Dog Send (The Story of Simba)

Set in Mumbai, the wonderful story of a Labrador puppy who enters the life of a successful and beautiful journalist. Simba is a Labrador puppy that Gauri buys for her husband Chait, a man of few words but a quiet dedication to his wife, his family, his rugby pals, his personal space and above all, his dogs. Having grown up with pets, Chait wants a dog so Gauri finally relents, learning to make room for Simba who has a clear preference for Chait over her. As the months and years go by, Simba nuzzles his soft furry way into her heart, even as he insists on sharing the bed with his `parents', pokes a pregnant Gauri in the eye, never obeys anyone but Chait, and shows a rather perilous affection for violent strays. When Gauri and Chait realise they are expecting a baby, Gauri's becomes concerned; will Simba be jealous of the little girl or will he show her the love he shows everyone so naturally? A harrowing skirmish with death later, Gauri and Chait discover that no concerns (this or any other) can ever come in the way of their lasting love for Simba. A wonderful story of life and love in Mumbai, of friendships built around pets, of moving visits with pet psychics, of family ties, a narrative that creates a profound and genuinely enlivening picture of life as it is actually lived in India: heartfelt, passionate, warm and deeply human.