What Mina Did-Geeta Menon

Book: What Mina Did

Author: Geeta Menon

Publisher: Rupa Publications

Do you have a person who knows every inch of you, who can tell when you are lying or when you are smiling to hide a sorrow deep down?

“What Mina Did” explores how one betrayal can have catastrophic consequences, while delving into the complex bonds that link mothers and daughters, and best friends.

The book opens in 1998, where we see a terrified 22-year old Mina escaping from her house while something terrible is happening. Cut to 2002, Mina returns to Bangalore with her husband when she is confronted with the demons of the past. She gets quite weak mentally. Another blow comes to her when she comes to know that Neelu, her best friend, who had supported her unconditionally 4 years ago is in a sticky situation and wants her help. Though she does what Neelu had asked, she does so half-heartedly.

Once back in the US, Mina now starts getting multiple job assignments and long working hours, thus widening the crevice between Mina & Neelu more and more as time passes. Sensing that Neelu is unhappy with her life in the US, Mina goes to her place and stays there for a couple of days to understand her situation better. After coming back, one day, Mina decides to give some unsolicited marital advice to Neelu, leading to her accusing Mina of something unimaginable.

“What Mina Did” is a story alternating between present day and flashbacks. The plot is very well planned and executed. The history is unraveled in parts which keeps the reader guessing as to what has happened. With the story moving from Bangalore to Chennai, Bangalore, California and New York, the transitions are planned beautifully. The character of Mina is blessed with emotions. She goes to all lengths to make sure her friends and family are always put on first, but at the same time, she is a determined career woman who balances her work and personal life perfectly. This is highlighted multiple times through various incidents in the plot.  Neelu as a person is strong-headed and compassionate person. She is very protective of her friends and this is very well accentuated in one of the moments where we see her coming to the rescue of Mina in an alley where cards were stacked against them. The character of Vijay, Mina’s better half, is a portrayal of a friend. He is understanding of Mina’s situation, gets mad when Mina takes reckless decisions but ultimately supports her. On the other hand, Ajit, Neelu’s husband, is portrayed as a person with a limited emotional wavelength, who is supportive but not very much and is in the relationship for the need of it.

Other characters of Neelu’s family, Vijay’s Mother, Mina’s co-workers and others are also well-placed and a wonderful word-picture can be painted of them.

The title of the book “What Mina Did” is apt as it shows how our actions have consequences. The entire book is based on the cause-effect premise. What Mina Does propels the story forward at all junctures.

I would rate the book 4/5.