Delirious City: Polity and Vanity in Urban India

Book Details

• Publisher: Niyogi Books Pvt. Ltd.

• Author: Gautam Bhatia

• Language: English

• Edition: First Edition

• ISBN: 9789389136104

• Pages: 312

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 9.6 x 7.2 x 0.8 inches

About the Book
Delirious City is a provocative exploration of urban life, written by Gautam Bhatia, that captures the chaotic and complex nature of life in Indian cities. This book emerges from a collision of despair and delight, reflecting the multifaceted experiences of the city's residents, their aspirations, and the overwhelming contradictions that define their existence.

The narrative is a unique blend of writing, drawing, painting, sculpture, and architecture, woven together with a satirical tone to provoke thought and challenge the reader's perception of the city. From the rich to the poor, from politicians to labourers, Delirious City encapsulates the diverse personalities and spaces that form the pulse of urban life. The book critiques everything from parks and malls to bureaucrats and builders, presenting a bitterly tragic yet often comically subversive take on daily life.

Bhatia’s work is more than just an exploration of the city’s physical space; it reflects the complex emotional landscape of its residents. The discourse moves from the present-day urban despair to memories of the past, and finally, to the hope for a more optimistic future. It examines the potential for change in the way we view the cities we create.

With its satirical and often farcical tone, Delirious City offers a rich and multifaceted commentary on urban life, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the architectural, cultural, and social dynamics of Indian cities.