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Shillong Times: A Story of Friendship And Fear
A delightful novel about growing up in Shillong in the 1980s by the bestselling author of Bali and the Ocean of Milk and The Case of the Secretive Sister
When fourteen-year-old Debojit Dutta meets the slightly older Clint Eastwood Lyngdoh in his maths tuition classes, he is wary of his cigarette-smoking, whisky-swilling ways. Besides, Debu has only recently escaped a bunch of local ruffians who wanted him to ‘go back home to Bangladesh’.
But Debu is unable to resist being friends with Clint. For, in return for doing his maths homework, Clint introduces him to a completely new life: the heady charms of Kalsang, the Chinese restaurant forbidden by Debu’s mother; the revolutionary sounds of Pink Floyd; and most importantly, the coolest, prettiest girl in town—Audrey Pariat. Audrey loves maths and detective stories, just like Debu, and does not make him feel awkward or exotic. Together, the three of them look set to embark on many adventures. But when tensions between the Khasi and Bengali communities boil over, Shillong becomes a battlefield—old neighbours become outsiders and the limits of friendship are challenged.
With crackling energy, Nilanjan P. Choudhury immerses us in the tumultuous lives of Debu, his friends and his family, and their attempts to find love and belonging. Written with uncommon warmth, humour and a delightful evocation of place, Shillong Times is an exhilarating coming-of-age story—showing us how friendship can eclipse the hardened enmities of adulthood.
When fourteen-year-old Debojit Dutta meets the slightly older Clint Eastwood Lyngdoh in his maths tuition classes, he is wary of his cigarette-smoking, whisky-swilling ways. Besides, Debu has only recently escaped a bunch of local ruffians who wanted him to ‘go back home to Bangladesh’.
But Debu is unable to resist being friends with Clint. For, in return for doing his maths homework, Clint introduces him to a completely new life: the heady charms of Kalsang, the Chinese restaurant forbidden by Debu’s mother; the revolutionary sounds of Pink Floyd; and most importantly, the coolest, prettiest girl in town—Audrey Pariat. Audrey loves maths and detective stories, just like Debu, and does not make him feel awkward or exotic. Together, the three of them look set to embark on many adventures. But when tensions between the Khasi and Bengali communities boil over, Shillong becomes a battlefield—old neighbours become outsiders and the limits of friendship are challenged.
With crackling energy, Nilanjan P. Choudhury immerses us in the tumultuous lives of Debu, his friends and his family, and their attempts to find love and belonging. Written with uncommon warmth, humour and a delightful evocation of place, Shillong Times is an exhilarating coming-of-age story—showing us how friendship can eclipse the hardened enmities of adulthood.
- GenresIndian Literature
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2018
4 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Nilanjan P. Choudhury
7 books43 followersNilanjan P. Choudhury’s most recent novel is Song of the Golden Sparrow: A Novel History of Free India His earlier novel Shillong Times: A Story of Friendship And Fear
is a coming- of-age story set against the ethnic conflict in Shillong in the 1980s and has been widely praised as a significant contribution to North-east literature.
His debut novel, a mythological thriller entitled Bali and the Ocean of Milk, was a best-seller. His subsequent writings include The Case of the Secretive Sister, a contemporary detective caper set in Bangalore and two plays on science history—The Square Root of a Sonnet and The Trial of Abdus Salam, which received wide critical acclaim and have been staged across multiple cities in India and the US.
Nilanjan confesses to having studied at IIM Ahmedabad and IIT Kanpur and hopes that this will not be held against him. He grew up in Shillong and now lives in Bangalore with his family.
is a coming- of-age story set against the ethnic conflict in Shillong in the 1980s and has been widely praised as a significant contribution to North-east literature.
His debut novel, a mythological thriller entitled Bali and the Ocean of Milk, was a best-seller. His subsequent writings include The Case of the Secretive Sister, a contemporary detective caper set in Bangalore and two plays on science history—The Square Root of a Sonnet and The Trial of Abdus Salam, which received wide critical acclaim and have been staged across multiple cities in India and the US.
Nilanjan confesses to having studied at IIM Ahmedabad and IIT Kanpur and hopes that this will not be held against him. He grew up in Shillong and now lives in Bangalore with his family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
April 9, 2019
Every time I am at home, Shillong, I make it a point to head to National Book Agency to pick up books penned by authors from the Northeast, and glad I was to have picked up Nilanjan Choudhury's 'Shillong Times' the last time.
The book could very well be a tale of any non-tribal growing up in the turbulent times of Shillong in the 80's and early 90's. It could be my story-yet another displaced nomad with no city or town to truly call home! 'Leave Shillong, there's nothing here for you' is a mantra that is diligently chanted in every Bengali household or that of any other non-tribal living in Shillong! Though the hills and the valley of Shillong is home you, quite blatantly, risk every chance of finding yourself packing your bags and leaving 'home' one day because some think of you as the unwanted one! I have, in my growing up days, seen hordes of families moving from Shillong to the stifling alleys of Calcutta, Delhi and other cities, to only face the same rejection, the same non-acceptance, run into the vicious cycle that they assumed they had escaped from.
'Shillong Times' is this. It is a story of uncertainty, of troubled times, and of lasting friendship, the only saving grace in the mess that we create. Uncanny situations bring Debojit, Clint and Audrey together and the forbidden world which Debojit's mother had warned him against is revealed to Debojit-the Chinese restaurants, Pink Floyd, The Eagles! The narration sweeps you from wherever you are to the hills of Shillong, the winding roads, the pine trees and the author doesn't shy away from humour. You'd find yourself laughing out loud as you flip the pages although the book is meant to be a take on the unrest prevailing in Shillong in the time it is set. I wish there was more to Clint and Audrey, they deserve more in the book.
Now of this I am (uncertainly) certain-mainland Indians will understand little of what the book touches upon, there are so many layers that only a North easterner can grasp and comprehend, step-children that we are to mainland India. Perhaps the book can initiate a discussion, can initiate a conversation, can initiate a dialogue?
The book could very well be a tale of any non-tribal growing up in the turbulent times of Shillong in the 80's and early 90's. It could be my story-yet another displaced nomad with no city or town to truly call home! 'Leave Shillong, there's nothing here for you' is a mantra that is diligently chanted in every Bengali household or that of any other non-tribal living in Shillong! Though the hills and the valley of Shillong is home you, quite blatantly, risk every chance of finding yourself packing your bags and leaving 'home' one day because some think of you as the unwanted one! I have, in my growing up days, seen hordes of families moving from Shillong to the stifling alleys of Calcutta, Delhi and other cities, to only face the same rejection, the same non-acceptance, run into the vicious cycle that they assumed they had escaped from.
'Shillong Times' is this. It is a story of uncertainty, of troubled times, and of lasting friendship, the only saving grace in the mess that we create. Uncanny situations bring Debojit, Clint and Audrey together and the forbidden world which Debojit's mother had warned him against is revealed to Debojit-the Chinese restaurants, Pink Floyd, The Eagles! The narration sweeps you from wherever you are to the hills of Shillong, the winding roads, the pine trees and the author doesn't shy away from humour. You'd find yourself laughing out loud as you flip the pages although the book is meant to be a take on the unrest prevailing in Shillong in the time it is set. I wish there was more to Clint and Audrey, they deserve more in the book.
