Love, Clues, and Crosswords: Exploring ‘A Poet’s Ballad’ by Aditya Banerjee.

“A Poet’s Ballad” by Aditya Banerjee is a delightful blend of mystery and romance set against the backdrop of 1980s India. The story follows Mahesh Pal, a young man preparing to start a new life in London, and Aarvi Lal, a book-loving woman in Benares, as they unravel a mystery left behind by the late Professor Devesh Tripathi.

The narrative is engaging, with the author skillfully weaving together the lives of Mahesh and Aarvi through a series of cryptic crosswords and clues left behind by Professor Tripathi. The characters are well-developed, and their evolving relationship adds depth to the story. Banerjee’s writing style is descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the settings and emotions, making it easy for the reader to immerse themselves in the story.

One of the highlights of the book is its exploration of themes such as family expectations, cultural identity, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Mahesh’s struggle to break free from his family’s expectations and Aarvi’s dilemma about her impending marriage add layers to the story, making it more than just a mystery.