About The Book
Title: Joy of Missing Out
Author: Niharika Nigam
Publisher: Nu Voice
Price: INR 299
Pages: 288
Niharika Nigam’s novel, Joy of Missing Out, explores the transformative journey of Nanki Mehta, a young woman searching for meaning and fulfillment beyond societal expectations. Through an unexpected adventure, Nanki learns to embrace uncertainty, redefine purpose and take a leap of faith towards a more authentic life, says SAKSHI PRIYA
Joy of Missing Out by Niharika Nigam is a deeply engaging novel that explores the themes of self-discovery, existentialism and the quest for a meaningful life. Nigam, an entrepreneur with years of experience in the adventure sports industry, brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, blending personal insights with a broader commentary on modern life.
The novel centers around Nanki Mehta, a thirty-two-year-old brand strategist from Delhi, whose seemingly perfect life feels increasingly unfulfilling. Nanki's struggle is relatable, she grapples with societal expectations and a sense of stagnation in her career, marriage and personal life. Nigam paints a vivid portrait of a woman in crisis, yearning for something more than the mundane routines that have come to define her existence. Her portrayal of Nanki's internal conflict is rich and nuanced, making her journey of self-discovery both engaging and thought-provoking.
A turning point in the novel comes when Nanki stumbles upon a Bungy Jumping ad for Rishikesh, a place tied to her childhood memories. This ad becomes the catalyst for Nanki's journey towards transformation. Her interactions with River, a Bungy Jump Master, add a fresh dimension to her life. River’s outsider perspective challenges Nanki to reconsider her own beliefs, offering new ways of thinking about purpose and fulfillment. This friendship serves as a mirror for Nanki’s own soul-searching, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives.
One of the novel's most effective elements is its use of Bungy Jumping as a metaphor for Nanki’s leap of faith. What begins as a simple adventure turns into a powerful symbol of courage, trust and the willingness to embrace the unknown. This metaphor is woven throughout the narrative, providing a poignant backdrop to Nanki's internal transformation and reinforcing the novel's central themes of risk, renewal, and self-discovery.
Nigam’s own experience in the adventure sports sector gives the book an authentic feel, especially in the scenes set in Rishikesh. Her understanding of courage, risk and the human desire for freedom adds depth and realism to Nanki's journey. The novel also delves into the challenges of social entrepreneurship, showing how Nanki uses her business acumen to support a local NGO, blending purpose with practicality.
The emotional core of the story is further enriched by Nanki’s relationship with her grandfather, Nanu, whose illness and eventual death force her to confront her fears and redefine her understanding of loss and resilience. This subplot adds emotional weight to the narrative, making Nanki’s journey even more compelling.
Joy of Missing Out is a novel that challenges readers to reflect on their own paths and the choices they make. It captures the tension between societal expectations and personal fulfillment, urging readers to take their own leaps of faith. Nigam’s writing is insightful and empathetic, making this a book that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the need to step away from the familiar in search of a deeper sense of purpose.
