Ruchira Garg
This past weekend, Noida’s literary enthusiasts gathered for an enriching book reading and discussion featuring Ruchira Garg, the author of the newly released novel, “The Single Innings: An Unplugged Journey of Indian Middle-Aged, Middle-Class Singles.” Held on July 28, 2024, at Punjabi Dhaba 61 in Sector 107, Noida, the event drew a diverse and vibrant audience, including corporate professionals, authors, doctors, lawyers, businesspeople, and homemakers.
Ruchira Garg, a distinguished HR leader with over two decades of experience in multinational corporations within the software industry, brought a wealth of insight to her writing. In addition to her role as a life and career coach, Garg is a prominent blogger, storyteller, author, and podcaster. Her previous work, known for its exploration of leadership and diversity, is enriched with humor and deep understanding. “The Single Innings” is her second novel, following the success of her debut work.
Released by Evincepub Publishing in June 2024, “The Single Innings” is a thought-provoking piece of fiction that centres on the transformative journey of Mahira and her three close friends. The novel explores their quest to craft a lifestyle that resonates with the experiences of other single individuals. It challenges conventional societal norms and redefines traditional concepts of family and belonging. Through its intricate narrative, the book delves into the complexities of modern relationships and societal expectations, providing a nuanced portrayal of the struggles, successes, and personal fulfilment of its characters.
During the engaging session, Ruchira Garg shared the inspiration behind her novel. She revealed that the book was born from a strong quest among her readers for authentic and relatable portrayals of modern independent characters. Initially sceptical about the idea’s appeal, Garg was prompted to reconsider as she reflected on the growing population of singles in India and their often-marginalised status in social settings.
Her drive to create a shift in perspective, combined with her own experiences and stories from other single individuals, was instrumental in shaping “The Single Innings.” Garg aims to confront and dismantle prevalent stereotypes about single individuals, presenting a more nuanced and accepting view of singlehood as a legitimate lifestyle choice.
The discussion, led by Eima Azim—an ex-business leader at Marsh McLennan and Co-Founder of The Khushtaar Initiative (TKI)—proved to be both dynamic and interactive. Attendees actively participated, sharing their perspectives and affirming that the novel addresses a crucial topic frequently overlooked in societal discourse. Some readers even shared passages from the book that resonated deeply with them, highlighting the novel’s impact and relevance. The engaging narrative style of “The Single Innings” was praised for its ability to captivate readers, reflecting the real-life challenges and growth of independent singles in contemporary India.
Readers familiar with Garg’s previous novel, “Soda, Water Lemon In My Mocktail,” lauded her for maintaining a gripping writing style that makes her books page-turners. There was palpable excitement among the audience, with many expressing eagerness for Garg’s next literary venture. The lively discussions continued over high tea, making for a memorable and enriching Sunday evening for all involved.
Overall, “The Single Innings” stands out as a heartwarming and thought-provoking read. Its compelling narrative and well-developed characters offer a fresh perspective on themes of defiance, friendship, and community. The novel’s progression, marked by the evolving dynamics within the group and their collective journey, is both subtle and profound in its character development.
For those interested in a story that combines emotional depth with a critical examination of societal norms, “The Single Innings” promises to be a rewarding experience. The book is available in hardcover and paperback formats on Amazon worldwide and Flipkart, and as an eBook on Kindle.
