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Once Upon A Curfew
It is 1974. Indu has inherited a flat from her grandmother and wants to turn it into a library for women. Her parents think this will keep her suitably occupied till she marries her fiancé, Rajat, who's away studying in London.
But then she meets Rana, a young lawyer with sparkling wit and a heart of gold. He helps set up the library and their days light up with playful banter and the many Rajesh Khanna movies they watch together.
When the Emergency is declared, Indu's life turns upside down. Rana finds himself in trouble, while Rajat decides it's time to visit India and settle down. As the Emergency pervades their lives, Indu must decide not only who but what kind of life she will choose.
But then she meets Rana, a young lawyer with sparkling wit and a heart of gold. He helps set up the library and their days light up with playful banter and the many Rajesh Khanna movies they watch together.
When the Emergency is declared, Indu's life turns upside down. Rana finds himself in trouble, while Rajat decides it's time to visit India and settle down. As the Emergency pervades their lives, Indu must decide not only who but what kind of life she will choose.
304 pages, Paperback
Published April 18, 2019
About the author
Srishti Chaudhary
5 books249 followersDive into the world of Srishti Chaudhary, a captivating storyteller who weaves tales steeped in Indian culture and rich with emotion. Born and raised in Delhi, Srishti's background shines through in her novels, offering a glimpse into the heart of India.
The author behind the heartwarming novels "Once Upon a Curfew" and "Lallan Sweets," isn't one to shy away from powerful narratives. Drawn to writing from a young age, her stories naturally gravitate towards the unique experiences of women. But for Srishti, this isn't a calculated pursuit of social reform. It's a reflection of her own identity and a deep appreciation for the struggles and triumphs women face every day.
As a woman herself, Srishti understands the battles fought for rights and the courage it takes to break free from societal constraints. Her characters, therefore, become relatable heroines navigating love, family, and personal aspirations.Through their journeys, Srishti weaves stories that are both entertaining and subtly empowering.
The author behind the heartwarming novels "Once Upon a Curfew" and "Lallan Sweets," isn't one to shy away from powerful narratives. Drawn to writing from a young age, her stories naturally gravitate towards the unique experiences of women. But for Srishti, this isn't a calculated pursuit of social reform. It's a reflection of her own identity and a deep appreciation for the struggles and triumphs women face every day.
As a woman herself, Srishti understands the battles fought for rights and the courage it takes to break free from societal constraints. Her characters, therefore, become relatable heroines navigating love, family, and personal aspirations.Through their journeys, Srishti weaves stories that are both entertaining and subtly empowering.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
August 13, 2019
Set against the backdrop of 1970s Delhi, an era of Rajesh Khanna's movies, the cold cozy winters of Delhi and a time when a wave of nationalism ran through the society, "Once Upon a Curfew" takes us through the life of our young protagonist, Indira Narayan, who wants to convert her grandma's old flat into a library for women, one where she has left behind hundreds of books, collected over all her years of living there.
🌼
Indira's family thinks it is a suitable idea since it will keep her occupied until she marries her fiance, Rajat, who is studying in London for two more years.
But when she meets Rana, a young lawyer full of life and humor, and the Emergency declared in India, the world that she once thought was perfect for her, will turn upside down. What kind of life will she choose now?
🌼
A refreshing take on the era surrounding the Emergency when the times were filled with political tension and yet Delhi was booming with life, it's movies, it's winters and it's love for Bollywood movies, the plot digresses significantly from how the story first started.
The romance brewing between two young souls, against the backdrop of a library, does sound promising but the narration dragged a bit when the courtship of Indira was developing, and the book could have done better with fewer dialogues.
🌼
Would have loved if the story moved in one direction and not scatter abruptly into subplots so much.
But with a strong plot-line, a very pleasant premise, lovable characters, an old school love story blossoming in a library and a peek into the yesteryear's struggle of people during the Emergency, this book has all the elements for a cozy mushy read.
.
.
.
.
🍂Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5/5
🍂 Genre: fiction, indian-literature, historical-fiction, romance
🌼
Indira's family thinks it is a suitable idea since it will keep her occupied until she marries her fiance, Rajat, who is studying in London for two more years.
But when she meets Rana, a young lawyer full of life and humor, and the Emergency declared in India, the world that she once thought was perfect for her, will turn upside down. What kind of life will she choose now?
🌼
A refreshing take on the era surrounding the Emergency when the times were filled with political tension and yet Delhi was booming with life, it's movies, it's winters and it's love for Bollywood movies, the plot digresses significantly from how the story first started.
The romance brewing between two young souls, against the backdrop of a library, does sound promising but the narration dragged a bit when the courtship of Indira was developing, and the book could have done better with fewer dialogues.
🌼
Would have loved if the story moved in one direction and not scatter abruptly into subplots so much.
But with a strong plot-line, a very pleasant premise, lovable characters, an old school love story blossoming in a library and a peek into the yesteryear's struggle of people during the Emergency, this book has all the elements for a cozy mushy read.
.
.
.
.
🍂Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5/5
🍂 Genre: fiction, indian-literature, historical-fiction, romance
May 7, 2023
1974.
Indu has just graduated and inherited a flat from her grandmother. And now she has an ocean of life decisions to cover. The typical decisions a girl should make, ofcours - love, marriage and career.
Now, she can either go down the socially acceptable path or create one of her own. But none is easy! And it is through this raging turmoil that Srishti Chaudhary has shown the anatomy of a woman's mind.
Women are indeed peculiar/irrational (whatever you call it) creatures. For instance, we think that it is our right to get mad over a boy, whom we rejected, when he dares to move on. And over that, we expect him to pamper us. There isn't any logical explanation for all of this. It's just the way it is.
This book is for all the high maintenance girls, who expect the world from their guy. You will hate Indu at times, but once you think about it, you will realise how much of yourself you see in her.
Spread over the period of emergency, Once upon a curfew is a medium-light book which is meant to give you a glimpses of that era and of the way a girl's mind works🙈
Indu has just graduated and inherited a flat from her grandmother. And now she has an ocean of life decisions to cover. The typical decisions a girl should make, ofcours - love, marriage and career.
