Ruth Vanita explores queer love and freedom in 1920s India in new novel

Ruth Vanita's novel, *A Slight Angle*, explores queer love and personal freedom in 1920s India, set against the backdrop of the country's independence movement. The story unfolds through diary entries and letters, focusing on characters in Bombay and Delhi. The characters, including Sharad, Abhik, and Sheela, navigate their desires amid societal constraints. Their experiences reflect broader themes of modernity and the impact of cinema as silent films transition to talkies, influencing their understanding of love. Vanita's work highlights the intimate struggles of queer individuals during a time of limited freedoms. The narrative connects personal quests for love with the larger historical context of India's fight for independence.