Bibliofile

Gifted Hamper

It was a launch like no other—around 150-200 of the city’s notables gathering to honour the man who made them famous—writers, poets, politicians, T-shirt manufacturers, socialites, eccentrics. The occasion: the launch of Absolute Khushwant. At 95, the writer had little interest in the book—a compilation of his views on everything put together by Penguin with the help of Humra Qureshi—except to ensure that the launch was postponed by a day from his birthday, August 15, a dry day. Having made sure that his guests had enough whisky and wine, Khushwant Singh slipped away as usual from his own party.

Delicate Aftertaste

Random House publisher Chiki Sarkar’s after-launch parties are becoming the envy of young writers published by other houses. They are a blend of fun, great food and a guest list chosen to promote her author in Delhi’s influential literary circles. She had one for Namita Devidayal to celebrate her new novel, After Taste. Invitees included Namita Gokhale, perhaps the most sought after literary patroness in Delhi, thanks to her success as Jaipur’s litfest director.