Now, she can either go down the socially acceptable path or create one of her own. But none is easy! And it is through this raging turmoil that Srishti Chaudhary has shown the anatomy of a woman's mind.
Women are indeed peculiar/irrational (whatever you call it) creatures. For instance, we think that it is our right to get mad over a boy, whom we rejected, when he dares to move on. And over that, we expect him to pamper us. There isn't any logical explanation for all of this. It's just the way it is.
This book is for all the high maintenance girls, who expect the world from their guy. You will hate Indu at times, but once you think about it, you will realise how much of yourself you see in her.
Spread over the period of emergency, Once upon a curfew is a medium-light book which is meant to give you a glimpses of that era and of the way a girl's mind works🙈
April 5, 2025
It is when life gets stressful that a charming novel like Once Upon a Curfew becomes your companion.
.
The setup is 1974.
Indu, our sweet protagonist, inherits a flat from her grandmother. However, life changes when engaged to be married Indu meets Rana, a young lawyer. Setting up a library together and thanks to the cinemas of Rajesh Khanna, they fall in love.
But there's an emergency declared.
.
Srishti Chaudhary skillfully portrays how external forces shape the identities of individuals and the implications such events have on the lives of people.
Moreover, she also shapes poignant and introspective moments revealing the beauty of human connection amidst adversity. The author brings together personal narratives and broader societal themes, creating a story that lingers long after the last page.
.
Once Upon a Curfew is a tale of resistance, connection, and the search for meaning in the midst of a curfew that locks not only the city but also the hearts of its people.
.
The setup is 1974.
Indu, our sweet protagonist, inherits a flat from her grandmother. However, life changes when engaged to be married Indu meets Rana, a young lawyer. Setting up a library together and thanks to the cinemas of Rajesh Khanna, they fall in love.
But there's an emergency declared.
.
Srishti Chaudhary skillfully portrays how external forces shape the identities of individuals and the implications such events have on the lives of people.
Moreover, she also shapes poignant and introspective moments revealing the beauty of human connection amidst adversity. The author brings together personal narratives and broader societal themes, creating a story that lingers long after the last page.
.
Once Upon a Curfew is a tale of resistance, connection, and the search for meaning in the midst of a curfew that locks not only the city but also the hearts of its people.
May 17, 2019
Rating: 3.5/5
An interesting tale set against the backdrop of Emergency in India encompasses the waves of changes it brought in lives of the characters and how the masses got affected in general.
🌸
Indira Narayan born in an elite family driven by the spirit of making a difference in lives of women convert an inherited property into a library. She finds an ally in Rana, a pleasing young lawyer who help her in the task. The marriage of her elder sister Amita get badly affected by her act. Despite the few intial roadblocks, the library sets into motion attracting an active participation from young and old alike. But everything changes during the turmoil period.Loyalties are tested, choices are made and many acrid truths are uncovered.
🌸
An engaging narration coupled with a strong plot-line, beautiful premise, well defined characters peppered with a healthy dose of Bollywood. Readers will soon find themselves humming Rajesh Khanna’s songs.
The dash of politics, an upcoming marriage, girl education, Women rights, a love blossoms in library and a crisis in the country paints an alluring picture.I loved the wisdom dripping from Natty’s cryptic replies. One could not help smiling at the dramatic ending.
🌸
I would have loved a more serious take on the situation of Emergency.Few characters made a fleeting appearance leaving a lot of questions unanswered.
🌸
I would recommend the book to every reader who want to know the 1970’s Delhi, the political scenario and the craze of yesterday’s heroes.
An interesting tale set against the backdrop of Emergency in India encompasses the waves of changes it brought in lives of the characters and how the masses got affected in general.
🌸
Indira Narayan born in an elite family driven by the spirit of making a difference in lives of women convert an inherited property into a library. She finds an ally in Rana, a pleasing young lawyer who help her in the task. The marriage of her elder sister Amita get badly affected by her act. Despite the few intial roadblocks, the library sets into motion attracting an active participation from young and old alike. But everything changes during the turmoil period.Loyalties are tested, choices are made and many acrid truths are uncovered.
🌸
An engaging narration coupled with a strong plot-line, beautiful premise, well defined characters peppered with a healthy dose of Bollywood. Readers will soon find themselves humming Rajesh Khanna’s songs.
The dash of politics, an upcoming marriage, girl education, Women rights, a love blossoms in library and a crisis in the country paints an alluring picture.I loved the wisdom dripping from Natty’s cryptic replies. One could not help smiling at the dramatic ending.
🌸
I would have loved a more serious take on the situation of Emergency.Few characters made a fleeting appearance leaving a lot of questions unanswered.
🌸
I would recommend the book to every reader who want to know the 1970’s Delhi, the political scenario and the craze of yesterday’s heroes.
October 26, 2020
My thoughts:
This one could have been much better if it was shortened rather than stretched too long with loads of unnecessary dialogues.
I like this one as it talks about reading and books and book collection and book inheritance in the first few pages....(one of my reading weaknesses bleh🙃)
The story starts with the inheritance of an actual flat.
And everybody wanting to do something with it but for different purposes of their own.
And then....this one character, Indu, the main protagonist... she's so me! Ahem 🙋
She wants to establish a library!
The story tried to show support to women empowerment and giving support to a cause for only women/girls.
I actually love how simple the writing was and how easy it was to read this one.
The plot revolves around Indu's one dream of building a public library just for girls.
And the other myriad characters opposing to this or in sync with this dream of hers.
I loved the fact that this book is set in the past.
The era of classic Bollywood and writing letters!
The romance between the two main characters is subtle yet strong. (But I don't like the love triangle part. It was bad.)
The characters are convincing and well developed.
The humour works fine too.
The actual talks regarding politics and the politicians during that time do seem out of place and totally inconvenient. It was my least favourite part of the book. It actually disrupted the flow of the story.
The political component towards the end of the story actually ruined the later part of the book. The sudden change in the nature of the characters and the unexpected serious turn of the book after 80 percent of the book seemed a bit of a buzzkill.
I mean why?!
The book was doing good.
And everything changed ...and it made the read a bit disturbing.
Political unrest issues and it wasn't tackled well.