Now of this I am (uncertainly) certain-mainland Indians will understand little of what the book touches upon, there are so many layers that only a North easterner can grasp and comprehend, step-children that we are to mainland India. Perhaps the book can initiate a discussion, can initiate a conversation, can initiate a dialogue?
November 14, 2018
Set in the backdrop of the communal tensions between Khasis and the other non-tribals, the book speaks at great length about several aspects of friendship. Through the characters of Debu, Clint, and Audrey, the author paints a vivid picture of an unconditional and pure relationship. It is this theme of friendship that is at the center of the book while the chasm between the two groups sets the right tone for its test. Ah! Lovely description.
The lucid language and an engaging style of writing took me away with it. As one flows with the narrative, he feels more connected to the Shillong. One would be able to identify with its environment that has friction breathing within it. One would be able to relate to its vibe that emanates from the words of the book. One would be able to see through the pages of the book tearing one’s inside apart reading the pain people had to bear. evocative tale highlighting the essence of friendship. True friends stand for you in the troubled times. They love you for who you are and accept you, regardless of your flaws.
Most importantly, I liked the historical account of living in Shillong during unsettling times. There were issues pertaining to cultural representation and rooting for one’s identity in Shillong. The time following the partition has seen people being displaced from their homelands. This has been brought out in the book wonderfully – love for one’s native place.
I would reread it. Perhaps over and over again. Because coming out of such books is difficult. Highly Recommended to the book lovers!!
The lucid language and an engaging style of writing took me away with it. As one flows with the narrative, he feels more connected to the Shillong. One would be able to identify with its environment that has friction breathing within it. One would be able to relate to its vibe that emanates from the words of the book. One would be able to see through the pages of the book tearing one’s inside apart reading the pain people had to bear. evocative tale highlighting the essence of friendship. True friends stand for you in the troubled times. They love you for who you are and accept you, regardless of your flaws.
Most importantly, I liked the historical account of living in Shillong during unsettling times. There were issues pertaining to cultural representation and rooting for one’s identity in Shillong. The time following the partition has seen people being displaced from their homelands. This has been brought out in the book wonderfully – love for one’s native place.
I would reread it. Perhaps over and over again. Because coming out of such books is difficult. Highly Recommended to the book lovers!!
June 7, 2024
Highlights: YA, contemporary, political turbulence of 80s Shillong.
What i loved:
1. Light and easy read.
2. Character names - Clint Eastwood, Audrey (Hepburn?) Pariat. Reminded of sections of Funeral Nights dealing with names.
3. Dhkar and Khasi rivalry. Till this day, there are agitations regarding who belongs where. Are "outsiders" allowed to settle in another state!
4. The adventures of Debu with Clint and Audrey. Sweet.
What i didn't like:
1. The bollywood movie script kind of ending.
2. I'm a sucker for coming of age tales - this had much potential to develop the characters, but the author chose to keep it on the lighter side.
Overall:
A light and easy read. The essence of Shillong could have been elaborated better. For example: Name Place Animal Thing by Daribha Lyndem.
What i loved:
1. Light and easy read.
2. Character names - Clint Eastwood, Audrey (Hepburn?) Pariat. Reminded of sections of Funeral Nights dealing with names.
3. Dhkar and Khasi rivalry. Till this day, there are agitations regarding who belongs where. Are "outsiders" allowed to settle in another state!
4. The adventures of Debu with Clint and Audrey. Sweet.
What i didn't like:
1. The bollywood movie script kind of ending.
2. I'm a sucker for coming of age tales - this had much potential to develop the characters, but the author chose to keep it on the lighter side.
Overall:
A light and easy read. The essence of Shillong could have been elaborated better. For example: Name Place Animal Thing by Daribha Lyndem.
November 14, 2018
Friendship is for lifetime.
Debojit Dutta, a inquisitive studious teenager is growing up in a typical Bengali household in the lap of serene pine covered hills amid the blooming chestnut trees of Shillong.But one fine day while returning from school he faces the heat of growing intolerance towards the non residents among the localities.On the pedestal of adolescence,he became friends with Clint Eastwood, a teenage artist and Audrey Pariat, the beauty with brains.They introduces him to the revolutionary music of Pink Floyd, exotic food and forbidden joys.Amid the growing differences between the two communities,everything is at stake their beliefs, trust and friendship. Readers will love to find out whether they hold on to each other or drift apart during the turbulent times.
Narrated in a simple language,the story is told through the point of view of a 14 year old boy whose whole world is turned upside down by few events.The story throws light on the Socio-political condition of Shillong during 1980s. It portrays the cultural difference among the Bengalis and Khasis,the economic condition of natives,the sense of alienation seeping in the non natives residing in the place since many generations and the effect of chaos on a common man's life.
The author deftly describes the pristine greenery of the hills, the natural fauna, the common beliefs and the diverse food habits of the residing communities.He tastefully etches each character highlighting their distinct features.The ethnic conflict between Khasis and non-natives and the friendship of the trio form the backbone of the story.
I could easily relate to the main protagonist Debu, his insecurities,the taxing teachers,finding joy in the little things, the irresistible attraction of tabooed things and often getting entangled between rules and freedom. The growing rebel in him yearns to break rules without hurting his family.The writes skillfully describes his initial exploits in the barred zone.
Amid the political wars often, many families suffer huge personal loses,which are irrevocable in terms of life and time.The innocent mind of children many a time get tainted by the bitter fights of adults. I would love to recommend the book to every reader who want to have a peek in the 80s life of Shillong.
Debojit Dutta, a inquisitive studious teenager is growing up in a typical Bengali household in the lap of serene pine covered hills amid the blooming chestnut trees of Shillong.But one fine day while returning from school he faces the heat of growing intolerance towards the non residents among the localities.On the pedestal of adolescence,he became friends with Clint Eastwood, a teenage artist and Audrey Pariat, the beauty with brains.They introduces him to the revolutionary music of Pink Floyd, exotic food and forbidden joys.Amid the growing differences between the two communities,everything is at stake their beliefs, trust and friendship. Readers will love to find out whether they hold on to each other or drift apart during the turbulent times.
Narrated in a simple language,the story is told through the point of view of a 14 year old boy whose whole world is turned upside down by few events.The story throws light on the Socio-political condition of Shillong during 1980s. It portrays the cultural difference among the Bengalis and Khasis,the economic condition of natives,the sense of alienation seeping in the non natives residing in the place since many generations and the effect of chaos on a common man's life.
The author deftly describes the pristine greenery of the hills, the natural fauna, the common beliefs and the diverse food habits of the residing communities.He tastefully etches each character highlighting their distinct features.The ethnic conflict between Khasis and non-natives and the friendship of the trio form the backbone of the story.
I could easily relate to the main protagonist Debu, his insecurities,the taxing teachers,finding joy in the little things, the irresistible attraction of tabooed things and often getting entangled between rules and freedom. The growing rebel in him yearns to break rules without hurting his family.The writes skillfully describes his initial exploits in the barred zone.
Amid the political wars often, many families suffer huge personal loses,which are irrevocable in terms of life and time.The innocent mind of children many a time get tainted by the bitter fights of adults. I would love to recommend the book to every reader who want to have a peek in the 80s life of Shillong.
