The Light Shines Through the Clouds

For generations, the Dutta family, had lived contentedly in the pluralistic culture of Old Delhi, and cherished the comforts of the British colonial life as much experienced its challenges. When the political changes in the country began to fragment the unity in people, bringing paramount decisions about the future of India, the fabric of the social culture also began to reveal its complexities. As the independence movement escalated inside British India, the formation of two nations, India and Pakistan, was proposed based on their religious affiliations. Amid the uncertainties, the Dutta family is put through momentous situations as they came to terms with the national events, alongside, their own struggle to interpret the beliefs of an age-old religious system from how they revered faith and love. The story narrates pivotal moments in understanding the values and assumptions of faith against the established religious norms anchored in society in the backdrop of the tremulous historical shifts taking place.

“Throughout the story of this extended family, Chotani consistently weaves in many evocative details drawn not only from historical events, but also from the more intimate social fabric of life. Readers are submerged in the fine points of business, culture, faith, and cuisine......An illuminating but static tale of an Indian family clinging to its core values.”--Kirkus Review