Mindful Dating Book Club

Explore the profound connections between soulmates and karmic ties in this illuminating book. Shweta Gandhi delves into Hindu beliefs about marriage and the concept of enduring bonds that transcend lifetimes. With insights rooted in ancient wisdom and Vedic astrology, this book offers a unique perspective on how our past actions shape our relationships and guide us toward finding our true match.

"Contracted Together" by Jyoti Dhanota tells the story of Zavian Malhotra, a driven CEO, and Mona Malhotra, a compassionate kindergarten teacher. Bound by a one-year marriage contract, these polar opposites must navigate cultural expectations and personal differences. As they learn to balance work, life, and love, Zavian and Mona discover that sometimes, love can be found in the most unexpected places. This contemporary romance explores themes of arranged marriages, cultural identity, and the complexities of modern relationships.

Haunted by dreams of an unforgettable loss, Rahul, a young man of thirty living in San Francisco, suddenly becomes secretive and withdraws from his partner Andrew. When Andrew discovers that Rahul is still interviewing girls sent by his parents for an arranged marriage, he gives Rahul an ultimatum-stop living a lie, or give up their relationship. In response, Rahul tells Andrew a story. About a boy who lived in a palace. A boy named Rahul. Set in San Francisco today and in India in the early 1970s, My Magical Palace is a sensitive tale about a boy's coming of age, and the many hurdles he must cross to heal and find himself.

When Aparna Shewakramani appeared on Netflix’s hit series, Indian Matchmaking, it soon became clear that Aparna knew what she wanted. But all stories are told through certain lenses—and her story is no exception. Being on a reality show made Aparna feel like a character. Her decisiveness and sense of self-worth led viewers to see her as a very specific archetype: The villain. The woman you love to hate. The unlikeable woman.

Brown Girl Like Me is an inspiring memoir and empowering manifesto that equips women with the confidence and tools they need to navigate the difficulties that come with an intersectional identity. Jaspreet Kaur unpacks key issues such as the media, the workplace, the home, education, mental health, culture, confidence and the body, to help South Asian women understand and tackle the issues that affect them, and help them be in the driving seat of their own lives.

Moving from the depths of rural Pakistan, riddled with poverty and religious fervour, to the dangerous streets of over-populated Lahore, No Honour is a story of family, of the indomitable spirit of love in its many forms … a story of courage and resilience, when all seems lost, and the inextinguishable fire that lights one young woman’s battle for change.

"Being Single in India" offers a compelling exploration of the narratives surrounding single women in India, delving into the complexities of gender, culture, and societal expectations.

Lifelong best friends Param Sheth and Rani Mistry navigate the unexpected twists and turns of their tropical honeymoon. What begins as a soothing balm after a wedding day jilting transforms into a complex web of emotions when an unexpected kiss is shared. As they agree to keep it a secret, fate has other plans, and their (fake) elopement sets the stage for buried feelings to resurface.

This book aims to help professional South Asian women—who have toggled between the two very different cultures of East and West—thrive in the workplace. Neelu Kaur’s analysis of various research is at the intersection of leadership and wellness, offering a cultural, psychological, and spiritual approach to rising as a leader while simultaneously addressing mental wellbeing.

Author Joy Batra compares traditional employment with the freelance lifestyle and keenly observes the gaps between the two. She shares concrete ways to help current and future freelancers navigate the uncertainty of freelancing in order to build a life that is both financially and emotionally rewarding.

Discover a unique approach to dating and relationships with Charlotte Kasl’s insightful guide, "If Buddha Dated." This book combines ancient Buddhist wisdom with modern dating practices, offering a spiritual perspective on finding and nurturing love. Kasl provides practical advice and contemplative exercises to help you navigate the dating world with mindfulness and compassion, fostering deeper, more meaningful connections. Perfect for those seeking to align their search for love with their spiritual journey.

Dive into a delightful exploration of love and cultural identity with "Love, Chai, and Other Four-Letter Words" by Annika Sharma. This engaging novel weaves a vibrant story of romance, self-discovery, and the intricate dance between tradition and modernity. Through the lens of a South Asian American protagonist, Sharma explores the complexities of finding love while navigating familial expectations and personal aspirations. A charming and heartfelt read that beautifully captures the essence of cross-cultural relationships and the search for true happiness.