Ahmedabad: Where Lines Cross, the latest novel by Arun Kaul (Retd), offers a deeply moving exploration of womanhood, displacement and the enduring psychological scars of the 1947 Partition. More than a work of historical fiction, the book revisits history through lived emotions rather than political narratives. The novel was formally launched by Sanjay Lalbhai, Chairman and Managing Director of Arvind Ltd, lending the occasion both literary and social significance.
Spanning India, Pakistan and Kashmir, Where Lines Cross traces the intertwined journeys of two families bound by loss, resilience and an unending search for belonging. The narrative foregrounds women—mothers, daughters and silent survivors—whose lives were irrevocably altered by Partition, yet whose stories often remained unheard.
Unlike conventional historical accounts, the novel presents the trauma of Partition and the prolonged suffering of Kashmiri Pandits as intimate human experiences. The impact of violence, migration and exile is shown to persist across generations, shaping identities long after borders were drawn.At the emotional centre of the book lies the author’s mother, whose first-hand memories of Partition deeply influenced Arun Kaul’s worldview. Growing up listening to her stories of displacement, courage and survival left a lasting impression on him—one that later found expression in his writing. The novel stands as a tribute to that generation which endured one of history’s most painful ruptures with quiet strength.
Speaking about his inspiration, the author said the book emerged from personal memory and inherited trauma. He added that the narrative aims to give voice to women who bore the heaviest consequences of Partition but were rarely acknowledged as its primary sufferers. When asked about contemporary political issues related to Kashmir, Arun Kaul chose to maintain restraint, stating that such matters lie with the administration. He emphasised that the book’s intent is to foster understanding and healing, rather than political debate.
A former Indian Air Force officer, Arun Kaul later served as Group Head – Human Resources at Arvind Mills. Where Lines Cross is his second book, following his debut publication in 2014. Published by NotionPress, the 343-page novel is available on Amazon, Flipkart and at leading bookstores.
Where Lines Cross appeals to both younger readers discovering history through fiction and older generations reconnecting with memories shaped by Partition—reminding readers that while borders divide nations, human memory and compassion continue to transcend them.