Jet City Woman

In the midst of a directionless college life, a young student from Shillong crosses paths with the unpredictable Naina at a gathering near Delhi University’s campus. His impromptu act of gallantry against Naina’s aggressive ex-boyfriend ignites a connection with this mysterious city girl. However, a passionate but brief romance with her leaves him doubtful about the authenticity of love and its fleeting assurances. Nevertheless, Naina’s concealed history becomes an indelible memory, persisting long after she has departed. A fortuitous reunion with her and her Afghan drug-dealer friend two years later reintroduces Naina into his life, with all her enigma and whims intact. Illuminating the realm of desire, narcotics, violence, and avarice existing on the outskirts of Delhi, “Jet City Woman” sheds light on lives that have remained on the periphery of the city’s grand narrative—students from the North-east, Tibetan and Afghan refugees, and Anglo-Indians. The narrative interlaces the dotcom boom and its eventual downfall with the illusory promise of the BPO industry in India. Spanning five years and transitioning between North-east India and New Delhi, this tale unfolds a story of love and sorrow, of lives drifting in a metropolis, and of the lesser-known facets of urban India. Infused with subtle humor and incisive observations, it’s a narrative set in an ancient city where dreams are pursued, and lives are reimagined.