Sensual Attractions

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.