In caricaturing the lives of its denizens, Aarish creates a brilliant tapestry of characters one might find in any city, leaving the reader to make up his or her mind about whether Chandigarh is really big or small in the way it views the world.

[June Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Big Small Town (How Life Looks from Chandigarh) by Aarish Chhabra is a collection of articles originally published in the Hindustan Times, offering a unique perspective on life in Chandigarh. The book explores the city’s culture, its people, and its surroundings, blending wit, nostalgia, and social commentary. With sections ranging from “Cityscapes” to “The Pak Love,” it paints an engaging picture of urban life, aspirations, and the charm of small-town roots.

Writing Style

Chhabra's writing is crisp, witty, and evocative. His language balances simplicity with depth, engaging readers with vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes. The articles are poignant yet lighthearted, creating a perfect blend of humor and reflection.

Narration

The narration offers a first-person perspective that is intimate and relatable. It feels as though the author is personally guiding you through the streets of Chandigarh, offering insights and anecdotes. The conversational tone ensures an easy connection with the reader.

Themes Explored

Urban Life and Small-Town Aspirations: The contrast between Chandigarh’s structured urbanism and the dreams of small-town people.

Culture and Society: A critical yet affectionate look at the city’s unique lifestyle, politics, and people.

The Hills and Beyond: Nostalgic explorations of nearby destinations like Kasol, Manali, and Lahore.

Identity and Belonging: How the city shapes and is shaped by its residents.


Final Thoughts

The Big Small Town is not just a book for Chandigarh’s residents—it’s for anyone who has ever loved a city. It’s a celebration of culture, critique, and the interplay between urban life and individual aspirations. Aarish Chhabra’s debut is a refreshing and engaging read that leaves you reflecting on the dynamics of your own hometown. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy sharp social commentary with a touch of nostalgia.

[Ava · Rating 3 out of 5]

Chandigarh is a beautiful city city nesting in the foothills of Shivalik. It needs to have several novels based in it, as it has an individual character. It is a small big city. Small in size but big in attitude. Aarish’s book does fill this lacuna. The idea is very good; to base essays on the city. The writing is good too, hardly any grammatical mistakes or typos. The author is an editor after all. The topics are well chosen too.

What it lacks is style. A book such as this needed a better turn of phrase, a language that makes you empathise with the city, something more poetic. But the author’s language is flat and leaves you cold towards the subject.