Then came the marriage issues of the main character, caught up in between two guys.
And the ending was really haphazard.
This one could have been much better if it was shortened rather than stretched too long with loads of unnecessary dialogues.
I like this one as it talks about reading and books and book collection and book inheritance in the first few pages....(one of my reading weaknesses bleh🙃)
The story starts with the inheritance of an actual flat.
And everybody wanting to do something with it but for different purposes of their own.
And then....this one character, Indu, the main protagonist... she's so me! Ahem 🙋
She wants to establish a library!
The story tried to show support to women empowerment and giving support to a cause for only women/girls.
I actually love how simple the writing was and how easy it was to read this one.
The plot revolves around Indu's one dream of building a public library just for girls.
And the other myriad characters opposing to this or in sync with this dream of hers.
I loved the fact that this book is set in the past.
The era of classic Bollywood and writing letters!
The romance between the two main characters is subtle yet strong. (But I don't like the love triangle part. It was bad.)
The characters are convincing and well developed.
The humour works fine too.
The actual talks regarding politics and the politicians during that time do seem out of place and totally inconvenient. It was my least favourite part of the book. It actually disrupted the flow of the story.
The political component towards the end of the story actually ruined the later part of the book. The sudden change in the nature of the characters and the unexpected serious turn of the book after 80 percent of the book seemed a bit of a buzzkill.
I mean why?!
The book was doing good.
And everything changed ...and it made the read a bit disturbing.
Political unrest issues and it wasn't tackled well.
Then came the marriage issues of the main character, caught up in between two guys.
And the ending was really haphazard.
October 23, 2024
Maybe I'm being overly harsh, but the premise was quite promising - a young woman, named after the PM of India, yearning to do something big, against the backdrop of emergency. Unfortunately, what the book had in imagination and references to popular places in delhi, of 1970s bollywood and gossip, it lacked in execution.
I was found wanting to identify with the protagonist, but despite her education, and access to liberal spaces, she seems clueless throughout. How do you start a library, and where do you go from it? How to navigate a romantic association(s)? What's really happening during the emergency?
I also didn't like how the love triangle develops, and is resolved. It seemed too much like how the right choice was also the easy choice - there was no conflict that was developed.
The time skips could also have been avoided, and instead used as a conduit to explore the protagonists emotions a bit more. A lot more.
And i wish there was a bit more to the political backdrop and the epoch than Bollywood, Karim's, and transistors. I didn't really feel transported to the decade, maybe too much dialogue?
Overall it's a nice, cute read, so 2.5.
I was found wanting to identify with the protagonist, but despite her education, and access to liberal spaces, she seems clueless throughout. How do you start a library, and where do you go from it? How to navigate a romantic association(s)? What's really happening during the emergency?
I also didn't like how the love triangle develops, and is resolved. It seemed too much like how the right choice was also the easy choice - there was no conflict that was developed.
The time skips could also have been avoided, and instead used as a conduit to explore the protagonists emotions a bit more. A lot more.
And i wish there was a bit more to the political backdrop and the epoch than Bollywood, Karim's, and transistors. I didn't really feel transported to the decade, maybe too much dialogue?
Overall it's a nice, cute read, so 2.5.
May 26, 2025
Too much build up in the first 2 parts, making it mundane. The main action has little space at the end...
I secretly wanted her to end up with her fiancé, but the author painted him as a grey guy which was a turn off 😭
I secretly wanted her to end up with her fiancé, but the author painted him as a grey guy which was a turn off 😭
August 13, 2019
for a book that focused so much on development (character, story, plot), the ending was too abrupt and therefore vague! what was the point of her dupatta...
May 30, 2025
Meet Indu, a dreamer girl living in the 1970s Delhi. When Indu inherits a flat along with her sister, she dreams of opening a library for only women there. But it's not that easy, she learns when you try to give women a space of their own, the society stands in its path like a thorn. Indu fights with her brother in law, her adamant will to not step back surprises everyone.
In this fight of her, she finds Rana, a young law student who came to Delhi with the dream of becoming a lawyer. Though Indu detests Rana at first, soon his easy out going nature and continuous teasing and flirting grows on her. She finds him beside her in opening the library. Together, they vibe on Old Bollywood songs, talk about Rajesh Khanna. Their love story starts in the realm of the library where they start to write their own story.
But soon the dangerous political situation of India creates a turbulence in their life. They find each other against their own personal ideologies. On top of that, Indu's fiance Rajat comes back from London. With Rana, Indu forgets about her own unavoidable marriage with someone who's like a stranger to her. Though Rana and Indu, knowing the situation, tries to maintain a friendly relationship, can they go against their hearts?
The book is fresh, free, felt like sipping tea in a windy afternoon. The writing, the banters between the characters, the whole set up amazed me. The concept of women's library in the timeline when people weren't so modernised, deserves appreciation.
The book was going really good till part 2, but then the plot line changed and it became totally political which offed me a bit. Wish the political disturbance part was less. Other than that, loved Indu and Rana! I need a Rana too who'll give me jasmines to tuck in my braids 😭❤️🩹
In this fight of her, she finds Rana, a young law student who came to Delhi with the dream of becoming a lawyer. Though Indu detests Rana at first, soon his easy out going nature and continuous teasing and flirting grows on her. She finds him beside her in opening the library. Together, they vibe on Old Bollywood songs, talk about Rajesh Khanna. Their love story starts in the realm of the library where they start to write their own story.
But soon the dangerous political situation of India creates a turbulence in their life. They find each other against their own personal ideologies. On top of that, Indu's fiance Rajat comes back from London. With Rana, Indu forgets about her own unavoidable marriage with someone who's like a stranger to her. Though Rana and Indu, knowing the situation, tries to maintain a friendly relationship, can they go against their hearts?
The book is fresh, free, felt like sipping tea in a windy afternoon. The writing, the banters between the characters, the whole set up amazed me. The concept of women's library in the timeline when people weren't so modernised, deserves appreciation.
The book was going really good till part 2, but then the plot line changed and it became totally political which offed me a bit. Wish the political disturbance part was less. Other than that, loved Indu and Rana! I need a Rana too who'll give me jasmines to tuck in my braids 😭❤️🩹
August 23, 2025
Bumping up the rating because I am still thinking about it.
