Sanjanthi reviews Love ka Jugaad, by Vinod Naraen — a tender tale of first love, identity, and belonging, radiating innocence, cultural warmth, and emotional depth for Different Truths.

Love ka Jugaad is more than a story about fiercely innocent first love and the delightful chaos of weddings. It’s an endearing tale about identity, belonging, finding joy in love, and standing up for your values — all those moments in life that make us vulnerable and strong at the same time.

From the very first pages, when we meet the relatable auto driver anna and witness sparks fly between two strangers on a train, to the final twist in the plot, the story shimmers with anticipation and warmth. There’s a charming innocence and goofiness in the two main protagonists that slowly grows on you — before long, you’re rooting for them to fall in love.

The author subtly and sensitively explores themes of belonging, the fragile confidence of youth, the tension between pleasing others and finding one’s own identity, and the pull between duty to family and commitment to country.

Equally beautiful is the way the author weaves into the narrative the importance of parental guidance and support — parents who don’t preach but share stories of their own resilience, giving their children the space to find their truth and write their own story.

As a first-time author, Vinod Naraen writes with lyrical simplicity and vivid detail — whether he’s capturing the bustle of a train journey, the colourful vibrancy of a wedding, the misty mountains of Shillong, or the playful, filmy fight sequences. In the end, Love ka Jugaad is as much about the relationship young people share with their parents as it is a coming-of-age story about two sweet souls searching for love.

A heartwarming read — a must for young readers and their parents alike! Looking forward to the rest of the trilogy.

Cover image sourced by the reviewer

Sanjanthi Velu

Sanjanthi Velu is a global health communication professional who blends storytelling and culture to drive social and behavior change. With over two decades of experience across Asia and Africa, she has lived and worked in India and the United States. Holding a PhD in Communication Studies and an MBA from the U.S., along with degrees in Economics and Journalism from India, she loves books, theatre, poetry, hiking, and meaningful conversations that connect people and ideas.