Ghachar Ghochar by Vivek Shanbag – Book Review

Ghachar Ghochar is one of the shortest books I read this year but one should not underestimate it at all. I finished this in one sitting and was left stunned at the end.

Storyline

This story revolves around a family that became rich after they entered the masala business. The narrator is the son of the household. In the initial few chapters, he goes about describing his family members and their unique personalities. He thinks about his childhood home, the ant problem that they faced there, the space restrictions, etc. At one point his father, the sole earning member of the family, is removed from his job and they have no other way other than to start a business. The business flourishes and the family sees a sudden rise.

As a wealthy family, they move into a new house and that is when the narrator describes how the people of that household change. What is important to them changes, their carefulness with money and appreciation of things disappears. A kind of superiority enters their being.

My thoughts on Ghachar Ghochar

This book has a lot to unpack in just a few pages. The best part is that the narrator stays neutral throughout the book. He does not try to tell us whether the actions were right or wrong, and it is up to you to decide.

The concept of a cafe that he visited regularly and the waiter Vincent who knew things without having to tell him is an interesting little detail.

The side effects of money and how it makes people change is really interesting to read about. The narrator’s younger sister, Malti is one member who changes completely after she becomes rich. The narrator wonders if she would be humbler if they were still poor.

It’s true what they say – It’s not we who control money, it’s the money that controls us. When there’s only a little, it behaves meekly; when it grows, it becomes brash and has its way with us.

Conclusion

This book keeps you questioning the actions of everyone and trying to figure out whether they tip to the good or bad side. It is an interesting and short read that you can finish in one afternoon. And the end is worth it all.

overall I give it: 8/10