November 22, 2025
I picked up this book completely on a whim during a reading slump, after abandoning three others that at least tried to challenge my brain. This one, however, immediately delivered what I wanted: a cute, cozy read with a charming post-independence setting, retro nostalgia, and film references sprinkled in like confetti. So far, so good.
But then the plot decided to take a long nap. Midway through, everything becomes so still that even turning the page feels like an act of blind optimism. You’re not exactly perched on the edge of your seat, more like sliding off it slowly out of boredom.
The romance? About as natural as a scripted reality show. And then there’s Indu. Initially presented as this strong, opinionated, modern feminist icon,,but somewhere along the line, she transforms into an annoying, performative version of feminism, with a pinch of classism. Also, she seems to feel threatened by every woman who so much as breathes near her. Inspiring!
By the middle, the story starts tasting like plain oatmeal: technically edible, but absolutely nothing to look forward to. Honestly, with a bit more effort, it could’ve been much better.
June 7, 2019
Its is refreshing read about Delhi in the 70’s, set against the backdrop of emergency when Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister.
The lead, Indira Narayan born in an elite family, starts a library for women in a flat that her grandmother has passed on to her and her sister, to give women space to themselves. Indira’s plan become concrete on meeting Rana, a young lawyer. The story ahead shows the success of the library attracting an active participation from the young and old, changes during the turmoil period, repercussions of Indira’s actions on her sister’s marriage, and the attraction and love being built between Indira and Rana, in the absence of her fiance.
-The author has given shape and features to the characters in the story.
-Simple language, with enlightening dialogues between Indira and Rana. Funny punches by the driver.
-Hint of the Bollywood superstar Rajesh Khanna.
-The story covers the topics of women empowerment, individuality, privacy, and love.
-The author could have detailed the ‘emergency period’ .
The lead, Indira Narayan born in an elite family, starts a library for women in a flat that her grandmother has passed on to her and her sister, to give women space to themselves. Indira’s plan become concrete on meeting Rana, a young lawyer. The story ahead shows the success of the library attracting an active participation from the young and old, changes during the turmoil period, repercussions of Indira’s actions on her sister’s marriage, and the attraction and love being built between Indira and Rana, in the absence of her fiance.
-The author has given shape and features to the characters in the story.
-Simple language, with enlightening dialogues between Indira and Rana. Funny punches by the driver.
-Hint of the Bollywood superstar Rajesh Khanna.
-The story covers the topics of women empowerment, individuality, privacy, and love.
-The author could have detailed the ‘emergency period’ .
May 23, 2019
We read so many books that become bestsellers. Well, its best not to name those writers, because the market is quite foolish. Once Upon a Curfew is a perfect story that portrays nostalgia. Delhi has been described beautifully with a lot of detail. The topic is sensitive and I pat the writer's back for being courageous to choose a topic of Emergency. The story is intriguing for many reasons. It's a writer's delight to read this book, because the writer has created a world for writers. There are crucial topics of Women Empowerment, individuality, privacy and of course Love. But, thank god not shady college romance. It is evident that the writer has put in a lot of hard work and made sure the Indian readership has been catered well. You will not get bored, for each page is extremely gripping and has an air of creativity, suspense and drama. Before I end this review, I would definitely say that this is a Movie Material. Great work Srishti Chaudhary, can't wait for more dramatic and gripping stories from you.
May 13, 2019
The premise of Once upon a Curfew is this; our heroine is from an affluent background in a 1970s India, she starts a library for women in a flat that was left to her by her grandmother to give women space to be themselves, take a breather, read, study, pursue hobbies and have a room(s) to call their own.
Helping her with this endeavour is an enigmatic man, add to all of this an absentee fiancé in Britain waiting to marry our heroine.... oh! And Indian Emergency of course.
The book is fast paced with a flavour for Indian politics during Indira Gandhi’s time; what was missing for me was more the Emergency, a somewhat realistic outlook to the issues that plagued India then and also a female protagonist who wasn’t so naive; this is something that put a damper on an otherwise fun read.
July 17, 2025
There are too many stories similar type. I also found the characters lacked depth.
December 7, 2024
one of those books that make you forget that you're reading. a vintage love story.
Its 1974, Indu inherits her grandmother’s flat and sees it as a chance to create her own library & exclusively for women. Her parents, of course, think it’s a temporary hobby just to keep her busy until Rajat, her fiancé studying in London, comes back.
But then she meets Rana, a lawyer with a golden heart (i confirm). As he helps Indu bring her vision to life, their days are filled with laughter, teasing, and countless Rajesh Khanna movie nights.
*dramatic music*
and then everything changes. Emergency is declared, Rana is drawn into dangerous waters, and Rajat suddenly returns, determined to claim his place in Indu’s life. Now, Indu needs to decide not only between two very different men but also the kind of life she truly wants to lead.
🤍🤍🤍🤍🌸
Set in the 70s, this book will take you on a journey back in time of the timeless cinema, purani Delhi vibes, Indian politics and old school romance... overall a very aesthetically pleasing book that I look forward to re-read.
Idk how to explain it, but I can just smell the scenery Srishti brings to life in this book, its nostalgic and comforting. As an old Bollywood fan, the desi aesthetics hit just right.
I love the feeling of nostalgia in my books and BOOKS inside my books. This one came into my life at the perfect time and I loved every bit of it with all my heart.
Indu was fierce, relatable, bold, passionate for books and oh so beautiful. Dreaming of opening a women only library along with constant conflict of heart and mind, she sure was relatable. Rana was the kind of manly man who also had a gentle side...exactly the kind of balance we all crave. He is my new book boyfriend, just putting it right there. The family dynamics, post independence air, banter and romance, everything felt balanced.
This book is the perfect gift for those old-school romantics and Rajesh Khanna fans!!
I advise you to make a hot cup of chai and enjoy this book while soaking in the winter sun on your balcony 📖🌸☕🍃
Its 1974, Indu inherits her grandmother’s flat and sees it as a chance to create her own library & exclusively for women. Her parents, of course, think it’s a temporary hobby just to keep her busy until Rajat, her fiancé studying in London, comes back.
