Where valour, memory and shared histories converge. Honoured to mark the international launch of #SwallowingtheSun in Edinburgh — UNESCO’s first City of Literature and, in Robert Burns’ words, the “birthplace of valour, country of worth.” My heartfelt thanks to Pippa Rann Books & Media, and to Prabhu Guptara, for carrying this Indo-British story of love and resistance to global readers. We were privileged by the presence of the Depute Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron, whose gracious words reflected the deep cultural bridges between India and Scotland. In conversation with the luminous Lady Joyce Caplan — truly the interpreter of our affinities — a distinguished literary voice with rare command over Indian, Scottish and global English traditions, the evening acquired both intellectual depth and emotional resonance, elegantly and effortlessly anchored by Anjana Puri, whose poise, warmth and intuitive stewardship as our emcee elevated the entire occasion. A special mention to Sai Dodda, the true mover and shaker behind the curation of the evening, whose vision and energy shaped it so memorably. I was especially delighted by the gracious presence of the Consul General of India, Shri Siddharth Malik, affirming the enduring Indo-Scottish connection and the quiet diplomacy of literature. It was also a pleasure to have Janina Cismaru, representing the Consulate General of Romania, join the gathering. Heartening to see members of Scottish society from every walk of life — writers, scholars, students, cultural leaders and friends of India — alongside the Indian community, many proudly rooted in Scotland. Anna Bambrick and fellow members of #WAGGGS renewed our shared commitment to girls’ empowerment, while a remarkable young Scottish boys’ band brought vibrant brilliance to the evening. More than a launch, it was a confluence of cultures, conversation and shared imagination.

A Literary Homecoming in the City of Literature! Namaskar, Edinburgh! It is a joy to return to these storied streets after a decade away. There is no better place than UNESCO’s first City of Literature to mark the International Launch of my novel, Swallowing the Sun, published by Pippa Rann Books & Media. This story is an epic saga of love, heritage, and what I term Sheheroism—the unsung courage of women through history. To celebrate its global journey here, in the land of Robert Burns, is a moment of profound resonance. Please join me for the conversation: 📍 Edinburgh City Chambers 🗓️ Monday, 2nd February | 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm 🎙️ In conversation with the wonderful Lady Joyce Caplan. I look forward to seeing you there as we bridge the worlds of Indian heritage and Scottish valour. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿✨ #SwallowingTheSun #InternationalLaunch #PippaRannBooks #EdinburghEvents #Sheheroism #CityOfLiterature