March 23, 2019
The author has an awesome repository of words to define the moments. It is a delight to read such a meticulously woven narrative, especially when it becomes relatable to the times that one has grown up, to re-discover a context. The last two chapters, however, seemed to have been rushed up! It occurs to me that the author had a lot to tell but for the reasons that I am not privy to, I was left asking for more.
The story of friendship between the three principal characters has been nurtured quite well. But, the one character that stands out for me is that of the mother! Her instincts as a mother yearning to see her son placed suitably in his carrer pursuits, her bickerings with the husband and yet respecting his sense of belonging to the place and eventually standing up for the fisherwoman in the commotion is noteworthy and lends a lot of credibility to the spirit of the book. Compassion triumphs hatred!
The story of friendship between the three principal characters has been nurtured quite well. But, the one character that stands out for me is that of the mother! Her instincts as a mother yearning to see her son placed suitably in his carrer pursuits, her bickerings with the husband and yet respecting his sense of belonging to the place and eventually standing up for the fisherwoman in the commotion is noteworthy and lends a lot of credibility to the spirit of the book. Compassion triumphs hatred!
August 5, 2019
A lovely book, with characters who will stay with you. It brought alive Shillong and the tension between the tribal and the non tribal people.
Read
August 25, 2020Reading Shillong Times was a wonderful experience. The themes of friendship and love are shown in a very delightful manner, mixed with the tensions and conflicts of insider and outsider , make this novel question the very nature of belonging and home. The imperfect nature of Debu's character makes him all the more enchanting and relatable. For someone who has not been to Shillong, the author makes me imagine the idyllic setting and the conflicts that engulf the city.
October 28, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyed the simple "Tell it like it is" style of writing. It reminded me of the writings of Ruskin Bond & James Herriot- two of my very favourite Authors. The story took me back to my own childhood- the days of limited resources & unlimited love, of strict boundaries and boundless zest for life, of things we weren't allowed to love and the things we loved and lost...Absolutely beautiful & heart touching!!!
October 3, 2018
Crisp narrative about growing up as a Bengali in an increasingly hostile Shillong in the 1980s. Emotionally honest and engaging!
October 28, 2018
Nilanjan, a master storyteller has done it again. When ethnic strife vitiates the tranquility of Shillong with a Bengali being at the receiving end, Debojit, a quintessential Bengali boy of 14, over-protected by his mother, finds that everything about Shillong, Scotland of the East, is not what it appears to be. But he loves Shillong in spite of being attacked time and again. Still he manages to grow up and incidentally strikes up a deep friendship with a local Khasi boy, Clint, and through him a beautiful Khasi girl Audrey. Through them he is lured into smaller vices as enticing to every young boy. Their friendship grows in midst of trials and tribulations until it explodes in a crescendo of victory of love and friendship.
Throughout the book, Nilanjan has managed to maintain a fast paced narrative interspersed with his characteristic wits, humors and suspense. The reader is kept in tenterhook till he reaches the end of the book. Thanks to Nilanjan for presenting us such a mind -blowing saga of love and friendship.
Throughout the book, Nilanjan has managed to maintain a fast paced narrative interspersed with his characteristic wits, humors and suspense. The reader is kept in tenterhook till he reaches the end of the book. Thanks to Nilanjan for presenting us such a mind -blowing saga of love and friendship.
October 9, 2018
Funny,insightful, fast.
Just finished reading Shillong times at midnight last night. Could not put it down. Really loved it. The analogies and comparisons, the descriptions are funny and insightful. Have never been to Shillong, but feel like I got a sense, and the conservatism of parents in the 80's is one I can relate to. Loved the references to Wodehouse, Shakespeare and Salma sultan!! And the story was extremely fast paced and built up really well.
Just finished reading Shillong times at midnight last night. Could not put it down. Really loved it. The analogies and comparisons, the descriptions are funny and insightful. Have never been to Shillong, but feel like I got a sense, and the conservatism of parents in the 80's is one I can relate to. Loved the references to Wodehouse, Shakespeare and Salma sultan!! And the story was extremely fast paced and built up really well.
November 25, 2018
Great read through the story. I could visualise the incidents and relate to the specific places in Shillong so well. Finished off the story in one go with an eagerness to know if "anything" happens between Audrey and the protagonist. I could relate to the Calcuttans and the city where a Shillongite would so dread to go.
December 9, 2018
Shillong Times: A Story of Friendship And Fear by Nilanjan P. Choudhury becomes the story of a boy who becomes a man, of a man who becomes mature, of a conscience that draws from childhood memories to bear witness to a journey. In this book you really want to get in, to get on the yellow bike and slowly go through Shillong, a city lying under the light in a slow passage from one awareness to another.
Shillong’s problems are part of an extremely complicated and explosive regional context at a time when linguistic tensions are much more damaging than religious tensions. If we look at the community violence, we can see that most of the tension is mainly linguistic.
In Shillong Times, Nilanjan Choudhury works to unravel the prominent role played by collective identities and community sentiments with an aversion to community thought as well as the exclusive and collective identities that flow from it. It is because the violence engendered by these community logics has torn apart Shillong, a subject that also permeates this novel.
The story of the novel is relatively simple. Debojit Dutta aka Debu is the protagonist of the novel, who subtracts brief moments of truth-makers from the passing of time. His energy, the revolutionary force of the will, and the sense of the evident action, right away resounds in the book. Around him are a microcosm of characters, who are all different, and all wrapped in a veil of nostalgia.
In fact, it is evident in the passage, the desire to underline the current loss of the sense of beauty, understood not in its aesthetic sense, but in the deeper one that springs from the relationship of aesthetics and ethics. Debu will face all this helped by Clint, and Audrey Pariat, the prettiest girl in town.
The encounter with this reality will move Debu into unknown feelings, bringing to light a new awareness and perhaps the birth of a love. This adventure will completely change the existence of Debu. He will face it by engaging in the fight against a society full of flaws, a society that divides on communal lines.
Debu, until then involved only half in life, will face loneliness, fear, value and consistency, pain without which the world would not stand. Above all, the charters must overcome the disturbing and terrible inner fears like little creatures that dwell within us in order to create in turn a world in which there is no longer fear, a new world in which to be safe.
Debu and Audrey have to live in a reality that is not their own, a world beyond the mirror on which two moons shine. Divided and hunted, constantly in danger of life, it seems that everything is combined to prevent them from meeting.
The loneliness that transpires in almost all the characters of the novel is penetrating, perfectly rooted in the story that they live and that at the same time try to fight. The desire for love seems adolescent and the two moons suspended in the sky seem to embody a desire for love.
Walking resigned through an ugly city, not aware of the details, ignoring the landscape means ignoring the very soul of the city, as it means living under anesthesia. With time, however, Debu let it flow more slowly which allows him to find that sense of wonder and belonging to the place and at the same time the love and the desire to fight for the place itself and for the people who live there.
The value we give to things, the care we have for them, make the difference in our civil being. On the background of the novel, moreover are the family, the friends, the autobiographical traits and the courage to expose themselves, to reveal to the reader vices and defects of their own.
