Mumbai: An upmarket book store in Mumbai came alive last week with a warm, family-and-friends gathering to celebrate the launch of ‘The Fires We Become’, the second literary thriller by New York-based former finance professional and entrepreneur Manu Dhawan, published by Rupa Publications.

The evening blended heartfelt conversations with the presence of close friends, well-wishers, and family, creating an atmosphere that was personal yet deeply memorable.

The event was anchored by Manu’s wife, Nidhi Dhawan, who opened with a touching note on what the day meant to their family. Their daughters, Myra and Kimaya, added to the warmth, Myra sharing her reflections on her father’s writing journey, and Kimaya reading her favourite line from the novel.

Set against the gritty underbelly of Kolkata, The Fires We Become is a layered story of broken souls finding their way back and identities forged in fire.

Reflecting on his creative process, Manu Dhawan shared, “This story has been years in the making, shaped by my fascination with the shadows we live with and the choices that change us. Launching it surrounded by the people who mean the most to me is something I will always treasure.”

The event also had an element of glamour. While discussing the book, Tahira Kashyap Khurrana, the wife of actor Ayushmann Khurrana and an author-filmmaker, remarked, “It’s a rare read — gripping yet full of heart. Manu’s writing makes you pause and reflect, while pulling you deeper into the story.”

Close friends of the author, Neeti Mohan and Raghav Sachar, praised the book for its impact on readers.

Now available in major bookstores and online, the book marks another milestone in Manu Dhawan’s literary journey, a celebration of the people, moments, and personal “fires” that shape who we become.

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