But then she meets Rana, a lawyer with a golden heart (i confirm). As he helps Indu bring her vision to life, their days are filled with laughter, teasing, and countless Rajesh Khanna movie nights.
*dramatic music*
and then everything changes. Emergency is declared, Rana is drawn into dangerous waters, and Rajat suddenly returns, determined to claim his place in Indu’s life. Now, Indu needs to decide not only between two very different men but also the kind of life she truly wants to lead.
🤍🤍🤍🤍🌸
Set in the 70s, this book will take you on a journey back in time of the timeless cinema, purani Delhi vibes, Indian politics and old school romance... overall a very aesthetically pleasing book that I look forward to re-read.
Idk how to explain it, but I can just smell the scenery Srishti brings to life in this book, its nostalgic and comforting. As an old Bollywood fan, the desi aesthetics hit just right.
I love the feeling of nostalgia in my books and BOOKS inside my books. This one came into my life at the perfect time and I loved every bit of it with all my heart.
Indu was fierce, relatable, bold, passionate for books and oh so beautiful. Dreaming of opening a women only library along with constant conflict of heart and mind, she sure was relatable. Rana was the kind of manly man who also had a gentle side...exactly the kind of balance we all crave. He is my new book boyfriend, just putting it right there. The family dynamics, post independence air, banter and romance, everything felt balanced.
This book is the perfect gift for those old-school romantics and Rajesh Khanna fans!!
I advise you to make a hot cup of chai and enjoy this book while soaking in the winter sun on your balcony 📖🌸☕🍃
Read
November 13, 2025i dont think i can rate it now, I'm dnfing it after part 1. I think I'd come back to it later when I crave indian writing in this mode. Characters are all very lively and plot is also going strong. But i have a feeling how this would end, and i feel like im forcing myself to watch an old Hindi film. Which totally a vibe.
August 8, 2025
an actually good desi romance???
September 26, 2025
Once Upon a Curfew by Srishti Chaudhary is like stepping into a time machine and landing straight in 1974, an era filled with Rajesh Khanna movies, retro vibes, and a Delhi that feels beautifully alive. 😍
In this charming story, we meet Indu, a young woman with a big dream to open a women-only library. But chasing this dream isn’t easy, especially in a time when societal expectations and politics weigh heavy. Along the way, Indu crosses paths with Rana, a flirtatious and witty aspiring lawyer whose playful teasing slowly begins to win her over.
Meanwhile, Indu’s fiancé is away in London, completing his studies, which adds another layer of conflict to her journey. Just as Indu starts finding her way, the turbulent political climate of India stirs up danger, forcing her to make a heart wrenching choice between love and a marriage arranged by her family.
The book felt like a breath of fresh air! 🌸
I absolutely adored the Indu-Rana banter and the rich, nostalgic setting and beautiful old songs. While the first part felt a little slow, the second half swept me away with its adventure and drama, it quickly became unputdownable!
Overall, this story is a perfect mix of romance, nostalgia, and political intrigue. The drama, the plot twists, the beautiful writing and everything came together so well. ✨
In this charming story, we meet Indu, a young woman with a big dream to open a women-only library. But chasing this dream isn’t easy, especially in a time when societal expectations and politics weigh heavy. Along the way, Indu crosses paths with Rana, a flirtatious and witty aspiring lawyer whose playful teasing slowly begins to win her over.
Meanwhile, Indu’s fiancé is away in London, completing his studies, which adds another layer of conflict to her journey. Just as Indu starts finding her way, the turbulent political climate of India stirs up danger, forcing her to make a heart wrenching choice between love and a marriage arranged by her family.
The book felt like a breath of fresh air! 🌸
I absolutely adored the Indu-Rana banter and the rich, nostalgic setting and beautiful old songs. While the first part felt a little slow, the second half swept me away with its adventure and drama, it quickly became unputdownable!
Overall, this story is a perfect mix of romance, nostalgia, and political intrigue. The drama, the plot twists, the beautiful writing and everything came together so well. ✨
July 30, 2025
This book transported me to the Retro times made of Ambassadors , Rajesh Khanna & women becoming increasingly aware of themselves ! A good happy read
August 24, 2020
QOTD: Do you like reading vintage/retro love stories or contemporary love stories?
I personally prefer vintage love stories more than I prefer contemporaries.
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Once Upon a Curfew is a beautiful book about the protagonist Indu (short for Indira) a classic feminist in the new era after independence, who is adamant to her choices and is a fanatic of Rajesh Khanna.
This book revolves around her urge to stand against all the odds. She was willed a flat by her grandmother and she decided that she would transform it into a library for women of all ages who had been neglected a chance to seek education besides their monotonous lifestyle.
She meets Rana who helps her set up the library days after she had said yes to her engagement with Rajat, and falls for him. While Rajat being in London and Rana being with her, there comes a time where freedom to speech, freedom to express and freedom to press and media being snatched away also welcomes Rajat in Delhi and Indu now has a choice to make.
I really appreciate the author for not rushing into the love part soon because most contemporary writers do that and I really loved all the vintage tints this book gave me.
The plot was beautifully written and the storytelling was apt. Never did I feel anywhere that the story telling was exaggerating or loathing, it all felt as if I'm living in this book and looking through binoculars.
The story felt real because the past was showcased into it and that's what I loved the most about it. I'd really love to see a movie portrayal of this book because people deserve more classic romance stories.
.
A special note of thanks to @death.of.the.author for sending me the piece of her heart. The book is truly beautiful and one of my best reads of 2019.
I personally prefer vintage love stories more than I prefer contemporaries.
.
Once Upon a Curfew is a beautiful book about the protagonist Indu (short for Indira) a classic feminist in the new era after independence, who is adamant to her choices and is a fanatic of Rajesh Khanna.
This book revolves around her urge to stand against all the odds. She was willed a flat by her grandmother and she decided that she would transform it into a library for women of all ages who had been neglected a chance to seek education besides their monotonous lifestyle.
She meets Rana who helps her set up the library days after she had said yes to her engagement with Rajat, and falls for him. While Rajat being in London and Rana being with her, there comes a time where freedom to speech, freedom to express and freedom to press and media being snatched away also welcomes Rajat in Delhi and Indu now has a choice to make.
