This book contains short stories covering a broad spectrum
examining relationships, corporate politics, family feuds, carnal desires and
betrayals. The focus is completely on ‘Indian Sensuality’ interwoven within
plots which could be shocking to certain readers. Though the fact of the matter
is that all this actually happens in India, albeit behind closed doors and away
from prying eyes.
Even though many of us see or hear about such incidents, we
tend to clam up and rarely express ourselves aloud. Our society is an extremely
‘closed door’ type and even though everything takes place, we never discuss all
this, though deep down we do enjoy sex and indulge in it to our hearts content.
As the author of this book I have tried to break the shackles
and be expressive to the extent that love scenes are explicitly described. Even
though detailed descriptions are given, I have refrained from using expletives
which for a certain segment of readers can be stimulating but for others can be
repulsive. So I have tried to strike a balance and though I cannot claim that
subtlety has been portrayed perfectly, nevertheless certain considerations have
been implemented.
There are diverse characters created from different walks of
life, genders, status and age. Plots and situations are natural, not bordering
on the bizarre or unnatural in any way. In simpler terms, it all actually
happens in a vast society like ours. Let me do a brief analysis of each story.
There is the unorthodox pact of Sonali & Tara, rather
mischievous in a way. It could shock a few but in the end the camaraderie
shared by them will bring a smile to your lips.
But in the next story Malathi a shrewd and ruthless wife of a
rather laid-back millionaire will send a shiver down your spine. A ridiculous
clause in the inheritance would ensure she lost a sizeable chunk. This was
unacceptable to Malathi and her devious and seductive skills were put to use to
devise a plot.
Moving over from a family drama, the corporate set-up is
exposed and backdoor politics surfaces to reveal greedy and power hungry
corporates ever so willing to stab backs to achieve personal goals.
A story revolving around the employees of a hotel can be
startling for an outsider, but trust me almost all the incidents described in
the story happen and is not fantasizing on my part. Affairs amongst staff is a
very common phenomenon and on occasions can lead to complications.
The relationship between a teacher and student is always
sacred, but here we are witnessing two grown adults who make a choice. One
wants to experiment and the other is vulnerable as he is lonely and still
physically capable of feelings. Does it lead to appeasement or a compromise? I
leave it to the reader to make an assessment.
On numerous occasions we have read about women even though
educated, being suppressed and subjugated to a life of eternal obedience. In
this story Tanisha, struggles firstly with a dispassionate husband followed by
a domineering mother-in-law. She boldly takes them on and is flattened when a
terrible family secret forces her to compromise her principles.
We now move down south, where a young man strives to be a
good son. His father gives him the perfect gift and a disbelieving Lakshman
gleefully accepts the schooling extended to a privileged few.
Finally we end with another family drama which exposes chinks
in the armour of two proud ladies, both related but share a strained
relationship. Does a family tragedy draw them together or create a bigger divide?
Sensual Attractions is based on Indian Sensuality in a modern
era and care has been taken to ensure that no particular community is targeted.
Passion and sensuality are two words which sum up the essence of the book.