The book has an ironic, contemporary language and a horizontal timeline, where past and present are delicately intertwined. The track merges parallel lives of Debu and Audrey upset by a mocking destiny. It is only towards the last that emerges in all its entirety the force of life, becoming lyric of beauty.
The writing flows in a simple and engaging way, with the narration allow the reader a greater harmony with their emotions. The writer sends a message in the bottle that goes straight to the heart for those who want to find out who and what lies behind the chrysalis of air.
It is not easy to understand it, but unfortunately, the reality of the religious and fanatical sects that are closed to the contemporary world, is dramatically true. And the reader cannot help but feel dragged, involved, laid bare and finally absolved by his own humanity, just as the protagonists of this magnificent array of affections and lies are absolved before the last line.
Nilanjan Choudhury uses conversations and encounters staged in his novel to test the fragmentation of Indian society, and the way in which these fragments and communities have always hindered national unity and the dreams cherished by everyone. All the contradictory interests that animate the region pass there, in the form of nicely brushed portraits. The book leaves a clear impression on the reader and many question marks.
Shillong’s problems are part of an extremely complicated and explosive regional context at a time when linguistic tensions are much more damaging than religious tensions. If we look at the community violence, we can see that most of the tension is mainly linguistic.
In Shillong Times, Nilanjan Choudhury works to unravel the prominent role played by collective identities and community sentiments with an aversion to community thought as well as the exclusive and collective identities that flow from it. It is because the violence engendered by these community logics has torn apart Shillong, a subject that also permeates this novel.
The story of the novel is relatively simple. Debojit Dutta aka Debu is the protagonist of the novel, who subtracts brief moments of truth-makers from the passing of time. His energy, the revolutionary force of the will, and the sense of the evident action, right away resounds in the book. Around him are a microcosm of characters, who are all different, and all wrapped in a veil of nostalgia.
In fact, it is evident in the passage, the desire to underline the current loss of the sense of beauty, understood not in its aesthetic sense, but in the deeper one that springs from the relationship of aesthetics and ethics. Debu will face all this helped by Clint, and Audrey Pariat, the prettiest girl in town.
The encounter with this reality will move Debu into unknown feelings, bringing to light a new awareness and perhaps the birth of a love. This adventure will completely change the existence of Debu. He will face it by engaging in the fight against a society full of flaws, a society that divides on communal lines.
Debu, until then involved only half in life, will face loneliness, fear, value and consistency, pain without which the world would not stand. Above all, the charters must overcome the disturbing and terrible inner fears like little creatures that dwell within us in order to create in turn a world in which there is no longer fear, a new world in which to be safe.
Debu and Audrey have to live in a reality that is not their own, a world beyond the mirror on which two moons shine. Divided and hunted, constantly in danger of life, it seems that everything is combined to prevent them from meeting.
The loneliness that transpires in almost all the characters of the novel is penetrating, perfectly rooted in the story that they live and that at the same time try to fight. The desire for love seems adolescent and the two moons suspended in the sky seem to embody a desire for love.
Walking resigned through an ugly city, not aware of the details, ignoring the landscape means ignoring the very soul of the city, as it means living under anesthesia. With time, however, Debu let it flow more slowly which allows him to find that sense of wonder and belonging to the place and at the same time the love and the desire to fight for the place itself and for the people who live there.
The value we give to things, the care we have for them, make the difference in our civil being. On the background of the novel, moreover are the family, the friends, the autobiographical traits and the courage to expose themselves, to reveal to the reader vices and defects of their own.
The book has an ironic, contemporary language and a horizontal timeline, where past and present are delicately intertwined. The track merges parallel lives of Debu and Audrey upset by a mocking destiny. It is only towards the last that emerges in all its entirety the force of life, becoming lyric of beauty.
The writing flows in a simple and engaging way, with the narration allow the reader a greater harmony with their emotions. The writer sends a message in the bottle that goes straight to the heart for those who want to find out who and what lies behind the chrysalis of air.
It is not easy to understand it, but unfortunately, the reality of the religious and fanatical sects that are closed to the contemporary world, is dramatically true. And the reader cannot help but feel dragged, involved, laid bare and finally absolved by his own humanity, just as the protagonists of this magnificent array of affections and lies are absolved before the last line.
Nilanjan Choudhury uses conversations and encounters staged in his novel to test the fragmentation of Indian society, and the way in which these fragments and communities have always hindered national unity and the dreams cherished by everyone. All the contradictory interests that animate the region pass there, in the form of nicely brushed portraits. The book leaves a clear impression on the reader and many question marks.
November 17, 2018
‘Shillong Times – A Story of Friendship and Fear’ by Nilanjan Choudhury is a heart-touching story of friendship between three friends Debojit Dutta (Debu), Clint Eastwood Lyngdoh and Audrey Pariat and how they are there for each other through the hard times and also the story of fear in Shillong during the 1980s. The fear that was lurking between the ‘tribal’s’ (also known as the Khasi’s) and the ‘non-tribal’s’ (also known as the ‘Dkhars’, a name given to the non-locals by the locals) who once used to live happily and were close friends till the advent of the decade of 80s. Soon conditions deteriorate in Shillong resulting in constant curfews, business, schools & colleges closing down. Soon the once friendly environment between the locals and the non-tribal’s is suspicious and they start looking after each other as enemies. While the authorities and the politicians are not interested in the plight of the non-locals and with no one to listen the non-tribals take the matter in their own hands and try to protest in their own way but Mr. Dutta (our protagonist’s father) is not very happy with the protest and tries to help the locals in his own way which makes him the bad guy in the eyes of the non-locals and they are very adamant in showing ‘The Duttas’ the consequences of going against the community. While all this is going on our protagonist Debu happens to meet Clint Lyngdoh in Mr. Bose’s Maths tuition where Debu starts helping him with his Maths problem and they soon get along with each other. Clint is older to Debu and has lost his mother due to which he is in a condition wherein he has adapted to his own coping mechanism by smoking and drinking and he also introduces our Debu ‘the naïve child’ to a world which he has never experienced before and introduces him to ‘Audrey Pariat’ the coolest prettiest girl in town. With all the rules broken (to stay away from the locals, drugs and girls) Debu makes friends with Clint and Audrey. Together the trio embark on many adventures. But due to the conditions prevailing in Shillong they have their own questions, own doubts and being children they even fight and break their friendship at a point and decide to go on their own way. Will they be able to solve their disputes and come together and be the friends that they once were? Will the conditions in Shillong be better and will the locals and the non-locals be able to put a stop to their disputes and be the friends that they once were? To know more read The Shillong Times.
My Thoughts:
This book teaches us the true value of friends and what it is to be in friendship. I loved all the characters in the book especially Clint he is also there for Debu at all times. The characters are beautifully written and are very realistic. All the characters have their own flaws and at times they are in a condition where they being kids don’t think much and their own decisions but they also think over it and feel sad or sorry for what has happened or for not thinking on the consequences that can be dangerous later on. The author has done a great job of characterization they are like kids would act or think in the age group and has invested a lot of time in the same. The readers won’t ever be confused about what a character is doing or why is he/she behaving so? The psychology of a child how he behaves in a given situations and how the environment really affects the thinking of a child is really beautifully shown.
