I have been receiving a steady stream of mails after some of you have finished reading my novel. While the media reviews will happen, I want to know what you felt about Married But Available. What did you like or not about it. Who were the characters you vibed with. Characters you would have loved to meet in real life or maybe there was an uncanny similarity between a character in the novel and someone you know. Have you met people like Capt Sobti, Rascal Rusty, Abbey...? Are you like any of the characters in the novel?

Some things have changed. Some things never will – not in this lifetime. I look at my face in the mirror of the guesthouse of my alma mater and try to discover the changes. I’ve just stepped out of the shower and am buttoning the black Polo shirt that has always been my favourite. The faded pair of Levis and black blazer complete the look. I shave and dab on some cologne. Like the scouts will tell you, ‘Be prepared’. Then I comb my hair and, looking at the strands of silver that have appeared of late around my sideburns, wonder idly if any girl would still find me attractive. After all, at age thirty five the girls on the MIJ campus will probably find me too old, unless I meet one of those who find older men sexy because they have grey sideburns.

The book is being launched for the media to give them a sneak peak ahead of the others. It is going to be a small event. So I just thought of inviting all of you to join me on this very very special moment. Besides the media it is important to have some friends to share the special moment. Right?