I really appreciate the author for not rushing into the love part soon because most contemporary writers do that and I really loved all the vintage tints this book gave me.
The plot was beautifully written and the storytelling was apt. Never did I feel anywhere that the story telling was exaggerating or loathing, it all felt as if I'm living in this book and looking through binoculars.
The story felt real because the past was showcased into it and that's what I loved the most about it. I'd really love to see a movie portrayal of this book because people deserve more classic romance stories.
.
A special note of thanks to @death.of.the.author for sending me the piece of her heart. The book is truly beautiful and one of my best reads of 2019.
December 21, 2025
After a long time, I finished a book. Not because I loved it, but because I really wanted to move on from this one to something else.
This book slowed me down, and not in a reflective or immersive way. I had heard a lot of buzz around it, so my expectations were fairly high. Unfortunately, the story never really picked up for me. The narrative felt stretched, the pacing painfully slow, and the romance often crossed into cringe rather than charm.
Also, for a book titled Once Upon a Curfew, there is surprisingly no curfew in the story at all, which only added to the disconnect.
If I’m being fair, the last 30 or so pages were the only part that held my attention and made some sense of the build-up. Until then, it felt like waiting for something to happen that mostly didn’t.
This might work for readers who enjoy very slow-burn romance, but it wasn’t for me. I finished it purely to close the chapter, literally and mentally, and move on to better reads.
This book slowed me down, and not in a reflective or immersive way. I had heard a lot of buzz around it, so my expectations were fairly high. Unfortunately, the story never really picked up for me. The narrative felt stretched, the pacing painfully slow, and the romance often crossed into cringe rather than charm.
Also, for a book titled Once Upon a Curfew, there is surprisingly no curfew in the story at all, which only added to the disconnect.
If I’m being fair, the last 30 or so pages were the only part that held my attention and made some sense of the build-up. Until then, it felt like waiting for something to happen that mostly didn’t.
This might work for readers who enjoy very slow-burn romance, but it wasn’t for me. I finished it purely to close the chapter, literally and mentally, and move on to better reads.
March 9, 2026
This was a cute enough read.
Delhi during Indira Gandhi's premiership. We have another Indira as our protagonist, navigating life in Delhi.
Sadly, I couldn't like Indu. She alternated between impressing me with her bold ideas (like starting the library for women and going to bat against her brother-in-law to use Nani's apartment the way she wanted to). But she also made me cringe with her stuck up, elitist viewpoints and her cluelessness in getting her library up and running as well. Indu seemed overly conscious of her status in society and how others didn't fit there. I can't say I liked the way she toyed with Rana either.
Tbh, I'd like to see a book on Indu's sister, Amita. She had more guts and gumption than Indu did.
I get that this was meant to be a light and easy read but the weighty theme of the Indian Emergency seemed superficial and lacked depth here.
The ending seemed rushed and unsatisfying.
And finally, how much can a woman fiddle with her dupatta? 😏
Delhi during Indira Gandhi's premiership. We have another Indira as our protagonist, navigating life in Delhi.
Sadly, I couldn't like Indu. She alternated between impressing me with her bold ideas (like starting the library for women and going to bat against her brother-in-law to use Nani's apartment the way she wanted to). But she also made me cringe with her stuck up, elitist viewpoints and her cluelessness in getting her library up and running as well. Indu seemed overly conscious of her status in society and how others didn't fit there. I can't say I liked the way she toyed with Rana either.
Tbh, I'd like to see a book on Indu's sister, Amita. She had more guts and gumption than Indu did.
I get that this was meant to be a light and easy read but the weighty theme of the Indian Emergency seemed superficial and lacked depth here.
The ending seemed rushed and unsatisfying.
And finally, how much can a woman fiddle with her dupatta? 😏
May 23, 2025
2.5 not that good both characters were very annoying at one point but yeah anyways
May 19, 2026
2.5/5✨
As someone who studied political science in school and is very familiar with the setting this book is based in, this was an okay read at best.
Rana was the best part of the book. Not only is he an amazing man romantically, he also had his heart in the right place and was not scared to speak up for what he believed in. It was very refreshing to see from a male character in a female led book. It was also cute to see how smitten he was with Indu. The feelings obviously came from a place of how different she was to him. That feeling of loving their love doesn’t last long though because of how Indu is characterized. I’ll talk about that below. And the cherry on top is that he is also the best friend anyone could ask for. The whole package, for real.
Indu was a naive and snobbish upper class girl personified. She was so far removed from reality it was painful. And that was great because I was excited to see her character development and how she would change over time. Sadly, I did not get what I had hoped for. Even after spending almost all of her time with Rana and also getting associated with Fawad, she remained the entitled little princess. The end of part 2 and the first few chapters of part 3 were especially hard to read because this poor man was trying his best to explain everything to her and she was unable to see passed anything but herself. The fact that Natty understood Rana and his situation better than her was just sad.
Because of all this, Indu to be honest, was a character that became quite unlikeable to me after a point. And even though their bond was well written sometimes, I honestly stopped rooting for them after her behavior. Like I said before, the feelings you have for their love story don’t last long and that’s because I don’t understand why Rana is in love with her beyond mere fascination for how different she is from him. That started his feelings sure, but why would he fall so deep for someone whose political and social ideologies are so different from him? Why does he love someone who does not understand even the teeniest bit of what his best friend is going through? Why does he love someone who can’t respect him and his friendships? The book never answers these questions In hindsight, Runjhun was a much better suited partner for him even though she also ruined it by her views on the partition. But I felt like that was just an easy out for the author to end that relationship and make her look bad.
If it was the author’s intention to have Indu be a representation of the naive upper class, she succeeded beautifully. I just prefer characters I read to have some sort of character development/arc.