Loved the writing style of the author, the book is written in a lucid language and the writing is engaging. One would flow with the narrative and feel more connected to the people and to Shillong. The readers will be able to relate to the vibes that the words of the book emanates. The book would touch the soul of the readers when you read the pain that people had to bear. The setting has also been described very beautifully it would actually take the reader to the 1980s Shillong and make them a part of the trio. In all Shillong Times is an evocative tale highlighting the true essence of friendship and shows us the readers that true friends stand for you at all times. They love you for who you are regardless of your flaws. And that sometimes you need to ignore the flaws of a person to truly know the person and make an initiative and give in your 100% to start friendship.
I really liked the author’s writing style and can’t wait to get my hands on his other books. Overall, Shillong Times is truly a story of friendship and fear and I would recommend this to all so that they really dive into the true and beautiful friendship of Debu, Clint and Audrey and get to experience what it truly is to be in friendship and what friendship really is.
My Thoughts:
This book teaches us the true value of friends and what it is to be in friendship. I loved all the characters in the book especially Clint he is also there for Debu at all times. The characters are beautifully written and are very realistic. All the characters have their own flaws and at times they are in a condition where they being kids don’t think much and their own decisions but they also think over it and feel sad or sorry for what has happened or for not thinking on the consequences that can be dangerous later on. The author has done a great job of characterization they are like kids would act or think in the age group and has invested a lot of time in the same. The readers won’t ever be confused about what a character is doing or why is he/she behaving so? The psychology of a child how he behaves in a given situations and how the environment really affects the thinking of a child is really beautifully shown.
Loved the writing style of the author, the book is written in a lucid language and the writing is engaging. One would flow with the narrative and feel more connected to the people and to Shillong. The readers will be able to relate to the vibes that the words of the book emanates. The book would touch the soul of the readers when you read the pain that people had to bear. The setting has also been described very beautifully it would actually take the reader to the 1980s Shillong and make them a part of the trio. In all Shillong Times is an evocative tale highlighting the true essence of friendship and shows us the readers that true friends stand for you at all times. They love you for who you are regardless of your flaws. And that sometimes you need to ignore the flaws of a person to truly know the person and make an initiative and give in your 100% to start friendship.
I really liked the author’s writing style and can’t wait to get my hands on his other books. Overall, Shillong Times is truly a story of friendship and fear and I would recommend this to all so that they really dive into the true and beautiful friendship of Debu, Clint and Audrey and get to experience what it truly is to be in friendship and what friendship really is.
November 26, 2018
Shillong Times is not the name of the newspaper but it is a fictional book written by Nilanjan P. Choudhury. This book talks about his experience of growing up in Shillong in 1980 amidst curfews, riots and bands.
The story revolves around a friendship of teens namely, Debojit Dutta, Clint Lyngdoh and Audrey Pariat. This friendship has a social angle of clashes between Khasis and dkhar, residents and outsiders. Debojit is a Bengali and Audrey and Clint are from Shillong. Mr. Dutta, father of Debojit expressed his views against these riots. He says, 'They call us dkhars. We call them Chinkys. Where will this end? It's 1987 for God's sake! Forty years since Independence. And we are still fighting with each other like cats and dogs.' Even though the book is written on the background of 1987 riots in Shillong, the things have not much changed in 2018.
Debu (short for Debojit) is born in Shillong. Debu's grandfather moved to Shillong with his family when Debu's father was a kid. Debu is born in Shillong but he is still treated as an outsider and is attacked by a few Khasi boys (local) on his way home. Soon after the incident, he meets Clint in the maths class. Initially, he tries to keep a distance from Clint because he is also a local guy and a little older than Debu. Soon Clint manages to impress Debu. Debu gets impressed by his smoking, the way he drinks and his carefree attitude. Clint introduces Debu to his friend Audrey. Debu secretly admires Audrey but he has to be careful when he meets her and talks about her as she is a Khasi.
While the friendship is developing over a time, the social scene is also changing in Shillong. The fights between locals and outsiders are increasing leading to frequent curfews, shutdowns and riots. Mr. Dutta is still hopeful that things will change but Mrs. Dutta wants to go back to Calcutta.
When I was reading the book I had a feeling of reading a non-fiction. It is written so well that the difference between fiction and non-fiction vanishes. The book came across to me as a fact-based fiction. The central character appears to be based on authors timespan in Shillong. Even though the book is based on authors memories, he has done a good research about that time. The book teleported me to that era. I could imagine every detail of the place as if I am watching a movie. The story has brought out a mix of emotions in a well-written manner.
If you wish to know about what happened in Shillong in 1987, then this book will give you an idea. Two parallel stories run in the book one is about the friendship and another about the differences between 'insiders' and 'outsiders'. It is difficult to separate these stories from one another. The author has beautifully woven the stories with each other.
However, I wish the author could have focused more on the friendship of teens. I would love to know what happened with Debu, Clint and Audrey after a few years. The character of Audrey should have been developed a bit more. The end of the book didn't give me the feeling of a complete story. Sometimes the arguments between Mr and Mrs Dutta sounds repetitive and slows down the pace of the story. In my opinion, if a few incidences had been cut down then it wouldn't have done any harm to the main storyline.
I will give 3.5 stars out of 5 for this story.
The story revolves around a friendship of teens namely, Debojit Dutta, Clint Lyngdoh and Audrey Pariat. This friendship has a social angle of clashes between Khasis and dkhar, residents and outsiders. Debojit is a Bengali and Audrey and Clint are from Shillong. Mr. Dutta, father of Debojit expressed his views against these riots. He says, 'They call us dkhars. We call them Chinkys. Where will this end? It's 1987 for God's sake! Forty years since Independence. And we are still fighting with each other like cats and dogs.' Even though the book is written on the background of 1987 riots in Shillong, the things have not much changed in 2018.
Debu (short for Debojit) is born in Shillong. Debu's grandfather moved to Shillong with his family when Debu's father was a kid. Debu is born in Shillong but he is still treated as an outsider and is attacked by a few Khasi boys (local) on his way home. Soon after the incident, he meets Clint in the maths class. Initially, he tries to keep a distance from Clint because he is also a local guy and a little older than Debu. Soon Clint manages to impress Debu. Debu gets impressed by his smoking, the way he drinks and his carefree attitude. Clint introduces Debu to his friend Audrey. Debu secretly admires Audrey but he has to be careful when he meets her and talks about her as she is a Khasi.
While the friendship is developing over a time, the social scene is also changing in Shillong. The fights between locals and outsiders are increasing leading to frequent curfews, shutdowns and riots. Mr. Dutta is still hopeful that things will change but Mrs. Dutta wants to go back to Calcutta.
When I was reading the book I had a feeling of reading a non-fiction. It is written so well that the difference between fiction and non-fiction vanishes. The book came across to me as a fact-based fiction. The central character appears to be based on authors timespan in Shillong. Even though the book is based on authors memories, he has done a good research about that time. The book teleported me to that era. I could imagine every detail of the place as if I am watching a movie. The story has brought out a mix of emotions in a well-written manner.
If you wish to know about what happened in Shillong in 1987, then this book will give you an idea. Two parallel stories run in the book one is about the friendship and another about the differences between 'insiders' and 'outsiders'. It is difficult to separate these stories from one another. The author has beautifully woven the stories with each other.
