A review by shubhamshetty
Bombay Balchao by Jane Borges

4.0

A series of interlinked stories all set in the small Catholic enclave of Cavel in Southern Bombay, Bombay Balchao is another great addition to that unique Indian literature subgenre- the Bombay novel. Author Jane Borges gives a great insight into the city's Catholic community (East Indians, Goans, Mangaloreans) through non-linear short stories, which each act to paint a picture of some of the various residents of the Bosco mansion, that ultimately comes together to form a larger picture of the city from Independence to the modern time through the eyes of the community. I found the stories to be greatly amusing, sharp, and not lacking for punch, very much like the titular balchão pickle. In my opinion, this novel is another great addition to the Bombay novel subgenre.