Authored by Nidhi Dalmia (EPBF-98) an alumnus of St Stephen’s College in the University of Delhi, he pursued post graduate education at Oxford University – (PPE – Philosophy, Politics and Economics) and the Sorbonne and Management education at Harvard Business School. This is Nidhi’s second novel. His first novel Harp was released in 2016 launched by then French Ambassador to India and received critical acclaim.
“Afternoon” is a captivating tale set in the late 1960s, spanning the U.S. Bay Area, New York, Kashmir, and Delhi. It is intertwined with the significant cultural, student, sexual, and intellectual revolutions taking place around that time. The story follows a young student who finds the love of his life, as well as two young women whose lives intersect with his at different points in their journeys. The first woman is a Kashmiri Muslim girl who, despite growing up in Delhi, carries cherished memories and impressions of her home state. The second woman is an American Field Service worker from the Upper East Side of New York, whose life takes unforeseen turns during a brief visit to India. The masterful infusion of beautiful and timeless music adds to the narrative, creating a delightful kaleidoscope of emotions. The story blends gentle wit and charm with honesty and searing observations, making it a compelling read for those interested in love, longing, realisation, pain, and growing up amid the turbulent times of the 1960s