However, I wish the author could have focused more on the friendship of teens. I would love to know what happened with Debu, Clint and Audrey after a few years. The character of Audrey should have been developed a bit more. The end of the book didn't give me the feeling of a complete story. Sometimes the arguments between Mr and Mrs Dutta sounds repetitive and slows down the pace of the story. In my opinion, if a few incidences had been cut down then it wouldn't have done any harm to the main storyline.
I will give 3.5 stars out of 5 for this story.
November 8, 2018
I have been reading Shillong times during the festive season. The book transports us to the time of 1980’s in Shillong and gives insights about the issues prevailing between the tribal and immigrants.
Shillong times is an engaging and interesting tale about Debashish Dutta and his family who was relocated from Bangladesh pre-independence. However, the primary narrative of the story is around the 1980’s. The book is a discovery of the pain and joys in an adolescent of Debashish.
The book talks around the struggle of Bengali as they were treated as foreigners and called by filthy names such as ‘Dhakar‘. The book tells us about how Debu who developed a friendship with Clint who belongs to the resident community. They bonded over the mathematics, science, music and alcohol, other stuff. With the time their friendship blossom and he got acquainted with Audrey, who also belongs to the Khasi tribe. Their friendship grows at the oddest times of their lives but get through all and proved how friendship should be like.
Clint is my favorite character and admires him for the sacrifices made by him. He is my favorite because of his efforts to save the life of Mr.Dutta.
The book is beautiful narration about the beauty of Shillong, localities and their life. The book holds so much for a reader with a simple plot and characters. A fast-paced book with the beautiful story of childhood which can keep the reader hooked till the end. The book talks about the childhood and the parts of childhood which were quite relatable and made me nostalgic. Also, the book has a political drama which made it a perfect binge read. I hope and wish that the author should have added a few more elements or the description of the Shillong. Nonetheless, I have enjoyed the book and will recommend this book to my reader friends.
Shillong times is an engaging and interesting tale about Debashish Dutta and his family who was relocated from Bangladesh pre-independence. However, the primary narrative of the story is around the 1980’s. The book is a discovery of the pain and joys in an adolescent of Debashish.
The book talks around the struggle of Bengali as they were treated as foreigners and called by filthy names such as ‘Dhakar‘. The book tells us about how Debu who developed a friendship with Clint who belongs to the resident community. They bonded over the mathematics, science, music and alcohol, other stuff. With the time their friendship blossom and he got acquainted with Audrey, who also belongs to the Khasi tribe. Their friendship grows at the oddest times of their lives but get through all and proved how friendship should be like.
Clint is my favorite character and admires him for the sacrifices made by him. He is my favorite because of his efforts to save the life of Mr.Dutta.
The book is beautiful narration about the beauty of Shillong, localities and their life. The book holds so much for a reader with a simple plot and characters. A fast-paced book with the beautiful story of childhood which can keep the reader hooked till the end. The book talks about the childhood and the parts of childhood which were quite relatable and made me nostalgic. Also, the book has a political drama which made it a perfect binge read. I hope and wish that the author should have added a few more elements or the description of the Shillong. Nonetheless, I have enjoyed the book and will recommend this book to my reader friends.
November 17, 2018
So, before I get into the plot details, I would like you to know that this book is going to take you back to your childhood days and there will be moments of laughter while you go deep into the book, and you will be overwhelmed with the memories for sure. So, don't forget to grab a cup of piping hot coffee or chai while you read this book because it's really hard to put down this book. It's that engaging and gripping.
I know you must have got an idea about how I found out this book, but I still have got to give more information so you can decide whether to spend money on this or not. So, the cover of the book is quite relatable and decent and the book title is just perfect as per the contents of the book. I found the writing style, narration really good and language quite simple and easy to go through, and fast-paced.
I have never been to Shillong, but the book took me through the imagination as I have known the place for many years. Debojit Dutta is the main character of the story. It's the story of Shillong becoming a battlefield and the boiling tensions between the Khasi and Bengali communities. The old neighbors, friends become outsiders and the relationships go through harsh times (as the blurb suggests doing its job pretty well.)
So, what happens after the above happens? Well, you will have to read the book to know about the same ;)
Overall, it has been a good read for me. I Just want to point out one thing that could be improved and it's the editing of the book, a few spelling errors to mention. Hence, I highly recommend you read the book once and share it with other people too who you think would find it a good read.
I know you must have got an idea about how I found out this book, but I still have got to give more information so you can decide whether to spend money on this or not. So, the cover of the book is quite relatable and decent and the book title is just perfect as per the contents of the book. I found the writing style, narration really good and language quite simple and easy to go through, and fast-paced.
I have never been to Shillong, but the book took me through the imagination as I have known the place for many years. Debojit Dutta is the main character of the story. It's the story of Shillong becoming a battlefield and the boiling tensions between the Khasi and Bengali communities. The old neighbors, friends become outsiders and the relationships go through harsh times (as the blurb suggests doing its job pretty well.)
So, what happens after the above happens? Well, you will have to read the book to know about the same ;)
Overall, it has been a good read for me. I Just want to point out one thing that could be improved and it's the editing of the book, a few spelling errors to mention. Hence, I highly recommend you read the book once and share it with other people too who you think would find it a good read.
November 14, 2018
Shillong times is a book that brings you nostalgic moments of life in 80s. The story is set in Shillong, yes that’s where it gets the name. Debojit is a Bengali teenager who along with his parents lives in Shillong.
The story starts with Debojit returning home from school on a lonely path where he encounters few guys from local tribe, khasis. This tribe is against any foreign community living in their area and there are few harsh exchanges between them and Debu. He manages to escape from them. He narrates the entire episode to his parents which is when his father lectures him about the ancestors and why they settled in Shillong.
Debu’s mother started advising him to study well and look for a great career outside Shillong and get away from there. She wants him to pursue IAS and wants him to take up necessary competitive exams inorder to achieve the same. She decides to make him join tutions taken by Professor Bose who is deemed to be extremely strict.
Debu gets to know Clint in one of Bose’s tution sessions. He takes Debu to the forbidden Chinese restaurant Kalsang , introduces him to Pink Floyd music and most important of all makes him meet Audrey Pariat. Clint says shes exactly like him – likes detective stories and maths. Debu takes an instant liking on her during their first meet.
Debu’s mom gets to know about his acquaintance with Clint and warns him of dangers since he’s a Khasi himself. She utters stories from past which sends shivers inside Debu. But inspite of all that he still wishes to continue being friends with Clint. Clint also saves Debu from punishments at school from a teacher. The teacher later reveals to Debu that Clint is not good company and its better he stays away from him. Though now the number of people who are against Clint is two, Debu still is not convinced to sacrifice his friendship.
As the story progresses the tension between Bengalis and Khasis boils over, which makes Shillong a battlefield.
The language is simple and lucid. The author has brought out the beauty of Shillong also known as Scotland of the east so well in narration.
The characterization is perfect. Debu’s mom is of the typical Indian parent who wants the child to concentrate on studies and take up competitive exams. She is very strict and at the same time concerned about him, very much indeed. The pace is just the right amount for the elements for friendship, love and tension.
