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Name of the book: Ram C/O Anandhi
Author of the book: Akhil P. Dharmajan (Translator: Haritha C.K.)
Genre of the book: Fiction
ABOUT THE BOOK
When a book makes you stay up late into the night, turning pages with bated breath, you know it has something special. Ram C/o Anandhi by Akhil Dharmajan is one such novel,a cinematic, deeply emotional, and engaging read that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Chennai. Originally written in Malayalam, this best-seller has been masterfully translated into English by Haritha C.K., making it accessible to a wider audience.
At its heart, Ram C/o Anandhi is an enemies-to-lovers romance, but to label it just that would be an understatement. The story follows Sriram Aravind (Ram), an aspiring filmmaker from Alleppey, as he arrives in Chennai to chase his dreams. What he doesn’t expect is to meet Anandhi, a fierce and enigmatic receptionist at his college, who initially drives him crazy. Their interactions oscillate between heated arguments and undeniable chemistry, leading to a love story riddled with challenges, secrets, and revelations that change their lives forever.
As Ram navigates his new life, he befriends Vetri and Reshma, step-siblings with an unbreakable bond, and becomes a tenant at Paatti’s house, an affectionate yet mysterious old woman who plays a pivotal role in the story. Then there’s Malli, the aruvani (transgender woman) at Guindy station who, despite not being in the spotlight, leaves an indelible impact on Ram and the readers alike.
One of the strongest aspects of Ram C/o Anandhi is its well-etched characters. Each person in this novel serves a purpose, making the story richer and more layered:
Ram – The dreamer, the storyteller, and the idealist whose journey of self-discovery forms the backbone of the narrative.
Anandhi – Strong, independent, and burdened with a mission that prevents her from embracing love easily.
Malli – The soul of the story, bringing depth and representation to the novel with her poignant struggles and unwavering spirit.
Paatti – The wise and warm landlady whose presence adds both humor and emotional depth.
Vetri & Reshma – Step-siblings who behave more like best friends, navigating their own share of challenges in Chennai.
The character interactions are seamless, with each person contributing to the story’s movement. The friendships, conflicts, and love angles feel natural, making readers emotionally invested in their lives.
MY TAKE ON THE BOOK
Akhil Dharmajan himself calls this novel a “cinematic book,” and rightly so. The storytelling is visual and immersive, making it feel like a Tamil movie unfolding in front of your eyes. If you love South Indian films with gripping narratives and well-developed characters, this book will be a treat.
For those who have lived in or visited Chennai, this book holds an extra layer of nostalgia. The setting is more than just a backdrop, it’s a character in itself. The bustling college life, the railway stations, the quirks of the city, and the cultural references make it a love letter to Chennai. While non-Tamil readers may struggle with some regional words, a glossary is provided. This novel isn’t just about love. It explores themes of ambition, identity, survival, revenge, and resilience. The unexpected twists and turns keep the reader hooked, especially in the second half, where the pace quickens, and secrets unravel.
While Ram and Anandhi’s romance is the central plot, it’s Malli’s story that truly elevates this book. The realistic and sensitive portrayal of a transgender character is commendable. Through Malli, the book provides an insight into the struggles of the aruvani community, making it more than just a love story—it’s a reflection of societal realities. While the last few chapters are intense, the ending could have been more satisfying. The final revelation is powerful, but it leaves a lingering sense of incompleteness.
Ram C/o Anandhi is a novel that tugs at your heartstrings and keeps you engaged till the very last line. Whether you’re a fan of romance, drama, or thought-provoking narratives, this book has something for everyone. It’s light yet impactful, cinematic yet deeply emotional.
If you’re from Chennai, you’ll appreciate the setting and cultural nuances even more. And if you aren’t, this book will give you a window into the city’s charm, struggles, and hidden stories.
A book that entertains, moves, and stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Read it, experience it, and let yourself be swept away by the magic of Ram and Anandhi’s world.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Akhil P. Dharamrajan is a bestselling novelist and scriptwriter. He holds a degree in Mechanical ITI along with diploma in Mechanical engineering and filmmaking. He made his mark in the Malayalam film industry as the screenplay writer for the movie 2018, India's official entry at the 96th Academy Awards. A prolic contributor to digital discourse, Akhil is very popular on various online media platforms and passionately engages with digital communities. His previous books are Mercury Island and Ouija Board.
BOOK DETAILS
Availability: Amazon
Format: Paperback/ Kindle edition
Price: INR 357/ INR 223.30
Pages: 352
Publisher: Harper fiction India
This Book is part of Blogchatter's #Book Review Program #TBR Challenge #BookChatter #2025