The book from the back-cover synopsis sounds interesting. Though you can get a feeling that it might
be about life and times of an autistic patient – don’t think that way – it has
much more to offer.
It’s a book which is bound to
give you a mixed bag feeling – it has a bullied child, jealous sibling,
innocent love and then some super hero moments, super love story twists and
turns – in short it’s enough to keep you hooked into it and entertain you.
I must
mention I read this less and almost visualized the story more – thanks to the
author.
The Story
Babloo or Balwant Srivastav
was born a special child with special needs. Unfortunately his parents were
neither keen in his interests nor were they happy with him. Affection, love and
help were all showered on his younger sibling who was born a normal child. From
Childhood to youth only thing Babloo was accustomed with was being rejected by
teachers, family, society. He had no friend except Vandana.
From getting bullied regularly
at his Railway Colony quarters to getting treated as secondary at home Babloo
ignored everyone and lived in his own world. His world consisted of him, his
dreams and his dream girl Vandana. Only desire Babloo had in mind was to express
his feelings to her and make her his lady love.
Things started to change when
the secluded yet strong Babloo saved a girl from being raped by a rowdy gang at
the railway tracks and with that was the birth of the superhero character of
the story – The Railman.
With different twists and
turns the story revolves around Babloo’s fight against society, how he wins his
parent’s love and people’s respect and of course his lady love.
Analysis
Some good stuffs
Simple yet strong characters –
I am particularly impressed with the characterization of Vandana. The simple
girl next door who desires for the big yet tries to be aligned with tradition
and moral.
Babloo of course is the hero
and superhero who expresses his confusion, innocence with grace.
Story writing style of debutant
author – Rishi Vohra is very refreshing. He has aptly brought out the character
of Babloo well through the monologues. Check here to know more about the
author.
Some filmy stuffs
At some points you may feel it’s
going a little OTT but I will give it a benefit of doubt of being inclined with
the superhero culture that we aware of – thanks to our movies.
It’s always a happy ending
with issues falling into place unexpectedly (read heroine waiting for you and
turning up in your life unexpectedly).
This I can’t help but have to
say I would have liked a better cover design for this novel.
My thoughts
It’s definitely a good read
and you will not get bored. The story picks up the pace after few chapters. So
it’s definitely on my list of recommendation.
Special Note:
Rishi Vohra had contacted and
sent me this book long time back but I am posting the review now – this happened
due to some hectic schedule that I was facing over last few months. I have been
scattered around different cities and am still living out of suitcase/carton
boxes (I still have to settle down in my new house). So sincere apologies to
Rishi.
My Rating – 3.75/5
Book – Once Upon the Tracks of Mumbai
Author – Rishi Vohra
Genre – Fiction
Publisher – Jaico Publishing House
Published in – 2012
ISBN 13 – 9788184953053
ISBN 10 - 8184953054
Pages – 272
Format – Paperback
Price – INR 175