The story starts with Debojit returning home from school on a lonely path where he encounters few guys from local tribe, khasis. This tribe is against any foreign community living in their area and there are few harsh exchanges between them and Debu. He manages to escape from them. He narrates the entire episode to his parents which is when his father lectures him about the ancestors and why they settled in Shillong.
Debu’s mother started advising him to study well and look for a great career outside Shillong and get away from there. She wants him to pursue IAS and wants him to take up necessary competitive exams inorder to achieve the same. She decides to make him join tutions taken by Professor Bose who is deemed to be extremely strict.
Debu gets to know Clint in one of Bose’s tution sessions. He takes Debu to the forbidden Chinese restaurant Kalsang , introduces him to Pink Floyd music and most important of all makes him meet Audrey Pariat. Clint says shes exactly like him – likes detective stories and maths. Debu takes an instant liking on her during their first meet.
Debu’s mom gets to know about his acquaintance with Clint and warns him of dangers since he’s a Khasi himself. She utters stories from past which sends shivers inside Debu. But inspite of all that he still wishes to continue being friends with Clint. Clint also saves Debu from punishments at school from a teacher. The teacher later reveals to Debu that Clint is not good company and its better he stays away from him. Though now the number of people who are against Clint is two, Debu still is not convinced to sacrifice his friendship.
As the story progresses the tension between Bengalis and Khasis boils over, which makes Shillong a battlefield.
The language is simple and lucid. The author has brought out the beauty of Shillong also known as Scotland of the east so well in narration.
The characterization is perfect. Debu’s mom is of the typical Indian parent who wants the child to concentrate on studies and take up competitive exams. She is very strict and at the same time concerned about him, very much indeed. The pace is just the right amount for the elements for friendship, love and tension.
November 22, 2018
It is the 1980s in Shillong and tensions between the local Khasis and the 'outsiders' - Bengalis, Sikhs etc who have been living in Shillong for generations - are simmering. Debu, a bookish young Bengali boy, strikes up a friendship with two cool Khasi kids, Clint and Audrey. But as tensions boil over and violence and blackouts become a part of everyday life, Debu finds his teenage world encroached upon by adult concerns. As the darkness threatens his family and the life he's ever known, his friendship with Clint and Audrey also gets increasingly strained.
Shillong Times is a charming book that vividly captures the sights and sounds of Shillong, the nostalgia of an eighties childhood, and the sense of rootlessness that comes with always being an outsider in a place you call home. Nilanjan has an unerring ear for the way children of a certain era think and speak and his central character Debu is delightfully etched. The author also has a deft way with words and there's an underlying note of humour throughout the book despite the gravity of the events described. My only quibble is that, at times, the narrative seemed a bit rushed - I would have liked the development of the friendship between the three teens to be dwelled upon a little more, and the climax of the book to be just a little more nuanced, but all in all, a thoroughly enjoyable read!
Shillong Times is a charming book that vividly captures the sights and sounds of Shillong, the nostalgia of an eighties childhood, and the sense of rootlessness that comes with always being an outsider in a place you call home. Nilanjan has an unerring ear for the way children of a certain era think and speak and his central character Debu is delightfully etched. The author also has a deft way with words and there's an underlying note of humour throughout the book despite the gravity of the events described. My only quibble is that, at times, the narrative seemed a bit rushed - I would have liked the development of the friendship between the three teens to be dwelled upon a little more, and the climax of the book to be just a little more nuanced, but all in all, a thoroughly enjoyable read!
September 25, 2018
A book very few things could distract me from.
Shillong Times is skillfully presented as an autobiography in the third person -sounds paradoxical! However quite fitting here as the experiences are of the teenager Debojit and the beholden is the exquisitely described Shillong - each struggling with its own chaotic "metamorphosis".
While exploring the very complex challenges of 'us' versus 'them', Nilanjan brilliantly touches upon the anxieties of each very relatable character, and their "me in a big bad world" frustrations at being misunderstood and underappreciated. The essence of life in the nineteen eighties in small town India where everybody knew your name is vividly captured, and like the "Harmonium" still so relevant
The author is a master at using words to generate emotions, and here he keeps the reader gently smiling through most of the book, and expectant at others while referencing eclectic subjects from Greek mythology and Khayyam to Rabindra sangeet and heavy metal via Holmes and Miss Marple.
Overall, the time spent reading was a rare combination of refreshing and enriching
Shillong Times is skillfully presented as an autobiography in the third person -sounds paradoxical! However quite fitting here as the experiences are of the teenager Debojit and the beholden is the exquisitely described Shillong - each struggling with its own chaotic "metamorphosis".
While exploring the very complex challenges of 'us' versus 'them', Nilanjan brilliantly touches upon the anxieties of each very relatable character, and their "me in a big bad world" frustrations at being misunderstood and underappreciated. The essence of life in the nineteen eighties in small town India where everybody knew your name is vividly captured, and like the "Harmonium" still so relevant
The author is a master at using words to generate emotions, and here he keeps the reader gently smiling through most of the book, and expectant at others while referencing eclectic subjects from Greek mythology and Khayyam to Rabindra sangeet and heavy metal via Holmes and Miss Marple.
Overall, the time spent reading was a rare combination of refreshing and enriching
July 11, 2020
A really great novel that explores some of the communal tensions that have marked the history and politics of Shillong, Meghalaya, Shillong Times will resonate with lots of people. For its subtle and considered treatment of the animosities, hostilities, friendships and intimacies that mark the lives of the characters and its loving but anguished portrayal of an idyllic but troubled setting, the book makes for excellent reading. Told from the perspective of a young boy coming of age in a time of strife and discontent, the book explores the growing pains, idealism, escapism and innocence of youth. I found the strained dynamics of the protagonist's family (a family fearing the need for an imminent departure from Shillong against a backdrop of increasing inter-ethnic violence) quite sad, and the tension between the family's fears about the protagonist's future and the protagonist's own desires for carefree fun and freedom (and need to escape from everyday social and political stresses) very relatable. I wish the novel could have ended somewhat differently though! A great read overall.
November 13, 2018
This is a book that is deeply insightful, at times playful, but mostly, written with a candor that will take readers on a nostalgia trip to the 80s but make it so relevant to contemporary times.
The narrative of the book set in 1987 moves through the eyes of 14 year old Debojit Dutta (Debu) who lives with his parents in Shillong. A small town, Shillong the capital of Meghalaya is where socio cultural divides and political history binds the natives of the land to others who have come to look upon the place as their own. The ‘outsider’ and ‘insider’ fissures: doubts and judgments over food habits, social norms and a common tendency of certain terms for each other lurks in the book rising its head off and on then ultimately, holds centerstage.
The entry of Clint Eastwood Lyngdoh in his life brings more than its share of excitement and new things. Debu’s life is akin to every teenager: there are new discoveries, ones that his mother and slowly others begin to find fault with. There are forbidden worlds he enters, new tastes and then of course, there is Audrey Pariat, a girl like no other. When the rift between communities sharpen, Debu questions Clint and his people. The tension in the world around them almost tears the friendship between them as it does to the social relations in the larger community. What happens to the three friends and to Debu’s family who starts getting targeted by both the Bengalis and Khasis over certain developments takes the narrative to its climax.
