The Greatest Enemy of Rain: Stories by Manu Bhattathiri [Hardcover]

The Greatest Enemy of Rain is a collection of fourteen whimsical and contemplative short stories by Manu Bhattathiri, each exploring the quirky aspects of human nature. Set against the familiar rhythms and eccentricities of everyday life, these stories weave a vivid tapestry of characters who grapple with universal themes through a lens that is both witty and deeply insightful.

The title story, "The Greatest Enemy of Rain," follows Gopi, a man determined to conquer the relentless rain of Kerala, which he sees as his lifelong adversary. Each attempt reveals the stubborn resilience of nature and Gopi’s undeterred spirit. In "These New-Fangled Ways," set in ancient India, Mista makes the radical decision to cook over fire, scandalizing her tradition-bound family. Meanwhile, "Shabari and Anita" dives into the lives of a couple who open a salon, immersing themselves in the world of fashion and beauty trends far removed from the routines of village life. In the metaphysical "The Answer," a supercomputer is tasked with proving the existence of God, raising questions about belief, technology, and the human quest for meaning.

With Bhattathiri's signature humor and an eye for the everyday oddities that define us, The Greatest Enemy of Rain offers a lighthearted yet profound look at the peculiarities of life and the strange ways people navigate love, tradition, and the search for meaning.

Interesting Aspects:

• Manu Bhattathiri's wit shines in his portrayal of the idiosyncrasies of human nature.
• The stories balance humor with deep insights into cultural norms and existential questions.
• Bhattathiri’s storytelling reflects a unique blend of Indian settings and universal themes, making it both locally grounded and widely relatable.