Now that my rant about Indu is over, let's talk about other issues I had with the book. One of my biggest pet peeves is when authors introduce character or plot points which never reach fruition. What happened to Esha and her studies? She was whisked away to get married at 13 and that was such a great area to explore after having so much focus on her throughout part 2. How did Amita's divorce come to be? We know what hit the final nail in the coffin but the lead up to that is so bad that her getting divorced is just meh and does not even have me happy for her. How did their father turn against everything he believed in, in the span of 5 pages? There was more to explore there for sure. And the end??? We are led to believe that this is a high stakes situation but the solution comes up so quick and easy, the payoff does not have any impact. Every character from Amita, Fawad and Rana deserved to have more written about them after everything was sorted. Indu ending up getting back together (were they even together at all in the first place?) with her "Rajesh Khanna" in the way she did was a little too convenient. I think the issue was with focusing what parts needed more and what could have been cut in half.
I usually don't rant so much on my reviews but I was left wanting for more from everything.
As someone who studied political science in school and is very familiar with the setting this book is based in, this was an okay read at best.
Rana was the best part of the book. Not only is he an amazing man romantically, he also had his heart in the right place and was not scared to speak up for what he believed in. It was very refreshing to see from a male character in a female led book. It was also cute to see how smitten he was with Indu. The feelings obviously came from a place of how different she was to him. That feeling of loving their love doesn’t last long though because of how Indu is characterized. I’ll talk about that below. And the cherry on top is that he is also the best friend anyone could ask for. The whole package, for real.
Indu was a naive and snobbish upper class girl personified. She was so far removed from reality it was painful. And that was great because I was excited to see her character development and how she would change over time. Sadly, I did not get what I had hoped for. Even after spending almost all of her time with Rana and also getting associated with Fawad, she remained the entitled little princess. The end of part 2 and the first few chapters of part 3 were especially hard to read because this poor man was trying his best to explain everything to her and she was unable to see passed anything but herself. The fact that Natty understood Rana and his situation better than her was just sad.
Because of all this, Indu to be honest, was a character that became quite unlikeable to me after a point. And even though their bond was well written sometimes, I honestly stopped rooting for them after her behavior. Like I said before, the feelings you have for their love story don’t last long and that’s because I don’t understand why Rana is in love with her beyond mere fascination for how different she is from him. That started his feelings sure, but why would he fall so deep for someone whose political and social ideologies are so different from him? Why does he love someone who does not understand even the teeniest bit of what his best friend is going through? Why does he love someone who can’t respect him and his friendships? The book never answers these questions In hindsight, Runjhun was a much better suited partner for him even though she also ruined it by her views on the partition. But I felt like that was just an easy out for the author to end that relationship and make her look bad.
If it was the author’s intention to have Indu be a representation of the naive upper class, she succeeded beautifully. I just prefer characters I read to have some sort of character development/arc.
Now that my rant about Indu is over, let's talk about other issues I had with the book. One of my biggest pet peeves is when authors introduce character or plot points which never reach fruition. What happened to Esha and her studies? She was whisked away to get married at 13 and that was such a great area to explore after having so much focus on her throughout part 2. How did Amita's divorce come to be? We know what hit the final nail in the coffin but the lead up to that is so bad that her getting divorced is just meh and does not even have me happy for her. How did their father turn against everything he believed in, in the span of 5 pages? There was more to explore there for sure. And the end??? We are led to believe that this is a high stakes situation but the solution comes up so quick and easy, the payoff does not have any impact. Every character from Amita, Fawad and Rana deserved to have more written about them after everything was sorted. Indu ending up getting back together (were they even together at all in the first place?) with her "Rajesh Khanna" in the way she did was a little too convenient. I think the issue was with focusing what parts needed more and what could have been cut in half.
I usually don't rant so much on my reviews but I was left wanting for more from everything.
June 27, 2021
What would you do if a leader or celebrity you admired, did something that goes against your ideologies?
Set during the Emergency period, Once Upon A Curfew by @death.of.the.author takes on a tall task.
I loved what the author set out to in the first few pages of the book- give agency to women and a means and the physical space to exercise that agency.
Many a time, financial dependence culls female agency. Many a time a woman's financial assets are an easy target for the men innthe family, thus defeating the very purpose. Kudos to Indu and Amita(from the book) for standing their ground on this.
Indu is literally the poster child for the 'Beti hi jaan hai, beti hi shaan hai' campaign advocating the 'education for girls'. She even sets up a library and a space where women can gather and have some 'me-time'.
I love how Bollywood movies and songs add atmosphere and provide a more fun periodic setting to the book.
Where the book lost me!
The book is set in a library. Would have loved more of that!
Indu comes across as a spoilt and condescending person. For all her advocacy, she really doesn't do and achieve much, and definitely not for girls and women from all strata.Indu speaks about Change always starting from a place of privilege.Ahem, what change!?
Her modernity and broad mindedness are not convincing, mainly because she comes across as contradictory. Humans are complex and contradictory, I get that. But given that the novel spans more than a year, I expected some resolutions.
The plot spirals through a maze and gets lost in it. I really would have liked to know more about how the Emergency affected daily lives, or did it at all? Indu speaks as of it didn't affect her life much, till she got involved with some activists. There is mention of press restrictions, arrests, forced sterilization...but just the tip of the iceberg.
My main bone to pick with the book is, there was so much potential- in setting, in characters, in plot, and it seems wasted.
P.S- something I absolutely loved here- that cover, Illustrated by Neelim Aryan!
Set during the Emergency period, Once Upon A Curfew by @death.of.the.author takes on a tall task.
I loved what the author set out to in the first few pages of the book- give agency to women and a means and the physical space to exercise that agency.
Many a time, financial dependence culls female agency. Many a time a woman's financial assets are an easy target for the men innthe family, thus defeating the very purpose. Kudos to Indu and Amita(from the book) for standing their ground on this.
Indu is literally the poster child for the 'Beti hi jaan hai, beti hi shaan hai' campaign advocating the 'education for girls'. She even sets up a library and a space where women can gather and have some 'me-time'.
I love how Bollywood movies and songs add atmosphere and provide a more fun periodic setting to the book.
Where the book lost me!
The book is set in a library. Would have loved more of that!
Indu comes across as a spoilt and condescending person. For all her advocacy, she really doesn't do and achieve much, and definitely not for girls and women from all strata.Indu speaks about Change always starting from a place of privilege.Ahem, what change!?