The writing is full of subtle humour but very sharp in its insights on both the Khasi and the Bengalis as communities living in Shillong. The landmarks of Shillong come alive as near characters and will make those familiar with the place(s) to smile. The book will surely resonate with people who feel and live as outsiders in a place as it will with people who firmly believe that their land is theirs only.
I will strongly recommend this book to readers who want to know more about the dynamics of people in the North eastern states of India.
The narrative of the book set in 1987 moves through the eyes of 14 year old Debojit Dutta (Debu) who lives with his parents in Shillong. A small town, Shillong the capital of Meghalaya is where socio cultural divides and political history binds the natives of the land to others who have come to look upon the place as their own. The ‘outsider’ and ‘insider’ fissures: doubts and judgments over food habits, social norms and a common tendency of certain terms for each other lurks in the book rising its head off and on then ultimately, holds centerstage.
The entry of Clint Eastwood Lyngdoh in his life brings more than its share of excitement and new things. Debu’s life is akin to every teenager: there are new discoveries, ones that his mother and slowly others begin to find fault with. There are forbidden worlds he enters, new tastes and then of course, there is Audrey Pariat, a girl like no other. When the rift between communities sharpen, Debu questions Clint and his people. The tension in the world around them almost tears the friendship between them as it does to the social relations in the larger community. What happens to the three friends and to Debu’s family who starts getting targeted by both the Bengalis and Khasis over certain developments takes the narrative to its climax.
The writing is full of subtle humour but very sharp in its insights on both the Khasi and the Bengalis as communities living in Shillong. The landmarks of Shillong come alive as near characters and will make those familiar with the place(s) to smile. The book will surely resonate with people who feel and live as outsiders in a place as it will with people who firmly believe that their land is theirs only.
I will strongly recommend this book to readers who want to know more about the dynamics of people in the North eastern states of India.
October 4, 2018
At one end, it is a tale no one has told so far. What transpired in 70s-80s of Shillong and most of the north eastern states, how social identity diffused into matter of existence - and many more. Probably we needed a Nilanjan to tell us this story - a writer with deep compassion, insight, incisive with his style of satire, with a mind of an artist - all in one.
At the other end, it is an eternal journey of growing up - inquisitive, lonely, rebellious yet conforming. The way every chapter brought out mix of humour, satire, hope, thrill in unique proportion - only shows how at ease Nilanjan is with his craft.
Looking forward to many more such wonderful writing.
At the other end, it is an eternal journey of growing up - inquisitive, lonely, rebellious yet conforming. The way every chapter brought out mix of humour, satire, hope, thrill in unique proportion - only shows how at ease Nilanjan is with his craft.
Looking forward to many more such wonderful writing.
October 21, 2021
I was immediately attracted to this book because of Shillong, and that is the best part of this book. Nilanjan captures some of the charm of that quaint city in his book.
Everything else was sort of mediocre. The narration and the descriptions were not very captivating. The story and the history are engaging but unfortunately, the characters are not deep enough for us to relate with them. The problem was that the author was not able to strike the right balance between the coming-of-age part and the political part. There were just too many narrative and mood shifts.
An interesting read, especially to learn about Shillong and it's history. Wish it had been done slightly better though!
Everything else was sort of mediocre. The narration and the descriptions were not very captivating. The story and the history are engaging but unfortunately, the characters are not deep enough for us to relate with them. The problem was that the author was not able to strike the right balance between the coming-of-age part and the political part. There were just too many narrative and mood shifts.
An interesting read, especially to learn about Shillong and it's history. Wish it had been done slightly better though!
December 16, 2018
As someone who grew up in Shillong many long decades ago, I found “Shillong Times” haunting and authentic. It is a gripping coming-of-age story of friendship between three young friends from different backgrounds set amid the ethnic strife that beset the pretty town in the seventies and eighties. The author skillfully portrays the protagonists and weaves their story as ethnic tensions take the narrative to an unexpected climax. I read the book in one sitting and recommend it to all interested in a good story based on real-life.
October 19, 2021
A nostalgic novel about the Eighties Shillong and the uprising against outsiders. It is a terrifying tale that reminded me of the ethnic conflicts in Inheritance of Loss. It is very readable though it sometimes slips into Chetan Bhagat zone with its teenage protagonist.Nilanjan does a good job setting the pace of the plot and building the suspense. It all culminates in a puerile climax involving an implausible, cartoonish character transformation that was rather grating. It can be recommended for how immersive and readable it is.
August 26, 2019
Shillong Times is an elegant, masterly recreation of an era and a city. The complex socio-political history of a region is deftly interwoven with a simple, heartwarming coming of age tale. It is funny, poignant and deeply evocative. By the end of the book I fell in love not just with the characters and their lives but Shillong itself. A beautiful read, particularly relevant in today's times of anti-immigrant politics.
October 6, 2018
I enjoyed the book immensely . I have never been to Shillong, but now seem to know this place so well. The insecurities of childhood, the middle class upbringing, the tormenting moments of high school , the first drag of the cigarette, porno matinees, This book brings it all together. During the course of the story, i often pictured myself as Debu. :) My only grouse is that Audrey's character should have been fleshed out a bit more. She is the glue that holds it together IMHO. One small timeline error: Did samosas is the 80s cost 6 bucks ? It was more like 2 rupees.. :)
December 8, 2018
This is a story of ethnicity based politics, told through the travails of 3 teenage children, from two communities in the town of Shillong. The backdrop is Shillong of the 80s, and the two communities are Bengalis & other Non Tribals, and the Khasis, both of whom have very different ideas indeed. This is the story of a good student who undergoes some ragging and worse from the other community and yet becomes good friends with two students from that community. This is not liked by his parents, or by other parents of the other two children. Amidst all of this, tensions between the communities start rising, as one family starts toying with the idea of leaving Shillong… this is their story, the story of 3 families and their travails in times of mild yet fast rising tensions…
This is a highly sensitive subject even at the best of times, and requires uncommon maturity, understanding, sensitivity, emotional attachment, command over both words and history / current affairs, and a vivid imagination to carry off well. This is not a story that can be told without deep thought, planning, and conceptual understanding. This is a story of live tensions in society, and we have seen many shades – some milder, some deeper – of similar tensions worldwide. That also makes it a subject to be dealt with not just maturity but also responsibility. And in all of these, it has succeeded.
More here : https://reflectionsvvk.blogspot.com/2...
This is a highly sensitive subject even at the best of times, and requires uncommon maturity, understanding, sensitivity, emotional attachment, command over both words and history / current affairs, and a vivid imagination to carry off well. This is not a story that can be told without deep thought, planning, and conceptual understanding. This is a story of live tensions in society, and we have seen many shades – some milder, some deeper – of similar tensions worldwide. That also makes it a subject to be dealt with not just maturity but also responsibility. And in all of these, it has succeeded.
More here : https://reflectionsvvk.blogspot.com/2...
September 25, 2018
Unputdownable.....found a read after a long time that I simply had to read through at one go. Delightfully written, keeps the reader gently smiling through most of the book and gently explores the challenge of defining 'us' versus 'them' in what seems like idyllic times in Shillong but is a dangerous precursor to today's violent times in Shillong and elsewhere...
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