I wondered, Why is Sunil so different from what I’ve read and seen in the media? Did his family raise him differently? If so, why? Perhaps Bhattacharya wanted to write a sweeter story to show that there is happiness in India, too.

Granted, many studies show that during this time women suffer acid attacks, rape, domestic violence, and sexual harassment. Sunil is kind and wants his wife to be happy. It’s a sweet beginning that made me excited to see what would happen next. She’s known this man three months, meeting him after her brother found Sunil’s advertisement in the matrimony column of the newspaper (3). Dipali works up the courage to take a shower, wash off all the cosmetics from their ceremony, and then get back into bed ready to make love (7). New husband, Sunil, is understanding, and readers quickly learn he is not a traditional Indian man. The story begins in 1990 and takes place over 8-10 years.Īs she lays next to her new husband in bed after their wedding, Dipali expresses nervousness about consummating their marriage. Both women suffer shame due family members and society trying to humiliate them, but Dipali and Moushumi count on their friendship to keep them emotionally stable when everyone else appears to present a threat.

One is a traditional Indian bride, and the other is a lesbian. The chapters alternate between the stories of two women, Dipali and Moushumi.

The Normal State of Mind is a novel set in mostly in Mumbai and Calcutta. Thank you to Susie Wild at Parthian Books for sending me this ARC. Her interesting answers about her book prompted me to request a copy of The Normal State of Mind from her publisher. Bhattacharya for partaking in my Meet the Writer feature.

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