Her modernity and broad mindedness are not convincing, mainly because she comes across as contradictory. Humans are complex and contradictory, I get that. But given that the novel spans more than a year, I expected some resolutions.
The plot spirals through a maze and gets lost in it. I really would have liked to know more about how the Emergency affected daily lives, or did it at all? Indu speaks as of it didn't affect her life much, till she got involved with some activists. There is mention of press restrictions, arrests, forced sterilization...but just the tip of the iceberg.
My main bone to pick with the book is, there was so much potential- in setting, in characters, in plot, and it seems wasted.
P.S- something I absolutely loved here- that cover, Illustrated by Neelim Aryan!
September 26, 2024
A library, a dynamic love story in making, some typical family drama, a fierce heroine who is all set to change her life as she wants to live and a charming hero who is always there for our heroine, sounds interesting doesn't it?
A library romance is all I am in for.
This is the story that Srishti weaves through the book. It is a beautiful and refreshing story with an engaging plot that unfolds taking it's sweet time and makes you smile as a reader. The timeline goes back to the days of Emergency in India in 1975 and the story sprawls through the socio-political horizon of that time blended in a beautiful romance.
Indu, our protagonist sets off to create a library for women in a flat that she and her sister inherited from their grandmother and by a library she doesn't only mean a space to read books. She means it as safe space for women to take time out for themselves aside from the humdrum of mundane daily lives. A safe space to grow, discuss, learn and be themselves for a while in the whole day. Supporting Indu in her endeavors and dreams, enters our charming lead, Rana. He is the perfect rom-com hero you can imagine who is funny, witty, loving and caring.
Not only the cute fun banter between them and the drama and romance, but the story also touches upon the scenes of Emergency and how that impacted lives back then. It also envelopes a section on the Indo-Pak Partition and how women most importantly suffered of it.
There are multiple shades of love, of care, and one would certainly feel good while flipping through the pages. The writing style is very refreshing and the inculcation of Bollywood references with Rajesh Khanna were so cute to read.
You will get a shot of every emotion in the book and you will smile ear to ear. Grab it and have a great time reading this beautiful book.
A library romance is all I am in for.
This is the story that Srishti weaves through the book. It is a beautiful and refreshing story with an engaging plot that unfolds taking it's sweet time and makes you smile as a reader. The timeline goes back to the days of Emergency in India in 1975 and the story sprawls through the socio-political horizon of that time blended in a beautiful romance.
Indu, our protagonist sets off to create a library for women in a flat that she and her sister inherited from their grandmother and by a library she doesn't only mean a space to read books. She means it as safe space for women to take time out for themselves aside from the humdrum of mundane daily lives. A safe space to grow, discuss, learn and be themselves for a while in the whole day. Supporting Indu in her endeavors and dreams, enters our charming lead, Rana. He is the perfect rom-com hero you can imagine who is funny, witty, loving and caring.
Not only the cute fun banter between them and the drama and romance, but the story also touches upon the scenes of Emergency and how that impacted lives back then. It also envelopes a section on the Indo-Pak Partition and how women most importantly suffered of it.
There are multiple shades of love, of care, and one would certainly feel good while flipping through the pages. The writing style is very refreshing and the inculcation of Bollywood references with Rajesh Khanna were so cute to read.
You will get a shot of every emotion in the book and you will smile ear to ear. Grab it and have a great time reading this beautiful book.
June 20, 2019
Once Upon A Curfew by Srishti Chaudhary is a story of two sisters, completely opposite, dealing with the curfew. It’s the story of Rana and Govind, who deals with different fights. It’s a blend of politics and romance. The story is based in the era of Rajesh Khanna and Indira Gandhi.
I loved the plot of the story. It’s interesting with lots of twists and turns. The narration of the story is crisp keeping the reader hooked throughout. I loved how the author sequenced the events unrevealing the mystery.
The story is a bit slow paced with a smooth flow. The language used by the author is simple and easy. The writing style of the author is crisp and lucid. There are various themes like politics, love, loss is used by the author.
There are drama and dialogues which keeps the reader hooked throughout. It’s like a complete Bollywood movie. The characters that the author developed are strong and up to the point. I fell in love with Indus character.
I loved how the author kept the essence of Rajesh Khanna and Indira Gandhi throughout the story. It’s a wonderful book with a powerful message. The author keeps the reader hooked throughout.
Overall, it’s a wonderful book with a crisp narration and a simple language with lots of twists and love.
I loved the plot of the story. It’s interesting with lots of twists and turns. The narration of the story is crisp keeping the reader hooked throughout. I loved how the author sequenced the events unrevealing the mystery.
The story is a bit slow paced with a smooth flow. The language used by the author is simple and easy. The writing style of the author is crisp and lucid. There are various themes like politics, love, loss is used by the author.
There are drama and dialogues which keeps the reader hooked throughout. It’s like a complete Bollywood movie. The characters that the author developed are strong and up to the point. I fell in love with Indus character.
I loved how the author kept the essence of Rajesh Khanna and Indira Gandhi throughout the story. It’s a wonderful book with a powerful message. The author keeps the reader hooked throughout.
Overall, it’s a wonderful book with a crisp narration and a simple language with lots of twists and love.
February 2, 2025
Set against the beautiful backdrop of India in the 1970s, this book explores the intricacies of Indian society.
The romance and banter was top tier, the political intrigue had me so invested and the characters were amazing. I especially loved how this book was by a woman, for a woman and about a woman.
Indu was such a fierce character, she was so relatable at times and I absolutely loved how she fought for what she believed in rather than what society wanted from her. Rana was the perfect counterpart for her and his sweet and playful jabs were amazing.
My old-school heart was happy reading this book and just like a perfect Bollywood movie, this book was sooo good from start to finish.
4.5 ⭐
The romance and banter was top tier, the political intrigue had me so invested and the characters were amazing. I especially loved how this book was by a woman, for a woman and about a woman.
Indu was such a fierce character, she was so relatable at times and I absolutely loved how she fought for what she believed in rather than what society wanted from her. Rana was the perfect counterpart for her and his sweet and playful jabs were amazing.
My old-school heart was happy reading this book and just like a perfect Bollywood movie, this book was sooo good from start to finish.
4.5 ⭐
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