Book Title: How to Date a Fanatic: A Novel of Love and Politics in Delhi
Author: Aruni Kashyap
Publisher: Fourth Estate India
Number of Pages: 368
ISBN: 9373070304
Date Published: Aug. 20, 2025
Book Review
Set in Delhi between 2014 and 2016, Aruni Kashyap’s novel “How to Date a Fanatic: A Novel of Love and Politics in Delhi” drops readers straight into the messy, tender life of Rohit. After returning from the US to teach literature, Rohit finds himself trying to navigate personal heartbreak—mostly his lingering, unrequited love for his friend Dhruv—just as a new religious regime takes power and sparks widespread political upheaval.
What begins as a relatable story about dating and moving on quickly becomes a poignant look at what it means to be queer, Indian, and searching for connection while the world shifts around you.
Yet, underneath these warm personal connections lies a terrifying political reality that hits with shocking force. The book vividly captures the sudden powerlessness of confronting an aggressive mob while the police just stand by, creating a sense of fear that lingers long after reading. Seeing intimate, personal drama woven into such raw political violence is eye-opening and deeply rattling. It forces you to confront how fragile daily safety can be when social and political tensions boil over.
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One of the novel’s strongest elements is the dynamic between Rohit and his fellow young queer professors. Their friendship feels genuine, lively, and often humorous, shaped by playful conversations about their complicated love lives and unwavering support during difficult moments.
In a society where living openly can be a constant struggle, their shared determination to protect their joy and create a safe space for one another becomes a subtle yet powerful form of resistance. Their bond adds warmth to the story and highlights the importance of friendship, belonging, and finding comfort in everyday moments.
The narrative, however, can occasionally feel disjointed, particularly with its sudden flashbacks and uneven pacing. Despite this, the emotional depth of the characters keeps the story engaging. “How to Date a Fanatic” avoids an easy or conventional ending, instead leaving readers with a bittersweet and thought-provoking conclusion. At its heart, the novel explores how love, friendship, and hope can offer strength and meaning even when life takes its darkest turns.
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