Amma Bi, an elderly widow residing alone in her abandoned Lucknow haveli, experiences a peculiar occurrence every afternoon at 3 o’clockâthe sound of footsteps from an unknown source. Though she curiously peers outside each time, no one is ever to be found. As her anxiety mounts, Amma Bi contemplates relocating to an old people’s home, until a delightful young woman named Sabiha becomes her lodger. Sabiha’s arrival breathes new life into Amma Bi’s solitary existence, infusing her days with love and laughter, and even transforming the household help, Jumman.
However, Sabiha soon faces a troubling situation, prompting Amma Bi to tap into her hidden reserves of skill and empathy to find a resolution. Set against the backdrop of Dopehri, legendary film and theatre personality Pankaj Kapur’s debut novel, this tale weaves a tapestry of evocative charm, wry humor, and understated strength. Readers will undoubtedly be captivated by the story, falling in love with its rich narrative and endearing characters.
